Summer is prime time on Cape Cod—and if you’re planning to rent out your home, it’s important to make sure it’s guest-ready. Whether you’re a first-time host or a seasoned rental owner, a little preparation goes a long way in creating a five-star experience for your guests and keeping your property in great shape.
Here’s a simple guide to help you get your home ready for summer renters:
1. Deep Clean Everything
Before guests arrive, give your home a thorough top-to-bottom cleaning—or hire professionals to do it for you. Focus on high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and kitchen appliances. Sparkling bathrooms and fresh linens go a long way in making guests feel at home.
2. Take Care of Repairs and Maintenance
Check for any needed repairs—think leaky faucets, loose door handles, or broken lightbulbs. Test all appliances, air conditioning units, and Wi-Fi to ensure everything is working as expected. Also, don’t forget about outdoor maintenance like trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and checking the grill (if you offer one).
3. Stock Up on Essentials
Guests appreciate a well-stocked rental—it’s the little things that make a big difference in their stay. Start with the basics:
- Toilet paper (extra rolls, please!)
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Dish soap and dishwasher detergent
- Hand soap in kitchens and bathrooms
- Clean sponges or dishcloths
- Fresh linens and towels (make sure there are enough sets for the number of guests your home accommodates)
Think beyond the basics to really wow your guests. Consider adding:
- Beach towels so guests don’t have to bring their own
- Sunscreen and aloe—great in case someone forgets theirs
- A welcome basket with local goodies like Cape Cod chips, saltwater taffy, or a bottle of wine from a nearby vineyard
- Coffee and tea, plus filters if needed—bonus if you include a few local blends
- Board games, cards, or beach toys for family-friendly fun
- A guidebook or list of local recommendations (restaurants, hidden beaches, favorite ice cream spots, family activities)
These thoughtful touches make your guests feel cared for—and more likely to leave glowing reviews and come back next year!
4. Secure Personal Belongings
If you have personal items or valuables in the home, store them in a locked closet or remove them entirely. This keeps things simple for your guests and gives you peace of mind.
5. Create a Welcome Guide
A welcome guide with check-in/check-out instructions, Wi-Fi info, emergency contacts, local recommendations, and house rules is incredibly helpful. It reduces guest questions and helps them settle in quickly.
6. Schedule Turnover Cleanings
If you’re booking guests back-to-back, it’s crucial to have a reliable cleaning service that can handle quick turnovers. Foley Vacation Rentals offers full-service management, so we can handle this for you and ensure a spotless experience between stays. Find out what property management services Foley vacation Rentals offers here. From basic to a complete hands-off rental management, they’ve got you covered.
Let Foley Vacation Rentals Take the Stress Off Your Plate
Preparing your home for renters takes effort—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Foley Vacation Rentals, we specialize in managing every detail, so your property stays in top shape and your guests leave happy.
Ready to rent your home this summer?
Contact us today and let’s get your property guest-ready!