House hacking/ rent by the room question

[Devyn Caraballo]

Hello biggerpockets family! Hope all is well!

A question popped into my head while driving to work today. When renting by the room the first time (or any time really), is it my responsibility as the owner to furnish the apartment completely?? Couches, kitchen table, beds, etc.? 

[Devyn Caraballo]

Thank you for the insight! My thoughts exactly. I figured it would also be easier to rent out if they see they don't have to do any furnishing. That way I can avoid vacancy time. But you definitely have a point with them taking care of the furniture. But I guess that's what the security deposit would come in handy for? Or should I make that a separate clause in the lease you think?

Originally posted by @Andy Eakes:

I would say it may be best to provide basic common area furniture if you plan to rent out by the room: couches, dining table, etc. Things could be weird if one tenant does something to another tenant's couch or something like that. My biggest worry would be that because they know its yours and not theirs, they may not take care of it as nicely.

I wouldn't say you have to provide beds for every room. I am not sure what New Jersey law states, but I do not think it is the law to provide any of what you're asking about.