Cape Cod is an amazing year-round destination for travelers to enjoy who hail from near and far. Whether they’re headed this way in the summer, spring, fall, or winter, there’s always more to explore and discover that keeps them coming back for more! But for all the opportunities that Cape Cod offers guests, it’s just as full of potential for those who own vacation rentals in the area. Owning a rental gives property owners a chance to stay in the area whenever they like or focus in on making a vacation rental into a full business opportunity. That said, keeping up with the demands of a vacation rental year-round can quickly feel overwhelming. At New England Vacation Rentals, our property management team is passionate about the people and places we serve and has extensive experience elevating rental properties from great stays to profitable business ventures in no time! A big part of our success comes down to the details we implement year-round. With winter around the corner, the following are a few vital tips to maintaining a property on Cape Cod when the cold weather rolls in. Putting these tips to work is a good way to keep a property here at its best while providing guests with impeccable experiences no matter what season brings them this way!
Clean Out Fireplaces
Having a fireplace in your Cape Cod MA property is often a huge selling point for winter travelers headed this way looking to make the most of a stay. That said, it also requires some extra attention before winter rolls around when it’s likely to be used more than it will be lit up in the summer. Take some time to make sure that the ignition switch and coupler are in good working order before working on removing soot and residue buildup. Making sure flammable materials are removed is essential while stocking up on wood for wood-burning fireplaces is going to make your guest’s experience that much nicer and convenient.
Make Sure Gutters Are in Top Shape
Winter comes with ample snowfall and as temperatures fluctuate closer to the end of the season, there’s a chance for melting that leads to a lot of excess water runoff. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your gutters are in good shape for winter. If you’re not comfortable cleaning out leaves and debris yourself, have a professional step in and take care of the job. Well-functioning gutters keep water moving in the right direction and prevent water damage to the home’s sides and possibly foundation too over time.
Get Carpets Cleaned and Provide Shoe Covers
Cold weather can be appealing to travelers booking a stay in your Cape Cod property, but it also means a lot of snow tracking. That’s why it’s worth your time to have carpets cleaned at the beginning and end of winter. This gives your house a clean and fresh glow for visitors while also eliminating as much dirt as you can before it builds up again in harsher weather. Consider providing a pack of disposable shoe covers at the front door for guests who arrive in the middle of heavy snow or tricky weather conditions.
Invest in Comprehensive Pre-Winter Maintenance
Having a full home inspection for the winter season is a must. Be sure to have a professional take time to look at your home’s HVAC system as well as sprinklers and pipes. Avoiding any freezing or leaking pipes during the winter months can only make things nicer for your guests and less costly on your end. Adding some additional winter gear to your closets like heavy blankets and shovels is always a good idea in case of an unexpected severe storm.
Close Draft Gaps Under Doors and Windows
If you want to keep energy costs down this winter while keeping your Cape Cod property comfortable and warm, make sure to add sealant to any gaps that exist underneath doors and windows in your home. A simple weatherstrip can do wonders for temperature regulation as well as a more affordable energy bill.
Get a Smart Thermostat
If you’re managing your Cape Cod MA property remotely during the winter months, investing in a smart thermostat is a lifesaver. This simple addition can be accessed from your mobile device. At the touch of a button, homeowners can adjust interior temperatures or be alerted if something goes wrong.
Contact Us Today and Learn More About Cape Cod Real Estate
Whether you’re looking to invest in your first vacation rental or you’re ready to upgrade your existing business, the property management team at New England Vacation Rentals is here to help with the Cape Cod real estate. Reach out today to learn more about our many homeowner services and how we elevate the customer experience at every turn. From comprehensive marketing standards to property evaluations that expand bookings, we’re here to help homeowners reach their profit goals across Cape Cod!