Think guests just want clean towels and Wi-Fi? Think again. They want charm. The kind they remember—and share. Discover how local touches, storytelling, and creative design can elevate your rental’s brand and boost bookings at your rental.

Ever walked past a house and thought, “Wow, I’d love to stay there”? That’s the magic of a local landmark. Now, what if your vacation rental could be that house?

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No, I’m not talking about building a castle turret or a koi pond shaped like Elvis. I mean creating a memorable identity that makes guests talk, share, and book—again and again.

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In this episode, I’ll explore how to turn your vacation rental into a local gem without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re in wine country or a sleepy fishing village, you can carve out a place on the map—and in your guest’s hearts.

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Create a Story Guests Can Share

Guests don’t just want a bed—they want a story. Something to post, brag about, and maybe even tattoo. Okay, maybe not tattoo.

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Give your property a name with character: “The Nest,” “Sunset Haven,” “The Old Bait Shop.” A quirky backstory goes even further. Maybe the cottage was once a writer’s retreat, or the old barn door came from the local saloon. Even if it’s part legend, guests love the lore.

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In “Mastering Vacation Rentals: Start, Manage, & Thrive in the Rental Business,” we talk about personal branding as a magnet for direct bookings. Stories are part of that brand.

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Use Design to Set a Mood

You don’t need a $30,000 reno to create a vibe. One signature design element—a vintage jukebox, a mural from a local artist, or a garden with twinkle lights—can turn an average space into a wow moment.

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Keep it Instagram-worthy but practical. That red velvet couch? Great. Unless guests feel like they’re sitting on a lobster trap. Aim for a balance between unique and comfortable.

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Tap into Local Culture (Without Looking Like a Gift Shop)

Think local, not literal. You’re in Vermont? Maple syrup, yes. A wall of taxidermy moose heads? Maybe not.

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Support local artisans and feature their work. It’s cheaper than designer decor and adds local flavour. Plus, guests love discovering something they can’t get at IKEA.

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One of our owners in the course turned their back porch into a tasting nook using local wine barrels as tables. Total cost? Under $300. Return? Glowing reviews and bookings from wine-lovers.

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Make Your Outdoor Space Do Double Duty

Want to impress guests before they even open the door? Tidy landscaping, cozy seating, and a firepit go a long way.

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Paint the front door a bold colour. Add a chalkboard welcome sign with the guest’s name. Boom—instant curb appeal.

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And here’s the kicker: people take photos. And tag you. That’s free marketing with marshmallows.

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Encourage Community Connection

A local landmark connects people. That could mean a shelf with local guidebooks, a list of your favourite dive bars, or even a guestbook with doodles and tips from past visitors.

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One host had a “Mini Museum of Misplaced Flip-Flops” by the door. Guests laughed, contributed—and remembered.

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Hosting should bring joy, not just job lists.

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Get the “The 7-Day Vacation Rental Jumpstart” download.
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Seven bite-sized steps to a rental guests rave about—without burning out.

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Get your copy now! You can find a link in the show notes.

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What’s one thing you’ve done to make your property more memorable?

Drop it in the comments.

5 Key Takeaways

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In Conclusion

You don’t need a million bucks to be a landmark. You just need creativity, consistency, and a little courage to stand out. Make it personal. Make it fun. Make it yours.

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Because when guests remember your place, they return. And they bring friends.

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Want to dive deeper? Check out the “Mastering Vacation Rentals: Start, Manage, & Thrive in the Rental Business” course for real strategies that work.