Steps to Prepare Your House for a Holiday Rental
If you are thinking about using your home or a portion of your home as a holiday house rental, you are in good company. A study from the University of Queensland revealed about 251,000 homes on short-term or holiday rental lists. Further studies project the number will grow by 0.68% between 2023-2027. When facing this type of competition, it is necessary to make sure you stand out so potential renters make your property their first choice for their next holiday.
You may believe your house is renter-ready, but rental real estate experts suggest you do what you can to take what may be good and make it great. Remember, travellers on holiday will be snapping and posting many images that may include your home. Ensure it is seen in the best light possible.
Eight Steps Will Help You Ensure That your Perth House is Rent-Ready
1. Make Your Home Easy to Find
Ideally, you will have an unmistakable feature to allow your guests to find you. This can include extra-large house numbers, specific lawn décor, or unique landscaping such as special trees, garden beds, or fountains.
If you have no space to bring in extra elements, consider painting your door in a unique colour that will grab guests’ attention. Advising travellers to look for the yellow door is fine unless numerous homes in your neighbourhood have yellow doors. In this case, a small bucket of paint in an eye-catching colour can do the trick.
In addition to finding your home, your guests will need to navigate your property to find their parking spot as well as the space they will stay. Some house renters add small signs to assist guests, but this will not be helpful if there are language barriers. You might consider landscaping details to help guests find their way. Colourful rocks, path lighting, or other outdoor elements that stand out can work depending on your décor.
2. Secure Your Keys While Keeping Them Visible
Guests will appreciate knowing your home is a safe and well-secured place to stay. A lockbox is one of the easiest ways to protect your keys and allow guests easy access. You should send the code to your guests shortly before arrival and encourage them to lock the keys each time they leave the premises.
3. Ensure Your Pantry Is Well Stocked
Guests will appreciate being able to find the coffee or pepper without a hassle, and details like this matter to guests. An easy way for house renters to keep track of basics is a simple checklist. Look it over before new guests arrive so you are sure there is tea in the pantry and dishwashing detergent as well. The most essential staples to have in your rental property include
- Foil, plastic wrap, and storage bags
- Dishwashing Liquid
- Dishwasher Tablets or Powder
- Basic Spray Cleaner
- Dish Towels
- Paper Towels
- Tea, Coffee, and Sugar
- Hand Soap
- Salt and Pepper
- Cooking Oil
- Basic Herbs
4. Invest in Plenty of Dining Necessities
If you say your property can sleep six, then you need a minimum of six of everything. This includes dinnerware, glassware, cups, mugs, and cutlery. Ideally, you will have more than six of each item so your guests are not continually washing dishes.

5. Include Extra Niceties in the Bathroom
A luxe bathroom will make a good impression on your guests, but it does not need to cost you a small fortune. Remember to focus on what will be noticed; plush bath towels and floor mats that are extra thick are things guests will enjoy. You may want to have a small selection of high-end soaps and creams. Be sure your toilet paper is of good quality as well. It may seem like an odd suggestion, but people loathe thin, rough toilet paper.
6. Well-Appointed Bedrooms
A comfortable, clean, and cozy space to rest will delight your guests. Opt for a classic look in neutral shades of easy-care fabrics to keep your work at a minimum. Bedside tables and lamps are a must and ensure electrical outlets are within easy reach. Resist the urge to cover the beds with pillows. Instead, purchase several high-quality pillows and cover them with attractive shams.
7. Be Sure to Have Plenty of Space for Clothing
A closet or cupboard with ample hangers is ideal for your guests. Additionally, you can add wooden boards with coat hooks to a wall in the bedroom and a hall tree near the door. Most guests will appreciate sturdy luggage racks for suitcases as well.
8. Provide Special Treats
Many guests arrive tired and hungry after travelling to reach their destination. A thoughtful (but optional) gesture is having a supply of snacks and treats set out on a counter or tray in your refrigerator. If you are in a region known for a specific delight, that is an excellent option. Otherwise, a selection of fruit, cheese, crackers, sparkling water, or a plate of luscious chocolates and coffees will make your guests feel pampered and welcome.
Opening your home for holiday rentals is a popular and creative way to make extra money. After your initial investments, advertising and upkeep are your primary concerns. By maintaining an organised home, you can take care of guests without a significant amount of stress and reap the benefits of positive Instagram and Facebook posts.
Zest Realty has extensive experience working with long and short-term rentals. If you need advice or assistance as you navigate your adventure hosting holiday travellers, please reach out to us. Our team of professionals can share the information you need to turn your side hustle into a flourishing business.



