Furnishing a vacation rental is more than just filling an empty space with random items. As a property manager, your goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that combines practicality with comfort. Compared to your residential home, a rental property stands up to a lot of wear and tear from frequent use.

That’s why choosing high-quality materials enhances the guest experience and encourages positive reviews. Achieving the perfect balance between style and durability isn’t always easy. However, you don’t have to be an interior designer or spend exorbitant sums for your rental home furniture pieces.

In this blog post, we’ve rounded our top tips to help transform your vacation rental into a sought-after destination. Whether you’re furnishing a cozy cabin in the woods or a chic city apartment, these expert hacks will set you on the right path to success. Let’s dive in!

1. Know your target audience

Understanding the needs and preferences of potential guests is the cornerstone of successful vacation rental furnishing. For example, if your rental property caters to families with young children, consider adding child-friendly features such as cribs, high chairs, and plenty of storage.

On the other hand, if you want to attract couples looking for a romantic getaway, consider creating a cozy atmosphere with plush furnishings, mood lighting, and a hot tub. Finally, if you’re targeting business travelers needing a functional office, create a dedicated workspace with a comfortable chair-desk setting.

2. Choose durable rental home furniture

Selecting fragile or low-quality rental home furniture won’t endure the frequent turnover of guests in your vacation rentals. That’s why it’s necessary to opt for durable pieces that can withstand frequent use. Although choosing high-quality materials and robust construction can be more expensive upfront, it’ll pay off in the long run.

Leather, microfiber, and stain-resistant fabrics work wonders for sofas and chairs as they’re durable and easy to clean. Consider solid wood or metal for tables and desks, which can endure more wear and tear than particleboard or glass. You’re also advised to opt for furniture with a warranty to ensure longevity.

3. Keep it functional

Although aesthetics are important, functionality shouldn’t be overlooked. Multi-functional rental home furniture makes your property more versatile and guest-friendly, serving different purposes. For instance, sofa beds offer extra sleeping space, storage ottomans are helpful for families with kids, and an extendable dining room table can accommodate more guests.

You should also consider the flow of your space. Arrange furniture in a way that makes sense, allowing easy movement. Avoid cluttering your short-term rental with unnecessary items, creating confusion and practicality issues. Your goal should be for guests to enjoy your space comfortably and efficiently.

4. Pick a theme and color palette

A cohesive theme can transform your vacation rental home from a mere place to stay to a whole experience. Whether you choose a rustic, modern, boho, or industrial theme, consistency in design will create a sense of harmony and comfort. Start with neutral tones and incorporate splashes of color for character. For example, opt for a gray or beige couch and throw colorful pillows or a blanket.

You should also consider the location of your vacation home. A beach house would look great with nautical references, while a cabin in the woods would be enhanced with rustic, nature-inspired furniture. Make sure to carry your theme throughout your rental property, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and living room.

5. Consider materials and manufacturing

To ensure the longevity of your rental home furniture, opt for durable, low-maintenance materials. Stain-resistant fabrics, easy-to-clean surfaces, and scratch-resistant furnishing will save you money from replacements and maintenance in the long run.
Opt for sustainable and eco-friendly materials whenever possible to reduce your short-term rental’s environmental footprint. For instance, bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled metals are excellent vacation rental furnishing ideas. Not only are they eco-conscious, but they also add personality.

6. Keep housekeeping in mind

Don’t overlook cleaning and maintenance when planning your vacation rental inventory checklist. Your cleaning providers will appreciate furniture pieces that are easy to keep in pristine condition between guests. If possible, choose furniture with removable, washable covers.

Avoid intricate designs that trap dust and dirt. Hard surfaces like leather, metal, and wood are typically easier to clean than fabric-covered items. Moreover, keep furniture to a minimum, as multiple items make it trickier to dust and might lead to additional cleaning fees.

7. Add personality

In the competitive vacation rental market, your rentals must incorporate personal touches that add character. A one-size-fits-all vacation home won’t cut it in 2024, with guests looking for authentic experiences far away from polished hotels.
Avoid generic, bland rental home furniture. Instead, show some originality with unique pieces to make your space more inviting. Add decorating touches that tell a story about your area or your journey as a host. Incorporate local wall art to support the community and give guests an experience they won’t find anywhere else.

8. Don’t overlook the outdoor area

Outdoor furniture is often overlooked but can be hugely important to attracting guests and elevating their stay. Whether you have a balcony, a patio, or a backyard, ensure this area is as inviting as the rest of your rental. Invest in durable weather-resistant outdoor furniture with ample seating and extras such as sunbeds, umbrellas, barbecue grill, fire pit, and dining area.

POLYWOOD® lumber is always a top choice among ultra-durable furniture materials. Decorative elements such as plants, outdoor rugs, and lighting could also elevate your outdoor area. If you want to go the extra mile, invest in an outdoor pool or hot tub, or add a hammock for those boho, romantic vibes.

9. Mix high-end and budget-friendly pieces

Furnishing a rental property doesn’t mean breaking the bank. A smart approach is to mix high-end, statement pieces with budget-friendly items. This combination allows you to create a luxurious feel without overspending. High-end furniture, such as designer coffee tables or a statement sofa bed, could be the focal point of your decor.

On the other hand, you can choose more affordable pieces for items that receive less wear and tear. For instance, side tables or dining chairs can be sourced by more affordable retailers without compromising style. This blend of different price points will create an inviting and cost-efficient vacation rental.

In conclusion, furnishing your vacation rental is all about striking the perfect balance between practicality and aesthetics. Before jumping on a shopping spree for random rental home furniture, give it some thoughtful planning. Understand your target audience’s needs, consider cleaning and maintenance, and don’t be afraid to add some character to the mix.

Hopefully, this guide will inspire you to create a space that not only looks great but also provides comfort for an enjoyable stay. Having beautifully furnished rentals is the first step to a smooth guest experience.

To take your vacation rental business to the next level, invest in PMS and channel manager like Hosthub to manage your properties from anywhere within a few clicks. Register today for a free trial or book a demo!