Why Fall and Winter is the Perfect Time to Make Those Rental Property Updates
Summer is when Cape Cod vacation rental business is typically booming. As a result, homeowners renting their properties need their rentals to look good, functional and visually pleasing so renters know what to expect.
However, the perfect time to do those necessary updates is NOT during the rental season. Fall and winter are excellent seasons to make those much-needed changes.
During the off-season, there is plenty of time to think about needed updates and take care of them without disturbing guests and/or losing valuable rental dates. With extra time available, you’ll have ample opportunity to consider the types of updates that will make the greatest positive impact. Additionally, you’ll have time to plan your budget for your updates. Lastly, by doing your updates prior to taking new photographs and increasing reservation requests, you’ll be prepared for the upcoming season.
Some Popular Update Ideas for Summer Rentals
All Cape Cod properties don’t need a full renovation. Making strategic updates can add comfort, appeal, and practicality to your guests’ experiences.
Kitchen Upgrades
Kitchens tend to be a major priority for guests in Cape Cod rentals. This is because guests want a clean and functional area where they can cook and socialize. Some popular kitchen upgrades include:
- Updating cabinets and hardware
- Replacing old counters
- Installing durable flooring
- Enhancing lighting
- Adding a place to sit/seating/storage
- Replacing old appliances
- Creating a more open/flexible layout
These small upgrades can make big impressions in listing photos and positively impact the guest’s overall experience.
Bathroom Upgrades
Bathrooms receive constant usage in Cape Cod rentals; therefore, it is imperative they are user-friendly for cleaning purposes.
Popular bathroom upgrades include:
- Installing a walk-in shower
- Replacing older tile
- Updating vanities/fixtures
- Enhancing ventilation
- Providing better lighting
- Increasing storage options
- Selecting products that are durable and simple to clean
A modern, clean bathroom will contribute to a feeling of cleanliness throughout your property.
Durability in Flooring/Finishing
Your Cape Cod rental receives significant foot traffic, sand, water and turnover. Using materials that are durable will assist with reducing ongoing maintenance costs and keep your property looking its best.
When selecting flooring, countertops, paint and fixtures select based upon both aesthetic appeal and long term durability.
Storage Organization
Guests love having convenient ways to store luggage, beach gear, clothes and personal belongings. Built-in storage, organized entryways, added hooks and functional closets can assist with decluttering your home and creating a sense of organization.
Outdoor Living Updates
Outdoor spaces are an integral component of the Cape Cod rental experience. Potential updates to the outside of your home could include:
- Renovating/decking/patio areas
- Creating an outdoor dining space
- Building an outdoor shower
- Enhanced exterior lighting
- Storage for beach gear
- Upgrade entrance/walkway
An inviting outdoor living area will give your property a larger feel and provide your guests with additional space to enjoy their stay.
Easily Maintaining Your Rental Property
While rental property renovations are typically focused on aesthetics they should also make your home easier to clean/maintain/guest turnover between each guest. Durable surfaces, efficient layout designs, reliable fixtures and easily accessible storage can all contribute toward lessening the frequency of needing to repair items and/or perform turnovers.
With proper planning, rental property owners can create a better experience for their guests while maintaining control over managing the property during the peak rental season.
Well Thought Out Renovations Help Prepare Your Property For Future Use/Rentals
Our Dennis Port Project is an example of how thoughtful and strategically planned renovations can help prepare your property for future rental seasons. The purpose of our renovated property was to enhance the home aesthetically, functionally and rent-ready for our clients guests. With enough lead time prior to the start of our clients next summer rental season we were able to have his updated listing images prepared along with new potential booking inquiries. Projects such as these illustrate why utilizing the slower fall/winter months for updating your property without interrupting the active summer season is beneficial.
Fall/Winter Ideal Times To Do Renovations
There are a number of reasons why waiting until Spring to begin renovating your rental property may put undue pressure on you. Deciding on design elements, obtaining required building permits, ordering materials and scheduling contractors all require adequate time. Advantages of beginning your rental property renovations during the fall or winter months include:
- Additional time for design/planning
- Less disturbance to summer renters
- Greater ability to find/resolve unanticipated problems
- Time to update listing images prior to the rental season begins
- A more controlled construction timeline
- Ability to confidently believe your property will be ready prior to summer
Additionally, being proactive regarding renovations will allow you time to avoid making hasty decisions as the rental season draws near.
Benefits Of Working With Encore Design & Build
At Encore Construction, we utilize a design/build methodology that combines all aspects of designing, planning/budgeting and constructing into one company. From the perspective of a rental property owner working with us can mean:
- Open communication throughout the duration of your project
- Design choices that prioritize durability and frequent use
- Budget/timeline predictability
- Streamlined decision making
- Smoother transitions from conceptualization through completion
We understand that timely completion of your rental property renovations is essential for you to plan/book your rentals for the next Cape Cod summer season.
Get Started On Preparing Your Rental Property Today
Successful rental property renovations always begin with a solid plan. Whether your property requires minor kitchen updates, bathroom remodels, increased storage, outdoor space upgrades, new flooring or something more comprehensive; now is the right time to begin.
If you’d like to create a renovation strategy that increases the attractiveness, appeal, functionality, renting-readiness of your Dennis Port, Dennis, Yarmouth and Cape Cod rental property, contact Encore Construction.
We’ll assist in getting started on your renovation project and show you what is possible within your space and building requirements.
