How to Turn Your Vacation Rental Into a Smart Home

A vacation rental is more than just a place for guests to crash for the night; it's about offering a memorable experience. In this tech-driven world, what better way to impress your guests than to upgrade your rental into a smart home? A smart vacation rental not only creates a futuristic atmosphere but also increases convenience, boosts security, and sets your property apart from the competition.

Not sure where to start? No worries; in this guide, we'll share a step-by-step process to upgrade your vacation rental into a smart home. Let's get into it!

Step 1: Start with Smart Locks

The first and most important upgrade is smart locks. No more hiding keys under a flower pot and fiddling with lockboxes. With a smart lock, you can give your guests a temporary code or grant access directly through their smartphone.

Why smart locks?

• No lost keys or awkward key handovers.
• More security for your vacation rental business with unique codes for each guest.
• Remote access—lock or unlock doors from anywhere.

Pro tip: Combine your smart lock with a video doorbell for added security.

Step 2: Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat isn't just about keeping your rental nice and cozy; it's also a game-changer for energy efficiency. These devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on occupancy, time of day, or even weather conditions.

Benefits of smart thermostats:

• Lower utility bills when no one's home.
• Guests can easily adjust settings to their liking.
• Some models even let you lock the thermostat at a certain range to prevent excessive heating or cooling.

Step 3: Upgrade to Smart Lighting

Lighting can make or break a space's feel, and smart lights can take it to the next level. With a smart lighting system, your guests can control the lights using their phones or voices. You can also program the lights to turn on automatically at sunset or adjust their brightness for the perfect ambiance.

Why you should consider smart lighting:

• Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• Save energy by turning off lights remotely when the rental is vacant.
• Add a touch of luxury—guests love the "wow" factor.

Pro tip: You can also place smart light strips under cabinets or around mirrors to give your rental a sleek, modern look.

Smart technology, smart security system

Step 4: Install a Smart Home System

A smart home hub serves as the brain of your property. It connects all your devices and allows them to work seamlessly together. With a hub, your guests can control devices from one app or even with their voice via a smart speaker.

Why it's a must-have:

• Guests can control the smart home devices easily without downloading multiple apps.
• Voice control adds a luxury touch that feels futuristic.
• Centralized control for you, even if you're managing your property from afar.

Pro tip: Leave a cheat sheet explaining how to use the hub for your guests. It'll save them (and you!) lots of time and frustration.

Step 5: Add Smart Entertainment

Vacation rentals aren't just about sleeping; they're about creating memorable moments. Smart entertainment options can turn a regular night into something special.

Here's what you can add:

• Smart TVs: Offer access to streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.
• Voice-controlled speakers: A smart speaker like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest can double as a music player.
• Universal remotes: Simplify the chaos of multiple remotes with a smart universal remote.

Pro tip: Make sure you have fast and reliable Wi-Fi—it's the backbone of any smart rental home.

Step 6: Invest in Smart Security Features

Smart security provides peace of mind for both you and your guests throughout their stay. From security cameras to sensors, these improvements can secure your property without feeling intrusive.

What to add:

• Outdoor cameras: Install smart cameras to monitor the exterior of your property.
• Smart doorbell: A video doorbell allows you to see who's at the door and speak to visitors remotely.
• Motion sensors: Attach sensors to notify you of unusual behavior, such as someone entering when your property should have been empty.

Pro tip: Be transparent with your guests about what's installed and where—no one likes to feel like they're being spied on.

Google Home for a vacation rental property

Step 7: Automate with Smart Plugs and Appliances

Smart plugs and appliances are the unseen heroes of a smart home. They let you control regular devices like lamps, coffee makers, or even air conditioners from your phone.

Benefits:

• Schedule devices (e.g., turn on the coffee pot in the morning).
• Turn off devices remotely and decrease your energy waste.
• Guests can use voice commands to control plugged-in appliances.

Step 8: Don't Forget Smart Curtains or Blinds

This one might seem extra, but smart curtains are a game-changer. Imagine your guests waking up to natural light as the blinds slowly open—it's like staying at a five-star hotel.

Why they're worth it:

• Add a "wow" factor that guests will remember.
• Adjust them automatically based on sunlight to increase energy efficiency.
• Offer privacy at the touch of a button.

Step 9: Enhance the Experience with Extras

Now that you've covered the basics, it's time to sprinkle in a little extra magic. Consider adding these features:

• Smart fragrance diffusers: Create a welcoming scent that greets guests as they arrive.
• Smart beds or sleep trackers: For the ultimate luxury, consider investing in smart mattresses or sleep systems.
• Smart sprinklers: If your rental has a garden, a smart sprinkler system can keep it lush and green with minimal effort.

Home automation for property owners

Embrace Smart Home Technology for Your Vacation Rentals

Transforming your vacation rental into a smart home is a prime opportunity to elevate your property into a luxe destination. Whether it's a seamless self-check-in with a smart lock or smart entertainment options, every little touch makes your rental unique.

And here's the best part: Smart tech doesn't just help guests; it helps you, too. Platforms like Houfy can amplify your efforts, giving you the tools to showcase your smart rental directly to travelers without the middlemen. Houfy lets you list your property, share your unique story, and connect with guests who'll appreciate the thoughtful details you've added. Not on Houfy yet? List your property today!