Renting out your property on a short-term basis provides flexible income. However, decorating a space meant for temporary residents can be challenging. Unlike long-term rentals, guests only stay for a few days or weeks.
So how do you make them feel at home? With some simple upgrades, you can transform your short-term rental into a warm, welcoming abode.
10 Ways to Make Your Short-Term Rental Space Feel Like a Home
When guests book a short-term rental, they want to feel like they are staying in a comfortable home, not just a temporary lodging. As a rental owner, paying attention to small details can elevate your property and give it a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. Follow these 10 tips to make guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive
Let There Be Light
Lighting sets the overall ambiance in a home. Make the most of natural light by opening blinds and curtains during the day. Supplement with mood lighting like floor lamps, sconces, and pendant lights.
Swap out overhead fluorescent bulbs for softer LEDs. Accent lighting highlights architectural details and decor. Place lamps in corners to brighten up the space. The right lighting provides comfort and makes rooms appear larger.
Maximize Small Spaces
Utilize every inch of compact rentals through smart storage hacks. Install pegboards or wall-mounted holders for pots and pans. Use lid organizers inside cabinet doors. Multitiered shelves double storage space.
Opt for stackable laundry baskets and nesting tables. Add hooks on walls and doors for hanging coats, keys, and towels. The less clutter in a small space, the roomier it feels.
Create a Soothing Sanctuary
Help guests relax by designing bedrooms for comfort. Blackout curtains block light and muffle noise. White noise machines or apps drown disruptive sounds.
Provide quality bedding and supportive mattresses for restful sleep. Minimize electronics usage at night. Place books, magazines, and eye masks on nightstands. Ensure a tranquil environment to recharge.
With strategic home upgrades, short-term rentals can feel welcoming. Focus on lighting, furnishings, storage, scents, and hospitality touches that create comfort. A space reflecting care transforms houses into homes.
Furnish for Flexibility
Since different guests will occupy the space, choose lightweight, movable furniture. Multifunctional pieces like ottomans with hidden storage allow for modifying room layouts. Look for quality furnishings in neutral tones for wide appeal.
When considering a short-term rental investment, pay attention to mattresses and bedding that affect sleep comfort. Welcome guests with a fruit basket or treat on the dining table to enhance their experience. Additionally, add generous seating in the living
areas to encourage repose and ensure that your rental property stands out for its comfort and hospitality.
Create Character with Art
Curate the walls with original art or graphic prints that convey a sense of style. Opt for classic black-and-white cityscapes or soothing nature photography. Faux botanical prints complement greenery.
For a personal touch, display antique family photos or mementos. Keep pieces in similar color schemes for visual harmony. Wall art elicits emotions and gives spaces character.
Embrace Greenery
Plants breathe life into indoor spaces and make the air feel fresher. Place low-maintenance varieties like succulents, snake plants, and pothos in bright corners. The moisture and oxygen from plants improve well-being.
Add blooming orchids to coffee tables and small cacti to nightstands. A mini herb garden on the kitchen sill is a thoughtful touch. Remember to leave care instructions for each plant.
Incorporate Textures and Layers
Make a plain rental feel inviting with luxurious fabrics and finishes. Hang drapes to soften hard surfaces and add coziness. Area rugs bring warmth to bare floors. Update bedding with soft linens and plush blankets.
Fluff pillows in varying sizes for extra comfort. Use natural materials like jute, linen, and cotton for texture. Display trays and bowls with decorative objects to add depth. These layers transform sterile spaces into homes.
Transform with Color
Color profoundly impacts mood and emotions. Warm hues like peach, yellow, and terracotta promote cheer and relaxation. Cool blues and greens evoke calmness. Use accent walls or paint trims in these tones.
Add splashes of color with furnishings and art. Bold patterns and textures in curtains, rugs, and cushions add visual interest. Display colorful books, ornaments, and fresh flowers. Vibrant, thoughtful colors make rentals inviting.
Welcome with Essential Oils
Scents transform how spaces feel. Refresh rooms with light, cozy aromas like lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus using reed diffusers. Keep citrus scents in kitchen areas and florals in bedrooms.
Include natural potpourri in bowls or small candles to eliminate stale odors. Limit overpowering perfumes that linger between guests. A pleasant fragrance provides a warm welcome.
Add Thoughtful Touches
Small personalized touches make rentals feel like homes. Include a guide to local attractions and menus of nearby restaurants. Stock snacks, coffee, and tea for hospitable gestures.
Leave extra toiletries, ironing supplies, umbrellas, and phone chargers for convenience. Provide soft robes, slippers, and earplugs for relaxation. A guest book invites reflections and connections. Such thoughtful additions are appreciated.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are quick ways to make a rental home?
Add accent pillows, soft throws, and area rugs for quick coziness. Bring in fresh flowers, potpourri, or scented candles for pleasant aromas. Stock up on coffee, tea and snacks. Provide extra linens, toiletries, and chargers for convenience.
2. How can I make my rental appealing on a budget?
Shop secondhand stores and garage sales for unique furniture and artwork. Repurpose items like crates, ladders, and baskets for cheap storage. Use removable wall decals and contact paper to transform surfaces. Add inexpensive greenery with air plants and cut flowers.
3. How do I decorate a rental while respecting the owner’s space?
Seek the owner’s permission before making any permanent changes. Use non-damaging options like removable wallpaper and fabric wall art. Avoid very bold colors or themes to appeal to different guests. Add your touches through movable items like pillows, throws, and plants.
Conclusion
Creating a warm, inviting environment takes your short-term rental from just another place to stay to a space guests will remember fondly long after checkout. By incorporating personal touches, comforts of home, and thoughtful extras, you can provide an experience that exceeds expectations.
Your guests will appreciate the care you’ve put into making them feel at home. Implementing even a few of these ideas can help transform your rental into a home away from home that keeps guests returning year after year.
Turning rentals into homes requires creativity and care. By incorporating comforts, convenience, and a warm atmosphere, spaces become welcoming sanctuaries for guests. Simple upgrades make all the difference.
