Owning a second home can be a smart way to create a ready-made getaway for vacations — and it can also generate extra income when you’re not using it. In fact, U.S. homebuyers took out more than 86,000 mortgages for second homes last year, according to a Redfin report.
A second home is typically purchased as a vacation property, though some owners also use it as a rental or investment. If you originally bought a second home for personal use but now plan to update it for Airbnb guests or long-term tenants, it effectively becomes an investment property. For simplicity, we’ll use “second home” and “investment property” interchangeably in this article.
If you’re investing in a second home, the key is making sure it pays for itself. Here are the rules to follow to ensure your property works for you — not the other way around.
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1. Design a space that works for you and your guests
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One of the best things about owning a second home is the freedom it gives you, you can design and use the space however you like. But if your goal is to make the property appealing to guests, whether for short-term rentals or visiting family, you’ll want to create an environment that’s both welcoming and versatile.
Start by choosing furnishings and layouts that serve multiple purposes. Look for pieces that reflect your taste while also offering broad appeal for visitors. Think comfortable, durable, and timeless. Furniture that can withstand daily use from your family as well as occasional wear from guests. Materials should be easy to clean and high-quality enough to last.
When it comes to design, keep the overall look uncluttered and inviting. Avoid overly busy or distracting décor, and instead aim for a balance of style and function. Adding thoughtful touches like extra seating options, storage that hides away personal items, or neutral color schemes with a few warm accents can help your second home feel both personal and guest-friendly.
2. Let the location guide your home’s style
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If you’re turning your second home into a vacation rental, let the local community and surroundings guide your design choices. A cottage in a beach town, for example, can lean into light, airy colors, nautical touches, and casual, comfortable furnishings. A mountain cabin, on the other hand, might feel more inviting with rustic textures, natural wood, and cozy layers.
The goal isn’t to over-theme the space, but to capture the spirit of the area in a way that feels authentic and welcoming. Play with different design elements until you strike the right balance between your own style and what will resonate with guests. By reflecting the character of the destination, you’ll not only create a more memorable experience but also make your property stand out in a competitive rental market.
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3. Offer flexible sleeping options
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While one bed in the primary bedroom may work for your own stays, it’s worth thinking about the needs of potential visitors. Flexible sleeping arrangements can make your second home more appealing to families, groups of friends, or long-term guests.
Instead of one large bed in every room, consider adding two twin beds to at least one bedroom, which can easily accommodate both children and adults. You might also incorporate a sleeper sofa, a daybed with a trundle, or even a Murphy bed to maximize capacity without sacrificing style or comfort. These options allow you to host larger groups while keeping the space practical and comfortable for your own use.
4. Choose finishes that cut down on upkeep
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You can invest in quality materials without sacrificing style. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is durable, attractive, and cost-effective, while weather-resistant outdoor furniture extends the life of your patio or deck.
Inside, opt for easy-to-clean fabrics like leather or microfiber and sturdy surfaces such as wood or metal. Choosing low-maintenance, long-lasting pieces helps cut down on turnaround time between guests.
5. Add smart tech for convenience and security
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A smart home is nice not just for you, but also for potential guests. There are so many ways to incorporate technology into your second home.
Smart lock
A physical key can be problematic when you regularly rent out your home. You must find a way to get the key to every new visitor staying at your second home. And if they lose it, you have to invest in getting new ones created. A smart lock is a keyless, remote-controlled lock for the front door.
As the homeowner, you can lock and unlock the door from wherever you are and give virtual keys to visitors. You can also set up alerts for activity and get notifications for who is coming and when.
Smart thermostat
Gone are the days of walking up to the thermostat and changing the temperature. Smart thermostats are on Wi-Fi, allowing you to control the temperature wherever you are.
You can set a smart thermostat at a specific temperature during the day (and at night) and turn off your air conditioning when no one is home. You don’t have to be there to do it, but rather, you can make changes straight from your phone.
Security systems
Like other smart home additions, new security systems are easily accessible through an app. You can use popular options like Ring or Google Nest, or get a system installed through a security company, like ADT or Vivint.
Whether you go the professional or DIY approach, choose one that works best with your smart home setup and has a simple user interface.
Keep backup options in mind for all your tech updates if technology falters. What’s your plan if there’s a glitch? You should be able to understand all of your tech, whether it’s restarting it or explaining the features to potential guests.
Make your second home work for you
Owning a second home can be a luxury, but it also brings extra expenses — from the mortgage to insurance, taxes, and upkeep. One way to offset those costs is by turning the property into a source of income.
With the right upgrades, your second home can double as a rental when you’re not using it. Thoughtful design choices and smart home improvements not only make the space more appealing to guests but also help your property stand out in a competitive market.