TL;DR
A Brooklyn renter has spent over $40,000 on her apartment, including renovations and furnishings, despite typical advice to limit such investments in rentals. The story highlights her reasons and the implications for renters and landlords.
A Brooklyn renter has invested more than $40,000 into her 1928 rent-stabilized apartment, including extensive renovations and decor, despite common advice to avoid heavy spending in rentals. Her story raises questions about the value of investing in a rental home and the role of landlord approval.
Brigette Muller, a content creator known on TikTok as @hummusbirrd, spent approximately $40,000 on her 560-square-foot Brooklyn apartment. Her expenditures include $20,000 on renovations—such as kitchen updates, custom shelving, and paint—and another $20,000 on furniture, decor, lighting, and hardware. The apartment, which she described as having historic charm, is rent-stabilized and was owned by a landlord who allowed her to make modifications as long as she covered costs.
Her renovations include installing a marble countertop, changing fixtures, adding custom shelving, and creating a dedicated dressing area with IKEA cabinets. She also added curtains throughout the apartment to enhance privacy and aesthetics. Her approach reflects her personal preference for a beautiful, functional space, especially since she works from home and spends significant time there.
While some may view this level of spending as excessive for a rental, Muller emphasized that her investment was driven by her desire to create a home she loves. Her story has attracted attention for challenging traditional notions about rental property modifications and expenditures.
Implications of Heavy Investment in Rental Homes
This story questions whether renters should feel justified in investing significant sums into their homes, especially when permitted by landlords. It highlights a shift in attitudes toward rental living, where personal comfort and aesthetics are prioritized. The case may influence future renter decisions and landlord policies regarding modifications and expenses, potentially encouraging more investments in rentals if allowed. It also raises broader discussions about the value of making a rental feel like a permanent home versus traditional advice to keep costs low.
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Rental Home Renovation Trends and Norms
Traditionally, renters are advised to limit spending on improvements due to the temporary nature of leases and restrictions from landlords. However, recent stories like Muller’s challenge this norm, especially in rent-stabilized units where tenants have more freedom to modify their spaces. The rise of content creators sharing their home transformations has also contributed to shifting perceptions about what is acceptable or worthwhile in rental homes. Muller’s case is notable because it involves a significant financial commitment, which is uncommon among typical renters.
“Brigette Muller’s story exemplifies a growing trend where renters invest heavily in their living spaces, especially when permitted by landlords and when it enhances their quality of life.”
— Apartment Therapy
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Unclear Long-Term Impact of Such Investments
It is not yet clear whether Muller’s investment will influence other renters or landlord policies broadly. The long-term value of spending this amount on a rental—whether it increases the property’s market value or personal satisfaction—remains uncertain. Additionally, how landlords will respond to similar investments in the future is still developing, and there is no indication yet of widespread policy changes.
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Future of Rental Home Customization and Spending
As more renters share their home improvement stories, there may be increased acceptance of higher spending in rentals, especially in rent-stabilized units. Landlords might reconsider policies regarding modifications, and renters could feel more empowered to personalize their spaces. Monitoring how this trend evolves will reveal whether Muller’s experience sparks broader shifts in rental housing norms.
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Key Questions
Why did this renter spend over $40,000 on her apartment?
She wanted to create a beautiful, functional space that she loved, especially since she works from home and spends a lot of time there. Her landlord approved her renovations as long as she covered the costs.
Is it common for renters to spend this much on their apartments?
No, it is unusual. Most renters typically limit spending due to the temporary nature of leases and restrictions. Muller’s case is notable because her apartment is rent-stabilized and her landlord allowed extensive modifications.
Could this set a precedent for other renters?
This story may encourage other renters to invest more in their spaces if they believe it will improve their quality of life or if their landlords are supportive. However, the impact will depend on individual circumstances and landlord policies.
Will this influence landlord policies on modifications?
It is too early to tell. If more renters follow this example, landlords might reconsider restrictions or offer more flexibility regarding renovations and expenses.
What are the risks of spending so much on a rental?
The primary risk is that such investments may not increase the property’s value or could be lost if the tenant moves out, especially if modifications are not reversible or not recognized in a future sale.
Source: Apartment Therapy
