High-Level Steps to Starting a Short-Term Rental (When You Already Own the Property)

So, you already own a property and you’re wondering: What now?
Congratulations! You’ve got the hardest part covered! Purchasing real estate is no small feat, and you’ve put yourself in an excellent position to start a short-term rental (STR).

But here’s the truth: even though the property itself is a huge win, turning it into a successful STR requires intention, planning, and a focus on guest experience. That’s where the fun – and the work – begins (my favorite part!)

This guide will walk you through the high-level steps to transform your property into a welcoming, well-managed short-term rental. From remodeling projects and furnishing to landscaping, listing, and hosting your very first guest, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow.

Step 1: Tackle Remodeling Projects and Repairs

Even if your property looks good at first glance, it’s worth evaluating if any updates or safety repairs are needed. Guests are quick to notice things like worn flooring or outdated appliances, and small issues can quickly snowball into negative reviews.

Areas to Consider Updating:

Appliances: If your kitchen appliances are older or mismatched, consider replacing them. Stainless steel or modern finishes create a cohesive, fresh look. (Make sure to check out options for non-fingerprinting stainless steel!)
Flooring: Durable flooring (like LVP or tile) is ideal for STRs. Carpets wear quickly and are harder to keep clean.
Paint: A fresh coat of paint, both interior and exterior, makes a property feel new. Stick with neutrals for broad appeal. Yes, this is a bigger expense if hiring out for the job. AND, it makes a huge difference! Consider DIY, and remember that it really is a big project.
Dishwasher: If the home doesn’t have one, install one, even a compact or apartment-size model. Washing dishes on vacation is not anyone’s idea of a 5-star stay. My Airbnb didn’t have a dishwasher, so I did opt to lose a bank of drawers in order to install a compact model. My thought is that guests are likely on vacation, and I know I don’t want to hand-wash dishes on vacation!
Laundry Area: Guests love in-unit laundry. If you don’t have it, consider converting a closet or adding a stackable unit. Even a washer/dryer combo that fits in a small space is better than none.
Safety Repairs: Fix loose railings, repair faulty outlets, replace smoke detectors, and check carbon monoxide alarms. Safety isn’t just good hospitality: it’s liability protection.

Pro Tip: Walk through your property with “guest eyes.” Pretend you’ve just checked in for a vacation. What feels dated, inconvenient, or unsafe? Tackle those items first. Even better: ask a trusted friend, relative, or STR expert to walk through and provide feedback.

Step 2: Furnish for Comfort and Function

Once your remodels and repairs are complete, it’s time to furnish. This step can be as fun (or overwhelming) as you make it. Remember: you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a stylish, comfortable space.

Furnishing Guidelines:

Beds: Invest in quality mattresses and bedding. Guests will forgive a small TV but not a bad night’s sleep.
Living Area: Provide enough seating for the maximum number of guests your listing sleeps. No one wants to fight over the couch.
Dining Area: Your table should accommodate the same number of people as your bed count.
Storage: Dressers, closets with hangers, and nightstands make guests feel at home.
Décor: Stick with mostly neutral tones, but choose one or two accent colors to tie everything together. (For my Airbnb, I picked a muted orange that shows up on throw pillows, a blanket, some kitchenware, and even the front door.)
Technology: Key-less entry lock, Smart TVs, WiFi, and easy-to-use remotes are essential. Bonus points for a simple charging station with multiple plug types.
Read more in my article “Design Tips: How to Furnish and Decorate Your Short-Term Vacation Rental Like a Pro.”

Pro Tip: Think “low-cost luxury.” You don’t need a $2,000 couch. Instead, choose sturdy, affordable pieces and add warmth with throw blankets, pillows, and lighting.

Step 3: Refresh the Landscaping

Curb appeal matters, and it doesn’t mean you need a full botanical garden. Landscaping should be low-maintenance and guest-friendly.

Best Landscaping Practices for STRs:

Quarterly Cleanups: Trim shrubs, pull weeds, pressure wash walkways, and refresh beauty bark.
Drought-Resistant Plants: Save water, save money, and save time by choosing native or hardy plants.
Privacy: Shrubs, fences, or screens create separation from neighbors and make longer stays more appealing.
Grass: If your property is pet-friendly, keep some lawn space available. Otherwise, minimize grass to reduce mowing needs.
Check out what I’ve personally learned in my article “Is Landscaping Worth the Effort for Your Short-Term Rental? Here’s What I’ve Learned.”

Step 4: Set Up Your Listing on a Platform

Your property is furnished, the landscaping is clean, and now you’re ready to share it with the world. Creating your listing is one of the most important steps because it determines how potential guests perceive your space.

Essentials for a Great Listing:

Professional Photos: Do not skip this. Hire a real estate photographer or Airbnb specialist. Bright, high-quality photos convert clicks into bookings.
Compelling Description: Be honest but enticing. Highlight unique features, but don’t exaggerate.
Amenities List: Guests filter by amenities (like WiFi, washer/dryer, or free parking), so make sure yours is accurate.
Pricing Strategy: Start slightly below comparable listings to build reviews. Once you establish a track record, adjust to match the market.
Learn how to choose which platform and listing strategy is best for you in “How to Choose the Right Platform for Your First Short-Term Rental.”

Pro Tip: Tools like PriceLabs or Airbnb Smart Pricing can help you set competitive, dynamic rates.

Step 5: Final Walkthrough Before Hosting

Before your first guest arrives, do a full walkthrough. This is your quality control moment.

What to Check:

Cleanliness: Under beds, behind doors, inside drawers.
Functionality: All lights, locks, appliances, and remotes should work.
Safety: Test smoke/CO detectors, confirm first aid kit is stocked, fire extinguisher is visible.
Supplies: Stock toilet paper, paper towels, coffee filters, dish soap, trash bags, and cleaning supplies.
Do a final walk through, and use my article as a guide: “Is My Short-Term Rental Guest Ready? A Host’s Last-Minute Checklist.”

Pro Tip: Create a laminated “Host Checklist” so you (or your cleaner) never forget the essentials.

Step 6: Automate Guest Communications

Communication can make or break a guest’s impression of your STR. Automating some of your messages ensures you never forget to send important information.

Key Automated Messages:

Booking Confirmation: Warm, friendly, and reassuring.
Pre-Check-In Instructions: Sent 24–48 hours before arrival. Include address, parking, door codes, and WiFi.
Check-Out Instructions: Sent the evening before or morning of check-out. Keep it simple and respectful of your guests’ time.

Read more about automated messages in “How I Use Airbnb Quick Replies to Save Time and Set Clear Expectations with Guests.”

Step 7: Ask for Reviews (The Right Way)

Reviews are the lifeblood of your STR. Guests are more likely to leave a review if you ask – and how you ask matters.

Here’s a sample text you can copy and paste:

“Thank you so much for staying with us! We hope you had a wonderful visit and felt right at home. Reviews are so important for hosts like us, and if you feel we provided a 5-star experience, we’d be so grateful if you could share that in your review. If there’s anything we could improve, please let us know directly so we can continue to get better for future guests.”

Find additional info in my other article: “How to Get Your First Reviews as a New Host (Without Feeling Awkward About It).”

Pro Tip: Always frame your request around the guest experience, not just your need for reviews.

Step 8: Keep Improving After Your First Guests

The best hosts evolve over time. After your first few stays, you’ll likely notice small areas to improve. Maybe you forgot to provide a kettle for your UK guests (yes, I did that once!), or maybe you realize you need extra charging cords.

Hospitality is about learning, adjusting, and striving for 5 stars with every booking. I wrote another article that discusses “How to Evolve as a Short-Term Rental Host: What to Expect (and Adjust) from Day 1 to Year 10,” and I hope it’s helpful for fine-tuning as you optimize and thrive!

Encouragement for New Hosts

Starting a short-term rental is exciting, overwhelming, and incredibly rewarding. You’ll have moments where you question if it’s worth the work, and then you’ll get that first glowing 5-star review, and it will all click.

You don’t need to be perfect on day one. What matters most is that you create a safe, comfortable space and approach every decision with a guest-first mindset.

Remember:

Guests forgive small imperfections if they feel you truly care.
Communication and cleanliness go further than expensive décor.
Every stay is a chance to improve.

You’ve already taken the biggest step by owning the property. Now it’s time to make it shine and share it with the world.

I can assure you this: if you focus on hospitality, your STR can not only generate reliable income but also bring you immense satisfaction.

So go for it. Your first guest is closer than you think.

I’m here if you want support!

– KP