How to Choose the Best Amenities to Attract Guests to Your Short-Term Rental
The amenities you offer at your short-term rental (STR) can significantly impact your property's appeal, guest satisfaction, and overall revenue. By selecting and marketing the right amenities, you can differentiate your property, attract more bookings, and encourage repeat stays. This article provides an in-depth guide to choosing the best amenities for your STR.
Why Amenities Matter
1. Increase Booking Rates
Listings with attractive amenities tend to rank higher on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, making them more visible to potential guests.
2. Enhance Guest Experience
Thoughtful amenities improve guest comfort and satisfaction, leading to positive reviews.
3. Justify Higher Rates
Luxury or unique amenities allow you to charge premium prices, boosting your revenue potential.
Step 1: Understand Your Target Audience
1. Identify Guest Demographics
Consider who is most likely to book your property:
Families: Need kid-friendly amenities like cribs or high chairs.
Couples: Appreciate romantic touches like hot tubs or fireplaces.
Remote Workers: Seek fast Wi-Fi and ergonomic workspaces.
2. Research Guest Preferences
Analyze your competitors' listings and reviews to determine which amenities guests prioritize.
Pro Tip: Use tools like AirDNA to explore market trends and guest preferences in your area.
Step 2: Focus on Essential Amenities
These basic amenities are non-negotiable for most guests:
1. Comfortable Bedding
Invest in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens to ensure a good night's sleep.
2. High-Speed Wi-Fi
Reliable internet is crucial for both leisure travelers and remote workers.
3. Fully Equipped Kitchen
Provide cookware, utensils, and basic pantry items like salt, pepper, and cooking oil.
4. Climate Control
Ensure guests are comfortable with air conditioning, heating, or fans.
5. Smart TV or Streaming Services
Offer popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime.
6. Parking
If available, include free or secure parking options.
Step 3: Add Premium Amenities
To stand out from competitors, consider offering luxury or unique features:
1. Outdoor Features
Hot tubs, fire pits, or swimming pools.
Patios with seating or BBQ grills.
2. Pet-Friendly Options
Welcome pets with amenities like dog beds, bowls, and waste bags.
3. Wellness Additions
Yoga mats, meditation guides, or fitness equipment.
Spa-like touches, such as plush robes or bath salts.
4. Unique Experiences
Bikes or kayaks for exploring the area.
Board games or consoles for family entertainment.
Step 4: Tailor Amenities to Your Location
1. Beachfront Properties
Provide beach towels, chairs, umbrellas, and coolers.
2. Mountain Cabins
Include snowshoes, hiking maps, or binoculars for wildlife spotting.
3. Urban Rentals
Offer public transit cards, local restaurant guides, or access to coworking spaces.
Pro Tip: Highlight location-specific amenities in your listing description to attract niche travelers.
Step 5: Maintain and Update Amenities
1. Regularly Inspect and Restock
Ensure amenities like linens, toiletries, and kitchen supplies are clean and well-stocked.
2. Replace Worn-Out Items
Upgrade aging furniture, appliances, or decor to maintain a high-quality guest experience.
3. Update Based on Feedback
Use guest reviews and suggestions to refine your offerings.
Step 6: Market Your Amenities Effectively
1. Highlight Key Features in Your Listing
Mention amenities in your property description and use professional photos to showcase them.
Example:
“Relax in our private hot tub with stunning mountain views, or enjoy a cozy evening by the fireplace!”
2. Use Social Media
Post photos or videos of your amenities in action, such as guests using the pool or enjoying a fire pit.
3. Create Themed Packages
Bundle amenities to appeal to specific guests.
Examples:
Romantic package: Hot tub, wine, and chocolates.
Family package: Games, toys, and childproofing essentials.
Case Study: The Impact of Upgraded Amenities
Scenario:
An STR owner in Orlando, FL, struggled to compete in a saturated market.
Actions Taken:
Added a heated pool and themed decor to attract families visiting nearby theme parks.
Upgraded the kitchen with modern appliances and stocked it with kid-friendly dishes.
Marketed these amenities through high-quality photos on Airbnb and Instagram.
Results:
Booking rate increased by 30%.
Guests frequently mentioned the pool and themed decor in reviews.
The property justified a $50/night price increase, boosting monthly revenue.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading with Amenities: Focus on quality over quantity to avoid clutter and maintenance issues.
Neglecting Basic Needs: Ensure essentials like clean linens and functioning appliances are prioritized over luxury features.
Failing to Highlight Amenities: Use your listing description and photos to emphasize what makes your property unique.
Tools for Managing Amenities
Hostfully: Create interactive guidebooks to showcase amenities.
Stessa: Track expenses and manage amenity upgrades.
Canva: Design visually appealing materials to market your amenities.
Cross-Link Opportunities
Explore related articles to improve your STR:
How to Create a Memorable Welcome Guide for Your STR
How to Enhance the Guest Experience for Your STR
Dynamic Pricing Strategies for Short-Term Rentals
Additional Resources
Airbnb Host Blog: Insights on attracting more guests.
BiggerPockets STR Forum: Discussions on amenity trends and strategies.
Hostfully Blog: Tips on improving guest satisfaction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right amenities for your short-term rental is a strategic investment that can significantly enhance guest satisfaction, increase bookings, and boost revenue. By tailoring your offerings to your target audience and location, maintaining high standards, and marketing effectively, you can position your property as a top choice for travelers.
