Is Furnished or Unfurnished Better? Renting Tips for Noida Tenants
Introduction
A furnished flat in Sector 137 looks tempting—move in with just a suitcase! But does it really save money? This post analyses real 2025 rent data, furnishing costs, and lifestyle factors to help you decide.
Cost Comparison (2 BHK Example)
| Item | Furnished | Unfurnished |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Rent | ₹28,000 | ₹21,000 |
| One‑Time Furniture Buy | — | ₹1,20,000 |
| Furniture Rental (if opted) | ₹3,000 | — |
| Annual Rent Escalation | 8 % | 5 % |
| Exit Costs (moving, repaint) | ₹10,000 | ₹12,000 |
Year‑One Expense Analysis
- Furnished: (₹28k × 12) + ₹10k = ₹3,46,000
- Unfurnished + buying used furniture: (₹21k × 12) + ₹1,20,000 + ₹12k = ₹4,08,000
- Unfurnished + renting furniture: (₹21k × 12) + (₹3k × 12) + ₹12k = ₹3,48,000
Verdict: Furnished edges ahead if you rent furniture, but buying quality used pieces delivers long‑term savings if you stay >2 years.
Lifestyle Flexibility
- Furnished Pros: Quick move‑in/out, no heavy lifting, ideal for expats, interns.
- Cons: Higher deposit (3 months), limited décor freedom, wear‑and‑tear disputes.
- Unfurnished Pros: Personalised space, lower monthly outgo, easier to share.
- Cons: Upfront cost, longer setup time.
Hidden Charges to Watch
- Furniture Insurance: Many landlords charge ₹500/month—negotiate!
- Maintenance on White Goods: Clarify who repairs AC/fridge after warranty.
- Exit Condition: Ensure “normal wear” clause applies to upholstery.
Decision Checklist
- Tenure <18 months? Furnished.
- Tight initial budget? Unfurnished + furniture rental.
- Want customised interiors? Buy used furniture.
Conclusion
There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Weigh tenure, cash flow, and personal style to decide. Whatever you choose, inspect every item and photograph before signing.
