When a landlord upgrades their short-term rental property, our Luxury Escapes Vacation Homes team understands this investment does more than create positive guest experiences.
Occasionally, an upgrade will be required for compliance reasons. A recent example is Dubai Economy and Tourism setting forth SIRA-compliant keyless entry, using smart locks, as a minimum standard for all holiday homes.
Because our property managers know all applicable government regulations, landlords can be assured that their vacation home remains compliant.
However, compliance is not the only reason savvy landlords choose to upgrade their short-stay rental property.
Whatever the goals and budget, the cost of the right upgrade is not money wasted.
Upgrades for Every Budget
The benefits of an upgrade are achievable with cost-effective budgets and through more substantial investment.
Adding soft furnishings in colourful complementary colours or to extend a monochromatic palette adds wow-factor.
Contrasting textures introduced with a new floor rug and cushions refresh a property. Quick and simple, either will provide new photos and help a property listing stand out.
Improving lighting by updating fittings or adding lamps has an immediate impact on the ambiance of a space.
So too do less obvious touches like exchanging utilitarian for stylish curtain rods when installing new window dressings. This lifts a property’s presentation.
Appealing properties attract higher demand and return bookings.
Imagine secluded quiet created by well-sealed doors and windows, or the tactile pleasure of hotel-quality linen and towels.
All engage a guest’s senses to shape an experience that is ‘a cut above’. Exceptional experiences generate positive reviews.
From Thoughtful to Stunning Upgrades
Upgrades can go further according to the landlord’s goals and desired ROI.
A convenient hallway console, an extra mirror, a lounge side-table or ottoman improves functionality and creates a homely feel. The selective addition of stylish decorative pieces creates aesthetic cohesion.
Painting an accent wall or hanging a distinctive artwork adds a striking focal point and is achievable with a modest upgrade budget.
Of course, upgrades can be more significant, ranging from renovating kitchens to a luxury interior design revamp for the entire property.
The property type and location, plus landlords’ goals, guide the recommendations of our Luxury Escapes Vacation Homes property managers. They are market experts and can suggest which upgrades will provide the optimum return.
Debut for the New Season
The low season is a good time to refresh a property and make upgrades, especially something like a bathroom renovation, which takes time to complete.
Debuting a refreshed listing for an upgraded property on booking portals as the high season kicks in attracts interest and higher demand.
However, waiting for the low-season is not necessary, and often not recommended.
Minor upgrades are possible during the high season, particularly as a response to guest feedback.
Respond to Guest Feedback
No one likes to hear bad news. But if something hasn’t met expectations, a guest who cares enough to provide feedback is a gift.
An uncomfortable sofa. A TV that isn’t ‘Netflix ready’. No choice of pillows.
Listening, responding and acting on feedback like this is important. These easy to achieve high-season upgrades have an immediate impact on guest satisfaction.
Upgrades Impact More Guest Experiences
Modest or extensive, upgrading is about protecting your investment.
Photos showing fresh upgrades gain attention for a listing, driving demand and higher ADR (average daily rate). Upgraded properties have powerful appeal in a competitive market, receive more positive reviews, and ultimately improve landlord revenue.