7 little changes that will make a big difference to your property
Whether you have a well established holiday let or are making your first foray into the world of holiday cottages, there are a few things you can do to maximise both the appeal and rental value of your property. The Cotswolds is a popular year-round destination and ensuring your property covers all seasons is a good way to keep the bookings coming throughout the year. Here at Bolthole Retreats, demand for quality holiday cottages is high and we’ve put together a few suggestions that will make a big difference to your property and help you make certain your holiday rental is the best that it can be.
EVCP – Electric Vehicle Charging Points
If you have the space and the budget, Electric Vehicle Charing Points are a good addition to a property. There are various factors that must be taken into consideration e.g., existing off-road parking, but with the predicted expansion in electric and hybrid vehicles, this is something we are asked about on a regular basis.
Bed configuration
The more flexible you can be with the bedding configuration or the number of beds you have, the more guests your property will appeal to. Whilst a king-size and/or super-king size bed is an excellent option, the ability to have at least one room configured as a twin is a good idea. If a room is small, consider bunk beds – they can be a practical and fun solution, especially for families with children.
Storage
This is particularly relevant in bedrooms. Be creative if necessary, but try to ensure there is enough storage for all. If space really is at a premium, hooks on the wall with quality wooden hangers can be a workable alternative. If you are located within the vicinity of a wedding venue, be aware that potential guests will want to be able to hang clothes and a full-length mirror is always welcome. Within the kitchen make sure there is cupboard space for guests to store dry goods and drinks etc. A well-equipped kitchen is a huge plus, but if guests have nowhere to store anything, it can become a negative.
Welcome hamper / starter pack
As a minimum at Bolthole Retreats, we suggest a pint of fresh milk, teabags, and coffee. After a long drive, there is nothing more frustrating than the inability to make a drink. If you want to be more generous, biscuits or a homemade cake is a nice touch, as is something that is locally made. It does not need to be extravagant but will make a great first impression.
Outside space
Outside space is just as important as the inside areas for many guests. Regardless of how much or little you have; it is worth making the most of it. Keep gardens well maintained and attractive, if they are low maintenance that is fine. Outside furniture is a must. If you have a small property, it can be as simple as a conversation set with a low table and two chairs, but if you want to talk about outside dining you need to ensure the furniture you provide caters for the number of guests the property accommodates. If you have the space and the ability to maintain one, a hot tub is a very popular, lucrative, and in-demand addition to any property.
Local information
Local insider knowledge goes a long way to making visitors feel welcome. At Bolthole Retreats we provide a Welcome Guide for each property, and whilst we have plenty of local knowledge ourselves, it is always appreciated when owners add their own snippets. Particularly if this includes favourite walks or cycle rides and places to eat and drink.
Quality over quantity
The quality of fixtures, fittings and furnishings is far more important than the quantity of them. Visitors to the Cotswolds or any holiday property for that matter, are often buying into the lifestyle and a dream or a vision that they don’t have at home. Think about what the particular draw or wow factor is for your property. It might be a super-stylish kitchen, a beautifully cosy sitting room with a wood-burning stove, or a fabulous garden with space to relax in the open air. Show off your property to its best advantage.
