Top Things to Consider When Adding a Hot Tub to Your STR

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This is an Ask Me Anything where each week we’ll answer your questions on Airbnb, STRs, real estate, and everything in between.

Elaine called into our Hosting Hotline and asked:

We have an outdoor tub, but we do not have a hot tub. We’ve been getting some feedback from guests wishing that we had a hot tub. I would love to know a great brand, tips for upkeep, and insurance. Do you have to change the water every day? Is it more hassle or do you think it would bring in a lot more bookings? I’m just not sure. I would love your feedback on pros and cons.

Adding a Hot Tub to Your Airbnb: Key Things to Consider

Guest Demand and Feedback: Consider guest feedback as valuable data. If guests are expressing a desire for a hot tub, it might be a strong indication to include one in your rental property to enhance the attractiveness and competitiveness of the listing.

Financial Considerations: Analyze the potential return on investment by comparing with other listings. Tools like PriceLabs can help assess how hot tubs influence average daily rates and occupancy in similar accommodations.

Maintenance and Operations: Understand that owning a hot tub involves regular maintenance, including water treatment and repairs. It’s crucial to consider the ongoing work and costs associated with keeping a hot tub operational.

Insurance and Safety: Address liability issues with insurance and ensure guest safety by installing locks and providing clear usage instructions. Regular inspections and maintenance are also necessary to comply with safety standards.

Market Research: Research competitors who offer hot tubs to understand their impact on guest satisfaction and rental performance. Consider starting with a smaller investment to test its feasibility and impact on your business.

Ultimately, adding a hot tub to your Airbnb can be a great way to help your listing stand out, but they do require regular maintenance and the ongoing costs could always evolve into being more of a hassle. But if you’ve done the research and found that it could greatly improve your guests’ satisfaction and the performance of your rental in a particularly competitive market, it could end up being a great addition to the property.

Airbnb Hot Tubs: Episode Timestamps

(00:01:18) Elaine From Rustic Pines Retreat Asks About STR Hot Tubs

(00:02:35) Follow the Data & Use STR Analytics Tools

(00:04:30) The Harsh Reality of Adding a Hot Tub to Your Vacation Rental

(00:06:43) Quick Safety Tips for STR Hot Tub Amenities

Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. To hear your voice on the show and send a question to Sarah and Annette, submit your burning hosting questions at: hostinghotline.com.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Website: Rustic Pines Retreat
• Pricelabs: Check out PriceLabs
• STR Insights: app.STRinsights.com
• Justin Ford, STR Safety Expert: justinford.expert 
• Video: Get More Bookings! 5 Tips From Airbnb Superhosts
• Airbnb Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.com