Five Ways to Make Your Mountain Rental Property More Cozy
I saw my first orange leaves today on my morning hike and I have started wearing sweaters on the last dog walk of the day. It's happening, once again, seasons are changing. Time is flying this chilly fall month, and we are embracing every moment of hygee at home. As ski moms, many of us own properties in the mountains (or are dreaming of this day). These homes are all about cozy vibes and embracing the colder weather. If you want great reviews, repeat renters and a home that screams WELCOME, use these tips to elevate your property.
And since these homes are no primary residences, we want to keep the decor pretty simple and easy to update. Don't worry if you haven't bought lots of accents pieces and decor to spruce up your home; you can easily add a little ambiance with some warm touches and inviting elements. We've rounded up a few simple and chic ways to set the scene and embrace your own ski chalet vibe at home.
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A Basket Full of Creature Comforts
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A Basket Full of Creature Comforts
Encourage your seasonal guests to make themselves at home. Baskets full of blankets, throws, and cozy knits will make them want to cozy up and enjoy the moment. Extra blankets provide comfort and warmth, especially during cooler seasons --just imagine if someone from Florida is renting your home. It shows thoughtfulness and attention to detail, as guests won’t need to search for extra blankets in closets. They will appreciate the convenience of having them readily available. This is a relatively low-cost addition that can make a significant impact on guest satisfaction. You don't need expensive blankets; even affordable, soft, and cozy ones will be appreciated. For a pricey version, try Jenni Kayne baskets, for a more affordable option, head to Frontgate.
Create a Reading Nook
Create a Library
Create a mini-library of books they can pull from. Pick a quiet and accessible area in your rental property where guests can comfortably sit and read. This could be a corner in the living room, a dedicated shelf in a hallway (I adore this tree bookshelf from Amazon and the smaller version is shown above), or even a nook in a bedroom. Ensure there’s a comfortable chair or a small sofa nearby. A good reading lamp or natural lighting is also important for and inviting pleasant reading environment. Here's what to include:
- Diverse Genres: Include a mix of genres such as fiction, non-fiction, travel guides, local history, cookbooks, and children’s books if your property is family-friendly.
- Short Reads and Magazines: Offer a selection of shorter reads, like magazines, short story collections, or poetry, which are perfect for guests who may not have a lot of time.
- Local Interest: Include books about the local area, such as history, culture, and guides to nearby attractions. This can help guests explore and appreciate their surroundings more.
Pops of Plaid
Etsy
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Pops of Plaid
Nothing says cozy like plaid. While I am not telling you to go head to toe plaid, picking a few accent pieces can warm up a room. Plaid has a rustic charm that complements the natural and rugged feel of a mountain setting. It evokes a sense of coziness and invites guests to snuggle up. Plaid pillows or any touch of that subtle flannel-inspired pattern print is a great investment in your cabin decor. Bonus: Plaid patterns can effectively hide minor stains and wear, which is a bonus in a rental property where items may be used frequently. Get the cozy plaid SKI pillow on Etsy here.
Hot Drink Station
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Hot Drink Station
Create a nook of your kitchen or bar area just for cocoa, coffee and tea. Stock with plenty of "help yourself" coffees, teas, and cocoas. Place the hot drink station in a convenient, easily accessible spot, like the kitchen, dining area, or a cozy corner of the living room. If you have multiple machines or some that may be unfamiliar to guests, provide clear, simple instructions. You can even laminate them to keep them clean.
- Coffee: Offer regular and decaf coffee options, and consider including a variety of flavors or roasts.
- Tea: Provide a selection of teas, such as black, green, herbal, and flavored options, to cater to different preferences.
- Hot Chocolate: Include hot chocolate packets or canisters for a sweet, comforting option, especially appealing in a cozy setting.
- Specialty Drinks: Consider adding instant cider, chai, or other specialty drink mixes for a more diverse offering.
Make Your Fireplace Your Focal Point
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Make Your Fireplace Your Focal Point
Fall is the start of fireplace season. A few logs of wood or some solid-colored candles create a cozy, cabin-inspired scene without even having to light anything. I know that many homes that are rentals just keep the fireplaces decorative. This can really cut back on the mess and the element of damage to your home. For you, I advise add some decorative touches to your mantle: hearty ceramic pieces like butter crocks and lanterns will do the job and set the mood. West Elm always has the BEST lanterns. As for ceramics, shop local if you can (and encourage your renters to visit the artists), but in a pinch, Amazon has amazing affordable ceramics (I know, the evil empire, but ski moms are busy!)
If you have a real working fireplace. Make sure you have clear instructions for your renters! And this is where a management company earns their keep making sure the wood stays stocked and the ashes cleared.
Roll Out the Welcome Mat
Etsy
Roll Out the Welcome Mat
You can easily find fall-inspired signs on sites like Etsy--or even in your local Target's Bullseye Playground for $3 a pop. A sign or plank about winter and snow is a great way to update a ski property to make it feel like home. And don't forget to add a welcome mat! Get the Ski Sign on Etsy here.
This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are our own.
