What Should a Guest Apartment Be Like?

What Should a Guest Apartment Look Like?

In recent years, guest apartments have become increasingly popular, offering a great alternative to hotels. The main reason is that in a guest apartment, the customer gets an entire apartment, and usually these are larger than hotel rooms. Additionally, this gives the apartment owner the opportunity to earn amounts in a few nights that can cover their entire apartment rent. However, competition in the market is tight and there are many options. Let's try to clarify what you should keep in mind if you want to buy an apartment with the goal of turning it into a guest apartment.

Location

One of the most important things when making choices is undoubtedly the apartment's location. Is it in the city center? Near some attraction? Is it in a safe part of town? People usually look for accommodation based on how easy it is for them to get around to various planned activities at their destination. That's why many guest apartments are located where the main tourist spots are. This immediately gives an advantage to those apartments that are there. Likely, those other apartments have to compensate for their poor location with a cheaper price.

Furnishings and Equipment

The second thing is undoubtedly the apartment's furnishings. The apartment should have all the equipment you would find in a regular apartment (television, refrigerator, dishwasher, iron, washing machine, etc.). However, when buying different appliances, you should certainly keep in mind how easy they are to use. For example, if a person stays in the apartment for several nights and wants to wash their dishes, using the dishwasher should be easy for them. Here, the traditional rule "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" applies.

In addition to equipment, you should also think about whether the apartment would be durable. For example, is parquet flooring throughout the entire apartment the best idea if guests are coming and going constantly? Maybe someone brings their pet or moves something around. It would be better to consider laminate or vinyl flooring, which are much more durable. For example, you might want to think about whether there's a mirror in the hallway, as people like to look at themselves in the mirror before going out. It's also very important that sleeping areas are comfortable and that cleanable surfaces are as clean as possible.

Automated Access

Third, you should definitely think about how to automate access to your guest apartment. Especially in today's coronavirus situation, it has become clear how important automated and contactless services are. What we mean by this is that it would be a good idea to install a code-based lock on the apartment. This means that before arrival, visitors are sent a unique code with which they can enter the apartment. This is the safest solution because it eliminates lost keys or copying. Additionally, it's convenient for the owner when guests arrive late in the evening or at a time when the owner needs to be somewhere else.

If you don't want to do this, you can also add a separate code box next to the apartment where you can leave the key. You should also consider making parking as simple as possible but also safe. If a parking card is necessary, you can leave it in the apartment. If a barrier gate key access is necessary, you could leave the barrier key in the apartment.

Apartment Size

When researching guest apartment booking information from the Tourism Agency, which manages booking sites for different cities (for example, https://hotellidtallinnas.ee/, https://majutuspärnus.ee/), they said that most people prefer two-bedroom apartments or studio apartments. Such solutions work best for couples and families, as guest apartments typically have pull-out sofas where you can fit, for example, children. The advantage of a two-bedroom apartment is also that it's easier for the apartment owner to clean. In the end, people also look a lot at the price, and if a family or group of friends can fit into a two-bedroom apartment, they're more likely to choose that option.

So if you want to buy an apartment to rent out as a guest apartment, you should consider these points:

• Good location,
• Two-bedroom or studio apartment
• Well-thought-out and durable furnishings and simple equipment
• Easy access and parking options