Assets With Ashley

The top 3 amenities that consistently help vacation rentals sell out during the summer season are:

1. Private Waterfront Access
(or a premium outdoor experience)

Nothing drives summer bookings more than direct access to the water. If you don’t have waterfront, a private beach area, dock, swimming platform, kayaks, paddleboards, or exceptional outdoor space can be just as valuable.

Guests increasingly choose properties based on the experiences they can have without leaving the property.

2. Hot Tub

A hot tub is one of the highest-return investments for many cottages and vacation homes. Even in peak summer, guests use them in the evenings, on rainy days, and after swimming or boating. It also extends your season into spring, fall, and winter, boosting occupancy year-round.

3. Outdoor Entertainment Space

The biggest trend in vacation rentals is creating an outdoor living room. Features that drive bookings include:

* Covered dining areas
* Fire pits with quality seating
* BBQs and outdoor kitchens
* String lighting
* Lounge furniture
* Games like co****le, bocce, or volleyball

Guests remember and photograph - the outdoor experience more than the interior.

If you’re specifically operating a cottage rental in Haliburton or cottage country, the combination that tends to command premium rates and achieve near sell-out occupancy is:

Hot tub + excellent dock/water toys + an exceptional fire pit area.

That trio consistently outperforms expensive indoor upgrades because it delivers the summer experiences guests are actually booking for.

The top 3 amenities that consistently help vacation rentals sell out during the summer season are:

1. Private Waterfront Access
(or a premium outdoor experience)

Nothing drives summer bookings more than direct access to the water. If you don’t have waterfront, a private beach area, dock, swimming platform, kayaks, paddleboards, or exceptional outdoor space can be just as valuable.

Guests increasingly choose properties based on the experiences they can have without leaving the property.

2. Hot Tub

A hot tub is one of the highest-return investments for many cottages and vacation homes. Even in peak summer, guests use them in the evenings, on rainy days, and after swimming or boating. It also extends your season into spring, fall, and winter, boosting occupancy year-round.

3. Outdoor Entertainment Space

The biggest trend in vacation rentals is creating an outdoor living room. Features that drive bookings include:

* Covered dining areas
* Fire pits with quality seating
* BBQs and outdoor kitchens
* String lighting
* Lounge furniture
* Games like co****le, bocce, or volleyball

Guests remember and photograph - the outdoor experience more than the interior.

If you’re specifically operating a cottage rental in Haliburton or cottage country, the combination that tends to command premium rates and achieve near sell-out occupancy is:

Hot tub + excellent dock/water toys + an exceptional fire pit area.

That trio consistently outperforms expensive indoor upgrades because it delivers the summer experiences guests are actually booking for.

Cleaning really does make it or break it!

Spring is a great time to revisit some wonderful resources available on Airbnb for hosts - owners and guests!

Airbnb.ca has some very informative sections, articles, lists and more for anyone to learn and read about!

Key takeaways for this cleaning edition:

1. Have the right cleaning tools

Use quality tools that save time and improve results (microfibre mops, vacuum attachments, glass scrapers, lint rollers, non-toxic cleaners, etc.).
Keep supplies organized in a cleaning caddy or owner’s closet and restock regularly.

2. Follow a detailed cleaning checklist

Create a routine so nothing gets missed.
Keep spare linens for faster turnovers.
Focus on commonly overlooked areas:
Under beds
Inside drawers
Cabinet fronts and edges
Appliances (toaster, coffee maker, microwave, fridge)
Blinds, shelves, décor, and plants
Entryways, patios, and outdoor spaces

3. Inspect everything before guests arrive

Check laundry for stains, hair, or damage.
Check dishes after they come out of the dishwasher.
Do a final walkthrough as if you were the guest.

4. Schedule regular deep cleans

Every 2-3 months, tackle items that don’t get addressed during quick turnovers.

5. Avoid strong fragrances

Don’t try to cover odours with air fresheners.
Open windows when possible.
Use air purifiers for lingering smells.
Choose mild, plant-based cleaning products.

6. Focus on the details

Refill all guest amenities (soap, shampoo, dish soap, etc.).
Neatly arrange remotes, pillows, kitchen items,
and toiletries.
Add hotel-style finishing touches that show care and attention.

The Main Message 🙌🏻

Guests notice the little things. Five-star cleanliness isn’t just about whether a space is clean - it’s about making the home feel fresh, cared for, and professionally prepared. Consistency, attention to detail, and a thorough checklist are the biggest factors in maintaining five-star reviews.

Ever had a bad or less favourable review? They happen… and can be very frustrating when they are not legitimate.

Every person has the right to express how they feel their experience was, but sometimes if they are not truthful it can unfairly affect your reputation.

A bad or unfair review can feel personal, especially when you work hard to create a great guest experience. The key is to respond professionally, calmly, and factually - not emotionally.

Here is how to handle it and an example:

(For further context this guest was unhappy to find the dock not fully installed so he could go kayaking.
Most docks in colder climates do not go in until proper water levels have been restored & water temperature rises to ensure a non dangerous experience. Kayaks also do not need a dock to launch from… 😂)

Future guests are often reading your response more than the review itself. Clear communication, consistency, and professionalism always speak louder than defensiveness.

One review does not define your reputation - your overall track record does. 💪🏼

Hosting requires thick skin. It’s not all roses.
What are your thoughts?

Have you ever had a negative review? Tell me about it 👇🏻