Vacation rentals are a great investment, but many people are starting to see the benefit of turning a home they already own into a rental getaway. Not only can it be more cost-effective, but it’s also easier for many homeowners to make changes to a home they’re already familiar with. You also don’t run the risk of buying a home that has lots of hidden repair work, which can save you lots of time and money. Often, the most important thing to remember about owning a vacation home and renting it out is that you’ll need to be prepared for any maintenance and to ensure you have a plan for preventative measures such as security.

The good news is that there are several things you can do to boost your home’s value so that you’ll get a great return on your investment. From small updates such as giving the home curb appeal to larger ones like installing a security system, there are many budget-friendly ways to turn your home into a beautiful getaway. When it comes to decor, think of it as an apartment that needs to be comfy and aesthetically pleasing but not too over-the-top when it comes to cost.

When you’re ready to turn your home into a vacation destination, keep these things in mind.

Find a Great Security System

The right security system will help you keep your home safe and allow you to keep an eye on things no matter how far away you live. Since many vacation homes are in warmer or more touristy locations, lots of homeowners choose to live in a different state year-round, but this can make it more difficult to ensure the property is safe and secure. A great security system will help you ensure things are locked up tight and will give you a return on your investment because renters will be more inclined to stay when they feel safe. With so many options on the market these days, it’s important to do a little research to find the right one for your needs.

Plan for Your Maintenance

Maintenance is a big part of owning any home, but when it’s a vacation home that will provide a place for renters to stay throughout the year, it’s imperative to have a good plan for all the things you’ll need to keep up with. If the house is in a very warm climate for much of the year, you’ll want to make sure the HVAC system is clean and up to date. Part of this maintenance is keeping the filter clean since it can make a huge difference when it comes to boosting the air quality inside the home as well as saving money on utility bills. You’ll also have to budget for cleaning your home. In Orlando, you’re likely to spend $117 to $204 on maid services.

Boost Your Curb Appeal

One of the best ways to make sure your home is ready for renters is to boost the curb appeal. This will amp up the value of your home and ensure that your guests will be pleased with their choice as soon as they arrive. Painting the shutters, adding colorful flowers, tidying up the landscaping, and cleaning trim and gutters (a professional will usually charge between $150 and $300 to clean your gutters) can all go a long way without breaking the bank.

Provide Small Luxuries

You don’t have to spend a fortune on big upgrades to make your vacation rental home appealing; sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. Providing small luxuries such as handheld showerheads, soft towels, and a stocked pantry will go a long way towards helping your guests feel at home, which can, in turn, keep them coming back year after year.

Prepping your home for vacation rentals doesn’t need to be a stressful or budget-busting affair; with a little planning and maintenance, you can turn your property into one that will give you a return on your investment for a long time to come.