The periods from late April until mid-June and Late September to Mid-November are often called “the shoulder” seasons in Summit County. Locals also call them as “mud season” for the mud that used to line town streets before they were paved in the 1970’s. The unpredictable weather makes winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing more challenging and summer sports, such as mountain biking not yet feasible. Outdoor sports attract visitors to Breckenridge, so the mud season is the off season for vacationers. There is typically less demand for vacation rentals during this time, as many outdoor activities are not enjoyable. As a result of the decline in rental demand, mud season is the ideal time to conduct maintenance and complete the projects that gets pushed to the side during the busy winter months.
Here are a few things you should do to your rental property during the off-season.
1) Complete Big Projects and Large Repairs on Your Property
Rental properties will typically degrade over time, both from wear and tear, and age. If there have been repairs needed during the rental season, such as a new water heater, furnace, or updating furniture, now is the perfect time. Repairing or replacing equipment that is nearing the end of its life span during the off-season will save you time and money later on. If these repairs must occur during the rental season, you could lose considerable rental income if the repair is needed mid-season.
Secondly, remodeling your kitchen or bathroom will enhance the value of your property and increase rentals, and can easily be completed during these slow months.
2) Refresh Linens and Towels
Take stock of your linens and towels to determine if they are starting to become dingy, worn or stained. Your guests feel more comfortable when your linens look fresh and clean. Linens can wear out surprisingly quickly when you have a steady stream of guests using them. The off-season is an ideal time to remove old linens and replace them with fresh items. If you have a professional company providing your linens, this will be taken care of for you normally.
3) Brighten Your Property With Fresh Paint
A new coat of paint can work wonders in any property, both covering scuffs and scratches, as well as breathing life into dull or dingy rooms. It can make a home feel cozy and clean without having to invest in major renovations, and brighten up a room to become more exciting. A steady stream in renters results in minor wear and tear over time, which dulls the ambiance of the property. Dressing up a property with a fresh look can have a wonderful impact on guest satisfaction, and provide the appearance of a well-cared for property.
4) Enhance Your Property With New Amenities
Adding strategic amenities will bring renters to your property and may even allow you to receive a higher rental rate. If you have been considering adding a hot tub, pool table, fire pit or home entertainment center, the off-season is the opportune time to make these upgrades. Be ready to entice renters in the peak season with top-notch amenities.
5) Restock and Retool Your Kitchen
Most renters really appreciate a well-stocked kitchen, even if they dine out most of their vacation. Many tourists who rent vacation homes look forward to cooking their own meals, and some take great pride in family dinners. Off season is a perfect time to make sure your kitchen is well stocked with a good variety of kitchen utensils and cookware. If any of your utensils, cookware or tableware begin to show wear and tear, consider replacing them with upgraded products. Look at providing new and functional appliances like crockpots, food processors, and blenders. Providing a well-stocked spice cabinet is also a bonus many renters really appreciate.
Ultimately, you want to make sure that your rental property is excellent shape before a peak season hits. You can be confident and secure that your renters’ stay will be perfect when you have taken some time to prepare in the off season. When you work with Breckenridge Resort Managers, we monitor your vacation home throughout the year, as well as preform complimentary spring inspections. We will let you know what essential maintenance is required or projects that can bring value to your home. We can also connect you with trusted contractors for major repairs. Additionally, when the unforeseen does arise, we are local and available to assist you along the way.
We work hard so you and your renters have an excellent experience renting your vacation home, and you are able to focus on the needs of your primary home.
