Vacation Rental Hosting 101 | 5 Brilliant Tips on How to Prepare Your Home To Earn Additional Income
Thinking about turning your home into a vacation rental? If so, you’re already aware that this can be quite a lucrative venture. However, whether you’re planning to rent out your home for a season or all year round, preparing it is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to make your home vacation-ready for those looking to rent it from you part time.
5 tips to help you prepare your home to be a vacation rental to earn additional income.
Deep Clean Your Home
First impressions matter, especially in the vacation rental market. A sparkling clean home attracts more guests and encourages positive reviews. Start with a thorough cleaning of every room. Pay special attention to areas that get the dirtiest, like the kitchen and bathroom. In fact, we have some tips that’ll keep your bathroom cleaner for longer if you need some guidance.
Also, don’t forget to deep clean carpets and upholstery since they can hold onto odors and stains. If cleaning isn’t your favorite task, consider hiring a professional service to ensure every nook and cranny is spotless. Your guests will appreciate the fresh and welcoming environment, setting the tone for a great stay.
Store Away Precious Valuables
Your home might have personal items that mean a lot to you, but they could be at risk when strangers are staying there. It’s a good idea to store away valuables and sensitive documents. This includes jewelry, important papers, and any sentimental items.
You can use a locked closet or an off-site storage facility to keep these items safe. This protects your belongings and declutters your space, making it look more inviting and organized for guests.
Repair Any Lingering Hazards
Safety should be a top priority when preparing your home for vacation rentals. Walk through your house and identify any potential hazards. Look for loose handrails, tripping hazards, or faulty electrical outlets. Be sure to check that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
Fix any issues before your first guests arrive to avoid accidents and ensure a safe stay. Additionally, consider making a list of emergency contacts and local resources, like the nearest hospital or urgent care, and leave it in an easily accessible spot.
Stage Your Home to Look Appealing
Once your home is clean, secure, and safe, you need to make it look its best. Staging your home can significantly impact its appeal. Arrange furniture in a way that maximizes space and highlights the best features of each room. Add cozy touches like throw pillows, blankets, and fresh flowers to create a welcoming atmosphere. For the bedrooms, you can even learn how to layer your bed like a designer to really grab people’s attention.
Consider investing in high-quality linens and towels to give your guests a hotel-like experience. Thoughtful details, like a welcome basket with snacks and a guidebook of local attractions, can make a big difference. Your goal is to make your guests feel at home and excited about their stay, so be sure to put a lot of effort into this part of the preparation process.