Amenities added to increase bookings/value to guests

[Chris Muller]

Hey

Looking for input from other members running their short term rental properties.

We are onto a new project where we have a small acreage that is nicely setup.

3 bed/2 bath house that can accommodate 8-10 guests

3 services rv pads that can come with newer trailers to accommodate upto anther 12 guests.

The property is close to the lake, golf, kids activities, town etc and have a Great Lake view.

Last year we added a large 1400 sq-ft deck to capitalize on the view and add a hot tub, 12x24 pool and lots of seating etc.

This year was a large fire pit area suitable for 12-16 people.

Next up are three choices and not sure what would give the most value (or do I do all 3)

1. The kitchen is older (mid 90’s) melamine/oak cabinets.

We would do modern shakers with butcher block counters. Put in a new 36” gas range and a double wall over/microwave to accommodate larger group cooking (it’s a large galley kitchen)

2. The unfinished basement turned into a games room

Would put rubber flooring down and add some gym equipment and activities like fooseball, pool, arcade, poker table with some cool movie and memorabilia decorations - pseudo man-cave for all ages

3. Removing a large old tree beside the deck and pool to add a 6-8 person barrel sauna (electric) and a deck structure with 2 cold plunge pools, faucet, all nicely landscaped and setup

We are primarily looking to target reunion/generation family gatherings

My main question is what of the above would give the potential for the best bang for the buck…or should I be looking to get it all done at once to streamline the work and have it be all done right out of the gates.

Input appreciated!

Here is a link to our other project. We like to do higher end styled places so this gives an idea of what we currently do and how this place will look

https://abnb.me/wMH39O71sBb

[Michael Baum]

Hey @Chris Muller, I think those are 3 great options. A couple of things:

1 - I love a good kitchen. If you are catering to large groups, they will want to cook at home rather that go out all the time. I wouldn't do the butcher block. Too much maintenance for a STR. I would do a tier 1 granite. It has been commoditized now and can be had pretty cheap. Much more durable.

2 - Does the basement have it's own egress? That would be something I would be wanting in case of emergency. Regardless the game room would be a big seller IMHO. No rubber floor. LVP all the way. Maybe some workout equipment mats under what ever you put down there. LVP looks so much better.

3 - You can't replace a mature tree. I would leave it IMHO. #3 is my least favorite. Have you checked other rentals nearby to see if they offer amenities like a hot tub or plunge pools?