When it comes to short-term rental investing, smart upgrades can be the difference between average income and top-tier returns. But not all amenities deliver equal results—some offer emotional appeal but little ROI, while others consistently raise nightly rates, increase occupancy, and justify premium pricing. Whether you’re planning your next renovation or building your STR from scratch, here’s a breakdown of the highest-performing features that actually move the needle on your bottom line.
1. Private Pools: Still the Gold Standard for ROI
Across warm-weather STR markets like Florida, Arizona, and Texas, a private pool remains the single most profitable amenity a host can add.
Data-Driven Value:
- According to AirDNA, listings with private pools command 20–40% higher nightly rates in sunbelt states.
- Rabbu’s 2024 Amenity ROI Report shows that in beach markets, pools can increase annual revenue by up to $25,000 per year on average.
Why it Works:
- Pools attract both families and groups, widening your booking audience.
- They increase average length of stay and encourage repeat bookings.
💡 If you’re renovating, consider adding a saltwater system, heating options, and fun extras like pool floats or a lighted patio area—these subtle upgrades matter in reviews.
2. Fire Pits & Outdoor Gathering Spaces: Small Addition, Big Return
Not every home can support a pool—but a fire pit or outdoor lounge area can still provide serious ROI with minimal investment.
Value Boost:
- Homes with outdoor fire pits average $3,000–$7,000 more per year in revenue (source: Hostaway 2023 Data Trends).
- In colder or mountain regions, fire features help properties stay booked through shoulder seasons.
Best Practices:
- Combine fire pits with string lights, cozy seating, and maybe even s’mores kits to create an “Instagrammable” setting.
- Gas fire pits are low-maintenance and preferred by most guests.
📌 Pro tip: Promote your outdoor space in listing titles—amenity mentions like “Fire Pit” or “Hot Tub” often increase click-through rates on Airbnb and VRBO.
3. Hot Tubs: Year-Round Revenue Driver
Hot tubs are one of the top-searched filters on Airbnb, especially in cooler climates or romantic getaway markets. And they’re surprisingly effective at reducing seasonality.
Key Metrics:
- Hot tubs increase occupancy rates by 10–20%, even in saturated markets (Beyond Pricing).
- They’re particularly impactful for couples’ stays, where ambiance is everything.
Considerations:
- Always mention maintenance protocols and safety.
- Use smart tech to manage heating schedules remotely and save energy.
🌡️ Combine a hot tub with privacy screens and dimmable outdoor lighting to enhance guest experience—and create repeat value.
4. Dedicated Workspace + High-Speed Internet: The Digital Nomad Effect
Since the pandemic, the rise of remote work and “workcations” has reshaped guest expectations. Properties that offer true work functionality—not just a corner desk—attract longer bookings and midweek occupancy.
What Guests Want:
- A comfortable, ergonomic chair (not just a bar stool!)
- Natural lighting and a window view
- Wi-Fi speed above 200 Mbps
Return Potential:
- AirDNA reports show a 17% higher occupancy in listings labeled “work-friendly” when supported by photos and Wi-Fi speed tests.
🖥️ Bonus: Offer a second monitor, ring light, or lap desk to stand out in a competitive market.
5. Pet-Friendly Perks: Expand Your Booking Base Instantly
Allowing pets doesn’t just add charm—it expands your audience by 30–40%, especially in drive-to markets where guests bring the whole family (furry members included).
Revenue Advantage:
- Airbnb internal data suggests pet-friendly listings earn 11–15% more per year than those that are not.
- Many guests are willing to pay $50–$150 pet fees, which helps offset extra cleaning.
Design Smart:
- Use washable covers, outdoor dog stations, and pet gates to reduce wear.
- Offer dog beds, bowls, and poop bags to go from pet-tolerant to pet-welcoming.
🐶 Pro tip: Include the phrase “pet-friendly” in the listing title and tags—search behavior proves it drives clicks.
6. Smart Tech: More Than Just a Gimmick
Smart home features not only improve convenience, they boost guest trust and streamline operations—both of which reduce costs and increase perceived value.
Must-Have Tools:
- Smart locks: Eliminate key issues and simplify check-in
- Smart thermostats: Manage energy efficiency between bookings
- Noise monitors (Minut/Safely): Reduce party risk and neighbor complaints
Revenue Insight:
- Properties with smart access tech see higher review scores in the “ease of check-in” category (Airbnb Superhost Forum Data).
- Better reviews = better search placement = more bookings.
🔐 Guests expect digital simplicity. A clunky check-in experience can tank an otherwise perfect stay.
7. Specialty Amenities: When to Go Big
Depending on your location and target demographic, investing in unique or niche amenities can help your listing stand out in a crowded market.
Examples That Pay Off (in the right setting):
- Game rooms or arcade setups (great for family-oriented markets)
- Outdoor kitchens in luxury or beach rentals
- Private cinemas or projection screens for higher-end groups
- EV chargers in urban and upscale eco-focused areas
🎯 Important: Don’t add amenities for the sake of it. Match features to your guest profile and local demand. Smart spending = higher ROI.
In the world of short-term rentals, intentional upgrades lead to exponential returns. Whether you’re investing in a private pool, installing smart home tech, or simply making your listing more pet-friendly, the right features can dramatically improve your occupancy rate, nightly pricing, and guest satisfaction. Think like a guest. Design like a host. And invest in the amenities that turn first-time guests into lifelong fans.
