In the short-term rental world, the difference between “just another listing” and a calendar full of bookings often comes down to one thing: design. Guests aren’t just booking a bed—they’re booking an experience. And the details you choose not only shape first impressions, but also inspire those all-important reviews and repeat stays.
The best part? You don’t need a massive renovation budget to create a high-end feel. With smart, strategic upgrades, you can transform your rental for under $500—and watch the returns show up in guest satisfaction and higher nightly rates.
Here are 13 tried-and-true design upgrades that pay for themselves:
1. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper or Bold Paint
Statement walls instantly make a space pop in photos. A roll of peel-and-stick wallpaper or a gallon of bold paint creates a design moment guests can’t resist sharing on Instagram.
2. Personality-Packed Light Fixtures
Swap out the builder-grade flush mount for a pendant or modern chandelier. Lighting changes the mood of a room instantly and sets your listing apart from cookie-cutter competition.
3. Curated Bar Cart
Even if you don’t serve alcohol, a chic bar cart styled with glasses, mixers, and a plant doubles as décor and functionality. Guests love a little “wow” station.
4. Bookshelf or Reading Nook
Add a small bookshelf with a mix of travel guides, coffee table books, and board games. It’s an inexpensive way to show thoughtfulness and encourage cozy downtime.
5. Coffee Station with Labeled Jars
Instead of a basic coffee maker on the counter, create a designated station with labeled jars for beans, tea bags, and sugar. Small details make mornings memorable.
6. Luxe Throw Pillows
Layered pillows with different textures and colors give beds and sofas that boutique-hotel feel—without boutique prices.
7. Upgrade Your Linens
High-quality sheets and towels are one of the most commented-on amenities in guest reviews. Fresh, crisp bedding feels indulgent and is worth every penny.
8. Statement Art
Prints, framed posters, or local photography can bring character into your space. Choose oversized pieces for impact.
9. Stylish Area Rugs
Rugs define spaces and add warmth. A $200 rug can transform a bland room into a magazine-worthy one.
10. Mirrors for Light and Space
Mirrors make small spaces feel larger and brighter. Guests notice the airy feel immediately—and so will your listing photos.
11. Plants & Greenery
Whether real or faux, greenery softens a space and creates that homey, fresh vibe guests crave.
12. Multipurpose Furniture
Ottomans with storage, nesting tables, or foldable desks give guests flexibility—and add bonus function to small rentals.
13. Signature Scent
Candles, reed diffusers, or essential oil sprays leave a lasting impression. Guests may not remember your thread count, but they’ll never forget how your space smelled.
Why These Upgrades Work
Guests notice details. When you create a memorable environment, it shows up in reviews as words like cozy, thoughtful, stylish, and luxurious. Those words sell your space to the next guest before they even book.
And because each of these upgrades is under $500, they’re not just stylish—they’re strategic. A one-time investment can pay off with increased bookings, higher ratings, and more repeat stays.
Want a “wow” factor without blowing your budget?
At Lumos Host, we design STR upgrades that photograph beautifully, impress guests, and actually increase your revenue. Let’s make your property the one travelers can’t scroll past.
