📝 STR & AirBNB property features & amenities that drive higher ROI & Occupancy

[AJ Wong]

Having owned, operated and sold over 30 STRs (nearly a dozen turn-key STR homes this year) and actively working with some of top STR Property Management Companies including iTrip & Wander - here are some features to look for in prospective vacation rentals.

- Bed to Bath ratio: If your property accommodates more than two people - it is likely that at some point there will be groups or couples renting your space. Adults don't want to share bathrooms, particularly at luxury experiences. If two couples are splitting a bill - who gets the master or the better bathroom? Split masters is optimal but not always possible or necessary - but having designated bathrooms for those that are footing the bill can help differentiate your listing. Kids generally don't pay the tab, cater to those that do. 

- Amenities. Hospitality trends are towards wellness (even in Vegas). The most distinct and occupied rentals offer more than just a roof over heads. Arcades, saunas, hot tubs, projector screens with video games, fire pits, murals (for IG) bikes and toys - whatever delivers a home away from home experience that likely could not be replicated at a hotel/motel. 

- Design. There is a reason that successful hotel chains regularly renovate their interiors - trends change and highly utilized furniture and furnishings get damaged, worn and need replacement. That doesn't mean that you have to start from scratch - but a theme or a general game plan will go a long way in differentiating your BNB listing from the local competition. At least here in Oregon (and on the Coast) I would not categorize the majority of listings as 'trendy' or even coherent. Most are conversions of long time assets with little emphasis or regard for aesthetics. A functional AirBNB is not necessarily and optimized one. I have seen new owners refresh just design, furnishings and amenities and double the properties production. A house that is a 'home' will always outperform a similar footprint with less attention to guest experience and detail. What differentiates two hotels next to one another? Branding, effort and care. 

- DIY what you can. Travelers like memories - character leaves an impression. Upgrades do not need to be extensive or expensive. They should be personal, creative and practical. Example: Granite counter tops are outdated, expensive and heavy to move. Wood, tile, acrylic and others alternatives (done well) are impressive, durable and functional. The point is, to make an impression doesn't require 'nice' or 'new' just consideration and imagination. You only get once to make a first impression..the next time you notice a feature at a BNB or hotel room - is it because the materials are so 'quality' or it's 'smart' and 'cool.' People remember what they feel. 

- Senses. Speaking of feelings.. Light. Noise. Scent. Touch. Subtle touches can make a big impact. Mattresses, cleanliness, air purifiers, fans, heaters, softer sheets, black out curtains, lighting. Nobody wants to be too hot, cold, bright, dark, scratchy or smelly. Luxury hotels have an intense emphasis on the overall experience. Marriot Convoy lobbies not only always smell great - they have a proprietary scent. Comfort is key. 

- Sunroom or bonus space. Sunrooms might be more advantageous to our local Oregon Coast environment than elsewhere but any bonus feature or area such as a studio, garage conversion, tree house, studio are all areas that can accommodate guests (like remote workers) longer term and add rental appeal. 

Hope these help! Anything you would add? 

[Andrew Steffens]

I agree.

I tell my clients, especially those new to STR's a few things:

1. This is the post COVID world where supply frequently outpaces demand.  The larger and/or more unique the stay the better you will do.  There are still successful "average" stays i.e. renovated 3/2 with minimal amenities but they have to compete on price.  Some people who purchased "average" properties did so in 2019 and can be successful by competing on price, but those purchasing in 2025 at 2x the price and 3x the interest rate can not compete on price.

2. Best practices must be followed.  This should go without saying at this point but professional design and furniture, professional photos, and professional management.  You do not necessarily need to hire out to achieve that but if you are DIY for any of the above you need to produce professional results.

3. Cast a big net. I tell my clients that buying an STR is like fishing with a net. You want as big of a net as possible to catch as many fish as possible. I have seen beautiful bachelorette themed properties flop here (Tampa). The reason why? Bachelorette parties only make up maybe 15% of the travelers here and multi generational families and guys coming in for a golf or fishing trip do not want to stay in Barbie's dream house.