Accounting for over $10 trillion in revenue annually, the vacation rental industry is one of the hottest sectors in travel. So whether you’re a homeowner looking to capitalize on your investment or a builder hoping to jump on a burgeoning trend, now is the time to get involved. But before you do, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your property is comfortable for both you and your guests.
1. Ensure comfort
First and foremost, comfort is vital when it comes to vacation rentals. No one wants to shell out top dollar for a subpar experience, so ensuring that your property is up to snuff is essential. That means ensuring that everything from the sheets and towels to the furniture and appliances is top-of-the-line. It also means ensuring the property is well-insulated and soundproofed—no one wants to hear their neighbor’s kids screaming all night!
You want your guests to feel like they’re in a home away from home, and comfort is key to making that happen. If you’re unsure where to start, consider doing a trial run or two before opening your property up to guests. This will allow you to iron out any potential kinks in your setup and ensure everything is running smoothly. You may even consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure the property is spotless before each check-in.
2. Do regular maintenance checks
Regular maintenance and upkeep are essential to maintain the comfort level necessary to make a good impression on guests. That means regularly inspecting your property’s major systems—electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc. This will ensure that any potential problems can be caught and addressed before they become severe issues.
You’ll also want to inspect the exterior of your property. The paint is especially important—no one wants to stay in a run-down property. Be sure to check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in the paint, and hire professional commercial painters to touch up any areas that need it. They can ensure your property looks its best and keeps guests coming back. Ask around for references, and hire someone qualified for the job.
3. Ensure guest’s safety
In addition to comfort, safety should also be a top priority for vacation rentals. After all, nothing puts a damper on a trip like an accident or injury. So take the time to walk through your property and identify potential hazards. Then, take steps to remediate those hazards by repairing loose floorboards, installing grab bars in showers, and removing any tripping hazards from walkways.
You should also consider the security of your guests. Ensure adequate locks are on all doors and windows, both inside and out. Consider investing in a smart home system that allows you to control locks and sensors remotely. This will give your guests peace of mind knowing their belongings are safe while away. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even install a security camera or two for added protection.
4. Strategize with aesthetics
Remember that first impressions matter. Vacationers will often decide whether or not to rent your property based on the photos they see online, so it’s essential to ensure that those photos accurately reflect what they can expect when they arrive. If not, you risk disappointing them—and losing their business—which no one wants!
Always consider the aesthetics of your property when planning upgrades and renovations. Fresh paint, modern furniture, and colorful decor can all help to make your property stand out from the rest. Also, don’t forget about curb appeal! Investing in a few landscaping items—such as plants, flowers, and even a water feature—can make your property look even more inviting.
5. Welcome your guests
Finally, be sure to make your guests feel extra special. Consider leaving a welcome basket full of goodies like snacks, toiletries, and a few brochures about the local area. You can also include directions to your property and any other information they might need, such as Wi-Fi passwords or nearby attractions. Doing this will help to make your guests feel welcomed and at home.
Try to be as responsive as possible to any inquiries or questions that they may have. If you go the extra mile to make your guests feel comfortable and taken care of, there’s a good chance that they’ll come back to stay with you again—and, even better, recommend your property to their friends and family.
With the vacation rental industry booming, now is the perfect time for homeowners and builders to get involved. But before you do, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure guest comfort and safety—after all, those are the two most important factors when it comes to vacation rentals! By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making your home away from home a reality.
