Design Tips, Investment Properties
Shauna Lynn Simon
Expert Advice for Your Vacation Rental Property

If you own a vacation rental property (or are looking to invest in one), you know that designing a short-term rental cottage that stands out from the competition is key to attracting renters and earning repeat business. With the growing popularity of short-term rentals and Airbnb properties, it's important to create a space that not only looks beautiful but is also functional and comfortable for guests.

In this article, we'll provide you with expert tips and insights on how to design a short-term rental cottage that will have guests raving and coming back year after year. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to update an existing space, this guide will provide you with the inspiration you need to create a truly exceptional vacation home.


Start with the Basics

Before you start decorating, make sure you have all the basics in place. This includes…

Expert Advice for Your Vacation Rental Property

Fresh from the vine - tomato harvesting

If you've planted tomato plants in your garden, you should now be reaping the benefits. Harvesting your tomatoes can be a delicate task, and you should be prepared to do this daily. If there are unripened tomatoes surrounding the ones that you are picking, be sure to hold the branch steady as you gently pull the fruit off the plant. This will avoid a "spring-back" effect that could knock the other fruits from the plant before they're ready. Always pick before your tomatoes turn a bright red - they will continue to ripen indoors, and will last longer this way. Avoid putting your picked tomatoes on your windowsill as this will speed the ripening and often spoil your fruit too soon.

Oven Cleaning - Natural

Oven cleaners are often incredibly toxic, and can be abrasive to the surface of your oven. For a natural, non-abrasive alternative, baking soda to the rescue once again! Remove oven racks and heating elements first for ease of cleaning. Lay down newspaper or a drop cloth under the oven to avoid getting any grease on your floor. Also, be sure to wear gloves as oven cleaning, natural or not, tends to be a messy task.

To make the cleaning paste simply mix 5 parts baking soda to 1 part water, apply to all surfaces of the oven, and leave for a couple of hours (or overnight for hard to clean areas). The paste will work to lift the food and grease and should remove easily by wiping clean with water and a clean rag.