Owning a vacation rental is great — until you realize your place isn’t bringing in as much money as it could. Maybe bookings are slow, guests leave “just okay” reviews, or your place feels a little… outdated.
But a few smart upgrades can turn your property into a guest magnet, boost your nightly rates, and make sure you’re getting the best return on your investment. Let’s find out these renovation tips that can double ROI.
Upgrade the Kitchen & Bathrooms
If there’s one thing guests always notice, it’s the kitchen and bathrooms. A fresh, modern space makes your rental feel high-end, even if the rest of the house is simple. But you don’t need to gut everything and start from scratch.
A few smart changes can do the trick.
Swap out old faucets for sleek, modern ones. Repaint kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them. Add a stylish backsplash — peel-and-stick tiles work great and cost way less than real ones. In the bathroom, change outdated light fixtures, replace worn-out towels with plush new ones, and hang a big, well-lit mirror to make the space feel bigger.
Martin Seeley, said, “A great night’s sleep starts with comfort, but a well-designed space sets the mood. Small upgrades in the kitchen and bathroom can make a home feel luxurious, without the luxury price tag.”
Guests also love little extras. A coffee station with a variety of pods, syrups, and a frother? That’s an instant win. In the bathroom, a rainfall showerhead or a basket of fancy soaps makes your place feel way more expensive than it actually is.
Invest in High-Quality, Durable Flooring
Carpet stains, traps smells, and wears out fast. If you want a vacation rental that lasts, flooring is one of the best investments you can make. The right flooring not only looks great but also saves you money on replacements and cleaning in the long run.
Go for materials that can handle heavy foot traffic, spills, and luggage wheels. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a top choice — it looks like wood, but it’s waterproof, scratch-resistant, and way easier to clean. Tile is another solid option, especially in warm climates or beach rentals where sand and water are an issue.
“Smart financial decisions aren’t just about taxes — they’re about long-term savings. Durable flooring pays off by cutting down on maintenance costs and keeping your rental looking great for years,” says Dana Ronald, President of Tax Crisis Institute.
If your place already has hardwood, don’t rip it out — just refinish it. A little sanding and a fresh stain can make old floors look brand new. Avoid glossy finishes since they show every scratch and scuff. Matte or satin finishes hide wear and tear way better.
Guests love the feeling of a clean, well-maintained space. Plus, if your floors are durable, you won’t have to panic every time a guest drops a suitcase or spills wine. Less stress for you, better experience for them.
Focus on Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. If a guest pulls up and the outside looks boring, overgrown, or plain old tired, they’ve already decided your place is “meh” before they even step inside. The good news? You don’t need a pro landscaper to fix it.
Start with the basics. A fresh coat of paint on the front door can work wonders—go for a color that pops but still looks classy (deep blue, forest green, or even a rich red). If your exterior walls look faded, pressure-wash them. Swap out old, rusty house numbers for sleek, modern ones.
Then, think about lighting. A well-lit walkway instantly makes a place feel more welcoming (and safe). Solar-powered path lights are easy and affordable. String lights on a patio? Instant cozy vibes.
According to Jake Smith, Founder of DVLA Number Plates, “The right details make all the difference. Just like a personalized number plate gives a car character, small exterior upgrades can completely change the feel of a home before anyone even steps inside.”
Landscaping doesn’t have to be high-maintenance. Potted plants, a few trimmed bushes, or even fake grass can keep things looking fresh without constant upkeep.
Smart Home Features & Keyless Entry
Nobody wants to fumble with keys after a long trip. Guests love smooth, hassle-free check-ins, and a smart lock is the easiest way to make that happen. Keyless entry means no more lost keys, no awkward meet-ups, and no stress about late-night arrivals.
Plus, it adds a layer of security — codes can be changed between guests, so you never have to worry about extra copies floating around.
While you’re at it, consider a smart thermostat. Guests can adjust the temperature without wasting energy, and you can set limits to prevent sky-high bills. Smart lighting is another easy win — motion-sensor lights in hallways and outside save electricity and add convenience.
Raviraj Hegde, SVP of Growth at Donorbox, mentions, “Security cameras (on the outside, never inside) give you peace of mind and let guests feel safe. Just be clear in your listing where they are, so there are no surprises.” A little automation goes a long way — guests appreciate tech that makes their stay smoother, and you’ll get fewer calls asking, “How do I turn on the heat?”
Optimize Sleeping Arrangements
More beds mean more guests. If your rental only sleeps four but has space for six, you’re leaving cash on the table. You don’t need to cram in beds everywhere, but smart sleeping setups can make a huge difference in your booking rate.
Start with the basics — a comfortable mattress is a must. No one wants to sleep on a rock-hard bed or a lumpy old mattress. If your budget is tight, invest in a quality mattress topper — it can make a budget mattress feel like a luxury one.
Then, maximize sleeping space. A pull-out sofa instantly adds extra capacity. Bunk beds work great for family-friendly rentals. A daybed with a trundle? Perfect for smaller spaces. If your place caters to couples, make sure at least one bed is king-size — it’s a huge selling point.
James Forsyth, Founder of Quality Contracts, said, “Good design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it works. A smart sleeping setup makes your rental more functional, comfortable, and ultimately, more profitable.”
Don’t forget the details. Blackout curtains help guests sleep better (especially in vacation spots with early sunrises), and extra blankets and pillows make a place feel cozier. The goal? Make it so no one fights over who gets the “good” bed.
Upgrade Lighting & Ambiance
Bad lighting can make even the nicest rental feel cold and uninviting. The right lighting, on the other hand, makes a place instantly feel warm, stylish, and high-end — without breaking the bank, highlights Richard McKay, CEO & Managing Director of Sprung Gym Flooring.
First, swap out old, yellow bulbs for soft white or daylight LEDs. They last longer, save energy, and make rooms look brighter and fresher. Next, layer your lighting. Overhead lights alone aren’t enough—add lamps, under-cabinet lighting, and dimmable fixtures to create a cozy, high-end feel.
Don’t forget the little touches. Bedside lamps with USB ports? Guests love them. Outdoor string lights on a patio? Instant ambiance. Motion-sensor nightlights in hallways? Super helpful for late-night bathroom trips.
Add an Instagram-Worthy Feature
People don’t just book vacation rentals for a place to sleep — they want an experience. And nothing works faster than a spot with a “wow” feature. Guests can’t wait to show off. If your place looks like every other rental, it blends in. But if it has a unique touch? That’s the kind of thing that gets shared, tagged, and remembered.
In an interview, Gerrid Smith, CMO of Joy Organics, explains, “A space that sparks emotion is a space that gets remembered. Thoughtful design and unique touches turn a rental into an experience people want to share.”
A bold accent wall with modern wallpaper or a custom mural instantly grabs attention. A cozy hanging chair or a swing on the porch makes for a perfect photo spot. Even something as simple as a neon sign with a fun phrase can make a space feel curated and trendy.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Most hosts don’t think about energy efficiency until they see sky-high utility bills — but small changes can save you money and make your rental more appealing to guests. Travelers love eco-friendly features, and energy-efficient upgrades pay for themselves over time.
Start simple. Swap out old light bulbs for LEDs — they last longer and use less power. Upgrade to a smart thermostat so you’re not heating or cooling an empty house between guests. Add weather stripping to doors and windows to keep the temperature steady (and lower your energy bill).
“An energy-efficient home isn’t just better for the environment—it’s smarter for your wallet. Small upgrades today mean lower costs and higher savings in the long run,” shares Trevor Zheng Founder and CEO of Archic Furniture.
Appliances matter too. If your fridge, washer, or dishwasher is more than a decade old, it’s probably eating electricity. Look for Energy Star-rated appliances—they use way less power and water. Solar-powered outdoor lights? Another easy win.
Maximize Outdoor Space
An amazing outdoor setup can take your rental from nice to unforgettable. Even if you don’t have a huge yard, there are plenty of ways to make the space more inviting and functional.
First, seating is everything. A basic patio set works, but cozy seating areas with cushions, rugs, and throw pillows create a real vibe. Adirondack chairs around a fire pit? Perfect for evening hangouts. A shaded lounge area with a hammock? Guests will never want to leave.
Dan Close, Founder and CEO of BuyingHomes.com, mentions, “Outdoor space is an extension of the home. The right setup doesn’t just add value — it creates experiences that turn guests into repeat visitors.”
If you have a backyard, deck, or even a small balcony, make it usable year-round. In warm weather, add a BBQ grill and string lights. In cooler months, stock a basket with blankets and add a small outdoor heater. A hot tub is a bigger investment but can boost nightly rates significantly, especially in colder locations.
Privacy matters too — no one wants to feel like their neighbors are watching them. A simple fence, outdoor curtains, or tall plants can help create a cozy, private oasis. The goal? Make guests feel like they’re on vacation the moment they step outside.
Final Thoughts
Making your vacation rental better is a smart choice that pays off. Guests don’t care about luxury for the sake of it. They want a place that feels thoughtful, comfortable, and a little special. A cozy outdoor setup, an easy check-in, a space that looks great in photos — those details stick.
If your place feels effortless and inviting, guests will book, come back, and tell their friends. Fix what’s tired, add what’s missing, and make every change count.