Since the coronavirus pandemic hit, so-called ‘staycations’ have soared in popularity. When flights were grounded and Brits were unable to holiday abroad, many sought R&R closer to home. In July 2020, Google searches for ‘staycation’ increased by over 511%, and the demand is still present today.
Research by Money Transfers found that more than half of Brits are planning to go on holiday within the UK in 2023 – and with high demand comes high competition among holiday homeowners. So how do you make your offering stand out from the crowd? Here, we explore some of the best ways to add value to your holiday home and boost your bookings.
Upgrade the kitchen
One of the most effective ways to increase the value of your holiday home is to upgrade your kitchen. Checkatrade estimates that you can boost your home’s value by up to 10% by installing a brand-new kitchen – with the average cost of work coming in at £4,000 to £10,000.
While this may seem pricey, a fresh new kitchen is sure to impress travellers and help you to secure bookings for years to come. Before you start any work, calculate how long it will take to see a return on investment to set a realistic budget for your kitchen upgrade.
Enhance the interior
When looking for a holiday home, the majority of people will pay more for a clean and well-decorated space that they can enjoy while away. Outdated and old-fashioned spaces may put off some renters, so it’s important to put some time and effort into making the interior look its best.
You could give your holiday home a fresh lick of paint in a neutral colour, invest in artwork to make the space pop, and install impressive light fixtures. Hang mirrors throughout the property to make it feel light and airy, and think about homely touches such as plants, cushions and rugs.
Improve security
It’s also worthwhile investing in a high-quality security system. This could involve installing a high-spec alarm system, CCTV cameras, multi-locking door systems and lockable gates and windows.
Having quality security is a big bonus for renters who will be more likely to book knowing that there are measures in place to keep them and their belongings safe. Plus, it may provide you with better holiday home insurance rates – which is a bonus for your bank balance.
Invest in the outdoors
If your holiday home attracts visitors during the summer months, it’s worth investing in any outdoor space that you have. Across anything from acres to a small garden, effective landscaping can boost the value of your home.
Focus on creating a usable outdoor seating area for holidaymakers. For example, you could get a modern dining table and chairs for eating al fresco and a rattan sofa and coffee table for lounging. Make the garden feel inviting by using potted plants, installing green privacy screens such as hedges or trees, and keeping the lawn trimmed and tidy.
With many ways to improve your space, how will you choose to boost the value of your holiday home?