IF I HAD A MAGIC WAND TO FIND THE PERFECT ACCOMMODATION FOR HOSTING GUESTS
If I had the opportunity to build my accommodation from scratch, here are 12 points that I would try my hardest to accommodate for:
1. Space
Ample space is essential for hosting guests comfortably. Look for a home with enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your guests without feeling cramped. Space also applies to the room.
Accommodating more guests means potential for increased revenue per booking. A spacious property also enhances guest satisfaction, leading to positive reviews and repeat business.
2. Open Layout
An open layout facilitates socialising and makes the space feel larger. A kitchen that opens into the living or dining area is great for entertaining. An open layout encourages social interaction among guests, fostering a lively atmosphere. This can lead to a memorable experience for guests, resulting in positive word-of-mouth referrals and more bookings.
3. Guest Suite
If possible, a guest suite with its own bedroom and bathroom offers privacy and comfort for your guests. Offering a dedicated guest suite demonstrates a commitment to guest comfort and privacy. This can attract guests seeking a premium experience, leading to higher booking rates and potentially allowing for higher pricing tiers.
4. Outdoor Space
A backyard, patio or balcony provides additional space for entertaining and relaxing, especially during nice weather.
Outdoor space adds value to the property by expanding the available entertainment and relaxation areas. It can attract guests looking for a unique experience, such as outdoor dining or lounging, contributing to increased occupancy and revenue.
5. Location
Consider the location of the home in relation to amenities and attractions your guests might enjoy, such as restaurants, galleries, shops, parks or beaches.
A desirable location near amenities and attractions increases the property's appeal to potential guests. This can result in higher demand, allowing for competitive pricing and maximizing occupancy rates throughout the year.
6. Accessibility
Ensure the home is easily accessible for guests, whether that means proximity to public transportation, ample parking, or accommodations for guests with mobility issues.
Ensuring accessibility demonstrates inclusivity and widens the property's appeal to guests with diverse needs. This can lead to increased bookings from guests seeking accessible accommodations, tapping into an underserved market segment.
7. Amenities
Look for extra amenities that enhance the guest experience, such as a pool, hot tub, fireplace, or entertainment room.
Premium amenities elevate the guest experience, setting the property apart from competitors. This can justify higher pricing and attract guests seeking a luxurious stay, ultimately driving higher revenue and profitability.
8. Comfortable Furnishings
Comfortable furniture and bedding are a must for ensuring your guests feel at home during their stay.
Comfortable furnishings contribute to guest satisfaction and positive reviews, enhancing the property's reputation. This can lead to increased demand and repeat bookings, as guests seek out the comfort and quality offered by the accommodation.
9. Well-Equipped Kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen allows you to prepare meals for your guests or to easily host breakfasts, dinners or drinks.
A well-equipped kitchen for guests provides flexibility and convenience, making the property more appealing for extended stays or guests looking to prepare their own meals. This can lead to increased bookings, especially from families or groups seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
A well-equipped kitchen for the owner provides the ability to easily cater for meals regardless of the number of guests.
10. Safety and Security
Prioritise a safe and secure environment for your guests, with features like smoke detectors, locks on windows and doors and well-lit outdoor areas.
Prioritising safety and security reassures guests and enhances their peace of mind during their stay. This can lead to positive reviews and recommendations, bolstering the property's reputation and attracting more guests, including those prioritizing safety in their accommodation choices.
11. Flexibility
Choose a home that offers flexibility for different types of gatherings, whether it's a formal dinner party or a casual hangout.
Offering flexibility in the use of space allows the property to cater to a variety of events and guest preferences. This versatility can lead to increased bookings for different types of gatherings, maximizing the property's revenue potential.
12. Tech-Friendly
Consider amenities like high-speed internet, smart home features, and entertainment options to keep your guests connected and entertained.
Providing tech-friendly amenities enhances the guest experience and caters to modern preferences. This can attract tech-savvy guests who prioritize connectivity and convenience, leading to positive reviews and repeat bookings. Additionally, it can serve as a competitive advantage in attracting guests who value technology integration in their accommodations.
CONCLUSION
With the benefits attributed to the features listed, finding the perfect home for hosting guests becomes a magical experience where comfort, convenience, and hospitality converge. And above all, a profitable business for you.