A vacation property provides the comforts of home in a beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime vacation
spot. It’s an idyllic scenario for many vacationers, and it’s helped make the vacation rental
market a lucrative one over the past several years. In fact, the industry is experiencing
remarkable growth thanks to increasing demands from consumers for private accommodations.
A vacation rental gives guests comfortable living quarters, multiple bedrooms, and enough space
to spread out and make themselves at home; it’s an appealing alternative to a cramped hotel
room with one bathroom. However, turning your vacation rental property into a profitable
investment takes work and a knowledge of how to attract renters — and keep them coming back.
Location
Location is the key factor any time you invest in a piece of property, and that’s especially true
for vacation rentals. People plan entire vacations based on their interests, which is why Tampa
Bay is such a popular destination. As TurnKey explains, Tampa Bay offers a number of
entertainment options (e.g., Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium) that will appeal to a broad
range of tourists. And the closer your property is to one of these high-traffic locations, the more
popular it will become.
Safety
People staying in an unfamiliar place appreciate the security of knowing that they and their
families are safe. No matter how appealing your location might be, there’s always the possibility
of crime, not to mention the uneasiness that people often feel while staying in a new place.
Installing an alarm system and security cameras, along with keyless locks, not only help guests
feel safer but help keep your insurance costs down.
The Eye Test
A property with attractive landscaping and a good, clean facade makes a more favorable
impression than a property with peeling paint and cracked pavement. Curb appeal matters,
whether someone is passing by in a car or clicking through on a website. An aesthetically
pleasing vacation getaway is a powerful draw for people looking for a comfortable and luxurious
vacation home away from home.
Storage
Storage and closet space aren’t usually at the top of a vacationer’s wish list. However, it’s a nice
thing to have for people who bring along plenty of luggage. Think of extra storage as a way to
make guests more comfortable by not forcing them to cram their clothing and gear into the closet
along with the shoes and hanging items. If possible, consider adding walk-in closets, which are
luxurious conveniences that help maximize storage.
New Appliances and Technology
Shiny new appliances give renters the feeling that they’re getting more for their money. It’s even
better if you can provide something they don’t have at home, perhaps a smart coffee maker that
can be programmed to wake guests up with an alarm while brewing their first jolt of caffeine for
the day. A smart thermostat makes it easier to keep guests comfortable and saves money on
energy costs. If you’re worried about the expense, you can always phase in new appliances and
technology gradually rather than doing a wholesale upgrade.
It’s often the little things that make the greatest impact on guests. People love details and
conveniences that feel luxurious, even if they don’t cost that much. Make sure there’s a nice TV
in each bedroom and a selection of movies on DVD. The next time you visit, try looking at the
place like a vacationer and imagine what would make for the ideal vacation.
If you're still looking for the perfect vacation rental, contact Cowen Property Group to ensure
you find a property that fits your preferences.