Investing in real estate–especially in short-term rentals (STRs)–isn’t just about chasing numbers. It’s about building something meaningful for you and your guests. Not every STR is created equal, and making yours stand out can make all the difference in whether or not it succeeds. Here are some ways to make your short-term rental stand out from the rest:

1. Unparalleled Experience

From the minute your guests book a stay at your short-term rental until after they check out, you need to offer an exceptional experience. This includes quick responses during the reservation process, a smooth check-in, and a stress-free stay. Additionally, you need to have a beautifully maintained property and make guest communication as easy as possible. If you want to make a guest’s stay unforgettable, go the extra mile by focusing on the details. This may include stocking the bathrooms with hotel-style toiletries, supplying a bag of local coffee beans in the kitchen, gifting a welcome basket with local treats, decorating with themed decor, etc.

2. Attractive Amenities

Hot tub at a smoky mountain cabin short-term rental

If you want to make your short-term rental stand out, you need to provide attractive amenities that your guests would most appreciate. These amenities can be big selling points in your listing. If your STR is located on a lake, you could provide kayaks or canoes. If it has mountain views, include ways to enjoy those views such as rocking chairs and a hot tub on the deck. Other amenities that can enhance the guest experience may include things like games, a fire pit, a private pool, a grill, books, WiFi, or others. Make sure you highlight these amenities in your listing to set your property apart from the competition.

3. Accessibility

You never know who will be interested in your short-term rental, so make sure it’s accessible for all types of guests. This includes putting extra thought into how someone with a disability would experience your STR. You may want to consider adding accessibility elements such as grab bars in the bathroom, wide doorways, easy-reach tabletops and countertops, step-free entrances, etc. Include these details in your listing as well as images that showcase that it would be a good fit for guests with limited mobility.

4. Personalization

Box with bottle of wine and two glasses

A great way to make your short-term rental stand out is personalization. For example, if you know your guests are celebrating an anniversary, you can gift them a bottle of wine or champagne with a thoughtful welcome note. Before their stay, ask your guests a little about themselves. You can do this with an automated welcome email or text message that they receive as soon as they book their stay. You can use this message to ask about the purpose of their trip, allowing you to be prepared to go the extra mile and give your guests exactly what they need for a memorable stay.

5. Responsiveness

Being responsive is a simple way to improve your guests’ experience at your short-term rental. No guest wants to wait hours to receive an answer to a simple question. Getting back to them within minutes will make their stay better as well as increase your chances of a higher rating and positive guest reviews. This responsiveness should begin when a potential guest inquires about your STR and continue throughout the duration of their stay.

Not every short-term rental is created equal, and choosing the right property can mean the difference between a frustrating experience and a life-changing opportunity. Are you ready to invest in the Smokies? Learn more about the steps to owning short-term rentals to get started.