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Checklist - How to Transform Your Vacation Rental into a High-Earning Listing

Caitlin Hazelgrove • February 13, 2025

Are you struggling to get bookings or maximize your nightly rate? Your rental might be leaving thousands on the table! Use this expert-backed checklist to elevate your space, attract high-paying guests, and increase bookings.



✔ Follow these proven steps & turn your property into a top-performing rental!

1. First Impressions: The Power of Stunning Listing Photos

✅ Invest in high-quality photography (or hire a professional).
✅ Stage your space before photos—
declutter, brighten, and style with purpose.
✅ Ensure your photos showcase a 
clean, inviting, and well-designed space.

💡 Pro Tip: Listings with professionally styled interiors earn 20-40% more per night!


2. Define a Cohesive & Marketable Design Style

✅ Choose a design theme that appeals to your ideal guests (Modern Coastal, Boho Chic, Luxe Minimalist, etc.).
✅ Stick to a 
neutral base with statement accents for a polished, high-end look.
✅ Avoid mismatched furniture—
cohesion is key to an Instagram-worthy rental!

💡 Pro Tip: Not sure what design style works best? My expert-designed packages take out the guesswork.


3. Invest in the Right Furniture & Décor (Without Overspending!)

✅ Comfort is king—guests will leave bad reviews for cheap beds & sofas.
✅ Use 
trade-discounted designer-approved furniture to get high-end looks at a fraction of retail price.
✅ Add 
plush bedding, layered textures, and statement lighting to elevate the guest experience.

💡 Pro Tip: I provide curated shopping lists with discounts—saving you time & money.


4. Create an Experience, Not Just a Place to Sleep

✅ Offer hotel-quality amenities (luxury linens, espresso machines, smart TVs, sound machines).
✅ Add 
Instagrammable moments—a bold accent wall, a cozy reading nook, or a neon sign.
✅ Ensure 
lighting is warm and inviting (not harsh or overly dim).

💡 Pro Tip: A few small, well-placed upgrades can increase bookings & justify a higher nightly rate.


5. Optimize for Functionality & Guest Comfort

✅ Make sure everything is easy to find & use (clear instructions, labeled storage, a well-organized kitchen).
✅ Add 
smart locks & self-check-in options for a seamless guest experience.
✅ Ensure your space is 
designed for efficiency—guests should feel instantly at home.

💡 Pro Tip: I specialize in functional yet stunning vacation rental designs that enhance guest satisfaction & boost 5-star reviews!


Ready to Make More Money from Your Vacation Rental?

Contact us today or choose the package that is right for you.

Helpful Guides To Boost Your Bookings

The Multiple Reasons Why Interior Design Matters In Your STR Business...
By Caitlin Hazelgrove March 17, 2025
In the competitive world of short-term rentals (STRs), location and pricing undeniably play significant roles, but it is the interior design that truly distinguishes successful properties. A well-designed space is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it directly influences booking rates, enhances guest experiences, and boosts overall profitability. For those seeking to maximize rental income, investing in professional interior design is a strategic move. First impressions are crucial in the short-term rental market. Potential guests often make quick decisions based on photos when browsing platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. A listing that fails to stand out visually is likely to be overlooked. To counter this, rentals should prioritize professional, well-lit photographs of a beautifully designed space. A cohesive color scheme and inviting decor can make a rental visually appealing, while thoughtful staging with fresh linens, stylish furn
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