How to Slay STR Themes - From Alpacas to Potatoes

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to simply list your rental property online and wait for bookings to flood in. But instead, you're left with empty calendars and disappointing occupancy rates. The pain of pouring your time and effort into your vacation rental, only to see minimal results, is all too real. It's time to break free from the ineffective advice and discover the true significance of standing out in the competitive short-term rental market.

In this episode, interior designer and vacation rental owner Shanna Eilers gives all her tips on how to transform properties into unforgettable experiences.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unearth how memorable guest experience, shaped by compelling interior design, propels success in short-term rentals.

• Get insights on how a unique design theme can be a magnet for various guest categories.

• Decode the importance of differentiating yourself in the highly-competitive short-term rental market.

• Register the benefits of incorporating premium quality and amenities, as inspired by top-tier hotels.

Shanna Eilers is a visionary interior designer with a heart for making spaces feel like home. In 2018, Shanna switched gears from commercial to residential design, and since then, she’s been helping clients make over their homes and vacation rentals. Her unique approach lies in her ability to blend function and aesthetics, producing results that always leave everyone in awe. Apart from being a sought-after designer, Shanna is also a vacation rental owner, giving her an edge in understanding how to elevate the guest experience through thoughtful design.

“I try to put myself as if I'm going to stay there and if I could go over the top of it, what would I want from it?” - Shanna Eilers

Action steps mentioned in this episode are:

• Model amenities from higher-end hotels to differentiate your rental from competitors.
• Avoid the middle ground and find a unique theme or design concept for your rental.
• Look for local inspiration in your city or state, such as architecture, nature, or local attractions.
• Leave room to breathe and avoid overwhelming your rental. Dilute the theme by incorporating it in small decorative elements like artwork and color accents.
• Use patterns and colors that complement your theme, even if they may not seem obvious at first.
• Find unique and fun touches to incorporate into your rental, such as life-sized games or themed artwork.

Transformative Design Themes

When it comes to transforming a property, the design theme plays a significant role. An impactful theme builds upon the local environment and the property's architecture, rather than merely chasing popular trends. This gives guests a one-of-a-kind experience, increasing the property's appeal and differentiating it from others.

Unique Guest Experience

In the short-term rental industry, the uniqueness of the guest experience is a major determinant of success. This includes providing amenities that add comfort to a guest's stay, incorporating personal touches inspired by the owner's aesthetics, and sharing local, off-the-beaten-path activities. 

Competitive Edge in the Market

In an industry characterized by stiff competition, standing out is key. Vacation rental owners can accomplish this by prioritizing a unique guest experience and transformative design themes. By understanding the latest trends and taking inspiration from high-end hotels, hosts can continue to innovate, effectively compete, and increase occupancy rates.

Link and Resources

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