Why expats should rent furniture or subscribe to a rental service while working abroad

19 Apr 2023

As an expat living in Asia, at some point you’ll have to decide whether to buy or rent furniture for your home. Whilst buying furniture can be a practical solution if you plan on staying in the same location for an extended period of time, renting furniture offers a number of benefits for expats who want a more flexible and cost-effective solution.

Flexibility 

One of the main reasons to consider renting furniture in Asia is the flexibility and ease of relocation. If you’re an expat planning to live in Asia for only a few years, it might not make financial sense to invest in furniture that you will eventually have to sell or leave behind when you move. Renting furniture allows you to easily adjust to your new surroundings and move to a new location without having to worry initial capital outlay and what to do with the furniture when you leave. 

Cost–effectiveness 

In addition to the flexibility of renting furniture, it can also be a more cost-effective solution for expats. Buying can be an expensive and time–consuming undertaking, as finding the right piece of furniture for your space can be difficult, especially in Asian cities where space is at a premium. By renting furniture, you can save money on the upfront cost of purchasing furniture and avoid the hassle of coordinating delivery and installation.

Convenience 

Renting furniture can also be a convenient option for expats. Rather than spending time and energy shopping for furniture and coordinating delivery, you can simply choose the furniture you want and have it delivered to your home. This can be especially helpful if you are busy with work and other responsibilities and don’t have the time to shop for furniture. 

Style options 

Another benefit of renting furniture is the ability to try out different styles. If you aren’t sure what style of furniture will work best in your new home, renting furniture allows you to experiment with different styles and find what works best for your living space without committing to a permanent purchase. This can be especially useful if you are still getting settled in and aren’t sure what style of furniture will best suit your needs. 

No need for storage 

If you’re an expat living in a smaller apartment or home, renting furniture can be a practical solution. You may not have the space to store or use all of the furniture you own, and renting furniture allows you to choose pieces that fit your current living situation. 

Sustainability 

Renting furniture can also be more sustainable than purchasing. When you buy furniture it may go out of style before it wears out, thereby needing replacement which can lead to waste. Rental furniture stays in the community leading to longer usage, and less waste. Renting furniture also allows you to regularly update and refresh your furniture without generating as much waste. This can help slow the need for more furniture production, which in turn reduces its environmental impact. 

Furniture subscriptions 

In addition to traditional furniture rental options, there are also other options available for expats looking to furnish their homes in Asia. For example, you may be able to find companies that offer furniture subscriptions or office equipment rentals. With a furniture subscription service, you can choose a package of furniture that meets your needs and have it delivered to your home on a regular basis. Office equipment rentals can be a practical solution for expats who need temporary office furniture or equipment, such as desks, chairs, and printers. 

In conclusion, there are many reasons why expats in Asia should consider renting furniture. Whether you are looking for a flexible and cost-effective solution, the convenience of having furniture delivered to your home, or the ability to try out different styles, renting furniture can offer a number of benefits for expats. With options ranging from traditional furniture rental to furniture subscriptions and office equipment rentals, there is a rental solution for every expat’s needs.