5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Renting Out My First Vacation Rental
Starting a vacation rental can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. When I rented out my first property, I learned a lot through trial and error. If I could go back, these are the five things I wish I had known before I began.
1. The Importance of First Impressions
The way your property looks and feels to potential guests can make or break your bookings. Initially, I underestimated the power of staging and professional photos. My first listing had basic pictures taken on my phone, and I quickly realized they didn’t capture the charm of my property.
Guests are drawn to listings that are clean, bright, and inviting. Investing in professional photography and staging your property—like adding cozy throws, fresh flowers, and neutral decor—can dramatically increase the appeal of your rental. Remember, your photos are often the first (and sometimes only) impression guests have of your property.
2. Pricing Is a Balancing Act
When I set my initial prices, I either undervalued my property or priced it too high compared to the competition. Both mistakes cost me potential bookings.
I learned that pricing isn’t just about covering costs; it’s about finding the sweet spot that attracts guests while maximizing revenue. Researching similar listings in your area is crucial to understanding what the market will bear. Over time, I also discovered the value of dynamic pricing tools that adjust rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events.
3. Communication Is Key
One of my biggest early mistakes was not having a clear communication strategy with my guests. I thought a simple check-in message was enough, but I quickly learned that guests appreciate detailed instructions and proactive communication.
Providing clear check-in and check-out instructions, a comprehensive welcome book, and quick responses to inquiries builds trust and ensures a smooth experience. Guests often rate hosts based on how easy and pleasant the communication is, so don’t underestimate its importance.
4. Maintenance and Cleanliness Are Non-Negotiable
When I first started, I thought the property just needed to be “clean enough.” I soon realized that guests have high standards for cleanliness and maintenance, especially when they’re paying for a vacation experience.
Hiring a reliable cleaning team and performing regular maintenance checks became a game-changer for me. From fresh linens to spotless bathrooms and well-functioning appliances, these small details make a huge difference. Guests will notice—and review—anything that’s broken, outdated, or unclean.
5. Guest Experience Goes Beyond the Property
Initially, I thought providing a comfortable place to stay was enough. But I quickly learned that the guest experience extends far beyond the walls of your property.
Offering local recommendations, personal touches like welcome baskets, or even guides to nearby attractions can elevate the experience and leave guests with positive memories. For example, I once left a handwritten note suggesting a local bakery, and the guests mentioned it in their glowing review. These small, thoughtful details can make your property stand out from the competition.
Final Thoughts
Renting out your first property is a learning experience, and mistakes are inevitable. However, by understanding the importance of first impressions, mastering pricing, prioritizing communication, maintaining high cleanliness standards, and enhancing the overall guest experience, you can set yourself up for success.
If you’re just starting your vacation rental journey, take these lessons to heart. They’ll save you time, money, and stress—and help you create a property that guests will love and recommend to others.
Ready to dive deeper into building a successful vacation rental business? Check out my ebook, “Vacation Rental Success: How to Rent Your Vacation Home with Confidence,” for more tips and strategies!