Stocking Your STR - Top 7 Things To Give Guests A Luxury Experience
Once you’ve got your Short Term Rental (STR) up and running, you’ll want to make sure it’s outfitted to provide your guests with a great experience. Some of the best feedback we’ve gotten as hosts (right after a prime location) is how we thought of the little details. Here’s a quick checklist to get you started on all the amenities you’ll want to have in your STR.
Keyless entry: A lockbox works just fine if you’re just starting up, but even better is a keyless doorknob for your guests. This ensures that they won’t accidentally lose a key, and gives an extra sense of security with some systems since you’ll be able to remotely change codes.
Quality Linens and Towels: Quality linens and towels will not only stand the test of time (think: constant rewashing and reuse), but they’ll also give your guests a great night’s sleep. I once had a guest comment in a review that I clearly didn’t skimp on the cost of these items, and she was right! Hotel quality sheets and towels go a long way in impressing your guests. Make sure to provide spare sets in case your guests need extra and then keep another set for turnovers. My rule of thumb is to have 4 of everything - bedding, towel sets, etc.
Bonus tip: go for white, it’s way easier to bleach and clean than colored sheets and towels.Fully stocked kitchen for cooking: One of the reasons families love renting houses and condos over hotels is the flexibility to cook a meal in the home instead of eating out constantly during their vacation. Cooking in the home is budget-friendly for most families, and also practical during extended weekends and weeklong stays. Stocking your kitchen with basic cooking supplies and needs (sugar, flour, oil, pepper, salt) will let your guests know you’ve thought of everything for their meals.
Bonus tip: ask your guests if you can stock their fridge with groceries before they arrive for a true luxury experience! You can upcharge slightly on the items for the time as an extra revenue stream.
Smart home features: To save on cable, which often goes unused at a rental, provide a smart TV for streaming services. Guests can log into their own accounts. Similarly, a smart thermostat allows you to monitor and program temperature remotely while giving guests that vibe that you’ve thought of everything on behalf of their comfort.
Bath supplies: Beyond towels, make sure you have a bathroom stocked with some high-quality and eco-friendly soaps and shampoos, as well as cotton swabs and balls. Having single-use makeup wipes as well will save your beautiful white cotton towels from mascara!
Games and activities: Having family board games and puzzles is a great addition to your STR; families will love the hours of fun in the evenings that are different than just watching TV. We also like to have coloring books and some legos and blocks for younger kiddos. It’s a nice touch that says we’re a great spot for families.
Guidebook: Your guidebook should be proudly displayed and laminated on the kitchen counter or coffee table. It should include some information about you, your favorite local attractions and things to do, restaurants, and how to get help in case of an emergency. Also consider including instructions on how to use certain appliances or things in the house to avoid messages from guests during their stay - for instance, we have a finicky fireplace, and once we wrote out instructions with pictures it was a breeze for guests! Download our template for a guidebook here to get you started.
Don’t forget the pets! If you’re a pet friendly rental, consider dog dishes, treats, and beds to have on hand!
Are you interested in learning more about starting a short term rental business of your own? Click here to inquire about one on one consulting.