Decor and furnishings - facilities
Wi-Fi/Internet connection
This might have been seen as a luxury not so long ago, but now more and more people want to be able to access the internet. This may be because they want to be able to use the Internet to find out about local attractions, or because they want the facility for their children.
Many people also want to keep in touch with their business and if a property does not have internet access this may put them off booking the property, especially when they are booking that extra off season weekend away.
If you do install Internet access, remember to set call barring on the landline to prevent anyone from making outgoing calls.
TV, Sky and DVD
Again, most people have these facilities in their own home these days and will expect to find some of them at a holiday cottage. They are especially useful when attracting guests in the colder months when they may spend more time in the cottage.
If you do install these facilities you should think about installing them in more than one room, but it is a good idea to make the TVs removable so that parents have control over their use.
Kitchen facilities
We've already recommended that you opt for quality when purchasing fittings and appliances, and this is true for the kitchen more than any other room. This room will probably get the most use (and abuse sometimes) so go for appliances and fittings that will last.
A dishwasher is a must. No one likes to have to clean dishes! And when it comes to changeovers you will reduce the changeover times (and therefore costs) if you (or your cleaner) don’t have to wash dishes by hand. You will probably also find that guests will put the remaining dirty dishes in the dishwasher for you. People generally appreciate it if you leave a supply of dishwasher tablets too.
You cottage is a self catering property so most people will expect to spend some time in the kitchen cooking meals. Try and make their experience as enjoyable as possible by providing all the equipment that they would expect to find at home. See our inventory for a full list of kitchen equipment.
Utility room equipment
If you have the space it is a good idea to install washing machine and tumble drier (or drying space). These facilities will be appreciated by parents, particularly those who are enjoying outdoor activities.
Although people won’t necessarily expect it, it is a nice touch to provide washing powder or tablets.
Bathroom facilities
The bathroom is another room that can make a big impression on guests. Ideally you should have a separate shower and bath and go for good quality, easy to clean, fixtures and fittings. Remember to allow space for all your guests towels, toilet bags etc.
Linen and towels
Most guests will expect you to provide linen and towels. This is especially useful for those who are travelling by air where their luggage is restricted.
Baby equipment
Parents of babies and small children will appreciate, if not expect, some baby equipment. If you don’t provide this then they will have to bring all the equipment themselves and this may be enough to put them off choosing your property.
The equipment should include a cot (even a travel cot), highchair or booster chair and stair gates.
Pets
If you are going to attract dog owners then you may wish to include some basic facilities for the dogs, such as dog bowls and stand. It is a good idea to provide a mat on which to place them, and to provide a splashback on the wall to reduce the amount of mess that dogs can make.
You can also position them somewhere where you are happy for the dog to eat, such as in an easy to clean area of the house.
Outside equipment
Your choice of outside equipment will be dictated by your target market. For example, if you plan to attract families, then you will probably want to include some outside games and possibly a paddling pool.
You may wish to include a barbeque. For adults you may want to include outside tables and chairs and maybe even a hammock.
One note of caution. If you do provide outside equipment, and especially if you advertise it, you you should really ensure that it is checked at each changeover and replaced if necessary. If the equipment includes a barbeque you will need to think about how it will be cleaned for each new guest.
