Although vacation rental properties are continuing to rise in popularity, the sheer abundance of competing properties on the market requires that you go that “extra mile” to ensure your property stands out from the vanilla masses. Transforming your vacation rental into something more luxurious can be a long and expensive process… but it doesn’t have to be.

Investing in your rental property is mandatory if you want your rental to stand the test of times and turn a healthy profit. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make this change without emptying your wallet. We have compiled a list of what we think are the most important changes you need to make to add luxury to your vacation rental.

1. Go for Minimalist Decor

The first step to adding luxury to your to rental is to look towards a minimalist interior. This decorating style is classy and chic and will give you that high-end hotel feel. It is way more effective than cluttering your rental with mismatched pieces you have collected over the years.

Science has even shown that the interior design in your home has an effect on your mood and overall health. Your guests have most likely come to your rental to relax and enjoy their time away from everyday life. The minimalist style helps create a clean, uncluttered, and welcoming environment for them. Investing in each piece, instead of buying a ton of cheap items, will, without doubt, add a luxury feel to your rental and make the guests experience more enjoyable.

2. Create ‘Extra’ Space with Mirrors and Frames

No need to knock down a wall if you need extra space in your rental. Adding an oversized mirror or piece of artwork is one way to instantly make your space feel bigger and brighter. The right mirror can really set the tone and pull a space together as well.

For example, adding a simple console table and statement mirror near the front door will create the look of a foyer. This will also give your guests a place to set their keys when they come in.

3. The Importance of Lighting

If not properly lit, even the most beautifully designed space won’t have the same appeal. Lighting plays a role in creating the illusion of space in a room and also the feeling you have while in that room. Making sure your light fixtures match the rest of your decor is important as well.

Equally as important is deciding which bulbs to use and what atmosphere you are trying to achieve. Spotlights are a great way to highlight certain design elements or add a relaxing cozy feeling over the dinner table.

4. Make a Great First Impression

The entryway, whether it is a full foyer or a slim space of wall, is the first to greet your guest: it should be functional and fabulous. It is a great place to “roll out the welcome mat” and make the best first impression you can.

You don’t have to try and achieve the five-star hotel look if you are on a budget, but it is nice to go the extra mile. As mentioned before,the minimalist decorating style is a wonderful way to decorate an entryway to keep things looking clean and crisp, while also giving your guests an extra space for storage. An entryway is also a great place for a welcome book since it is the first thing your guests see.

5. Upcycling Furniture to Save Money

Your rental property may be a little outdated and in need of renovation. This can be a bit pricey but it doesn’t have to be. There are many ways to add luxury to your rental home without spending hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Upcycling inexpensive furniture is actually a very popular way to get that classy chic look you see in all of the Instagram photos. You will be surprised how much money you can save and how much potential some of your old pieces of furniture have. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Travelers love to see a little personality and effort on your part.

6. Invest Yourself into Your Guest’s Experience

As a vacation rental owner, you have the opportunity to really wow your guests and make them feel pampered and recognized. You know the location better than anyone, so making sure to show your guest the originality of the area is a great opportunity to craft a unique guest experience.

One way to go the extra mile would be to partner with local shops to provide exclusive offers for your visitors. This will give your guests the most advantageous experience, and also give your rental the luxury status most travelers are looking for. Guest experience is always going to be important and will always result in great reviews, more bookings, and repeat guests!