There are some folks out there who just really love golf. As a result, they are more eager than ever to book a stay that offers a golf simulator. It’s a cool amenity and a crowd-pleaser. As a short-term rental host, adding an Airbnb with a golf simulator to your offerings is yet another way to get more eyes on your property and ultimately more bookings. This post will talk about why a golf simulator might be right for your listing, and how to add one to your property if it’s the right fit.
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Why add a golf simulator?
Basically, a gold simulator is cool. Everyone finds them cool, but those who are golf fans really find them fun. They could be a deciding factor for a guest when deciding between properties. If your home is located near a popular golf course, having a golf simulator will really cater to that market. Golfers are typically more inclined to pay a premium price for a home with a luxury amenity like a golf simulator. Additionally, it’s a nice add-on during the off-season. If someone is traveling to the area during the snowy months, having a golf simulator could be the perfect way to attract them to your home and keep your calendar full.
How to set up a golf simulator
Let’s talk about a few basics for setting up your golf simulator:
- You need space to swing. Make sure you have high ceilings and wide walls. A minimum of 10x10x8 ft of space is recommended.
- Find a package that fits your budget. There are a lot of brands out there. SkyTrak and OptiSho are particularly popular options.
- Invest in a quality screen that is impact-resistant. Balls are going to be hitting it!
- Add some netting and mats to keep the space both clean and safe for your guests.
- You want to have solid lighting and strong ventilation. People are going to be sweating, so you don’t want it to get too smelly!
Where do you set up a golf simulator?
You need to think about this. These simulators take up space. Ideally, you’ll look for a basement, garage, den, spare room, etc. Something with a lot of height so players don’t need to worry about hitting the ceiling!
Installing a golf simulator
Here’s a straightforward plan to get your golf simulator up and running in no time:
Step 1: Plan your budget
High-end simulators can cost thousands of dollars, but you can still create a fantastic setup for under $3,000. Set a budget that balances features with your expected return on investment.
Step 2: Choose the right simulator
Select a simulator that matches your rental’s target audience. Advanced simulators with realistic gameplay are ideal for high-end rentals, while more cost-conscious models are perfect for casual guests.
Step 3: Order materials and equipment
Purchase all your items, including the simulator, projector, mat, net, and screen. If you’re unsure where to begin, many companies offer complete starter kits to simplify the process.
Step 4: Prepare your space
Clear the chosen room of unnecessary clutter. Install protective padding if the area has delicate walls or windows. Check power outlets and cables to ensure there’s easy access for powering equipment.
Step 5: Installation
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional installer to guarantee the best results. Make sure everything is stable and safe for frequent use. Test play the simulator before introducing it to guests!
Step 6: Create instructions for guests
Provide a simple, laminated guide for guests showing how to use the simulator. Include tips on troubleshooting common issues to avoid overwhelming customer service requests. You can also include instructions in your house manual.
How to highlight this amenity
Once your simulator is up and running, it’s time to promote it in your Airbnb listing. Be sure to include it in your headline, description, and photos. For example:
- Headline: “Chic 2BR Airbnb with Golf Simulator & Backyard Lounge”
- Description: “Turn your stay into an unforgettable experience with our state-of-the-art golf simulator. Practice your swing across virtual courses, rain or shine.”
- Photos: Include professional images showing off the golf room in action. Capture angles that demonstrate space, equipment, and ambiance.
Pro tip
Every host and property manager can benefit from streamlining their operations with Host Tools. Between automated messaging, cleaner management, calendaring syncing, and a whole lot more, you can free up to 80% of your time with Host Tools. We take the day-to-day tasks and automate them so you can focus on bigger things…like a golf simulator!
Final thoughts
An Airbnb with a golf simulator is yet another great option to add to your hosting toolbox. As the short-term rental market continues to get more and more competitive, having a simulator can attract guests willing to pay a higher price tag and help keep your calendar full.
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!
