How to Furnish Your Vacation Rental: Beginner's Guide and Checklist

If you've recently acquired an investment property and want to furnish it as a short-term rental, you've come to the right place. Furnishing a vacation home is more than just filling an empty space. The task can be exciting yet daunting, especially if you don't have enough interior design knowledge.

The goal is to create a home that's both eye-pleasing and functional. With the right furniture, you can elevate your space and jump ahead of the competition without breaking the bank. In this guide, we'll help you do the heavy lifting by sharing furnishing tips and a well-rounded checklist to get you started.

7 Tips for Furnishing Your Rental Property

1. Consider Your Target Audience

Before you pick up a paintbrush or purchase a couch, think about who will be staying at your property. Are you catering to families with kids, couples seeking a romantic getaway, or business travelers? Your ideal guests will determine your every decision. For instance, opt for durable furniture and child-friendly amenities if you're targeting families. Or focus on creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere to attract couples.

2. Find Inspiration Online

The internet is your best friend when it comes to furnishing a vacation rental. Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are brimming with ideas and inspiration. You can search for themes, color schemes, or even room-by-room ideas. Creating a mood board with your favorite images can help you visualize your space. Don't forget to check out other successful vacation rentals online and note what works for them.

3. Decide on a Theme and Color Palette

Don't just throw random items in your house and hope to make something out of it. Instead, pick a theme and color palette and stick to it. From boho to modern and vintage to industrial, there are dozens of themes to choose from. Make sure it reflects your personality and adds character to your short-term rental. Consider the location of the vacation rental to make intentional decisions. For example, a beach house might lean toward a boho theme with light blues and sandy neutrals, while a city condo might follow a more industrial approach with exposed bricks and pipes.

Vacation rental inventory checklist

4. Maintain Functionality

While style is important, functionality shouldn't be overlooked. Your rental should not only look good but also serve your guests' needs. For example, a sofa bed in the living room can accommodate extra guests, and a coffee table with storage can help keep the space tidy. Additionally, furniture should be arranged to allow for easy movement without unnecessary cluttering.

5. Choose Good Quality Furniture Pieces

It might be tempting to cut corners and save money by purchasing cheaper furniture. However, this is often a false economy. Quality furniture lasts longer, looks better, and is more comfortable—factors directly impacting your guests' experience. Invest in sturdy, well-made pieces that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use.

6. Keep Housekeeping in Mind

A well-furnished rental is also easy to clean and maintain. When selecting furniture, consider how they will impact housekeeping. For example, choose fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to wipe down. Avoid clutter that can make cleaning more time-consuming. Ensure your cleaning staff can easily access all areas without difficulty.

7. Make It Feel Like Home

Remember that you're not furnishing a hotel but a vacation home. Guests choose rentals for their homey feeling and personal touches. Focus on adding warmth and character to make your rental feel like a true home away from home. Small details like a well-stocked bookshelf, board games, or a basket of cozy blankets can make a big difference. However, don't overdo it with many knick-knacks that can get broken or stolen.

Ultimate Airbnb furniture checklist for a successful vacation rental business

Furnished Rental Inventory Checklist

Now that you know how to approach furnishing your vacation rental, it's time to get down to specifics. Here's a breakdown of what each room should include:

Living Room

• Sofa: a comfortable, high-quality sofa is a must.
• Coffee table: ideally, it should have storage space.
• Side tables: for convenience, especially near seating.
• Lighting: a mix of ambient and task lighting.
• TV: a modern TV with streaming capabilities.
• Decor: throw pillows, blankets, and wall art that match the theme.

Bedroom

• Bed: invest in a good mattress and sturdy bed frame.
• Nightstands: with reading lamps on each side.
• Storage: ample closet space and maybe a dresser.
• Mirror: a full-length mirror is a nice touch.
• Curtains/blinds: ensure they block out light for a good night's sleep.

Bathroom

• Vanity unit: choose a vanity with ample storage and a functional countertop.
• Toiletries and extras: offer toiletries in reusable dispensers on a tray.
• Decorative accents: add personal touches like art, plants, or candles.
• Mirror with storage: install a mirror with built-in storage or lighting.

Dining Room

• Dining table: Size depends on the number of guests your rental can accommodate.
• Chairs: comfortable, matching chairs.
• Lighting: overhead lighting that complements the dining area.
• Decor: a centerpiece or table runner to tie the look together.

Outdoor Area

• Seating: comfortable, durable outdoor furniture such as tables, chairs, sunbeds, hammocks.
• Lighting: consider string lights or lanterns for ambiance.
• Grill: if space allows, a barbecue grill is a great addition.
• Plants: potted plants can add a touch of greenery.
• Decor: outdoor cushions or throws for added comfort.

Furniture for vacation rental properties

Furnishing Rental Properties: the Bottom Line

Furnishing a vacation rental requires a balance of style, comfort, and practicality. It's not just about making your space look good—it's about creating an environment where guests can relax and enjoy their stay. Hopefully, this vacation rental inventory checklist will guide your decisions when picking furniture pieces.

If you're just starting out in the vacation rental industry, tools like Houfy can be invaluable. Houfy is a book-direct platform that connects property owners with guests without middlemen or service fees. List your property today to maintain control of your business and keep more profits in your pockets!