How to turn your home into a holiday rental guests will pay premium rates for
Thoughtful design and unique touches can transform your property into a sought-after destination that guests are willing to pay premium rates for.
Image: Supplied
In the world of short-term holiday rentals, simply having a sea view or mountain backdrop isn’t enough anymore.
Today’s travellers are looking for something more - not just a place to sleep, but an experience to remember.
Whether you’re renting out a stylish city bachelor apartment or a beachside escape, the secret to standing out, and being able to charge more, lies in your home’s design, personality, and attention to detail.
Interior designer Vanessa Marshall shares advice on how to transform your property from “just another listing” into a premium destination that guests are happy to pay extra for.
Use design as your competitive advantage
South African holidaymakers are discerning - many have travelled widely and know good design when they see it.
According to Vanessa, guests respond best to interiors that mirror the country’s natural beauty. Think sunlit spaces, relaxed layouts, and a connection to the outdoors.
The most sought-after look can be summed up as “refined simplicity” with clean lines, natural materials, and layered textures with a hint of African craftsmanship that keeps the space grounded and authentic.
Understanding your area’s aesthetic is key
In coastal suburbs like Camps Bay, guests love the beach-luxe feel: soft neutrals, organic linens, and furniture that blurs the line between inside and out.
In smaller villages or in the city, you’ll find more traditional or heritage-inspired interiors - think Victorian details or a contemporary African twist that honours local culture.
But design isn’t about blindly following trends. Guests can see when a property has its own personality and originality pays off.
A high-end rental isn’t judged just by its location or amenities anymore. It’s about the feeling the space gives the moment someone walks through the door.
Vanessa believes great design starts with emotion: “A truly memorable space should make you feel something - calm, inspired, cocooned.”
This can be achieved through thoughtful layering with soft textures, tactile finishes, curated local art, and well-placed lighting.
It’s also about creating harmony, where everything works together to enhance mood and atmosphere.
How your home photographs matters too. Beautiful images are what stop social media scrollers and convert browsers into bookers.
Common mistakes that cost you bookings
There are a few things that can make guests click “next” faster than you can say “low season”:
- Over-theming: A few African or beach-inspired touches are tasteful — but too many safari prints or seashells can look forced (and cheap in photos).
- Neglecting comfort: A gorgeous home means nothing if it’s not practical. Guests remember how a place feels, not just how it looks.
- Ignoring lighting: Layered lighting — ambient, task, and accent — is essential for both atmosphere and your marketing shots.
- Cutting corners on finishes: Cheap materials show up instantly in reviews. Investing in quality pays for itself through higher rates and happier guests.
Think about creating moments that photograph beautifully: an outdoor shower tucked into a garden, a tray of local bath salts by the tub, or soft lighting around a sunset drinks setup.
Little touches matter, like welcome cocktails, a loaf of homemade bread, or a voucher for a nearby wine tasting can elevate the entire experience and command premium rates.
Renting out your home successfully isn’t about having the biggest pool or the best view. It’s about strategy, style, and storytelling.
IOL Lifestyle