Guest Post: Summer Rentals!

With Labor Day around the corner, there is no better time for people to plan a final summer getaway with friends and family! Renting a summer home is a great way to shake off work, get out of town and live like a local. If you own a summer rental property, understanding what renters are looking for in a vacation spot is of up-most importance. Whether your property is near a popular destination city or near some picturesque countryside or shore, what sort of summer home do people want to rent or what are you looking to rent?

The best characteristic of a summer home is that it is perfect for family and friends to enjoy time together. Having a house with an open concept is the new housing trend to make even the smallest of properties feel larger than they are. Having open living spaces, like the living room, dining room and kitchen, allow for friends and family to feel like they are never out of reach of each other. However, an open concept can seem overwhelming for those who crave privacy. A house with more closed off rooms can satisfy that craving but can also make a property appear smaller.

Renters want something different than what they're used to at home. No one wants to fight over bathroom time or struggle to fit in the kitchen like they do at home; having your property be very functional and luxurious will keep your guests satisfied and coming back year after year.

Having a property with a lot of bedrooms is great since people tend to vacation with family and friends. The housing trend today also calls for bigger, more lavish bathrooms. Owning a property with a lot of bathrooms or with the space to add one may not always be an option. Giving whatever bathrooms you do have a luxurious make-over to give them a spa feel would be a must have to make your guests feel very comfortable, no matter if they're sharing the bathrooms or not.

The hottest new trend of homes is having your outdoor space be another living space instead of just a patio with a table and chairs. People now want amenities like kitchens and living rooms to extend out to their backyards for more room to entertain. With Labor Day coming up, an outdoor kitchen is a great place for guests to host a barbeque.

When it comes to how you should decorate your rental property, work with what is around you. A house near the shore can have a beach theme and a cabin near the lake can have an outdoors theme. Remember to think of luxury when you're bringing your design inspiration into your space.

With these design tips, your property will be rented in no time and your guests can enjoy their last rays of summer sunshine in your beautiful space. Share any other summer home design tips here!

About the Author: Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to Long Island Real Estate, Hamptons Beach Rentals, home improvement and the latest architecture, design and fashion. Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.