There are around 9 million second homes in the U.S and many transform them into holiday rentals.
Perhaps you’re a second homeowner and you want to create the perfect pad for those vacationing. If this sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are our seven handy hacks to turn your home into a holiday rental.
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1. Decide Who to Cater to
Before you transform your property, you must know where to list your holiday home. You can use mainstream platforms like Airbnb but consider potential website charges and read their terms and conditions first.
Many owners use holiday letting platforms because it’s easier to receive payments from guests. For instance, Airbnb takes the payment and funds it into your account 24 hours after guests have checked in.
Your listing is essentially a pitch so highlight your property’s key selling points in the first paragraph. Consider who you’re catering to, if it’s families then mention nearby fun activities and whether there’s WiFi or air conditioning. Upload the best photos of your property including hidden gems such as a nearby beach, cafe, or park.
Further, consider the insurance you need. Some insurers don’t cover properties unoccupied for 60 days so make sure you have a provider that covers holiday rentals.
2. Determine the Layout
One of the most useful interior hacks is to consider your property’s layout. Decide how many guests you can cater to so you can make amendments. For instance, if you have two double bedrooms then add a zip-link bed in one so guests can change it into a twin room.
Note that the living room is the most important because it’s where guests gather and spend most of their time. Invest in a modern, good-quality sofa and make the space inviting by adding rugs or colorful carpets. Create a seating area so the chairs are facing one another with a coffee table and a chaise lounge where a guest can relax with their favorite book.
You should also make sure the kitchen is spotless and has good-quality appliances so the guests can cook. Keep the cabinets stocked with basic spices, plenty of modern crockery, and even a coffee machine is a great touch.
Further, you mustn't forget the bathroom. Make sure it's spotless and then add towels, a modern soap dispenser, and offer shampoo or shower gel for a nice touch.
3. Less Is More
When considering home rental hacks, choose a subtle style so it aligns with everyone’s taste. Ditch a yellow polka dot theme and go with calming colors like beige, cream, and stone. But feel free to add a splash of vibrancy through rugs, cushions, or curtains.
Stumped for ideas? Then consider your property. For instance, if your home is old then reconnect with its history and expose traditional features like beams or keep old-style lighting for a unique flair. Or, for a minimal style, install a low-profile fan and choose modern furniture. How much does it cost to cancel my timeshare?
4. Add a Touch of Luxury
If you’ve got a hot tub or a spa bathroom then it could spark interest with guests who want a touch of luxury. You can also welcome them with a box of chocolates, a bottle of wine, or even milk and bread so they don’t have to shop once they arrive. And if guests are staying for an extended period then hire a cleaner to pop in once a fortnight so your guests can fully relax on their vacation.
5. Keep It Clean and Clutter-Free
One of the most important hacks is to keep your property pristine. Travelers notice if the sheets are dirty or if the bathroom hasn’t been cleaned so make sure it’s spotless before they arrive. You must also declutter your home of unnecessary items as it maintains an organized and tidy look. It’s also important to provide fresh, good-quality linen and towels so the guests feel at home.
6. Bring the Outdoors In
Plants are great in the home because they purify the air while creating a calming atmosphere. Either choose a large statement plant or several in the corner of your home by grouping them. It’s best to choose different varieties and sizes as it creates a unique effect.
7. Make Them Feel Like a Local
Your goal is to make guests feel comfortable. A fantastic way to do this is to create a welcome pack complete with appliance instruction manuals, restaurant recommendations, day trips, and useful phone numbers. You should also greet them with a welcome text and say you’re available if they have any questions or need help. Doing this shows you’re hospitable and you want them to have a fantastic vacation.
To end the trip on a positive note, send them a short email or review saying how well they took care of your place as it also shows new guests that your property is a great holiday rental.
That's How to Turn Your Home Into a Holiday Rental
Now you know how to transform your property into an excellent holiday rental.
It’s important to decide how to advertise your place, whether you want to hire a property manager, and who you’re catering to. Once decided, keep your home pristine, and clutter-free, and go the extra mile so your guests feel comfortable and have a fantastic vacation. Good luck!
Hopefully, you found this article helpful. If you’d like similar content, then why not check out our posts on everything from Travel to Home Decor?