First impressions make the difference when it comes to choosing a property to rent. While the property itself plays a vital role in attracting customers, an attractive and clean outdoor space may add additional points to the overall experience and even justify slightly increased costs per night.
Fortunately, you don’t have to invest hundreds and thousands of dollars to get a top-rated property. Simple yet clever outdoor upgrades can be used to make your property unique, cozy and attractive to potential renters.
Below we’ll discuss some of the best ideas for outdoor improvements for Airbnb properties.
Self-Check-In Solution
Self-check-in has become an important trend in hospitality over the past years. It allows saving time on meeting the host and getting access to the house quickly. The key to successful and safe self-check-ins is using a wall-mounted key lock box. The system uses password protection that allows the guests to enter the code and unlock the box safely and conveniently.
This small upgrade will allow guests to access the property quickly. It’s especially convenient for people who plan to arrive after sunset.
Improved Outdoor Lighting
Well-lighted entrances, patios and balconies will make your guests feel safer when approaching the property at night. Outdoor lighting will allow you to make your home even more attractive by creating the right ambience and lighting the entire space evenly.
You may choose to install solar-powered lights, wall sconces, or string lights, or opt for a simple motion-activated lamp. All these upgrades will add additional value to the outdoor space.
Create Comfortable Seating Space
Most people choose vacation properties precisely because of a possibility to spend time outdoors. That’s why comfortable outdoor seating may come in very handy when renting the property.
If your budget allows, buy a nice bistro set with a few comfortable chairs and a table. You may also install a simple outdoor bench or a chaise lounge. Don’t forget about comfortable cushions, outdoor rugs, and side tables to make the space cozier.
Increase Functional Storage
Cluttered outdoor areas may look chaotic and unpleasant for guests to spend their vacation. You may install outdoor furniture to store various items, including gardening equipment, extra cushions, towels, beach toys or whatever else your property needs. Such simple installations will help you keep your outdoor space neat and clean.
Install a Smart Doorbell
Smart cameras are great tools for remote monitoring that allow seeing the front porch of your house even if you are miles away from the property. Moreover, the camera will send you notifications each time the guests enter the property.
Some guests may be attracted by the modern and hi-tech equipment installed by the property owners.
Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen may make a difference when it comes to choosing the vacation spot. An outdoor kitchen implies a set of chairs around a table, a BBQ grill, or a rolling cooler for storing food in the refrigerator.
Such upgrades will be helpful for those guests who are willing to cook meals outdoors during the holiday season. An outdoor kitchen will also be useful for hosting barbecues with friends or family members.
Add Privacy Features
Privacy is one of the things guests value when choosing a vacation place to relax. To create more privacy, you may use plants and bushes, fencing, pergolas, or screens to create barriers between the property and other houses. These upgrades will add to the overall coziness of the outdoor space and give you privacy.
Upgrade Your Garden with Useful Add-Ons
Sometimes, the simplest upgrades are those that guests are really thankful for. Here are a few items you can buy to upgrade your outdoor space:
- An umbrella holder to protect against sun rays
- A hose reel to keep your yard neat and green
- A shoe rack to store shoes near the entrance
- A bike rack if you want your guests to go jogging
- Additional hooks or racks to store bags and accessories outside
- Parcel boxes where guests can put their packages while on vacation
- Fire pits or patio heaters in case the weather outside is too chilly
Pet-Friendly Station
Nowadays there are many Airbnb properties that allow guests to bring their four-legged friends along with them. If you own a pet-friendly house or apartment, consider installing outdoor elements that will make life with pets easier.
For example, you may install a doggy station with waste bag dispensers and a small garbage bin for disposing of waste. Additionally, you could set up several water stations to provide your furry guests with enough drinks.
Instagrammable Corner
Social media has made it possible to promote Airbnb properties in a natural way. Instagram users often share pictures of their rental homes. Therefore, having a unique outdoor area to capture will encourage guests to share photos of your property.
A cozy hammock, mural wall or even a neon sign will do the job. Pergola or fire pit with lights can be turned into an amazing Instagrammable spot.
Make Your Outdoor Area Low-Maintenance
Your property should always look perfect and well maintained. However, not everyone has enough time to take care of a garden or furniture. To make your life easier and your property attractive for future tenants, choose low-maintenance options when making purchases.
Choose products that withstand outdoor conditions perfectly, won’t require regular maintenance, but will still look attractive to guests.
Conclusion
Outdoor areas are essential when it comes to making a property look appealing and attractive. The above-listed upgrades will be helpful for making your outdoor spaces more functional and comfortable for future guests.
