By Guest Blogger DIYMama, Erin Reynolds

Vacation rentals are making waves in the tourism market, and homeowners and investors alike are taking notice. Property purchases are significant investments, so when you’re considering turning one into a vacation rental, it’s important to set yourself up for success. This can be achieved with a few simple strategies that ensure you attract guests and get a good return on your investment in the future.

Assess Area Advantages

There are some obvious advantages in selecting an area with a steady flow of tourism. The right location, such as Scottsdale or Orlando, could yield a hefty ROI with lower mortgage rates. Realty Times notes that guests like to see safety and comfort in a vacation home’s location as well. For example, if you find a great house located on a rocky, eroding cliff, guests can find the locale upsetting. Similarly, homes situated on riverbeds prone to flooding can deter vacationers. For the sake of both safety and convenience, vacationers also like having access to their own well-lit parking space, ideally within view of the home’s interior. So, examine potential properties through the eyes of someone searching for a relaxing, worry-free, and fun getaway.

Property Particulars

Finding a great location gets you started on the right foot. Next, examine the details relating to particular properties and decide what’s worth investing in for upgrades — if anything. Remember to view each property through the eyes of a vacationer, knowing they will expect a secure environment and the creature comforts of home, along with a touch of luxury. With that in mind, list your rental with a company like Turnkey to keep it well protected with digital locks on every door, in addition to other security measures. A vacation rental that offers something unique, like a balcony with an amazing view to a lovely veranda, a fireplace, or the extravagance of an indoor pool, can also be a draw. Ensuring your guests’ safety and providing a bit of fun and pampering can go a long way toward creating the special experience vacationers crave.

Heart of the Home

One of the top amenities guests look for in vacation rentals also offers good ROI: a nice kitchen. Small kitchen upgrades, such as refacing cabinets, installing new hardware, and adding a new appliance or two, can boost your home’s value if you decide to sell later. The updated spot to prepare food can also catch the attention of potential guests, so it’s a no-lose.

Bathroom Basics

If your rental is large enough for multiple guests or a family, more than one bathroom is another plus — and adding a bathroom is another upgrade with potentially good ROI. For properties that offer enough bathrooms, or if adding one simply isn’t practical, there are still small upgrades to consider. Replace outdated fixtures and lighting, install a new sink and toilet, and consider replacing the tile if it’s out-of-date. Where space allows, a double vanity is also a plus.

Family Fun

Even in a location with plenty of attractions, vacationers like to have access to things to do right at the rental. Swimming pools and hot tubs can enhance your guests’ experience. When you’re ready to outfit the interior, guests will expect things like WiFi and television sets in each room, and if you’re marketing to families, consider adding things like a pool table or video game system.

Turning a home into a vacation rental can be an ideal investment. Consider the location, look at the property through the eyes of a guest, and make adjustments as needed. You can enjoy ongoing passive income with the right home and appropriate amenities.

About DIY Mama

Erin Reynolds is single mom who taught herself how to do home improvement projects and repairs to save money.

Follow Erin at: http://diymama.net/

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I’d like to thank Erin for this great post and to welcome everyone back to the blog! I’ve got lot’s of amazing stuff planned for Michael Helwig Interiors in 2020 and I’d love for you to let me know what you think of this kind of content.

Do you want to see more content from my friends in the home improvement industry? There’s a wealth of knowledge out there and I’m excited to bring you interesting, timely and important content to read.

My aim is to always help you make important decisions to improve your home. Feel free to leave a comment below.

Until next Friday, find me on the socials @interiorsmh and don’t forget, stay amazing and keep your dreams big for your small space!

Michael is Principal designer and blogger at Michael Helwig Interiors in beautiful Buffalo, New York. Since 2011, he’s a space planning expert, offering online interior e-design services for folks living in small homes, or for those with awkward and tricky layouts. He’s a frequent expert contributor to many National media publications and news outlets on topics related to decorating, interior design, diy projects, and more. Michael happily shares his experience to help folks avoid expensive mistakes and decorating disappointments. You can follow him on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook @interiorsmh.