When guests step into your home, their first impression sets the tone for their entire stay. A well-thought-out space with the right amenities can turn a good experience into a great one. Here are some essential amenities and thoughtful touches that can make your home stand out and keep guests returning year after year.
A Warm Welcome
A welcome letter can make guests feel at home right away. Providing clear instructions about the home, local recommendations, and a friendly greeting helps set expectations and enhances their experience.
Comfortable and Functional Spaces
Seating for Everyone: Ensure there’s enough comfortable seating for the number of guests your home accommodates, both indoors, like in the living room and at the dining table, and outdoors.
Plenty of Charging Options: Guests travel with multiple devices, so having accessible outlets, power strips, or charging stations in key areas is a must.
Good Lighting: Layered lighting—overhead, task, and ambient—creates a cozy and functional atmosphere. Pro tip: nightlights make a huge difference for guests moving through unfamiliar places in the dark.
A Reliable Coffee Maker: Would you want to go on vacation without your morning cup of joe? Whether it’s a classic drip coffee maker or a pod-style machine, having a quality coffee maker is a small touch that goes a long way.
Well-Maintained Doors and Fixtures: Ensure doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers open and close easily, making the home feel well cared for. Those windows and doors are a big (and easy to implement) safety feature too!
Storage and Hanging Space: Each bedroom should have a place to hang clothes, whether it’s a closet, hooks, or a wardrobe, as well as a space for folded items.
Extra Comforts
Quality Bedding and Pillows: Soft, clean, attractive linens add a touch of luxury and freshness, and help guests feel pampered.
Fans and Climate Control: While we have some great coastal breezes on the midcoast, and older homes are generally built to capture them pretty well, it’s important to have fans to help really push that cooling air through your home. Air conditioning is also a very sought-after feature, so if your home can accommodate it, it’s a great investment! After all, no one wants to sleep in a stuffy bedroom in the height of the summer!
Outdoor Enjoyment: If your home has outdoor space, consider seating, a grill, or even yard games to enhance their experience. Cornhole is popular as a fun and easy game the whole family can play, and doesn’t take up too much space when it needs to be stored.
Final Touches
Small but thoughtful details can leave a lasting impression. Stocking essential kitchen supplies, providing entertainment options like board games and books, and ensuring the home is easy to navigate all contribute to an enjoyable stay.
Want to take the guest experience at your home to the next level? Cottage Connection is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can make managing your rental stress-free while ensuring your guests have an unforgettable stay!