Vacation Rental Host Tips: How to Get More Bookings and Double Your Income

Jump to the section you need most:

• The Non-Negotiables: What Every Guest Expects
• The Reality Gap: What You Think vs. What Guests See
  • The Bedroom Math Problem
  • The Pricing Transparency Problem
• Things Guests Want But You’re Not Providing
• Why Guests Don’t Report Problems (And How to Fix It)
• How a $1,500/Night Rental Stays Booked Year-Round
• Deal-Breakers That Cost You 5-Star Reviews
• What Really Makes Your Rental Stand Out
• Your Listing Title Needs to Work Harder
• Location-Specific Amenities That Get Extra Bookings
• Safety Features That Make Guests Feel Secure
• Maintenance & The ROI That Makes This Worth It
• Your Step-by-Step Implementation Plan ← Start here if you want the action steps

Want to go from open days on your calendar to fully booked? From $200 a night to $600 a night?

Start with free upgrades that get you more bookings. Those extra bookings fund the next upgrades. Those upgrades get you even more bookings at higher rates. The cycle builds on itself.

Ready? Here’s your step-by-step plan. Let’s start with the free stuff.

See the difference?

The same beautiful space. One takes 5 minutes to set the table. One says “we care about your experience.” Which rental would YOU book?

That’s what this article is about – the small touches that make guests stop scrolling and think “THIS is the one.”

The Non-Negotiables: What Every Guest Expects

These aren’t “nice to haves.” These are the baseline. If you’re missing these, we’re scrolling past your listing.

Kitchen:

Pro tip before we dive in: Setting the kitchen table before guests arrive only takes a minute, but it makes guests gasp when they walk in – “ooo, this is upscale!” It’s the kitchen equivalent of towel animals on the bed. Little touches that say “we care about your experience” without costing you anything but a few minutes.

Durable, guest-friendly dishes – We don’t want to break your fancy stuff just as much as you don’t want us to. Give us dishes that can handle a vacation rental.

Your options:

• Unbreakable sets – Truly can’t break them, perfect for families with kids
• Corelle dishes – Super durable, chip-resistant, and won’t stain like some plastic can

And here’s the reality: even with durable dishes, things disappear or get damaged eventually. Guests usually won’t tell you (see the section on why guests don’t report things). So check your kitchen inventory regularly and stock enough to serve everyone in the house PLUS extras.

Do the math: If your house sleeps 12, you need at least 15-18 dinner plates. Why? One for everyone’s dinner, one for the ham roll-ups, one for the buns, one for the cheese and meat tray – you get it. Same goes for bowls, cups, and silverware. Don’t make a family of 10 try to serve Thanksgiving dinner with 8 plates because three went missing over the last six months and nobody told you.

Coffee mugs – You could just get basic unbreakable mugs that serve the purpose. Or you could spend a little more and get a cool-looking unbreakable set.

What do you get in return? A guest who wakes up, goes to grab their coffee, and smiles thinking “damn, I love these cups.” That’s what you want. That’s the feeling you’re creating – they’re on vacation at an amazing place, not just sleeping in a house. Stock enough for max occupancy plus extras – morning coffee is sacred.

Kids hot chocolate mugs – If you’re marketing to families, add some fun kids mugs for hot chocolate. It’s a small touch that parents notice and kids remember. Makes your place stand out as truly family-friendly.

Wine glasses – non-breakable – If you have a “no glass by the pool” rule but only provide glass wine glasses, guess what? Guests buy disposable plastic cups and now you have a mess. Get acrylic or plastic wine glasses that look nice but won’t break. Stock enough for everyone – wine at the pool or hot tub is vacation 101.

Hurricane glasses – non-breakable – There are a lot of wine drinkers, but there are also a lot of cocktail drinkers. Hurricane glasses make someone feel special – like they’re at a resort, not just a rental. Get the plastic/acrylic ones so they can use them by the pool.

Laminated cocktail recipe cards – Get a set with simple cocktail recipes – piña coladas, margaritas, mojitos, daiquiris. One purchase, huge impact. It makes your rental feel like a vacation destination instead of just a house, and guests love having the recipes right there when they’re mixing drinks.

Basic cooking supplies that actually work:

The Easy Solution – Get One Good Set:

Look, you could spend hours shopping around for individual pots and pans, or you could get one quality set that covers 90% of what you need. Here’s what we recommend:

Blue Diamond Cookware Set – 20 piece – This one set includes:

• 3 frying pans (5.5″, 8″, 10″)
• 2 saucepans with lids (1QT, 2QT)
• 11″ saute pan with lid
• 5QT stockpot with lid
• Cookie sheet
• Square and round cake pans
• Loaf pan
• Muffin pan
• Veggie steamer plate
• Plus a few utensils to get you started

It’s durable (metal utensil safe, dishwasher safe, oven safe to 600°F), toxin-free, and actually lasts in a vacation rental setting. One purchase, you’re basically done with cookware.

Add a large 14-inch nonstick frying pan – The set comes with a 10-inch pan, but anyone who’s cooked for a big family or group knows a 14-inch pan is a must-have. When you’re making breakfast for 12 people, you need the space. This is non-negotiable for large rentals.

What you still need to add:

• Glass baking dish set with lids Get a set with multiple sizes so you’re covered for casseroles, lasagnas, and everything in between. Bonus: the lids make them double as leftover storage containers so guests aren’t ruining your Tupperware.
• Cutting boards – Get a set that has icons showing what each board is for (meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, bread). It’s a small touch that says “I care about food safety and cleanliness” – guests will appreciate not cutting strawberries on the board that had chicken on it last week.
• Sharp knives – Get a set with smooth, easy-to-clean handles (no crevices where gunk builds up). The built-in sharpener is key – dull knives are dangerous AND make cooking miserable. Don’t leave the same set for 10 years just because “they’re still knives.” Keep them sharp or replace them.
• Mixing bowl set with measuring cups, spoons, and strainer – Here’s another smart bundle: get a set that includes mixing bowls in multiple sizes PLUS measuring cups, measuring spoons, and a colander/strainer. About the same price as buying a strainer alone, but now you’ve knocked out multiple kitchen essentials in one purchase.
• Can opener that works – Get one with soft-grip ergonomic handles so guests aren’t struggling and hurting their hands. This one’s the same price as the cheap ones but comes with a lifetime warranty and a built-in bottle opener. Actually worth having.
• Vegetable peeler – Yes, you need to spend a little more than the dollar store version. But this is what sets you apart – a sharp peeler that actually works instead of one that’s falling apart and forces guests to use a knife (which is how fingers get cut). Get one with dual blades, a comfortable grip, and a blemish remover. Pro tip: Check which color is cheapest – they’re all the same quality, but some colors cost nearly double what others do.
• Cheese grater – Honestly, guests will just be happy there IS one. A basic box grater works fine. But if you want to upgrade, there are hand-crank rotary graters that aren’t too expensive and make grating easier (especially for kids helping with dinner). Either way, just have one.
• Immersion hand blender with whisk attachment – Perfect for making pancake batter, smoothies, whipped cream. Way easier to use and clean than dragging out the full-size blender. Guests making breakfast for a big group will love you for having this.

Cooking utensils (the set includes 2, but you’ll want more):

• Cooking utensil set with seamless handles – This is the key: get a set with one-piece seamless design so there are no crevices where food gets trapped. Some guests don’t clean as thoroughly as others, and everyone appreciates not having to scrub gunk out of handle gaps. This set includes everything you need (spatulas, spoons, tongs, ladle, whisk, etc.), won’t scratch your nonstick pans, and is dishwasher safe. One purchase covers all your cooking utensil needs.
• Sturdy serving spoons and utensils – Get heavy-duty stainless steel serving utensils that won’t bend when guests are scooping casseroles, rice, or thick stews. The flimsy ones break constantly and you’ll be replacing them after every few stays. Look for solid spoons and slotted spoons at minimum.
• Toaster – Scale this to your rental size: 2-3 bedrooms get a 2-slot, 4-6 bedrooms get a 4-slot, and 6+ bedrooms should have 2 toasters. Nobody wants to wait 20 minutes for everyone to get their toast when you’re trying to feed 10+ people and get out the door.
• Waffle maker – Scale to your rental: 2 bedrooms or less, a single waffle maker is fine. 3+ bedrooms, get a double waffle maker so you’re not making waffles one at a time for 15 people. It’s an easy breakfast option that guests love.
• Kitchen tongs set – Get a set with multiple sizes (7″, 9″, 12″) for indoor cooking – flipping bacon, tossing salad, serving pasta. Look for stainless steel with silicone tips that won’t scratch your pans, and a locking mechanism. The cheap ones lose their grip or break within a few uses.
• Grill tool set with storage case – Get a complete set that includes tongs, spatula, fork, basting brush, skewers, corn holders, and a grill brush. Here’s the thing: when you provide a nice set, guests actually treat it nicely. Give them a quality stainless steel set in a proper storage case, and they’ll use it carefully and put it back where it belongs. Give them random cheap tools thrown in a drawer, and that’s how they’ll treat them – like disposable junk.
  Bonus: The storage case keeps everything organized and protected between guests. No more hunting for the missing grill fork or finding the brush left out to rust.

Don’t forget:

• Coffee maker – both kinds – Get both a traditional coffee pot AND a single-cup maker (like a Keurig). Why? Because everyone has their preference from home. Some families want to make a full pot, others want individual cups without waiting.
  Yes, they make combo machines that do both, but the reviews aren’t great. More importantly: if you have one machine and it breaks, you have zero coffee that morning and a house full of angry guests. With two separate machines, if one breaks you’ve still got backup.
  And here’s the key: mention both in your listing so guests know what to pack. There’s nothing worse than arriving excited for morning coffee, realizing you brought K-cups but there’s only a drip pot (or vice versa), and now someone’s rushing to the store before they’ve even had caffeine.
  Pro tip for rentals with 4+ bedrooms: Add a coffee dispenser so someone isn’t constantly making pot after pot. Everyone can enjoy coffee at the same time without one person being stuck as the designated coffee maker all morning.
• Electric kettle – Tea drinkers will love you for this. It’s faster than boiling water on the stove, safer (auto shut-off), and great for more than just tea – instant oatmeal, hot chocolate, ramen. Get one with at least a 1.5-liter capacity so it’s useful for groups. Another one of those small touches that makes your rental feel more thoughtful.
• Ice machine – Scale this to your rental size. Smaller rentals (under 8 rooms) can get away with a countertop ice maker that produces 35 lbs daily. But for 8+ bedrooms? Get the bigger commercial-style ice maker that produces 130 lbs daily with 33 lbs of storage. When you have 20+ people making drinks, filling coolers for the beach, and constantly needing ice, you’ll be glad you went bigger. And here’s the thing: no one is ever going to be mad that your ice machine is too big. They WILL complain if they run out of ice.
• Day cooler for beach/pool trips – This saves guests so much hassle. Without one, they either buy a cheap styrofoam cooler and throw it out before their flight (wasteful and annoying), or they’re trying to figure out how to keep drinks cold for beach days. Have a quality cooler available (or even two for larger rentals) and suddenly your guests can actually pack lunches and drinks for day trips without the headache. Simple thing that makes a real difference.
• Silicone oven mitts and pot holders set – Get silicone instead of fabric – and here’s the bonus: they’re actually cheaper than quality fabric ones. Here’s why silicone makes sense: guests will rinse them clean in the sink when they get messy, but fabric ones? They get greasy and gross because nobody’s throwing them in the washer mid-vacation. This set includes extra-long oven mitts (protects forearms), trivets for hot dishes, and mini pinch mitts – everything you need in one purchase. Heat-safe to 500°F and actually easy to keep clean.
• Dish towels – Stock way more than you think you need – at least 10-12 for a large rental. They get used constantly (drying dishes, wiping hands, cleaning spills) and guests go through them fast. Get ones that actually absorb water and can handle being washed repeatedly. Replace them regularly – once they start looking dingy, guests notice.
• Dish cloths – Have plenty of these available for wiping counters and tables. Leave extras in a visible spot (under the sink or in a drawer) so guests know where to find fresh ones when needed.
• Trivets – Here’s another case where silicone is the smart choice over fancy cork or wood ones. They’re actually cheaper, easier to clean (guests will wipe them down), and they last basically forever. Just make sure you grab enough – have 6-8 for a large rental so multiple hot dishes can sit on the table or counters at once.
• Spoon rests – Get silicone – they’re the cheapest option and just as good as the fancy ceramic ones. Stock about 3 for every 4 guests (so if you sleep 12, have 9 spoon rests). Sounds like a lot? When you have multiple people cooking and multiple burners going, they’ll all get used. Plus silicone wipes clean easily and won’t break when dropped.
• Apron – Simple but important. Who wants to ruin their vacation clothes making breakfast bacon? Have at least one or two available in the kitchen. Nothing fancy needed, just something to protect clothes from grease splatters.

The extras that make us love you:

Blender that actually works – Guests want smoothies and frozen drinks. A cheap blender that can’t crush ice is worse than having no blender at all. Yes it costs more, but you won’t be replacing it or getting bad reviews about broken equipment.

Slow cooker or Instant Pot – Remember how many guests you say your rental sleeps. If you’re advertising for 12+ people, one 6-quart slow cooker isn’t going to cut it when they’re trying to cook chili for the whole family. Consider having 2, or one of each (slow cooker AND Instant Pot). Yes, the upfront cost is higher, but you get what you pay for – and that’s what guests know. They’re looking at your kitchen amenities thinking “can we actually cook for our group here?” Make sure the answer is yes.

Bathrooms:

• Enough towels – way more than you think – Let’s do the actual math. Most people need 2 bath towels per shower (one for body, one for hair if it’s long), plus a washcloth and hand towel.
  But here’s the reality: guests shower more than once during their stay. Morning shower before the beach, shower when they get back from the beach – that’s already 4 bath towels per person per day, and we haven’t even gotten to pool days or multiple beach trips.
  The solution: Stock a linen closet in the hallway with way more towels than you think you need. Guests won’t use more just because they’re there – but they will use what they actually need. And having extras means you’re not constantly replacing towels that guests took to the beach and accidentally ruined.
  Per person, have available:
  6-8 bath towels
  2-3 hand towels
  2-3 washcloths
• Bleach-safe black makeup washcloths – These are a game-changer. They’re specifically designed for removing makeup and won’t show stains (they’re black), plus they’re bleach-safe so you can wash them at high temps between guests without ruining them. Guests who wear makeup will absolutely notice and appreciate this thoughtful touch.Yes, it’s a big upfront investment. But you won’t have to buy more for way longer, and guests will leave better reviews about how well-stocked your place is.
• Bath mats – DO NOT use regular bath mats – Let’s be clear: traditional bath mats in vacation rentals are unsanitary and disgusting. We don’t want to share feet grossness with strangers (some of us really hate feet).
  Use bath mat towels instead – Get washable cotton bath mat towels that get laundered between every single guest at high temperatures. Yes, they’ll wear out faster than a traditional rubber-backed mat, but who wants to step on something someone else has stood on without it being washed?
  I stayed at a rental last week with a regular bath mat. It was stained. I washed it because I had time and it’s nice for everyone, but it still didn’t come clean. Nasty. Don’t do this to your guests. Get washable mats that go in with the towels after every stay.
• Beach towels if you’re near water – Get big, actual beach towels – not the skimpy thin ones. And stock way more than you think you need.
  Think about it: if someone rents a house with a pool or next to the beach, what are their plans? Water. All day, every day. Not having enough beach towels? That’s a bad vacation day right there.
  Here’s what actually happens: Someone uses a sandy beach towel and throws it in the dryer without shaking it out first. Now the dryer is full of sand and everyone else’s laundry is ruined. Or you stay in the pool until bedtime, hang your towel outside, and wake up the next morning ready to jump in – but your towel is still wet because the sun hasn’t been out long enough to dry it. No one wants a wet towel.
  When I go to a beach house, I rotate between 2 towels – one dries naturally while I use the other, then I switch. If you only stock one beach towel per person, they’re going to get washed constantly (or stay wet and sandy). Stock 2-3 big beach towels per person and they’ll actually last longer because guests can rotate them naturally.
• Hair dryer – one per bathroom – This is a need, not a nice-to-have. Every bathroom should have its own hair dryer. Get decent ones with actual power – not weak hotel-style dryers that take 30 minutes to dry hair. Mount them on the wall or keep them in visible spots so guests know they’re there.

Bedrooms:

• Clean linens (obviously)
• Enough pillows – at least 2 per person – But here’s the trick: have 2 different types. Some people like firm pillows, some like soft. By stocking both, guests have a better chance of finding the kind they actually like. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference in sleep quality – and happy, well-rested guests leave better reviews.
• Hangers in the closet
• Bedroom fans – Have at least one fan per bedroom. Some people need the white noise to sleep, others just run hot at night. It’s a small addition that makes a huge difference for those who need it. Get quiet ones that won’t vibrate or rattle – the point is better sleep, not adding more noise.
• Luggage racks – Have at least one per bedroom. Do you really want guests’ dirty luggage that’s been on airport floors and in car trunks sitting on your bedspreads? Give guests a proper place to put their suitcases. Basic foldable metal ones work fine and are budget-friendly, or you can go with nicer foldable wooden racks if you want a more upscale look. Either way, it protects your linens and makes the room feel more hotel-like.
• Iron and ironing board – Have at least one set available somewhere accessible. Guests pack wrinkled clothes, need to iron something for a nice dinner, or want to look presentable for photos. You don’t need one per bedroom, but make it clear where to find it. A wall-mounted ironing board in a closet or laundry room works great for saving space.

Throughout the House:

• WiFi that actually works – Test it yourself. Can it handle 10 people streaming at once?
• Clear checkout instructions – Don’t make us guess
• Working AC/heat with clear instructions
• First aid kit – You might not get a glowing review specifically for having this, but I can assure you, when a guest needs it they will be incredibly grateful. Keep it stocked with basics: bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, tweezers, scissors. Check it once a year when you’re doing inventory of everything else – restock expired items and things that have been used.
• Phone chargers – USB outlets or a basket of old chargers – These don’t have to be new or fancy. Gather up your old chargers when you upgrade, throw them in a basket, and leave them in a common area. This can really save someone – dead phone, forgot their charger, and now they can’t get directions or contact anyone. Having a random collection of Lightning cables, USB-C, and old Android chargers could be the difference between a stressed-out guest and a relieved one. Or install USB outlets in bedrooms and common areas so guests can plug in directly without hunting for adapters
• Local restaurant menus or guidebook

This is table stakes. You nail all of this, and you’re in the running. But you’re not standing out yet.

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Left (bunks): “12×12 bedroom with 6 bunk beds – sleeps 6 kids. Only appeals to families with children ages 4-11.”

Right (queen + trundle): “Same room size with one queen bed + queen trundle underneath – sleeps 4 adults comfortably. Appeals to couples, adult groups, families with teens, and anyone who doesn’t want to climb into a top bunk.”

The Reality Gap: What You Think You’re Offering vs. What Guests Actually See

This is where most hosts lose bookings without even realizing it. Let me show you what’s happening.

The Bedroom Math Problem

You see: “15 bedrooms! Sleeps 54!”

We see: scrolling through photos “Okay, so there are 15 rooms total, but 4-6 of them are just wall-to-wall bunk beds for kids. So really only 9-11 beds that work for adults. Which means this only works if we’re all couples willing to pay $150-170/night each.”

Let me give you a real example: The Great Escape Parkside in Orlando – an absolutely stunning property that’s basically the dream vacation rental.

They have 15 bedrooms and advertise sleeping 54 people. Here’s the breakdown:

They have 15 bedrooms. Here’s the breakdown:

• Bedroom 1: 2 Twin Beds
• Bedroom 2: 3 Twin Bunk Beds
• Bedroom 3: 1 King Bed
• Bedroom 4: 1 Twin Bed and 1 King Bed
• Bedroom 5: 1 King Bed
• Bedroom 6: 1 Twin Bed and 1 Queen Bed
• Bedroom 7: 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed
• Bedroom 8: 2 Twin Beds
• Bedroom 9: 1 Twin Bed and 3 Twin Bunk Beds
• Bedroom 10: 3 Twin Bunk Beds
• Bedroom 11: 1 Twin Bed, 1 King Bed and 5 Twin Bunk Beds
• Bedroom 12: 1 Queen Bed
• Bedroom 13: 1 Queen Bed
• Bedroom 14: 1 Twin Bed and 1 King Bed
• Bedroom 15: 1 Twin Bed and 2 Twin Bunk Beds

So yes, it technically sleeps 54. But when I’m looking at this as a guest? I’m counting adult beds: maybe 9-11 realistic sleeping situations for couples or adults who don’t want to climb into a top bunk.

Here’s the reality: The age group for bunk beds is roughly 4-11 years old. Only about 36% of travelers are traveling with kids in that age range. You’re cutting out 64% of your potential market.

The fix:

Replace some adult beds with trundle beds – Now you have a bed that works for adults AND a backup option for kids if needed. An older kid will actually sleep better on a trundle bed than a bunk bed, and you’re not sacrificing adult sleeping space.

Invest in quality pullout couches – You’re willing to spend big money on bunk beds but cheap out on the couch? A great pullout couch is worth its weight in gold. It’s seating during the day and a comfortable bed at night.

Murphy beds – Another smart option, especially for multi-purpose rooms. You get a full adult bed at night and reclaim the floor space during the day. Great for rooms that also serve as game rooms or office space.

If you want multiple beds in one room, make at least one a full (queen is better) – Kids who are sharing a room will share a bed anyway. And now you’re perfect for an all-adult rental where friends are willing to share a room.

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The Pricing Transparency Problem

You think: “I’ll list amenities as add-ons to keep my base price competitive”

We think: “They’re hiding fees” or “They’re nickel-and-diming us”

The reality: If someone wanted the cheapest option, they’d book a hotel. People renting vacation homes are willing to pay for what they get, but they hate surprises.

What works as an add-on:

• Pool heating in summer – Not everyone wants it when it’s already warm. Fine to offer separately.
• The smart winter move – “Free” pool heating:
  Build pool heating costs into your winter base price, then advertise “FREE heated pool included” right in your listing title or main description.
• Here’s why this matters: When guests are scrolling through dozens of properties, most listings don’t mention pool heating at all – you have to click into each one individually to find out if they even offer it, then dig through to see what it costs.
• When YOUR listing says “heated pool FREE” upfront, you stand out immediately. You get the click before they even start comparing prices.
• You’re covering your costs either way, but this marketing move can get you booked over more expensive properties. It’s a free way to get your money back through better booking rates.

What should just be included:

• Grill – If it’s in your photos, it should be included. Period. We would never pay an extra fee just to use a grill.
  And here’s the thing: you don’t need to keep gas in it – that’s fine. I’ve arrived at houses with empty propane tanks and was happy as can be to go fill it myself. The grills don’t need to be spotless either (though obviously clean them between guests). We’re just happy to GET to use a grill. Having one available is what matters.
• Basic amenities – Don’t nickel and dime
• Anything you’re advertising as a feature

The shady stuff that will cost you bookings:

• Advertising “pool heating available” then revealing after booking that it’s solar-only and won’t work if it’s too cold outside – that’s straight-up misleading
• Charging separately for things prominently featured in your listing photos
• Surprise cleaning fees that double the price
• Add-ons for things that should be standard (WiFi, towels, etc.)

We know the game. We’re looking at the total price anyway. Just be upfront about it and you’ll get better guests who know exactly what they’re paying for.

Both are clean, well-maintained pools. Which one makes you stop scrolling and click ‘Book Now’?

Things Guests Want But You’re Not Providing (And It’s Costing You Money)

You’re so close. You’re literally one shopping trip away from being the place everyone recommends. Here’s what’s missing:

Cleaning Supplies – Yes, Really

A broom. I have yet to stay in a vacation rental with a broom. Yes, I could buy one, but if you don’t care enough to provide one, why would I?

Here’s what this tells guests: “I expect you to leave this place spotless, but I’m not giving you the tools to do it.” It’s backwards.

What we actually need:

• A broom and dustpan – So we can sweep up the sand, the crumbs, the mess we made
• Cleaning rags – How do you think we’re wiping off the outdoor table? This saves your towels from getting ruined
• Basic cleaning supplies – A bottle of all-purpose cleaner and some rags. We’d love to be able to wipe down a counter

For the Love of God, If You Have a Pool:

Get a leaf net.

What do you want us to do, leave the leaves floating there for the pool guy? We don’t mind scooping them out so we can actually enjoy the pool, but we need the net to do it.

Pool extras – this is where you can really shine:

Simple stuff here makes a HUGE difference. When guests are scrolling through dozens of listings, a photo of a pool slide or basketball hoop in your pool is what makes them STOP scrolling and click on your listing. You just won the first hard battle – getting them to actually look at your property.

Easy wins:

• Pool slide – You can get a permanent slide which is the dream, or inflatable ones that aren’t quite as impressive but still catch eyes in listing photos and cost way less. Either way, having ANY slide makes you stand out.
• Basketball hoop
• Volleyball net
• A few pool noodles (they’re cheap!)
• LED pool lights that actually work
• Pool seat/lounge chair This is everyone’s dream: go on vacation and answer emails while sitting in the pool with a drink. It sounds ridiculous but it’s a HUGE selling point for remote workers and people who can’t fully unplug.
• Quality floats that aren’t cracked and faded
• Dive toys
• Inflatable game table

The bar is LOW because most rentals have nothing or junk in their pool photos. Adding even a few visible quality items in your listing photos is what gets you the click over all the other properties.

Baby Gear = Instant Differentiator

Most vacation rentals have zero baby items. If you add even the basics, you immediately stand out:

• Pack-n-play
• High chair
• Baby gates
• Outlet covers
• Stroller

Families with babies will book you over a nicer house that doesn’t have these. And they’ll leave better reviews because you made their trip easier.

Bikes or Kayaks (if your location makes sense)

This depends entirely on where you are, but if you’re near trails or water, having bikes or kayaks available is a HUGE draw. Even if you charge a small fee for them, it’s a selling point.

The Nice Touches That Get You Repeat Bookings:

Towel animals – Always puts a smile on a face. Even a simple one on the bed. Every bed deserves one.

Picture frame on the wall with key information:

• WiFi password
• Trash day (if we need to take it out)
• Checkout time
• How to report issues

Put it somewhere visible—kitchen or entryway. Now guests aren’t digging through a binder, and you’re not getting “what’s the WiFi?” texts at midnight.

Local restaurant menus or a guidebook – Even just a printout of your favorites with “we love the tacos at…” notes.

These small things don’t cost much, but they’re the difference between “that was fine” and “we’re booking this place again next year.”

Why Guests Don’t Report Problems (And How It’s Costing You Money)

Here’s something you might not know: guests are terrified to tell you when something’s broken.

But here’s the problem this creates for you: guests find broken things and don’t tell you because they’re scared you’ll blame them for it. The pool cue tips were already cracked, but we noticed on Day 2, so now we’re worried you’ll think WE broke them. So we just… don’t use the pool table. And we definitely don’t tell you.

Real examples of what guests won’t report:

I stayed at a house where the beds were falling apart. One guy in our group kept switching beds each night, hoping he wouldn’t be on the one when it finally collapsed. Were those beds his fault? No – that’s wear and tear from dozens of guests over time. But nobody said anything because we didn’t want to get blamed.

Another time, we ran the dishwasher normally and a piece broke off, burned, and stunk up the house. It was clearly already damaged and finally gave out. But we didn’t report it because – what if you thought WE did something to break it?

Here’s what hosts need to understand: Things break. Beds wear out. Dishwashers fail. That’s not guest damage – that’s normal use over hundreds of rentals. Don’t try to blame someone every time something breaks. Set aside money from each rental into a maintenance fund so when things inevitably break, you can fix them without panicking about who to charge.

Here’s how to fix this trust problem:

Make it clear there’s a difference between reporting and breaking:

“Found something that’s not working? Please let us know! You won’t be charged for reporting pre-existing issues – we can’t fix what we don’t know about. Accidents happen and we handle those case-by-case, but telling us about a problem isn’t going to cost you anything.”

And speaking of pool cues: Stop reading this and go check your pool stick tips right now. They’re broken, I guarantee it. You can get 40 slip-on replacement tips for like $7 on Amazon. Buy them, leave them at the house with the pool table, and even if you had to replace them after every single stay, it would STILL be worth it to have a pool table that actually works.

How a $1,500/Night Vacation Rental Stays Booked Year-Round (And What You Can Learn From It)

Let me show you what actually sells at the top tier, because you’re closer to achieving this than you think.

The Great Escape Parkside rents for around $1,500+ per night and stays booked solid.

You might be thinking, “Who the hell can afford that? Who would pay that?”

Let me give you the breakdown.

The Math That Makes It Work

15 bedrooms, advertises sleeping 54 people (though realistically 9-11 adult bed situations as we talked about earlier).

Here’s how guests actually look at it: 9 couples splitting the cost = $166 per night per couple.

That’s cheaper than two hotel rooms. And unlike a hotel, we get an entire mansion with a private pool and don’t have to coordinate breakfast for 18 people at a restaurant.

But that’s not why they’re booked solid.

They’re Not Selling Beds. They’re Selling “We Never Have to Leave.”

Here’s what The Great Escape has:

• Themed game rooms
• Movie theater
• Human bowling
• Human whack-a-mole
• Giant chess
• Pool
• Games throughout the house

Now here’s what you might be thinking: “Well, I don’t have a 15-bedroom mansion, so…”

Here’s what actually matters: They’ve created entertainment for everyone – kids, hard-to-impress teens, parents, friends, grandparents. Everyone on the same trip finds something to do. Multiple generations can be entertained at the same time.

You’re not selling a night’s sleep in a house. You’re selling vacation memories that will last a lifetime.

You Don’t Need What You Think You Need

Themed rooms? Let’s be honest – do you really want to share your bedroom with everyone in the house so they can play the game in there? Cool in theory, maybe not as practical as it sounds.

A mansion? Nope.

A pool? It helps, but it’s not make-or-break.

What You DO Need:

Entertainment options for different groups:

• Indoor and outdoor options – Weather happens
• Sit-down games – Rainy day backup
• Active games – For the kids (and competitive adults)
• Games everyone can play together – Multi-generational appeal
• Games people actually want to play – Not another Chutes and Ladders. Know what families are actually playing.

The Big Ticket Items That Pay Off:

• Pool table – Huge hit (with working cues – check those tips!)
• Hot tub – Year-round appeal
• Outdoor games – Volleyball net, cornhole, giant Jenga, yard games
• Quality board games – Not the ones missing pieces
• Outdoor dining table and chairs – Have enough seating for all guests to eat together outside. If you need more than one table to fit everyone, make sure you get tables that can be pushed together to create one long table so the whole group can actually dine together, not split across the yard. And get comfortable chairs – people sit outside for hours during meals on vacation, not just 20 minutes. Get weather-resistant furniture that can handle being left outside and won’t fall apart after one season.

Here’s the Secret

Here’s what guests actually need to know: they’ll be entertained without leaving, they won’t need to pay for additional entertainment, and everyone in their group will find something fun to do.

Here’s the reality of family vacations: Ask some adults what they want to do on vacation and they’ll say “relax.” But kids? They don’t want to leave their friends just to go relax somewhere else. They need SOMETHING to do.

When you have entertainment at the house, here’s what happens: Kids get up early and play games with whichever parent wakes up with them. Mom actually gets to sleep in. Nobody’s stressed about finding activities, making plans, or budgeting for expensive entertainment. Memories are being made right there – pool games, movie nights, backyard competitions – without the chaos of “what are we doing today?”

When you provide that? You’ve just earned your nightly rate, whatever it is. You’re selling peace of mind and actual relaxation, not just a place to sleep.

Not sure which games to stock? I’ve put together complete guides for vacation rentals:

• Board games and indoor entertainment – Perfect for those early mornings when kids are up before everyone else, rainy days, and evening family game nights
• 50+ Best Yard Games – Outdoor games organized by age group and activity level, from classic favorites to mixed-age group options

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Location-Specific Amenities That Save Guests Money and Hassle (And Get You Extra Bookings)

These amenities won’t work for every rental, but if your location makes sense for them, they’re HUGE booking factors. Why? Because they save guests money, luggage space, and the hassle of renting equipment elsewhere.

Beach gear (if you’re near the coast):

• Beach chairs – Stock enough for max occupancy. This alone saves massive car space for traveling families.
• Beach umbrellas
• Beach wagon or cart – For hauling all the stuff from car to sand
• Boogie boards and sand toys – Kids go through these like crazy, and parents don’t want to buy new ones every trip
• Beach tent or canopy – Shade for babies and anyone who burns easily
• Beach games –
  Beach games – Stock your rental with games guests can take to the beach – spike ball, frisbees, paddleball sets, beach volleyball. These create the memory moments that get you repeat bookings. When families are having corn hole tournaments at sunset or kids are playing all afternoon, that’s when they start planning next year’s trip back to YOUR place.

When guests see “beach gear included” in your listing, they immediately relax about packing. That’s a HUGE selling point for families flying in.

Bikes (if you’re near trails, boardwalks, or beach towns):

• Adult bikes – At least 2-4 depending on your rental size, but keep in mind teenagers are also going to use adult bikes, so you may need 4-6 bikes even for smaller rentals. Better to have a couple extra than not enough.
• Kids bikes – If marketing to families
• Bike locks and helmets – Safety and security
• Bike pump and basic repair kit

Bike rentals cost $20-40 per day per person. If you provide 4 bikes, a family of 4 just saved $80-160 per day. You just became the obvious value choice.

Kayaks or paddleboards (if you’re on a lake, river, or calm bay):

• Kayak – Single and/or tandem. If you don’t know much about kayaks, get sit-on-top style – most people prefer them and they stay much cleaner than sit-inside kayaks (no wet interior to deal with between guests).
• Paddleboards – Inflatable ones are easier to store. Paddleboards are huge right now, but a lot of people still want to try one before committing to buying their own. Having paddleboards at your rental lets guests test them out AND gives you a major amenity to advertise.
• Life jackets in multiple sizes – Required for safety, especially kids. Yes, you could get the big cheap orange Coast Guard-approved ones that every camp has. OR you could get upgraded ones that people actually want to wear. Think about it: you go to a rental and you can wear a cool, comfortable life jacket instead of the bulky orange monstrosity? That’s a selling point right there if other rentals in your area also have boating options. No one wants to be caught dead in those orange ones – give them something they’ll actually be happy to put on.
• Dry bags – for phones/valuables

Same math as bikes – kayak rentals are expensive. Provide them free, and you’re saving guests hundreds of dollars.

Fishing gear (if you’re near water with fishing):

• Fishing poles – Even just having a few basic poles is better than nothing. Stock 3-4 for a mid-size rental.
• Tackle box with basics – Here’s the cool part: put a couple things in there to start (hooks, weight, bobbers), and guests will naturally add what they need and leave extras behind for the next person. Your tackle box basically builds itself over time.
• Fishing net – For landing catches
• Bait bucket – Keeps bait alive and fresh. Here’s the thing: finding live bait isn’t as easy to Google as you’d think. Last time I needed it, we either had to drive 30 minutes away or check 20 in-town stores that all said “nope, we don’t have that.” Leave a laminated card with the exact address and hours of the closest bait shop that actually carries live bait. Your guests will thank you.
• Fishing license info – Leave clear info about where to buy day licenses if needed in your area

Fishing pole rentals or buying cheap poles at Walmart for a week-long trip adds up. Provide them, and you’re immediately more appealing to families who want to fish but don’t want to travel with gear.

The marketing advantage:

Here’s what happens when you have location-specific gear: You stand out immediately. When guests are comparing your listing to 10 others in the same area and price range, “bikes included” or “kayaks available” in your title or description makes YOU the obvious choice. They’re looking at the amenities list thinking “this one saves us $500 in equipment rentals” sold.

What Really Makes Your Rental Stand Out (And Increases Your Bookings While Doubling or Tripling Your Income)

Now convert bedroom 4 into a movie theater.

How many other rentals did you just outcompete? Hundreds. And you’re probably sleeping the same number of people anyway.

Here’s the real question: Do you want to be just another one of the hundred 4-bedroom houses competing for bookings? Or do you want to be the FIRST 3-bedroom with a movie theater to get filled up?

Because that’s what happens. Guests aren’t searching “I need exactly 4 bedrooms.” They’re searching “I need to sleep 12 people and keep everyone entertained.” You just became the obvious choice.

Let’s be honest – why do we need big empty bedrooms with tons of floor space? We’re only sleeping in there. I think I’d be perfectly happy inviting someone into my bedroom for access to a movie theater. And honestly? Most of those beds probably won’t even be filled anyway. You’re not losing capacity – you’re gaining the one thing that makes your listing unforgettable.

Pool table – If you have the room, this is almost a must-have. Families play for hours, it shows up great in photos, and it immediately moves you into the “entertainment-focused rental” category.

Hot tub – Above ground is fine – you don’t need an expensive in-ground installation. Just by adding ANY hot tub, you’re suddenly in way more searches. Guests filter specifically for this amenity.

Home bowling alley – Expensive? Yes. But think about how few rentals have this. You’re playing in a completely different league.

Golf simulator – And here’s the thing: you don’t have to love golf to love having a golf simulator in your rental. It’s entertainment for all skill levels and shows up incredibly in listing photos.

But I Don’t Have Room for These Things!

Yes you do. Let me show you how to think differently about your space.

The bedroom conversion strategy:

Let’s say you have a 4-bedroom house. You’re thinking “I need all 4 bedrooms to maximize sleeping capacity.”

But do you really?

Here’s the math:

• Bedroom 1 (Master): Sleeps 2
• Bedroom 2: 2 queens + trundles underneath = sleeps 4-8 people
• Bedroom 3: 2 queens + trundles underneath = sleeps 4-8 people
• Living room pull-out couch: Sleeps 2
• Total: You’re sleeping 12-20 people in 3 bedrooms + a couch

Now convert bedroom 4 into a movie theater.

How many other rentals did you just outcompete? Hundreds. And you’re probably sleeping the same number of people anyway because let’s be honest – why do we need big empty bedrooms with tons of floor space? We’re only sleeping in there.

If you have a 3-bedroom with a garage or she shed? Same strategy. Use that space for entertainment, not storage.

The reality: I think I’d be perfectly happy inviting someone into my bedroom for access to a movie theater. And honestly? Most of those beds probably won’t even be filled. You’re not losing capacity – you’re gaining the one thing that makes your listing unforgettable.

Think about it. Rethink your floor plan. You might already have the space.

The Deal-Breakers That Cost You 5-Star Reviews

Let’s talk about what makes guests immediately regret booking – the things that turn a good stay into a bad review.

Cameras

Front door camera? Fine. We get it. Security, delivery tracking, knowing when guests arrive.

Camera watching your pool, backyard, game room, or anywhere guests are in swimsuits, pajamas, or relaxing? Absolutely not.

That’s an automatic dealbreaker for most guests. If your listing mentions cameras in private spaces, expect your booking rate to tank. We’re not trying to be difficult – it’s genuinely uncomfortable to know we’re being watched while we’re supposed to be on vacation.

If you wouldn’t put a camera in a hotel room or hotel pool area, don’t put it in your rental.

Broken Equipment

You advertised it, we booked because of it, and now it doesn’t work:

• Pool table with no cues or broken tips
• Games missing pieces
• Hot tub that’s “currently being repaired”
• Pool toys that are sun-damaged and falling apart

If it’s in your photos or listing, it needs to work. Period.

And speaking of pool cues: Stop reading this and go check your pool stick tips right now. They’re broken, I guarantee it. You can get 40 slip-on replacement tips for like $7 on Amazon. Buy them, leave them at the house with the pool table, and even if you had to replace them after every single stay, it would STILL be worth it to have a pool table that actually works.

Surprise Rules

Rules are fine. Surprises are not.

Things that should be in your listing, not revealed after booking:

• Extensive checkout requirements (start the dishwasher, strip all beds, take out trash, start laundry, etc.)
• Quiet hours that aren’t mentioned
• Additional fees or charges
• “No cooking fish” or other food restrictions
• Limitations on amenities (“pool heating only works if it’s above 60 degrees”)

Put it in your listing. Let people decide if they’re okay with it BEFORE they book.

Communication Issues

Complicated check-in – If it takes more than a few sentences to explain how to get the key and get inside, simplify it.

Not responding to questions – If we text you about the grill not working, we need a response. Even if it’s “Thanks for letting me know, I’ll have someone look at it tomorrow.”

Being weird about normal requests – “Can we check in an hour early?” shouldn’t require three days of back-and-forth. A simple yes or no works.

Safety Features That Make Guests Feel Secure (And Why This Actually Matters)

Let me tell you about the sketchiest Airbnb I ever stayed at. Cops driving past all night, fights in the streets, drug house with kids across the street. And then? The power goes out.

The host was immediately messaging, doing everything they could – very sweet. BUT I was still lying there thinking “did someone just cut our power so they could rob us now that the alarm isn’t working?” That’s the only house I’ve been genuinely scared at.

Here’s the thing: guests don’t know your area. You can cross one street and get a completely different vibe. So give us the tools to feel safe.

Door locks – let’s talk about the key situation:

Let’s be 100% honest about traditional keys. It looks like a LOT of people have access: the maid, maintenance person, old renters, the owner. So all these people potentially have a key.

“Oh but I changed the lock code!” Cool, do we believe you? Not 100%. But let’s say you did – great. The problem is when someone has access to a physical key, they can go to a hardware store, make copies, and now they can come back when you’re there or not there and help themselves to your belongings.

The solution: Get a keyless entry lock – one that doesn’t need a physical key at all. Change the code between guests (we’ll actually believe you did this). Then have a lock box that holds an emergency backup key just in case someone really needs it – I’m not thinking anyone ever would, but it gives huge peace of mind rather than knowing 50+ people per year could have copies of your key.

Window and door security:

• Window alarms – Simple stick-on alarms that sound if windows are opened
• Sliding Window Security Stopper – Cheap, effective, prevents doors from being forced open
• Portable door wedge alarms – Keep a box of these available for guests. They’re useful for more than just security – parents traveling with kids use them to know if little ones are trying to sneak out of the room at night, or guests can use them on exterior doors during power outages when the regular alarm system might be down. Multi-purpose and gives peace of mind without being over-the-top.

Guests aren’t going to feel LESS safe because you have these. They’re going to feel more comfortable and secure.

Lighting for peace of mind:

• Flashlight – Power outages happen and fumbling around in complete darkness is terrifying.
• 4-in-1 emergency nightlights with motion sensors – These are genius. They plug into hallway and bathroom outlets where they work as regular motion-sensor nightlights (turn on when you walk by, off after 20 seconds). But here’s the magic: they’re constantly charging while plugged in, so when the power goes out, they automatically turn on as emergency lights. No fumbling for flashlights in the dark – instant light exactly when you need it.
  They also unplug to work as portable flashlights (battery lasts 1.5-2 hours), so guests can carry them around during outages or use them to check on kids. Put these in hallways, bathrooms, and near bedrooms. When everything suddenly goes dark, these kick on immediately and everyone can breathe easier. overstate how much peace of mind this provides.

Exterior security:

• Motion-activated lights – Front door, driveway, back door. Makes the property feel secure and helps guests see when coming back late.

Optional but helpful:

• Safe or lockbox for valuables – Have one in each bedroom that’s set up for adults. Passports, jewelry, cash, car keys – everyone traveling wants somewhere secure to store important items instead of wondering if that hiding spot under the mattress is really safe. When you have multiple couples or families staying, they each need their own secure storage, not one safe for the whole house to share.

The point is: we’re staying in an unfamiliar place, in an unfamiliar neighborhood, and we want to feel safe. These additions cost relatively little but make a massive difference in guest comfort and reviews.

Your Listing Title Needs to Work Harder

Here’s the harsh truth: You get one glance if you’re lucky. Make it count.

Your title shouldn’t be cute wording like “Paradise Found!” or “Your Home Away From Home.” Nobody’s searching for that.

Your title needs to list your best amenity immediately:

• “Luxury Pool House – Sleeps 12”
• “Golf Simulator Paradise – 4BR Near Beach”
• “Board Game Haven – Family Friendly Rental”
• “Hot Tub + Fire Pit – Mountain Views”
• “Dog Paradise – Fenced Yard + Beach Access”

Name your best amenity up front and quick. That’s what makes someone click on YOUR listing instead of the 50 others that all say “Beautiful Home!”

And then your first photo? Show your SECOND-best amenity. Why? Because now you’ve given them TWO shots instead of one. The title grabbed them with the pool – the first photo shows them the hot tub or game room or whatever else you’ve got. Now they’re clicking to see more instead of scrolling past.

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One Last Thing: Maintenance and The Math That Makes This Worth It

Check your rental inventory at least once a year. Stuff is going to break. Dishes will disappear. Pool cue tips will wear out. Towels will get stained. That’s just the reality of running a rental.

And here’s the important part: don’t charge guests for everything. People are starting to hate vacation house rentals because of all the overcharges and surprise fees. Hotels have started adding kitchenettes and family suites – the line between what you offer and what they offer is getting blurry. What keeps you ahead is the experience, the amenities, and NOT nickel-and-diming guests over a broken wine glass.

The ROI That Makes This All Worth It

Let’s do some quick math:

Scenario 1: You spend $1,000 on upgrades from this article (better games, outdoor dining setup, safety features, pool toys, whatever fits your property).

If those upgrades get you just 5 extra bookings per month at your current rate:

• 5 bookings × $200/night average = $1,000/month in extra revenue
• Your upgrades paid for themselves in 1 month

Scenario 2: You only get half that – 2-3 extra bookings per month:

• Still paid off in 2 months
• Then it’s pure profit increase for years to come

And that’s without raising your nightly rate at all.

Now imagine you work on this steadily for a year:

• Adding amenities every few months
• Taking better listing photos showing off what you’ve added
• Raising your price $10-20/night as you improve
• Getting those extra bookings because you’re the obvious choice

You’re looking at a significant annual income increase – potentially $10,000-$20,000+ more per year just from being more bookable and slightly more expensive.

The point: These aren’t just expenses. They’re investments that pay for themselves fast and keep paying you back every single month after that.

Where to Start: Your Step-by-Step Implementation Plan

Ready to turn this into action? Here’s your roadmap from free fixes to big-ticket investments. The further down this list you go, the more you’ll stand out and the higher your income potential.

Step 1: Free Changes That Make an Immediate Impact ($0)

• Set the table before guests arrive (5 minutes, huge impact)
• Update your listing title to highlight your best amenity
• Take a better first photo showing your second-best amenity (gives you two shots instead of one)
• Make towel animals and place on beds
• Send a warm welcome text when guests arrive
• Check in every 3 days or so: “Just checking – is everything working well?”
• Send a review request before checkout: “We’d love to hear about your stay! Please leave us a review – photos are a bonus as we use your feedback to make every stay better. And if there’s anything we could add to make your next visit even better, email us directly. We actually listen and add what guests request.”

Then follow through: When someone emails suggesting fishing gear and 10 other families mention it too, add it. Then email everyone back: “Thank you for your feedback! We’ve now added fishing gear to the house, so when you come back it’ll be here waiting. Thank you for your support – we couldn’t improve without guests like you.”

You just created a repeat customer AND got free market research on what to buy next.

Step 2: Small Fixes Under $100 ($20-100)

• Replace pool cue tips ($7)
• Stock cleaning supplies – broom, rags, basic cleaners ($20-30)
• Add quality board games ($40-60)
• Emergency nightlights that auto-turn on during power outages ($25-40)

Step 3: Location-Specific Gear ($300-800 per category)

• Bikes if near trails or beach towns ($400-600) – adds $20/night to your rate
• Kayaks if near water ($300-500) – adds $20/night to your rate
• Beach gear if coastal – chairs, umbrellas, wagon ($200-300)
• Pool upgrades – slide, basketball hoop, quality toys ($200-800) – adds $20/night to your rate
• Stage these items in your listing photos – they’re your visual differentiators

Step 4: Entertainment & Comfort Upgrades ($200-1,000)

• Quality outdoor dining setup ($400-600)
• Outdoor games – cornhole, volleyball, giant Jenga ($150-300)
• Hot tub if adding new ($3,000-6,000) – gets you into different search filters

Step 5: Big-Ticket Game Changers ($800-10,000+)

• Pool table – quality tables available under $1,000
• Golf simulator ($2,000-8,000+) – adds $50/night to your rate
• Convert a bedroom to theater ($1,500-5,000) – adds $50/night to your rate
• Home bowling alley (high investment, almost no competition)

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The Math:

Location-specific amenities (bikes, kayaks, pool upgrades): Each category justifies roughly $20/night more. Add all three and you’re at +$60/night. A $1,500 total investment paid off in 25 nights (under a month if regularly booked).

Big differentiators (movie theater, golf simulator, hot tub): $3,000-8,000 investment, justify $50+/night rate increase = paid off in 60-160 nights (2-5 months).

Stack them: Bikes + kayaks + upgraded pool + movie theater = $110/night rate increase justified.

Conservative estimate: Even at just 15 nights booked per month (50% occupancy), that’s $1,650 extra monthly revenue. Your $6,000-10,000 total investment paid off in 4-6 months.

Properties with these amenities don’t just charge more – they book FIRST. While similar properties sit at 50% occupancy, yours fills to 65-75% because you’re the obvious choice. At 20 nights per month, that’s $2,200 extra monthly. Investment paid off in 3-5 months.

After payoff? That extra $1,650-2,200 per month is pure profit increase, year after year.

Plus: You’re not fighting for bookings anymore. You’re the property people plan their trips around. You fill up during shoulder season when competitors are empty. You get repeat bookings because families want to come back to “that house with everything.”

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The Strategy: Don’t stop at Step 2 or 3. The magic happens when you go further down the list. Each level multiplies your competitive advantage. A rental with Steps 1-3 gets more bookings. A rental with Steps 1-5 becomes THE destination property that books solid at premium rates.

The question isn’t whether these upgrades pay for themselves. The question is how much profit you’re leaving on the table by not implementing them.

Now go make your rental the place families talk about for years. You’ve got this.

Important Disclaimer

The income projections and booking estimates provided in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Actual results will vary based on numerous factors including but not limited to: your specific location, local market conditions, seasonality, competition, property size, existing amenities, marketing effectiveness, pricing strategy, and overall property management. There is no guarantee that implementing these suggestions will result in increased bookings or revenue. Product availability and pricing may change. Please research products thoroughly before purchasing and ensure all amenities comply with local regulations and safety requirements for vacation rentals in your area.