"Very ugly countertops are common," Perelman says. "I've mostly gone in the grin and bear it camp, but at the same time I think investing in a beautiful cutting board will make you feel much better about your kitchen. I bought a beautiful black maple cutting board and I'll always have it. You could probably get one the size of your counter. The whole idea is you can take it with you."

This 12-by-20-inch walnut board is available from Jewett Farms Workshop for $46. Photo 2 of 12 in Simple Ways to Upgrade Your Rental Kitchen by Diana Budds

Simple Ways to Upgrade Your Rental Kitchen

2 of 12

"Very ugly countertops are common," Perelman says. "I've mostly gone in the grin and bear it camp, but at the same time I think investing in a beautiful cutting board will make you feel much better about your kitchen. I bought a beautiful black maple cutting board and I'll always have it. You could probably get one the size of your counter. The whole idea is you can take it with you."

This 12-by-20-inch walnut board is available from Jewett Farms Workshop for $46.