While the weather is continually heating up around the country, it can be hard to believe its time to start thinking about the winter rental season. While we’re still in the summer season, its time to start thinking about the vacation rental upgrades to make this winter. This post explores different upgrades you should consider for the chilly months to ensure your short-term rental remains profitable all season long. 

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!

Why upgrade your home?

The short-term rental industry is competitive. It’s in your best interest to continually grow and improve so you don’t get left in the dust. Adding upgraded amenities can and will allow you to charge higher nightly rates. 

10 vacation rental upgrades to make this winter

Below are 10 vacation rental upgrades to consider adding to your short-term rental business.

1. Add a fireplace

Nothing says cozy winter getaway like a fireplace. Guests love the charm of a cozy fireplace, all covered in a fuzzy throw blanket. 

2. An outdoor jacuzzi 

Many guests will filter their winter vacation search by jacuzzis. There is something poetic about sitting in a warm hot tub as the snow falls around them. Stay competitive by including an outdoor jacuzzi/sauna as an upgraded amenity in your home this winter.

3. Treat your guests with heated floors

After a long day on the slopes, there’s something luxurious about stepping out of the shower onto warm floors. Its a way to add a touch of elevated luxury to your home.

4. Offer heated garage parking

In a cold climate, guests love to walk out of the house into the garage parking area and not be freezing. It makes them happier to load up the car in the comfort of warmth rather than hurriedly trying to load up the car while battling the pouring snow and trying to stay warm. A heated garage is just another part of the opportunity for small details that compound to give a total, all-encompassing elevated experience at your short-term rental. 

5. Make sure your home is well-insulated

How old is your home? When was the last time it was updated? Be sure that your home is well-insulated for the upcoming season. It’s important to stay on top of the upkeep of your insulation. The absolute last thing you want in a winter rental is for your guests to be cold.

6. Provide snow equipment

Offer access to safe, easy snow equipment like snowshoes or sleds. Maybe even provide a snowman-making kit (carrots for a nose, anyone?). While they may not get used often, it’s a small (and truly cute) gesture that can go a long way in making folks feel cared for. Perhaps a s’mores-making kit for your outdoor fire pit or little hot chocolate station inside.

7. Have snow removal services on deck

Are you responsible for shoveling the driveway every time it snows at your rental? Free yourself from that responsibility, and ensure your guests never have to dig themselves out, by investing in a snow removal service from day one. 

8. Install better lighting

Winter means shorter days and longer nights, making lighting more important than ever. Replace harsh bulbs with warm-toned LED lighting, add bedside reading lamps, and consider smart lights. Soft lighting helps create the cozy atmosphere guests are searching for during the colder months.

9. Upgrade your winter bedding

Winter travelers are looking for comfort as much as adventure. Invest in high-quality duvets, flannel sheets, and extra blankets to create a bedroom guests won’t want to leave. Consider leaving additional blankets in a basket in the living room so guests can cozy up while watching a movie.

10.  Set up a winter gear and boot drying station

Particularly if you’re a ski house, adding a dedicated drying station is a game-changer. Include a boot dryer, coat hooks, benches, and shelving for gloves, hats, helmets, etc. A guest will love waking up in the morning and putting on their nice and dry (and warm!) gear rather than the damp residue.  Plus, it keeps them from dragging winter debris and salt throughout your home. A helpful tip: have a sign asking guests not to wear their winter gear inside.

Last things to consider for your vacation rental winter upgrades

It should be noted that the best winter vacation rentals aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets. Rather, they’re the ones that focus on the little details. A boot dry area and hot chocolate station alongside warm winter bedding can go a long way. 

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!