Diversify Your Income: Additional Business Ideas for Hosts

Being a Short-Term Rental Host Is a Great Way to Generate Income, but What if You Could Increase Your Earnings by Offering Additional Services?

Diversifying your income not only improves your profitability but also adds value to your guests' experience. Below, I share practical ideas you can implement to take your business to the next level.

Offer Personalized Tours

Puerto Rico is a destination full of iconic spots and hidden gems. You can take advantage of this appeal by offering personalized tours to your guests. From visits to local beaches to cultural experiences, there are many ways to stand out. And if your short-term rental isn’t located in Puerto Rico, I’m sure there are plenty of attractions in your area worth showcasing.

Ideas:

• Tour of lesser-known beaches.

• Gastronomic tour featuring local restaurants and food trucks.

• Guided hikes to waterfalls or nature reserves.

  
  

💡 Tip: If you can’t guide the tours yourself, collaborate with local guides and earn a commission for each referral.

Equipment Rentals

Many guests prefer to travel light, which means they might need equipment that you could provide. The type of rental equipment will depend on your location and the kind of guests you host.

Examples of Equipment to Rent:

• Bicycles for exploring the area.

  
  

• Snorkeling gear, kayaks, or paddleboards if you’re near the beach.

  
  

• Camping equipment if your property is close to natural areas.

  
  

💡 Tip: Keep your equipment in good condition and charge a refundable deposit to protect yourself against damages.

Offer Local Experiences

Nowadays, Travelers Seek Authentic Experiences. You Can Be the Bridge Between Them and Local Culture by Offering Unique Activities.

Ideas:

• Cooking classes featuring traditional recipes like mofongo or arroz con gandules.

  
  

• Handicraft workshops, such as candle-making, palm-weaving, or jewelry-making

  
  

• Live music nights or rum-tasting sessions.

  
  

💡 Tip: Create themed packages that combine multiple activities and offer them at a special price.

Catering or Meal Delivery Service

Offering meal options can be a great attraction, especially for guests who prefer to relax at the property.

Options:

• Local breakfasts delivered each morning.

  
  

• Special dinners prepared by local chefs.

  
  

• Picnic baskets for beach trips or excursions.

  
  

💡 Tip: Partner with local businesses to handle logistics while you earn a commission if you can’t manage it yourself.

Photography Packages

If your property is especially photogenic, offer photo sessions for couples, families, or even solo travelers.

Ideas:

• Sunrise or sunset sessions at nearby beaches.

  
  

• Professional photography at iconic landmarks.

  
  

• Packages including printed photos or digital albums.

  
  

💡 Tip: Partner with a local photographer and offer exclusive prices to your guests.

Selling Local Products

Guests often want to take home a special souvenir from their trip. You can sell handmade or gourmet products directly from your property.

Examples:

• Puerto Rican coffee.

  
  

• Handcrafted candles with tropical scents.

  
  

• Handmade jewelry.

  
  

• Traditional spices and sauces.

  
  

💡 Tip: Set up a small display/ or calalog with the available products and include information about their origin.

Small Event Rentals

If your property has spacious common areas or an attractive garden, you could rent it out for intimate events such as yoga sessions, private dinners, or small celebrations.

💡 Tip: Set clear rules and ensure you have the necessary insurance and equipment for each event.

In Conclusion

Diversifying your income as a host is not just a way to increase your earnings but also an opportunity to provide extra value to your guests. By integrating additional services, you can enhance their experience and stand out in a competitive market.

Explore these ideas and adapt the ones that best suit your property and location.

✨ Success is in the details! ✨

Let me know in the comments what you think of these ideas or if you’re already implementing any of them in your rental property!

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Thank you for reading! Let me know what you thought of this article, and feel free to write to me if you have any questions or recommendations for topics of interest.

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With Love,

Iris Andújar  

Super Host and Creator of Entre Anfitriones