Getting Ready to Rent

Here's Some Important Things to Consider When Getting Ready to Rent Your Home

Thinking about sharing your slice of paradise with short-term guests? Whether it's a cozy cabin in the woods or a lakeside retreat, preparing your vacation home for rental is crucial for a seamless guest experience. At Wild Rivers Property Management, we understand the ins and outs of vacation home management, and we're here to guide you through every step of the process.

Here's how to get your vacation home ready for short-term guests:

  1. Secure Your Valuables and Personal Property: Declutter and lock away any personal items you want to keep safe. Consider installing a commercial lock on a designated closet to store clothing, jewelry, family pictures, firearms, and mail.

  2. Prepare Supply Closets: Stock locked closets with extra bedding and cleaning supplies for your cleaning crew. Additionally, provide accessible shelves or closets with essential supplies like paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaning tools for guests to use during their stay.

  3. Prepare Your Kitchen: Inventory kitchen items, remove perishables, and secure fragile cookware. Consider providing clear instructions and photos of where items belong to help guests navigate the kitchen.

  4. Secure Your Recreational Equipment: Lock up boats, ATVs, and snowmobiles to prevent guest access. Ensure clear guidelines are provided for any recreational equipment available for guest use.

  5. Secure Your Lawn Equipment and Tools: Store maintenance equipment in a locked garage or shed, or consider off-site storage options.

  6. Provide Patio Furniture and a Fire Pit: Enhance the outdoor experience for guests with patio furniture and a fire pit. Consider offering firewood management services for added convenience.

  7. Provide Additional Amenities: Offer amenities like bed sheets, kitchen towels, fire extinguishers, and entertainment options to enhance the guest experience.

  8. Prepare a House Manual with Clear Instructions: We'll help you create it, but think about special instructions guests will need when visiting your home. Together we'll create a comprehensive manual outlining house rules, operating instructions, and local attractions. 

  9. Complete Any Necessary Maintenance or Repairs: Address any outstanding maintenance issues to ensure guest safety and satisfaction. Our local connections can help ensure a timely response from service pros!

  10. Be Insured: Protect yourself and your property with adequate insurance coverage tailored for short-term rentals. Contact your insurance provider to discuss best options for your property.

  11. Be Licensed: Each area of the Northwoods has it's own unique set of requirements. We'll help you fill out all necessary forms and we can even meet the health inspector at your property if you can't be around. 

Although the process may seem daunting, the rewards of sharing your vacation home often outweigh the challenges. At Wild Rivers Property Management, we're here to support you at every stage of your vacation rental journey. Reach out to us with any questions or for expert assistance in maximizing your vacation rental potential. Your dream of a successful vacation rental starts here!