Believe it or not, how your vacation rental is designed and decorated has a significant impact on its profitability. To be profitable, you have to make sure you get plenty of bookings; the first step to get bookings is scroll-stopping. To get a renter to pause and click on your rental, you need to visually capture interest. With the right design, consumers will want to look a little closer at your listing - even one that may exceed their price point. It's the same concept as window shopping, which is why retailers take such care to make sure their window display is eye-catching.
It is well-worth the one time expense of professional photography, that best captures the beautiful and welcoming home you've so carefully put together are your opportunity to stand out above the competition. Vacationers want to spend their time in a home that is comfortable, has an enticing lay-out and will make them feel at home...but a version of home that doesn't include the messiness that naturally comes with day-to-day living. Simple and neat is an absolute must in the desirability of your rental home.
Beds should have a frame, attractive bedding, and fluffy pillows. Spreading a blanket across the base is a great way to suggest the comfort they can expect if they choose a stay at your home. Another eye catching opportunity is to include a few unique decorative pillows on the couch. Even a simple sofa can be easily dressed up with the investment of higher quality decorative pillows. Although simple is best, including a tray with a mug and book on the coffee table is an enticing cue that triggers a feeling of relaxation.
Make sure to keep decor tasteful, simple, and memorable. It only takes one or two pieces of classy artwork or decor to suggest a high-end rental...which in turn makes an impact on the perception of value and willingness to pay a little more than a comparative property.
Keep in mind your target demographic. If your rental is likely to attract families, it is helpful to feature a couple of child friendly touches such as a few stuffed animals on a twin bed and colorful towels in a bathroom. If you expect more business travelers feature a desk with a simple lamp and comforable chair. For a smaller rental that will appeal mostly to singles or couples, include a tray with a bottle of wine and stemware on the kitchen counter.
It just requires a thoughtful and skillful approach to decorating to make sure your rental home stands out above the crowd. If you are not a person who enjoys decorating, ask a friend whose home you feel is similar to the look you want for a bit of advice or consider hiring a professional decorator to take on the project. Don't forget that a owning a rental property is a business and with all businesses, you will get out of it what you put into it.