Preparing your home for the holiday rental market
Remember that people are choosing to stay in your home rather than a hotel - it's the little touches that can make all the difference, so choose with care. Make sure your property feels like a "home from home" for your holiday guests.
All rooms
- Ensure that any furnishings you use anywhere in the property are flame retardant and comply with any insurance policy conditions and fire regulations.
- Install a smoke alarm on each floor of the property.
Kitchen
- Your guests have chosen to go self-catering, so make sure that the kitchen has everything they need. Buy a wide range of pots and pans in different sizes (holiday makers do cook at home).
- Buy enough cutlery, crockery, glasses etc. for double the number of people your property sleeps.
- Basics such as a kettle, toaster, hairdryer, iron and ironing boards are expected, and washing machines, dishwashers and microwaves are all appreciated.
- Stock up on supplies - leave some basics such as tea, coffee, herbs and sugar for your guests as well as things like washing up liquid, sponges, tea towels and washing powder.
Living area
- Make sure there's enough comfortable seating for at least the number of people you sleep.
- A decent-sized TV and DVD player as well as books and games should help keep people entertained on rainy days. DVDs, CDs and books can all be picked up cheaply from charity and second hand shops.
- Provide coasters to stop people marking tables and put washable throws on sofas.
- A games console could be a good investment if you're catering for families.
Bedroom
- Invest in quality beds and bedding. Please provide two matress protectors for each bed, this is in your interest as much as your guests.
- Make sure there's plenty of clothes storage space and a supply of coat hangers.
Bathroom
- If you have lots of families or elderly guests staying then non-slip shower mats are advisable.
- Keep a supply of spare toilet roll and soap.
Child-friendly
- To make your home child-friendly, have a look at our recommended items.
- Outdoors
- The garden can act as an extra room outside if properly equipped.
- Sun loungers, outdoor dining furniture, hammocks and a barbecue are wise investments.
- Pot plants are great extras but only if you have somebody to water them as guests can often enough not be bothered with this whilst on holiday.
- Make sure the garden is well maintained. Use shoulder seasons to tidy things up.
The Extras
- A high speed internet connection is now considered standard in holiday accommodation - kids cant live without it and it is often essential for people who need to keep an eye on work.
- Flowers on arrival will make the property look welcoming.
- Old bikes will encourage guests to get out and about if you're in the country.
- If your property is near the beach then get some buckets and spades. Pool toys are great for kids if you have a pool.