Discover practical tips to effectively furnish your short-term rental, creating a top notch guest experience that boosts bookings and attract guests. Read the article for expert advice!
Understanding the Basics of Furnishing a Vacation Rental Property
Many homeowners are unsure how to pick the best furniture for their rental property. Think about an empty rental property as a blank canvas that you can freely arrange to fit your preferences and the requirements of your guests. Although it's a mammoth task, searching for suitable vacation home furniture can be a joyous experience.
As the short-term rental industry grows, becoming increasingly demanding and competitive, ensuring your property stands out from the crowd is highly important. Proper short term rental furniture selection will complement your vacation home and satisfy the comfort of your guests stay.
Creating a checklist before purchasing furniture helps keep you organized. Choosing durable furniture can save money in the long run due to less frequent replacements. Investing in durable, easy-to-maintain furniture reduces cleaning time and ensures guest satisfaction. Furniture in a vacation rental will wear more quickly than in a regular home.
What is the Cost to Furnish a Rental Property?
The price of furnishing a rental property can change a lot based on where it is, what brand it is, how good it is, and how much inventory is available.
Before starting your furnishing adventure, it is necessary to create an inventory checklist of what you already own and what you need to purchase. Be realistic about your spending range and allow for flexibility in case of unexpected expenses.
Keep in mind that some furniture elements like dining tables, nightstands, and chairs don't have to be brand new. Instead, you can explore thrift stores and buy second-hand furniture, which can be a cost-effective option but may require more effort to find suitable pieces.
Buying secondhand furniture will save you a good amount of money, but you have to evaluate if it’s worth it or not.
Defining Your Target Market and Style
Know Your Target Guests
Understanding your target audience is necessary for choosing the right furniture for your short-term rental.
Establishing your target market from the beginning will make furnishing your vacation rental home much easier. There are several types of audiences that your vacation home should appeal to:
-
Families with children: Choose short-term rental furniture that is also kid-friendly.
-
Couples: Make sure your vacation rental offers an open fireplace, a hot tub, or a two-person hammock.
-
Business travelers: When choosing accommodations, business travelers value simple yet comfortable furniture that will help them finish their work efficiently.
-
Seniors: Ensure your home is barrier-free with simple and practical furniture that is easily accessible.
-
Vacationers with pets: The furnishings in the vacation home should be pet-friendly. It might be best to avoid buying expensive furniture and just give the dog a place to sleep, some toys, and a bowl.
Think about what your target guests expect from a vacation rental home and try to meet those expectations. You want them to enjoy their stay the first time so they’ll come back, leave positive reviews, or recommend your rental property to others.
The bottom line is that you need to select comfortable, durable, and appealing furniture for your target audience, and this article will show you how.
Define Your Style
Defining your style is essential to creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere in your short-term rental. Consider the overall aesthetic of your rental property and its location, and give it your unique, personal touch.
Decide what your central theme is and visualize how your guests will live in and enjoy your rental space, making every choice with their comfort in mind.
Proper lighting contributes to the overall ambiance and functionality of a rental space.
Neutral color schemes appeal to a wider range of guests than bright, bold colors. Choosing a style that appeals to a wide range of guests is crucial for maximizing bookings.
Popular themes to explore are modern, farmhouse, traditional, and industrial.
Marketing materials should highlight the best features of the rental, such as views or unique design elements.
Use wall art and other decorative elements to add personality to your living space - consider sculptures, crafts, or books that reflect the local culture and landscape. These elements personalize your space and connect the guests to their surroundings and everything your vacation rental has to offer.
A Furnishing Plan - Foundation For Success
A vacation rental inventory checklist is a great way to help ensure you have everything necessary for your property.
Start by making a list of what you already own and what you need to purchase. Inspect the existing furniture to make sure everything is in good condition and note if any fixes are necessary.
Prioritize your needs and focus on the most essential items first, as that is the foundation of a comfortable and inviting space.
Consider the wants of your target guests and make sure to include things that will improve their stay. Don't underestimate the power of the details and try to give your Airbnb property a personal touch.
Most guests won't actually see the property until they walk through the door and they certainly won't book it or return if the overall perceived value is lacking.
Choosing the Right Furniture for Your Vacation Home - Easy Steps
1. Invest in Good Quality, Durable Furniture
Every experienced host and homeowner will tell you that having high-quality furniture is the basis for a top-notch guest experience. All the furnishings in your vacation rental should be carefully selected to accentuate what your short-term rental has to offer and ensure a cozy stay for your guests. Ultimately, make your property stand out from the crowd.
Since furnishing a property is quite a pricey investment, you should look for furniture with a modern design that will not go out of style quickly.
Choosing furniture that is comfortable, practical, and versatile is a wise move that will save you money in the long run. Investing in durable, easy-to-maintain furniture reduces cleaning time and ensures guest satisfaction.
PRO TIP: Set a damage deposit for your vacation rental and give guests a greater sense of responsibility for the property they’re staying in, simultaneously decreasing the chances of any damage.
2. Generous Storage Space
Providing ample storage space is essential to ensure that your short-term rental is comfortable and functional.
If your guests are staying for a week or more, make sure they have plenty of closet, drawer, or clothes rail room to unpack and feel right at home.
Choose pieces that are stylish and functional, such as a storage ottoman or a dresser/vanity with storage.
At Neil's Home Store, you will find a curated selection of modern and practical furniture with ample storage space and design that will nicely complement every style.
Elegant, modern furnishings take your bedroom to the next level. Nothing does that better than a Robinnsdale queen-panel storage bed. With its beautiful grain pattern and aged white finish, this piece exudes class. The dark bronze-tone hardware gives the useful storage drawers a fancy touch.
Enrich the living space with practical yet comfortable seating solutions like the Farmington Storage Ottoman. It features convenient storage for blankets, games, or other items you like.
The dining area should accommodate enough seating for the maximum number of guests. Like the Joanna dining set featuring a full 80- inch extension and drawers for silver ware. This set also has options for a server or kitchen cart for added storage. A clean, organized kitchen is essential for earning positive reviews from guests.
Furnishing Each Room: Engage with your creative side
Like with any other activity, there are a few factors to consider when furnishing your vacation rental:
-
Capacity: Does your rental home offer enough seating for all guests?
-
Comfort: Is the room cozy enough to sit there for long?
-
Flow: Does the furniture complement the layout of the room, and does it serve a purpose?
Answering these crucial questions will ensure you choose the best living room furniture that will make your guests feel at home.
Living Room and Common Areas
The living room is the heart of your vacation rental, it is where guests will spend most of their time. Accordingly, it is a good idea to equip the area with furniture that is comfortable, durable, and easy to clean. Essential furniture elements for every living room are: a sofa, chairs, ottomans, a coffee table, side tables, and an entertainment center. Furnishing a short-term rental requires selecting items that are easy to wipe down.
Many vacation rentals have a fused living and dining room, creating a spacious area for gathering, socializing, and dining. This house layout is practical and gives you more freedom in designing your interior - you can play safe and opt for matching living and dining sets or mix different styles and add your personal touch.
Something like The Auburn Dining Set brings elegance and comfort to your dining area. At its heart is the Auburn Expandable Table, a masterpiece that will complement large dining areas. With its finish and burnished edges, it radiates rustic charm. The set includes wooden side chairs with a finish and wood score distressing, blending farmhouse charm with classic aesthetics. Captain's chairs add exceptional comfort and style, perfect for unforgettable gatherings.
Outdoor Spaces and Decor: Add value to your guests’ stay
Creating an Inviting Outdoor Space
Having a well-decorated outdoor area with stylish decorative elements is a crucial factor that will boost your rental property. It will increase its value, attract future guests, and ensure more bookings and positive reviews.
Short-term rental properties with a pleasant outdoor space make a lasting first impression and set the property apart in the competitive rental market.
For the decoration of your vacation home, consider native and low-maintenance plants for ease of care. Pair the greenery with a well-kept lawn and ensure your guests a welcoming and enjoyable stay.
Invest in outdoor furniture that is weather-resistant and easy to clean. Make sure that the furniture complements the overall design of your property, making it visually appealing and attractive.
Consider adding outdoor furniture with built-in storage to keep the area organized. A piece like the Brook Ranch Multi-use Table will refresh and refine your outdoor space. This table can be used for many things and is both stylish and beautifully simple. It's easy to store things on the shelf, comes in nice neutral colors, and can be used in any weather. This sleek table makes living outside even more appealing, whether you're having a fancy party with friends or having dinner by the pool with your kids.
Comfort is key - your outdoor lounge area needs comfortable seating that will help the guest relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Kimora - Lounge Chair With Cushion is what you need to turn your outdoor space into an Oasis of comfort. This outdoor swivel lounge chair captures the textural beauty of wicker while withstanding the elements, from rain to shine. With a UV-resistant design, the wonderfully low-maintenance Nuvella+™ fabric maintains its good looks over time. Deep, roomy seating completes the piece, offering ample space to sprawl out.
Budgeting and Shopping: Where To Splurge And Where To Save
Knowing where to invest your money is key to furnishing on a budget.
Splurge on items that guests will use the most, like mattresses, couches, and dining tables, as these pieces need to be both comfortable and durable. It's best to replace soft furnishings with hard-wearing PVC or leather alternatives. Save on everyday items like decor and accessories, as these items are easily replaceable.
Explore DIY options and make your furniture and decor - this activity will help you express your creativity and add a personal touch to the whole ambiance. Apart from that, DIY projects will make your property unique and memorable for the guests.
Second-hand can be a great way to save money while adding character to your rental. Shop online or visit estate sales and thrift stores to find high-quality pieces that just need a little TLC.
Final Tips and Recommendations From Professionals
First impressions matter, and the furnishings in your rental play a significant role in how guests perceive your property
When furnishing and maintaining a short-term rental, sourcing quality linens, cleaning supplies, and other essentials is crucial for providing an excellent guest experience.
Consider using top suppliers that specialize in vacation rentals: High-quality products/services from reliable suppliers enhance the overall experience, elevating guest satisfaction and loyalty, potentially leading to repeat guests.
A vacation rental with an established purchasing policy and strategic sourcing of vendors provenly has more success and more profitability.
FAQs
How to furnish on a budget a short-term rental or vacation home?
Some tricks for furnishing your vacation rental on a budget include setting your budget, buying second-hand, doing DIY projects, and buying local art and multi-functional pieces.
A budget-friendly short-term rental doesn't mean you have to compromise on comfort. Be open-minded and creative, explore every option. Furnish a vacation rental in a way that fits your budget and leaves a good impression on your guests while attracting new, potential guests.
How to protect furniture in a vacation home?
There will always be some wear and tear, especially with sofa beds, mattresses, and chairs. Items like dining tables and sofas are more at risk of accidental damage in rental properties.
It is recommended to use removable and washable covers whenever possible.
Finally, it's a good idea to take a deposit or require damage insurance.
What should I look for in short-term rental furniture?
Select durable, easy-to-clean furniture with high quality stain-resistant fabrics and surfaces.
Ensure your layout promotes a calming and inviting atmosphere where your guests will feel at home.
What are the must-haves for a short-term rental kitchen?
Stock your kitchen with a set of high-quality cooking utensils, cookware, and modern appliances like a coffee machine and hot water kettle.
What to avoid?
Glass and delicate items should be avoided in vacation rentals to prevent breakage.
Where to buy?
Some of the most popular stores to buy from are Ikea, Wayfair, Pottery Barn, West Elm, Etsy...
Consider local stores for convenience and quality service like Neill's Homestore. You will have a more personal experience with experts in quality and design.
What are the benefits of a well-furnished vacation rental?
Furnish a vacation rental and experience these benefits:
-
Enhanced guest experience
-
Repeat reservations
-
More positive reviews
-
Increased revenue.
What are the necessary furniture pieces for a living room?
Must-haves for a living room that your guests will enjoy are a high-quality couch or a sofa bed, armchairs or recliners, coffee table or an ottoman, smart TV, high-speed WiFi, adequate overhead lighting, wall art, mirrors and soft furnishings like pillows, quality linens and plush blankets for additional coziness (Durable rugs and throw pillows should be selected for their ability to withstand use in rentals).
Find exclusive pillows and art pieces at Neill's Homestore.
Bring a touch of contemporary artistic charm to your rental home with a Lauretwood pillow. An abstract watercolor design on this accent pillow adds an ethereal element to the interior decor. Plus, its handy zippered cover is machine washable, this pillow is a practical yet stylish addition wherever you place it.
Use a mirror that will reflect your taste and visually expand the living area.
The Brocky accent mirror is going to add a charming flair to the ambiance. A frame of gold tone finished metal keeps things elegant, elevating your space with a simple touch. Whether used for adding light to a space or checking your appearance on the way out the door, this mirror is an inviting addition to your decor.
Don't underestimate a rug - it will add a touch of softness, texture, and coziness to the floors while elevating the whole design. Maysel area rug offers a deliciously comfortable underfoot experience. With an updated chain effect in charcoal and white, this floor covering offers a sense of worldliness to tie the room together.
Are there common mistakes when furnishing a vacation rental?
Yes - common mistakes include overcrowding the space with furniture and accessories. Also, a mistake that can bring damage to your budget is not thinking about durability and buying low-quality furniture that can't withstand frequent use.
If you're unsure about how to furnish your rental property in a way that brings success and attracts new guests, you can ask an interior designer for help and get valuable insights on the latest trends and what your guests can expect in terms of amenities.