Owners: How to Prepare for the 2024 Season with Home Updates

Spruce Up for Your Vacation Rental for 2024 

Spring is coming and that means more occupancy for your vacation rental home on Hilton Head Island.  At Beachside Getaway, we recommend that you spruce things up before the season is underway. We’ve separated what you can and should do into two buckets – big things and little things!  The big things require substantial investments in time and money, and the little things are easier to accomplish. Both big things and little things are important to your vacation rental success. 

Remember to let us know if you have made home improvements so that we can take new photos and help better market your property! 

For big things: 

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Kitchen Remodeling: Upgrade appliances, install new cabinets and countertops, and consider adding a kitchen island (if you do not have one) for extra workspace and storage. Modernize with energy-efficient fixtures and smart technology.  Beachside Getaway recommends calling Living Goods. 

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Bathroom Renovation: Replace fixtures, upgrade lighting, and refresh tiles for a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a luxurious bathtub, walk-in shower, or double vanity.  Beachside Getaway recommends visiting Grayco on Hilton Head Island. 

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Basement /Garage Space Conversion: Transform an underutilized basement into a functional living space such as a guest suite, home office, or entertainment area. Ensure proper insulation, lighting, and ventilation. 

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Room Additions: Add a new room, such as a sunroom, extra bedroom, or home gym, to accommodate your needs. Seamlessly integrate it with the existing structure.  If you have the space and the cash to do so, consider what additional income it might be able to provide you. 

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Outdoor Living Spaces: Expand your living space outdoors with a deck, patio, or pergola. Consider features like a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or swimming pool for a luxurious retreat. These things add tremendous value to your Hilton Head vacation rental because it increases outdoor time spent in the Lowcountry – which is exactly what your guests want! 

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Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Install energy-efficient windows, doors, insulation, and consider solar panels and smart home technology to reduce energy consumption.  These also have tax-benefits that you will be excited about! (Ask your accountant how.) 

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Structural Enhancements: Improve the structural integrity of your home by reinforcing the foundation, updating plumbing and electrical systems, or upgrading the HVAC system. How is your Hurricane rating?  Check on this and see if it’s time to upgrade windows and doors. These are not always fun to spend money on but often vital to the long-term success of your vacation rental. 

For the little things. 

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Add removable wallpaper or decals: Use temporary wallpaper or decals to add color, pattern, or texture to your walls. They can be easily removed without damaging the paint or wall surface. Wayfair has great options at an affordable price! 

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Use removable window treatments: Hang curtains or blinds that can be easily taken down when you move out. This allows you to add privacy, style, and even insulation to your windows.

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Introduce area rugs: Cover up plain or worn-out flooring with area rugs. They can add warmth, texture, and color to your living space while protecting the original flooring underneath.

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Decorate with removable wall art: Use removable wall stickers, paintings, or prints to create a focal point or add visual interest to your walls. These can be easily removed without leaving any marks.

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Upgrade lighting fixtures: Replace existing light fixtures with more stylish or modern options. Just make sure to keep the original fixtures stored safely so you can reinstall them when you move out.

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Utilize temporary shelving and storage: Add temporary shelves, bookcases, or storage units to maximize space and keep your belongings organized. These can be easily assembled and disassembled without causing damage to the walls.

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Bring in potted plants: Use indoor plants to liven up your rental home. They not only add a touch of nature but also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere.

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Update cabinet hardware: Replace outdated or plain cabinet knobs and pulls with more decorative ones. This simple change can give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh look.

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Hang mirrors strategically: Mirrors can make a space feel larger and brighter. Hang them strategically to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.

How will you update your vacation rental home in 2024? Remember to send us updates so we can communicate to our guests and represent your property in the best possible fashion.  Happy home renovating and preparing for the 2024 season.