Vacation Rental ADU Transformation From A Family Room
Can A Spare Room Work As A Vacation Rental ADU
From A Rough Beginning Our Vacation Rental ADU To The Current Layout
Building a vacation rental ADU was not even a thought when we bought our home around 2004. I’ll tell you how it happened step by step.
Creating vacation rentals is just one of our solopreneur examples that this article highlights.
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The original home was built in 1937 and that addition with the low slopped roof was built somewhere in the 1960’s for a family room. We began with a complete remodel including new plumbing, electrical and HVAC and much more. At just under 600 square feet of space that addition became the ADU.
Next came the attic trusses that replaced the flat roof over the family room and kicking out the master bath and bedroom to the left on the second floor. Attic trusses are an inexpensive way to add square footage to a home. That space above the future vacation rental ADU is now our family room/office.
Eventually came the covered patio that created one of the best features of the whole house. A shield from the weather year around. The outdoor fireplace that I almost tore down is now a huge asset to share with the tenants of the vacation rental ADU.
The first step is evaluating your mother-in-law apartment’s existing features. Consider the separate entrance, kitchen facilities, bathroom setup, and overall square footage. These elements will help determine your rental’s positioning in the market and what modifications might be needed.
The ease of entering a vacation rental ADU is critical in my opinion. Making guests feel comfortable and secure. The back door off the covered patio brings you to a shared or 2nd laundry room with the back door to our home to the left and the ADU entrance to the right. Each door has keyless entry locks that remove the constant problem found by juggling with keys.
We used the Schlage BE365 V CAM 716 Camelot Keypad Deadbolt. It was priced reasonably and installation was easy on all three doors.
What Does It Take To Qualify As An Vacation Rental ADU?
Depending on where you live there may be specific rules and regulations to develope an Accessory Dwelling Unit. We live in a small town in and when we did this conversion I had a good relationship with the inspectors in that I was a mechanical contractor and had worked with them for quite some time.
On our neighboring counties (Deschutes County) website it says right of the bat “The process for acquiring the necessary permits is extensive.”
That relationship has dwindled and I’m sure a project like this would be more difficult today. I can’t stress enough that before you begin anything like this remodel that you check with your local building authority first.
Legal Considerations
Before making any changes, check your local zoning laws, HOA regulations, and specific requirements for short-term rentals. You may need permits or licenses, and some areas have or are developing restrictions on vacation rental properties.
Renovation and Design Strategies
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
Focus on creating a space that feels both homey and professional. Consider a cohesive color scheme, high-quality bedding, and thoughtful touches like local artwork or a welcome guide. Remember, first impressions matter tremendously in the vacation rental market.
Essential Amenities
Stock your rental with must-have items: fast WiFi, smart TV, quality coffee maker, comfortable seating, and well-equipped kitchen basics. Consider adding special touches like a Bluetooth speaker or local guidebooks to that will point your guests to activities in your local and surrounding area.
Our guests have stayed at our ADU for some of the craziest reasons. One couple traveled from New York to experience the last of the Blockbuster corporate owned stores in Bend. They rented videos and did nothing but watch movies for an entire weekend. I’m not saying anymore.
Marketing Your Space
Professional Photography
Invest in professional photos that showcase your space’s best features. Focus on natural light, cleanliness, and staging that helps potential guests envision their stay. Include details shots of special amenities and outdoor spaces.
Platform Selection
Choose the right platforms for your listing. Consider popular options like Airbnb and VRBO, but also look into local vacation rental sites that might cater to your specific market.
Managing Your Rental
Pricing Strategy
Research comparable properties in your area to set competitive rates. Consider seasonal adjustments, special event pricing, and length-of-stay discounts to maximize occupancy and revenue.
Guest Communication and Support
Verizon was the only cell company that worked well at our other vacation rental which is rather remote. It’s really important to alert guests about they’re ability to communicate with others when staying in remote places. Some people can go into a complete panic.
Develop a system for efficient check-in/check-out procedures, guest communications, and handling emergency situations. Consider using a property management software to streamline these processes.
