How to Establish a Vacation Rental

Use materials that wear well. Durability is key. Select floors, furniture, etc. with this in mind.

Keep it simple. Because guests have different preferences in décor, furnishings, etc., keep them simple. Properties that are not cluttered will appear larger and present better than those with a lot of “things.”

Decorate with the guests’ needs in mind. Include bedside lamps, a clock, and other necessities in the property. It is a good idea to include a suitcase stand in the bedroom closets to discourage suitcases on furniture. A basket with inexpensive books (for children and adults) and board games (without a lot of pieces) goes a long way for rainy day activities. Also, a binder of information with area attractions, local information, etc. is a helpful touch.

Establish comforts of home. Provide high-quality cable, wi-fi, etc.

Remove all personal items. Personal items such as clothing, toiletries, food (with the exception of non-perishables such as spices) should be removed. Guests need to feel that the space is theirs, and the owner should feel that their belongings won’t be disturbed.

Keep a locked closet. Lock personal belongings, additional supplies, etc. in the closet.

Ensure your home is well cleaned and maintained. A clean home is critical for guests.

Expect some wear and tear. Though many guests will treat the property as their own, suitcases will roll across the floor, corners may get hit, etc.

Enjoy the additional income a rental property can provide. Though preparing the home requires effort, it can prove to be beneficial and a source of income.

Suggested Inventory List

Kitchen:

• Bowls, plates, glasses, coffee cups – allow 2 per maximum number of guests (If a property can accommodate 6 guests, at least 12 settings should be available.)

• Silverware – same quantity as described above

• Children’s cups and plates

• Wine glasses (stemless)

• Oven mitts

• Hot pad(s)

• Dishcloths

• Dishtowels

• Skillets

• Colander

• Pots

• Serving bowls – at least 3

• 9x13 pans – at least 2

• Spatulas - at least 2

• Wooden spoons – at least 3

• Cutting board

• Ladle

• Chip clips

• Can opener

• Ice cream scoop

• Peeler

• Corkscrew

• Measuring cups

• Grater

• Knives

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

• Scissors

• Keurig

• Blender

• Aluminum foil

• Ziploc bags

Living Room (Property manager to provide)

• Binder

• Guest book

Bedrooms:

• Sheet sets – 2 per bed (Cleaning company may provide)

• Blankets – 2 per bed (bed and closet)

• Pillows – 4 per bed (bed and closet)

• Pillow protectors – 1 per pillow

• Mattress protector – 1 per mattress

• Hangars – 12 in each closet (approximate)

• Luggage rack – 1 in each closet

Bathrooms:

• Towels – 4 per maximum number of guests (Cleaning company may provide)

• Washcloths – 4 per maximum number of guests (Cleaning company may provide)

• Hand towels – 4 per bathroom (Cleaning company may provide)

• Bathmats – 2 per bathroom (Cleaning company may provide)

Owners’ Closet (Property manager to provide)

• Kleenex

• Toilet paper

• Shampoo, conditioner, and soap

• Kitchen garbage bags

• Dish soap

• Laundry detergent

• Paper towels

• Bottled water

• Thank you notes

• Business cards

Outside:

• Based on property