The low season not only offers a break from the usual hustle and bustle of the high season, but also presents the perfect opportunity to make our properties the best place for guests to stay. Here is a comprehensive guide to making the most of this period.
Review this season’s bookings and reviews
The first step in improving your holiday accommodation is to carefully review guest reviews. These comments are a goldmine of information that can help us identify both strengths and areas requiring attention. Do guests mention that the kitchen could be better equipped? Or perhaps the beds aren’t quite as comfortable as they could be? Taking note of these details and planning improvements can make a huge difference.
Common weak points and how to address them
1. General Maintenance
Make sure everything is in perfect working order. This ranges from repairing dripping taps to upgrading old or inefficient appliances. Functionality is key to a good review. Furthermore, regulations require you to provide guests with information and instructions on how to use appliances or other devices that require them for correct operation.
2. Comfort of the Furniture
Furniture should be comfortable and in good condition. Invest in good mattresses, sofas and chairs that encourage guests to relax. Remember that medium-firm mattresses are best, so that guests do not find them either too hard or too soft.
According to the regulations, beds must measure at least 80 × 1.90 cm for single beds and 1.35 × 190 cm for double beds. The property must have a wardrobe or designated space for clothes for every four guests, with an adequate number of hangers.
Bed bases and mattresses, which must be at least 18 cm thick, must be in good condition and provide a consistent level of support across their entire surface. Also check that the bed linen, blankets or duvets and pillows are in good condition, taking into account the number of occupants in the property, and remember to always have at least one spare set of bed linen.
3. Deep Cleaning
Cleanliness is one of the aspects most frequently criticised by travellers. Don’t skimp on this; a thorough clean can greatly improve a guest’s perception of your accommodation.
4. Technology and Connectivity
A fast and reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential. Make sure the signal is strong in all areas of the accommodation. Also, check other essential devices that ensure a pleasant stay for the traveller, such as the television, air conditioning units, thermostats, etc.
5. Accommodation Equipment
According to regulations, accommodation must have a first-aid kit, as well as smoke detectors installed near the kitchen and a fire extinguisher. The property must also provide tourist information on the local area, leisure facilities, restaurants, shops and food outlets, the nearest car parks, local medical services, public transport links and a map of the town.
The kitchen must have at least two hobs, an oven or microwave and a fridge; kitchenware appropriate to the capacity of the accommodation (crockery, cutlery, glassware, frying pans, saucepans, serving cutlery, corkscrew, bottle opener, scissors, can opener and colander); small electrical appliances (mixer, toaster or grill, juicer and coffee maker); storage units; cleaning equipment and a cleaning kit containing at least a scourer, a cleaning cloth, a soft cloth and cleaning gel; bin bags; a clothes horse, an iron and an ironing board; and facilities for the separate collection of waste, with the relevant information provided.
The bathroom shall be equipped with at least a toilet, washbasin, bath or shower tray, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, one hand towel and one bath towel per person, non-slip flooring in showers and baths, a washable bath mat, a mirror, towel rails, an extra roll of toilet paper, a toilet brush, a power socket next to the mirror, a shelf, a hairdryer and a waste bin.
If you own a property used for short-term tourist accommodation listed on different booking platforms, you must have home insurance with included third-party liability cover. This will provide you with the protection you need in the event of incidents in your property that may unintentionally affect third parties, such as accidents, breakdowns or incidents, or fire or water damage to the property.
6. Details That Make the Difference
Small details such as providing a local guide to activities, or having board games, books or films available, can make your property stand out. Personalising the space with décor that reflects the local area can also significantly boost the property’s appeal, using colours that inspire calm to create an environment where guests feel at home; we’ll be sharing a more comprehensive list of décor tips on this blog shortly.
Investing in your property will not only boost guest satisfaction but can also justify higher rental rates and improve long-term occupancy.
As you implement these improvements, remember that every little detail counts when it comes to turning a pleasant stay into a memorable experience. At Cubo’s Holiday Homes, we’re committed to helping you achieve excellence in each of your properties. Let’s get started and get your holiday homes ready for success! If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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