5 Cost-Effective Tips for Decorating Your Vacation Rental

You've found the perfect property in your dream location. Now what? Decorating any property can be tough, but a vacation home can be even more challenging. That's especially true if you plan to rent the place out — you don't only want the property to look good, you want it to stay that way for a long time. 

So, spruce up your second abode with these five cost-effective tips. You can protect and flaunt all of its best qualities with these simple decorating ideas. 

1. Upgrade the Linens

Firstly, a fresh comforter, sheets and pillows can completely transform your bedroom(s). Rather than shelling out big bucks for a designer set, head to a store like TJMaxx or Stein Mart, where you can purchase high-quality, durable linens for a fraction of the price. Sometimes, these sets will come with everything you need in one set, from decorative shams to sheets to the quilt or comforter. Layered, fresh linens always look great, and they can instantly revitalize an otherwise blah bedroom. 

2. Switch out the Flooring

With guests walking in and out of your rental, you don't want them trodding on a delicate carpet or easy-to-scuff hardwood. Instead, you should swap out these materials for something much more durable and cost-effective. For instance, you'll probably end up saving in the long run if you swap out carpets for tile, since you don't have to hire a professional to deep-clean the latter. Plus, if a carpet gets stained or damaged, you can't slot in a new slab or panel — you have to replace the entire floor. So, it's a better decorating choice to pick something more durable for your vacation property. 

3. Paint

Another cost-effective change that will completely revamp your rental is painting the walls. In most cases, it's a quick weekend project to repaint, especially if you take it one room at a time. Of course, your property might need a bit more help — you could have to remove popcorn ceilings or wallpaper, for example. In that case, hiring an expert might be worth it, and you know the place will look more modern and fresher. Once you have a bare canvas, make sure to choose a light, neutral tone for the property, especially if you plan to rent it.

4. Avoid Top-of-the-Line Furnishings

Your vacation rental won't only be your home — guests will pay to stay there, too. Unfortunately, most people won't treat their holiday home as their own. Plus, with people shuttling in and out, the furniture might get worn out more quickly than it would in your home. You will probably have to replace your sofa in three years, whether it's a designer version or one from a big-box store. 

So, save yourself stress — and money — by purchasing decent furniture, but don't go overboard. Remember: This is your rental property, so you don't have to furnish it as you would your everyday dwelling. Plus, furniture doesn't have to be top of the line to get the job done. It can be stylish and comfortable without breaking the bank. 

5. Add a Bit of Color

Much of vacation rental design comes down to neutral tones and design choices. However, if you want the place to pop in pictures — and to potential renters — finish things off with a bit of color and character. Again, shops like TJMaxx and Home Goods have plenty of knickknacks and decorative pieces to spice things up. Don't choose items without a theme in mind, though — create a color palette for your space and stick to the hues you've chosen. In the end, you'll create a unique look that's also cohesive. 

Make It Yours — and Theirs

Your vacation rental will be home to guests, but it will be your getaway, too. As such, you want to decorate it in a way that pleases everyone. These five tips will get you there — your home will be cozy and comfortable, without breaking the bank. And, as a property owner and renter, you couldn't want much more than that. 

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. Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Guides for Brides, Hotel Online and more!

Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!