The way you set up your property will directly impact your reviews, repeat bookings, and long-term returns. We often take on properties at different stages of readiness and the most successful ones are those that have been designed by owners who see their property not just as a home – but as a guest experience.

When designing your property prioritise:

• Sleep quality
• Seating and comfort
• Durable, easy-to-clean furnishings
• Complete kitchen functionality
• Compliance and safety

Below is our practical guide to getting started and where we recommend investing your budget wisely before we take over management.

1. Bedroom

If there’s one area worth prioritising, it’s the bedroom. A great night’s sleep is the foundation of a five-star review.

We strongly recommend investing in:

• A high-quality mattress
• Premium hypoallergenic duvets and pillows
• Mattress and pillow protectors — with spares for changeovers
• Bedside or reading lamps for each guest
• A fan or cooling system
• A hair dryer
• Adequate wardrobe or hanging space
• A full-length mirror
• Decorative cushions and a bed throw

2. Bathroom

Bathrooms don’t need to be extravagant – they need to be practical and impeccably clean.

Ensure each bathroom includes:

• A discreet waste bin
• A toilet brush
• Good lighting
• Adequate ventilation

Quality fittings that withstand frequent use will save you money in the long run. Durability is key in a managed holiday property.

3. Living Room

The living room is where guests gather – especially families and groups.

Prioritise:

• Comfortable seating for the maximum number of guests
• A Smart TV (with easy access to streaming platforms)
• Soft furnishings such as cushions and throws to add warmth
• A coffee table / surfaces for guests to put drinks

One common mistake is under-seating. If your property sleeps six, the living room must seat six comfortably.

4. Kitchen

Guests expect a kitchen that works like their own, if not better.

Focus on providing:

• Adequate crockery, cutlery, and glassware for maximum occupancy
• Essential cookware (saucepans, frying pan, baking trays)
• Reliable small appliances such as a kettle and toaster
• A cafetière or coffee pod machine
• Practical kitchen tools: sharp knives, chopping boards, mixing bowls, utensils, scissors
• A generously sized waste bin

You don’t need designer gadgets, but you do need completeness. Missing basics are one of the most common guest frustrations.

5. Laundry

One of the key advantages of choosing a holiday rental over a hotel is the flexibility it offers – including the ability for guests to do their own laundry during their stay.

To support this, we recommend providing:

• A washing machine (ideally combined with a tumble dryer)
• An iron and ironing board
• A clothes airer for indoor drying

6. Outside

If you have outdoor space, use it well. Even a small courtyard can add major appeal.

We recommend:

• A sturdy outdoor table and chairs
• Seat cushions for comfort
• Outdoor blankets for cooler evenings
• An ashtray (even in non-smoking properties — it prevents misuse of pots and planters)

Well-presented outdoor areas increase perceived space and often justify higher nightly rates.

7. Health & Safety

Safety isn’t optional. It’s a legal and moral responsibility.

Your property should include:

• Hard-wired heat and smoke detection
• A carbon monoxide detector (where applicable)
• A fire blanket
• Emergency lighting solution
• A first aid kit

Investing properly here protects both your guests and your property.

Think Like a Guest, Not an Owner

The most successful holiday homes are designed for strangers, not for the owner’s personal habits. That means:

• Enough storage space
• Clear layout
• Durable fabrics
• Easy-to-use appliances
• Nothing overly fragile or sentimental

When your property is well-prepared from the outset, we can focus on what we do best: marketing, maximising occupancy, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

If you’re preparing your property and would like tailored guidance before handover, we’re always happy to advise. A smart initial investment sets the tone for long-term success.