Creating Themed Vacation Rentals for Niche Markets

The short-term rental property boom continues to be felt, with more properties becoming available for vacation rental every day. With the increased competition, though, property managers may find themselves trying to find ways to make their units stand out. And one especially effective way of doing so is by creating a themed vacation rental. 

Properties based on movie franchises, unique architecture (like treehouses), wine country, baseball, and other fun activities are increasingly sought out by travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. Though they may appeal to “niche” markets, the distinctive features and attractions of these themed rentals can still generate excitement among the general population as well.

The following post looks at some of the most popular and profitable vacation rental theme ideas, the benefits of building properties around them, and how property managers can find popular vacation rental themes that best suit potential guests.

Popular Vacation Rental Themes

Some of the most popular concepts short-term rental property managers can choose from include the following:

Local Amenities and Activities

A Nashville-based vacation rental that takes inspiration from country music may be successful. Properties in Arizona and Florida may cater to baseball enthusiasts. Napa Valley rentals may center around winemaking, and properties near NASA in Houston may celebrate the wonders of outer space. No matter where your property is, embracing local culture and popular activities can make your rental more attractive.

Unusual Architectural Elements

An adventurous traveler is never too old for a well-furnished treehouse. Geodesic domes offer a truly unique vacation experience, and houseboats have built-in appeal. Even converted shipping containers, shepherd huts, barns, and windmills are popular. If you can modify or construct your rental units to reflect uncommon or exotic architectural themes, you may find travelers more eager to step in.

Movies and Movie Franchises

Cinephiles flock to places and events that cater to their interests. Rental property designs based on genres like westerns, film noir, sci-fi, and so forth can each provide a unique and satisfying experience to fans. 

In a similar sense, modeling your property after popular franchises (Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and so on) can attract a wide range of travelers as well. If you go that route, though, you’ll need to make sure you secure licensing rights with the appropriate film studios. 

Fantasy and Immersive Rentals

Fashioning your property after jungle adventures, underwater expeditions, enchanted forests, and other immersive concepts can create an instant market for your property. Every element, from decor to amenities, can be adapted to reflect these exotic concepts and draw in travelers. 

Wellness, Health, and Relaxation

Properties with yoga studios, meditation spaces, and other wellness-related features and activities are especially popular with travelers. They provide escape and treatment to visitors looking for relief and reconnection with themselves. Customized features and services like aromatherapy, fitness equipment, healthy meals, and partnerships with local wellness providers can enhance the appeal.

Romantic Getaways

There will always be a place for vacation rentals that cater to couples. Secluded locations, soft lighting, luxury bedding, and hot tubs are just a few of the options managers can choose to incorporate to create a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Partnering with local restaurants, wineries, scenic attractions, and other businesses can elevate the romantic experience.

Benefits of Creating a Themed Vacation Rental

Taking the time to build or modify your rental property after a theme can be beneficial in the following ways:

Standing Out From the Competition

Getting noticed is the goal of every commercial business. Pursuing a theme with your vacation rental property is a very effective way to promote its uniqueness and appeal. In a crowded vacation marketplace, this move can increase your rental’s visibility and generate more bookings.

Attracting Loyal Return Visitors

Customer retention is a crucial but often elusive factor in rental property management. A themed rental is more likely to attract customers who are passionate about the concept, many of whom may be willing to return to re-experience such a curated vacation experience.

Making Marketing Easier

Themed rental properties are much easier to market than regular vacation properties. There is little question about what marketing angles you have, as the theme itself dictates how you’ll promote your rental. It’s also easier to target specific audiences and communities of interest with a themed rental.

Generating Online and Social Media Interest

The internet has streamlined marketing for thousands of local businesses, and themed rental properties are no exception. A well-managed theme property can produce positive customer reviews on Tripadvisor and Yelp. And posts to platforms like Instagram and Facebook can include photographs and descriptions that display the appeal of your property.

Charging Higher Rates

Travelers always seek out experiences that justify their value. With a themed rental, you may be in a position to set higher rates than more general or unthemed properties. Many guests may be willing to pay more for a custom-designed, tailored experience with unique amenities.

How to Pursue a Themed Rental Property Concept

Here are some general steps property managers can take when taking on the challenge of creating a themed vacation rental:

• Research popular themes that attract niche markets or unique themes that can find a new audience
• Analyze how competing themed rental properties perform in your area
• Set a realistic budget and timeline for completing construction
• Find a building and design partner with experience in themed rental properties
• Research and source furnishings, decor, and fixtures appropriate for your theme
• Consider providing amenities and personal services that go beyond the traditional vacation experience
• Pay special attention to marketing your property with photos and descriptive elements
• Generate buzz ahead of the launch of your themed rental property
• Stay on top of promotional efforts after launch

It’s always worth consulting with others who have launched themed vacation rentals to learn how to attract and retain guests.

Safely: Working for Short-Term Rental Property Managers

Safely helps the vacation property management community with short-term rental insurance and automated guest screening. We’d like to help you, too. To set up a consultation, contact us online or call us to schedule a video meeting.