As vacation rental season nears, it helps to have a refresher on the latest data coming out of the industry. Even better, the outlook looks great for vacation homeowners like you.
Recent statistics show that approximately 63 million U.S. consumers will be renting vacation homes by the year 2027. Currently, vacation rentals generate more than $19 billion in the U.S. alone while 450 million global consumers rent vacation properties worldwide.
One of the main appeals of booking a vacation rental is kitchen access. Thus, maintaining a clean kitchen in your rental should be a top priority on your checklist.
Add these tips to your to-do list right now.
Conduct a Proper Kitchen Inspection
A rule of thumb is to always start with a thorough inspection.
Start your list with top priorities; these action items should revolve around health and safety.
For example:
- Kitchen appliance functionality (and expiration dates)
- Gas stove cleanliness
- Kitchen electrical wiring
- Refrigerator thermostat quality
- Kitchen plumbing system
- Microwave and toaster oven functionality
- Gas leak prevention
- Available fire extinguisher
Next, inspect your kitchen's flooring, wall treatments, windows, and ventilation for any needed repairs and replacements. Vinyl and linoleum flooring works best for kitchens. You also need decent air flow to avoid fire alarms and smoke inhalation.
Make sure your stove has a working fan and light. You may find it easier to upgrade to an electric stove. However, many guests still prefer gas stoves.
Make Necessary Upgrades
Don't pass on the chance to upgrade your kitchen with new, state-of-the-art appliances. You could even include an air fryer, pressure cooker, food processor, and ice cream maker. Guests who do a lot of cooking will appreciate these upgrades, increasing your bookings for the next vacation season.
If you want to accommodate more guests at once, consider remodeling your kitchen for more space. You could create an open-layout kitchen with an island. Kitchen islands come with storage, more counter space, and additional sinks for large parties.
Maintaining a Clean Kitchen In Your Rental
Repairs and upgrades are necessary for the health and safety of your kitchen. Next, stock the kitchen with plenty of cleaning supplies.
Take note of this list:
- Disinfectant wipes
- Multi-purpose cleaner
- Paper towels
- Clean kitchen cloths
- Sponges and scrubbers
- Kitchen sink scrubbing cleaner
- Dishwasher detergent
- Window cleaner
- Mop and bucket
You could also include eco-friendly alternatives like lemon-based cleaners.
Of course, always include recycling receptacles. Sustainability is an important draw for many guests. You may want to include a composting bin, as well.
All cleaning supplies should be visible. You may need to install a cleaning closet to accommodate brooms and mops.
Since guests expect furnished units in vacation rentals, assume they'll expect cleaning supplies, as well. Not including them may run the risk of property damage. You can always include directions to the nearest store on the fridge and instructions for best cleaning practices.
Get Your Kitchen Ready For Vacation Season
Start maintaining a clean kitchen in your rental to prepare for the upcoming season. Summer is the busiest season in the Ozarks; a clean, upgraded kitchen is necessary for commanding the best peak season prices.
PMI Lake of the Ozarks is known for its fast and friendly property management service. Led by locals, we're committed to making your rental portfolio thrive, bringing over a decade of experience to the table.
Contact us to book an appointment!
