Are you considering building rental cabins, a development, or your own getaway to rent out while you’re not there?
Now is the time to move ahead with this endeavor. You can build your own getaway and have it pay for itself while you’re not using it. Who doesn’t want their own getaway for free? Mary Marsh with Marsh Hollow Cabins offers these helpful hints on building and managing your rental. She owns and operates her own rental cabins in Hocking Hills State Park.
Why a True Log Cabin?
For cabin rentals, a true log cabin is almost an expectation. “I wouldn’t build anything else. If you’re going to use the word ‘cabin’ in your advertising, it’s got to be a true log structure.”
Plan Your Electrical Carefully
“There is only one ‘disadvantage,’ which is that the electrical has to be planned very carefully. We thought we were being careful but we missed a few things we should have planned for. Outdoor electrical outlets were one of the things we overlooked! Get a professional to do lighting and power plans for you.”
Offer Guests Privacy
Guests enjoy having space in the woods, countryside, or a beachfront area that feels all their own. The more privacy you can offer, the more appealing your cabin will be.
Prioritize Cleanliness
Cleanliness is at the top of every traveler’s list. Design your cabin so it is easy to clean. A log cabin does not need a lot of knickknacks sitting around—the beauty of the wood is what guests value. Also, choose a log profile that does not collect dust.
Include a Hot Tub
In a rural setting, guests expect a hot tub. Be sure to let your architect know where you plan to put it so they can engineer the deck to support the weight.
Consider a Pet-Friendly Policy
Yes, there is a bit more maintenance at times, but travelers with pets want to be invited back and usually clean up after themselves. If you accept pets, avoid using carpet to make maintenance easier.
Provide Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is becoming a must, especially in areas without widespread, reliable phone service.
Reward Returning Guests
Always remember that your best customer is the one you already have. Do something special for returning guests. We pay their lodging tax of 6% if they come back. Be responsive to special requests and don’t feel like you have to charge for every little thing you do for a guest.
Encourage Online Reviews
Ask guests to write online reviews if they enjoyed their stay. If something wasn’t quite right, encourage them to tell you directly so you can address it before it turns into a permanent negative review.
Ready to Build Your Own Cabin?
Call Hochstetler Log Homes! They built one for us, and our guests give us rave reviews. The curb appeal is outstanding, which is important for attracting renters.
A Note from Hochstetler Log Homes
We’ve seen many rental homes being built in the past year. Keep the future in mind—while you may be able to rent out almost anything in today’s hot market, when demand slows, the true log cabins with special features will be the ones getting booked!
