Make YOUR Property Stand Out with 10 Attractive Amenities

With popularity growing fast in the vacation rental industry, properties are starting to look and feel quite similar…almost eerily so. When guests type in their must-haves and preferred accommodations, their pool of options is far too large. At Cabins for YOU, we don’t want our guests to play eeny, meeny, miny, moe to make a decision. Instead, we opt for dynamic advertising that helps give each property a personality. However, we can only take this so far alone.

As an owner, it’s important you know how to make your vacation rental stand out in an endless sea of same. After getting your property outfitted with amenities guests expect, like updated furniture, a modern kitchen, and Wi-Fi, it’s time to make your property shine! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 10 attractive vacation rental amenities for YOU. After all, more eyes on your property means more potential bookings, which leads to increased revenue, exposure, and repeat guests. Whether you’re interested in more cash in your pocket or just need a few fresh ideas to boost your property, you’ve come to the right place.

1. Unblocked View

   Does your property have a spectacular view? Awesome! Now for the real question. Can your guests see it? Showcasing a beautiful view does wonders to promote your property because no two views are exactly alike. However, sometimes the growing trees and plants around your property or the cluttering decor and unclean windows can shroud the scenery.

   If there’s a stunning mountain, city, or river view at your property, make sure your guests can enjoy it to the fullest. Consider clearing overgrown plant life, scheduling regular window cleanings (indoors and outdoors), and keep home decor in the way at bay for an unblocked view guests will appreciate.

2. Soothing Hot Tub

   Working overtime all the time, rounding up the kids every day, cleaning the house from top to bottom, dealing with everyday stresses, and praying for a little relief…it’s no wonder one of the top amenities guests hunt for is a soothing hot tub. Steamy, bubbly, and relaxing, a hot tub is a prime amenity addition to get your property noticed.

   Take it a step further with extras to make your hot tub space one-of-a-kind. Add nearby seating areas and tables, a towel rack, fairy lights, or even an outdoor TV! And if you have a larger property, consider adding another hot tub if possible. Nothing screams relaxation at your vacation rental like 2 (or more) hot tubs!

3. Outdoor Living Spaces

   Extend your property’s reach and invite guests to spend time at outdoor living spaces. Whether your property is tucked away in nature or in the middle of the hustle and bustle of town, many guests enjoy getting outside for some fresh air to recharge or just hang out with loved ones. Plus, adding a few pieces of outdoor furniture is generally low cost for a great return.

   Impress future guests with fun and relaxing spaces outdoors by adding cushioned seating, Adirondack chairs, lounge areas, breakfast tables, or rocking chairs. A picnic area is a nice touch as well, with tables, maybe a swing, and a grill. Bonus points if you toss in a stone fire pit, perfect for s’mores and story time, or an outdoor TV!

4. Private Pool

   Want to make your vacation rental really stand out? Add a private indoor or outdoor pool! Yes, it’s a huge investment — and guests are happy to pay for it. After all, splashing around without bumping into a stranger, being told to leave by a certain time, or worrying you’ll find “something” in the water is well worth the price.

   How can you make your pool even more eye-catching? Spring for bonus features, like waterfalls, a swim-in grotto, islands, spa areas, color-changing lights, and/or a kiddy pool. For indoor pools, put in as many windows as possible for natural light and views. And if you have the space, add a seating area and mount a big screen TV for entertainment. Alternately, outdoor pools do well with spacious decks and lounge seating to soak up the summer sun.

5. Game Tables + Arcade Units

   Spice up your property with a fully loaded rec room that features game tables and arcade units. Advertising games, like pool and Ms. Pac-Man, can only push your vacation rental forward. Guests get excited when they see games because it means one less thing to plan, plus they’re a whole lot of fun!

   Want to make your vacation rental extra spicy? Choose unique game tables, like air hockey, foosball, and poker. Multicade units offer plenty of game options (as many as 60), and single arcade cabinets, like racers or shooters, really appeal. Avoid more physical games, like basketball and darts, to protect your property. And add a wet bar or kitchenette so players can refuel with snacks and drinks easily.

6. Video Game Consoles

   Some properties just don’t have the space for a proper rec room, but don’t count yourself out just yet! Riding on the coattails of game tables and arcade units is an amenity that may have never crossed your mind: video game consoles. They’re compact, easy to install, and are more affordable additions to help your property stand out to guests who want a little playtime on their vacation…or just need extra help entertaining the kids.

   Remember that old video game console lying around the house? Feel free to move it to your vacation rental. However, while some guests appreciate the classics, we do recommend the latest and greatest from Nintendo, Xbox, or Playstation if feasible. Add it (or multiple consoles) to the living room, den, bunk room, or any space you see fit. Rooms with a big screen TV get first pick, and providing games to play is best.

7. Home Theater

   Ever gone to the movies, only to find popcorn in your seat, spilled soda (you hope), cell phone lights, and chatty viewers? And don’t get us started on overhearing spoilers… Watching movies is a great way to relax and unwind with entertainment on vacation, especially after a day enjoying the local sights and attractions. What better way than in a private home theater?

   This sought-after amenity is a game changer in the vacation rental market. Massive TVs or projector screens flanked by curtains, DVD and Blu-ray players, surround sound, movie posters, dimming lights, and plush theater style seating are our recommendations. You could even add a popcorn machine or small kitchenette nearby for movie snacks. Worried about the expense? Don’t be — this one pays for itself many times over.

8. Streaming Capabilities

   Another great way to add entertainment for your guests and draw more attention to your property is by upgrading the TVs to incorporate streaming capabilities. Nowadays, cable TV is slowly making its way out the door, and streaming shows and movies is becoming the norm. And if you’ve ever binge watched…you know survival depends on the next episode, even on vacation.

   Smart TVs are a fantastic way to solve this one as they can access the home’s Wi-Fi. Just be sure you have unlimited high-speed internet before adding them. You can also opt for add-ons, like Apple TV or Roku, to your current TVs instead. And if you provide the streaming service as well, you’ll score extra points with guests. At the end of the day, it’s a little every month that will be well worth it, almost immediately.

9. Unique Decor 

   A simple way to make your property stand out is to update the decor throughout the home. Guests are seeing tons of similar furniture, bedding, lighting, and decorations at vacation rentals. Filling your property with unique decor grabs eyes and helps steer click throughs your way!

   Dazzle future guests with a signature chandelier in the living space, a locally made table in the dining area, and elegant lighting in the kitchen. Bedrooms with custom furniture sets are a must, and feature walls are a welcome addition. Our best tip is to hire a professional decorator. It’s a one-time cost that will provide guidance and structure to a project that will enhance your property for years to come.

10. Green Energy

    Make your property more desirable to guests who are looking for eco-friendly options by supporting green energy. We know this one may seem a tad surprising, but it’s always better to be ahead of the vacation rental game. Plus, you’ll help save the planet, catch ecologically conscious guests, and save money on utilities in the long run.

    If your roof is clear of trees or other obstructions, consider harnessing solar power with installed panels. Generally, installation costs are recovered in about 5 years, so give green energy some thought before diving head first. Otherwise, start your property on a more eco-friendly path by adding an affordable smart thermostat, like a Nest, that helps regulate home temperatures on Eco-Mode.

The Ultimate Strategy
When properties showcase too much of the same, there’s nothing to catch the eye of potential guests. Now that you know 10 of the best vacation rental amenities to make your property stand out, what’s the next step? Maybe you’re unsure of which amenity additions/upgrades to include in your property. Perhaps you’re wondering if just 1 new amenity is enough to push your property to the forefront. Cabins for YOU can help. We’ve been in the vacation rental industry for more than a while and know how important it is to get it right the first time.

Stand-out Amenities Recap 

1. Unblocked View
2. Soothing Hot Tub
3. Outdoor Living Spaces
4. Private Pool
5. Game Tables + Arcade Units
6. Video Game Consoles
7. Home Theater
8. Streaming Capabilities
9. Unique Decor
10. Green Energy

You’d be surprised how much more attention your property will get with a little makeover and a few unique amenities advertised. Don’t feel you need everything on this list to improve your odds. By all means, shoot for the moon! Just take the journey in stages to mitigate costs. And we’ll help every step of the way, narrowing the list to set your property apart from the rest. Speak with your owner representative today at 1.800.684.7865 or shoot us an online inquiry, and we’ll reach out when it’s convenient for YOU.