May 21, 2024

Summer is upon us! This peak season brings more than warm weather; it comes with an influx of eager vacationers seeking sun, sand and Charleston’s charm. As an Isle of Palms vacation property owner, you want your beach rental to be in top shape. You want to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests.

With more than 15 years of experience managing South Carolina beach properties, we understand how to set rental homes up for success. Now, we’re sharing those secrets with you to help ensure your property is summer-ready.

Create an unforgettable introduction.

First impressions matter, and a welcoming and functional outdoor space can help wow guests at first sight. Your rental’s exterior is the first thing guests will see, so it should be well-maintained and inviting. Here's how to ensure your outdoor space shines.

• Landscaping: Spruce up your landscaping by trimming overgrown plants, weeding flower beds and ensuring the lawn is well-maintained.

• Pool Maintenance (if applicable): If your rental has a pool, make sure it is clean and balanced and the filtration system is working. Consider hiring a professional maintenance team for regular care.

• Powerwash: Consider power washing the exterior of your property to remove dirt, grime and mildew build-up, especially on decks and porches.

• Inspect Decks and Porches: Check for loose boards, damaged railings and structural issues that could pose safety hazards. Address any repairs promptly.

It’s (also) what’s on the inside that matters.

As the property owner, it’s up to you to create a home away from home. Ensuring a clean and comfortable interior is crucial for a positive guest experience. By focusing on these key areas, you can set the stage for a five-star stay.

• Perform a Deep Clean: Give your space a thorough cleaning, focusing on high-traffic spots, like floors, furniture and appliances. Consider professional cleaning services for serious sanitization.

• Inspect and Repair Appliances: Ensure all appliances, including refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and especially air conditioners, are functioning properly. Schedule maintenance or repairs as needed.

• Test Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Ensure these crucial safety devices are working correctly and replace batteries if necessary.

• Provide the Essentials: Stock up on basic necessities like toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags and dish detergent.

Go the extra mile!

While the essentials are important, don’t overlook the power of fine touches. There are additional steps you can take that can truly elevate your guests’ experience. Turn your vacation home into a must-stay destination by handling the following.

• Furniture and Furnishings: Check furniture for any wear and tear, replace damaged items, and weatherproof outdoor furniture for long-term use.

• Pest Control: Implement a pest control plan to prevent unwanted critters from disrupting your guests' stay.

• Guest Communication: Clearly outline any house rules and safety instructions in a welcome booklet or easily accessible location.

• Beach Equipment: Give your guests all they’ll need for their temporary stay by supplying beach gear like boogie boards, buckets and pails, additional towels, beach chairs and more.

By following these essential steps, you can ensure your Charleston beach rental is summer-ready and provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your guests while maximizing your rental income and positive reviews throughout the peak season.

And remember, Deserving Vacations’ vacation property owners are never alone! Our team is here to lead you through a successful rental season with professional maintenance and cleaning services, comprehensive vacation property marketing, 24/7 guest assistance and more.

Prepare Your Vacation Property for a Record Season

Founded in 2009, Deserving Vacations property management has welcomed over 28,000 individual guest reservations across our diverse portfolio of properties and garnered thousands of 5-star reviews. Curious to learn more about Isle of Palms or have specific questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can contact Deserving Vacations at 843-906-1227, email us at nathan@deservingvacations.com, or use the convenient contact form located at the bottom of our website. Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to redefine excellence in the vacation rental industry!