| When done well, preparing your vacation property for | | | | saving you potential damage if the renter brought |
| rental is an art. Lots of people do it, but if you are one | | | | candles with nothing to put them in). Think about |
| of those people who do it with style you'll see bigger | | | | entertainment: provide a stereo (with a jack to connect |
| and better returns, especially in a busy market. Like | | | | an MP3 player), a couple of board games (Scrabble is |
| staging a home for sale, with a little effort you can | | | | a treasured standard), and some reading material. |
| create an inviting environment for your renters. | | | | Why not give it a personalized touch - include books |
| The first thing to decide is how often and how long | | | | about area's wildlife, history, or landmarks. Supply local |
| you plan to rent your place for. If you use the property | | | | maps. Does your family adore a particular local |
| for part of the year (e.g. you holiday every summer) | | | | restaurant? Why not share your top picks with your |
| you may want to look for longer term tenants. | | | | guests? A list of local amenities and special events is |
| Choosing longer term tenants will save you money for | | | | really helpful. A DVD player is a necessity - combine it |
| cleaning fees, but the wear and tear may go up. In a | | | | with a few classic titles in case of a rainy day. |
| longer term situation you may choose not to furnish | | | | Speaking of rain, if rain is common in your area, add an |
| your property, although you will probably get a better | | | | umbrella to the coat closet. It's a little thing that could |
| rate if you offer it at least mostly furnished. That said, | | | | mean a big deal if your renters are caught out. |
| with longer rentals (more than a month) you are more | | | | Choose quality toiletries - botanical or naturally scented |
| of a landlord than a host. | | | | options are good options, especially for those who |
| If you are going to be renting on a nightly, three-night | | | | may have reactions to synthetic fragrances. |
| minimum, or weekly basis, you should consider yourself | | | | When you are deciding on dishes remember that |
| a host who will play a large role in determining your | | | | heavier dishware is more durable, but you should also |
| guests' experience. You need to give more attention | | | | have nice wine glasses on hand. Though non-stick |
| to presentation and details. | | | | cookware may be cheaper, it only takes one renter |
| Furnishing the property is an art in itself. Think about the | | | | with a fork to ruin your nicest pan. A heavy stainless |
| type of crowd you want to attract - a tastefully | | | | steel, cast iron or copper will last longer. |
| decorated apartment with quality furnishings will draw | | | | If you have the space and budget, there are some |
| a higher price than something that is mis-mashed | | | | site-specific features that might make sense. A pair of |
| together (unless you have a real knack and can pull | | | | bikes or flippers and beach towels are the types of |
| off the flea market/Boho chic look). There are many | | | | details that will elicit delight in your guests. |
| average vacation suites available - why not make | | | | Although these upgrades may cost a bit of money in |
| yours stand out? Choose interesting color schemes - | | | | the beginning, this process is similar to staging your |
| color appeals to people. Neutral paints may seem | | | | home for a sale- you outlay some funds to increase |
| more attractive, and are generally a good choice, | | | | your return overall. When you have finished your |
| especially in rooms with less light (although they do | | | | decorating be sure to take lots of good photos, after |
| show dirt, so make sure you have a good cleaner). | | | | all a picture is worth a thousand words. Find a reliable |
| But don't be boring - choose a bold accent wall or | | | | cleaner who will scrub the place spotless between |
| bright accessories to liven things up. Look at decorating | | | | visitors (and remember to reward them for doing so). |
| magazines or hire a professional designer to help you. | | | | Ask your guests for feedback - their input will ensure |
| Think about the details. The little, luxurious details will | | | | that your suite is creating the experience they're |
| charm your visitors, guaranteeing repeat clients and | | | | looking for, thus giving you the business you're looking |
| word-of-mouth advertising. Buy quality bedding. Provide | | | | for. |
| candles and candle holders (with the added bonus of | | | | |