Best Vacation Rental Upgrades That Increase Bookings (and Boost Income)

Even small upgrades to your vacation rental can make a big impact on bookings, guest satisfaction, and long-term revenue. Many owners hesitate to invest in improvements because they’re not sure the updates will pay off. But our data consistently shows that properties with simple, strategic upgrades see:

More bookings

Higher guest ratings

Better nightly rates over time

That means the right improvements don’t just help you earn more today — they help your property command higher rates in the future.

Below are the top vacation rental upgrades with the strongest return on investment.

In This Article:
Upgrade the Kitchen for Maximum Guest Appeal
Enhance Bedrooms for Better Sleep (and Better Reviews)
Refresh Bathrooms to Impress Guests
Improve Curb Appeal and Outdoor Living Spaces

Upgrade the Kitchen for Maximum Guest Appeal

A well-equipped kitchen is one of the main reasons travelers choose a vacation rental over a hotel. Guests want space to cook, dine, and entertain, so your kitchen setup can directly influence booking decisions and reviews.

High-ROI kitchen upgrades include:

• Updating worn cabinets or installing fresh hardware

• Adding under-cabinet lighting to brighten prep areas

• Ensuring the space has essential cookware, utensils, and dining seating

You don’t need a full renovation. Even a week or two of small improvements can result in rave guest reviews and dramatically stronger booking performance. When travelers highlight your kitchen in their reviews, future searchers are more likely to book — and pay higher rates.

Enhance Bedrooms for Better Sleep (and Better Reviews)

The bedroom experience can make or break a review. If guests struggle to sleep because of an outdated mattress, scratchy sheets, or poor lighting, it will show up in your ratings.

Must-have bedroom upgrades include:

• Quality mattresses and supportive pillows

• Soft linen sheets and cozy duvets

• Blackout curtains for late sleepers

• Bedside lamps and accessible outlets or extension cords

Comfort-focused touches tell guests you’ve thoughtfully prepared the space for them, leading to excellent reviews and increased pricing power.

Refresh Bathrooms to Impress Guests

Bathrooms often get overlooked because they function “well enough,” but small updates can significantly improve guest sentiment and tip reviews in your favor.

High-impact bathroom upgrades include:

• Improving water pressure and updating plumbing where needed

• Repairing chips, cracks, or aging fixtures

• Replacing old flooring

• Adding a fresh coat of paint

• Installing bright, flattering lighting

• Providing spa-quality towels and premium soaps

• Offering extras like robes, candles, or shampoo and conditioner

These low-cost enhancements elevate the guest experience without requiring a full remodel.

Improve Curb Appeal and Outdoor Living Spaces

First impressions start at the curb — and travelers expect your property to look exactly like the listing photos. If the exterior feels unkempt, guests begin their stay with disappointment.

Front Yard Upgrades

• Fresh exterior paint

• Clearly visible house numbers
  • Great for driving seamless check-ins

• Maintained landscaping

• Welcoming, durable outdoor furniture

These simple improvements help guests enjoy a smooth arrival and build confidence right away.

Backyard Upgrades

A great backyard can become the highlight of a stay — and a significant driver of higher nightly rates.

High-value backyard additions include:

• Hot tubs or pools (major rate boosters)

• Fire pits

• Adirondack chairs

• Lounge furniture

• Defined spaces for dining or play

Whether big or small, outdoor improvements can elevate your listing photos and inspire more travelers to book. Check out our backyard-focused article for more detailed tips and inspiration.

Get Expert Help Choosing the Best Upgrades

You don’t have to figure it all out yourself. Evolve’s design and staging experts specialize in short-term rentals, removing the guesswork and helping you earn five-star reviews.

Owners on our Plus membership plan get access to an exclusive marketplace where they can:

• Save up to 75% on appliances, décor, furnishings, and essentials

• Access top brands like GE, Helix, Crate & Barrel, Nest, and Kwikset

• Shop pre-built bedroom and bathroom packages tailored to guest capacity

If you’re ready to take your vacation rental to the next level, complete the quick form below to see if you qualify and connect with our team.