Key Aspects When Evaluating Your Property Before Doing a Short-Term Rental

If you’re thinking about entering the short-term rental market in Puerto Rico, it’s essential to evaluate your property carefully. This market can be lucrative, but before diving in, there are certain aspects you need to consider to ensure your space is attractive and functional for guests. Below, I’ll share some key points based on my experience.

1.Location: What makes your area special?

Location is one of the most important factors when it comes to short-term rentals. If your property is near the beach, in a tourist area like Aguadilla or San Juan in Puerto Rico, or in a place surrounded by nature and tranquility, that can be a great draw.

But don’t worry if it’s not in an ultra-touristy area; what’s important is to highlight what makes your area special, whether it’s the local culture, proximity to airports or entertainment centers, or even the tranquility of a residential neighborhood. Additionally, reviewing the rules of the community or condominium where your property is located is essential to avoid future issues, as many condominiums do not allow short-term rentals.

Accessibility is another important factor when it comes to location; ease of access to the property, whether by public transport or proximity to major roads. If the property is in a hard-to-find location, this can deter potential renters. Of course, there are exceptions; for example, "El Guaraguao Beach House" is still a favorite among guests, even though our property doesn’t have parking and requires crossing a stretch of sand on the beach to access it.

2. Size and Layout: Is it functional for your guests?

It doesn’t matter if it’s a small cottage or a larger property. What’s essential is that the space is well laid out and functional. Make sure the furniture isn’t overcrowded and that guests have enough space to move around comfortably. A well-organized space can make a small property feel cozy and inviting.

Continuing with the example of my beach cottage, which I am super proud of, when I decided to remodel it to start renting it out short-term, one of the hardest tasks was designing the space (a task I undertook myself with little knowledge but a clear idea of what I wanted). This is another story that I’ll share later.

In any case, what’s important is not to overlook the key details that make the property not just beautiful but also functional and equipped with everything necessary for guests to feel comfortable and not have any needs.

3. General Conditions: Is your property in good condition?

This is crucial. Before welcoming guests, conduct a thorough inspection of the property. Check for any plumbing, electrical, or leak issues, as any inconvenience can lead to negative reviews. If necessary, consider making some repairs or improvements. From experience, I can say that sometimes something as simple as a fresh coat of paint or a small fix in the bathroom can make a difference. As I mentioned in the article “First stepas to start the Short-Term Rental Business (Airbnb).” Give it a try; be your first guest. While your needs may not necessarily be the same as those of your future renters, using the property before receiving them can help you identify flaws or needs that aren’t being met.

4. Amenities: What do you have to offer?

In Puerto Rico, many tourists seek sun and beach, but they also value additional amenities that make their stay more enjoyable. If you have air conditioning, fast WiFi, a pool, or outdoor space, be sure to highlight it. Things like a fully equipped kitchen, parking, or even details like a hammock or a barbecue grill can be strong selling points. The important thing is to offer a cozy space that meets basic needs, and if you can, add a local touch that makes the experience unique.

5.Visual Appeal: Is it attractive and inviting?

First impressions matter,” and in the digital world, that translates to quality photos. Make sure your property looks clean, tidy, and inviting. Spend time preparing the space before doing a photoshoot for your listings. Sometimes, small details like a well-made bed or decorative touches can make your property stand out from others.

Cleaning: Speaking of first impressions, cleanliness is the first thing your guests notice upon arrival. An immaculate space instills confidence and increases the likelihood of receiving positive reviews. If you provide a pleasant and memorable experience, guests are more likely to book again or recommend your property. Additionally, in such a competitive market, a well-maintained property stands out from the rest, helping you attract more guests and justify higher prices.

In my experience, to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, I’ve had to do this work myself. It’s not that you’re going to dedicate yourself to cleaning the property, but the reality is that if you want to ensure that the cleaning is impeccable, you’ll need to oversee it closely and often, as I mentioned earlier, do it yourself.

7. Target Audience: Who do you want to attract?

Consider what type of guest you want to attract: Are you targeting tourists looking for a short getaway, families, or business travelers?

This will influence how you present your property and the services you offer. If you’re focusing on families, make sure to have cribs or games for children. For couples or solo travelers, it’s important to create a calm and romantic atmosphere. Business travelers will need a space with a desk, Wi-Fi, and other amenities that facilitate their work.

Defining your target audience will help you tailor your property to meet their specific needs.

In Conclusion

Carefully evaluating your property before renting it out short-term is crucial to ensuring a positive experience for both you and your guests. From considering location and amenities to reviewing local regulations and market competition, each aspect plays a vital role in the success of your rental. By taking the time to conduct this evaluation, you will not only enhance guest satisfaction but also maximize your profitability and reduce the risk of future issues. Prepare adequately, and you will enjoy the benefits of a successful short-term rental.

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"