Short Term Renting Spare Bedroom

[Christian Grosskopf]

Hello STR investors,

I am considering renting out my spare bedroom on a short term basis and am hoping those who have experience doing such could lend their insights. I live in a good neighborhood in Louisville, KY filled with a lot of young families with plenty of bar and restaurant options. My spare bedroom is located on the first floor and they would have access to their own bathroom. My bedroom and bathroom are upstairs. I have a large open backyard with a patio. I work full time as a firefighter so guests would have the place to themselves on the days that I'm at work. 

I could use some insight on the following:

- What is a list of "basics" I should keep at the house. 

- Should I spend the extra money on better quality furnishings for a spare bedroom listing?

- Who would be the target audience I would be marketing to and designing this listing for?

- Is there anything specific I should be mindful of with a spare bedroom listing?

- What's something I can do or something I can offer to stand out with this type of listing?

- Any additional advice I may not be thinking of.

I'm always appreciative of the expertise from the BP community and I look forward to see what everyone has to say! 

[Mike Grudzien]

Quote from @John Underwood:

I'm not a fan of renting a room and have a potential  serial killer under the same roof with my family.

What if I am already a serial killer?  The chances of 2 under one roof would be astronomical! :-)