How to Furnish Your Short-Term Rental (Even If You Have No Eye for Design)

This week’s Hosting Hotline question comes from Joanna—a new host who describes herself as design-challenged but eager to make her short-term rental look professional, cohesive, and guest-ready.

If you’re staring at an empty space and wondering if you should hire a designer, call a stager, or just wing it with Pinterest inspo, this post is for you.

Before you spend a dime furnishing your property, here’s what to consider:

1. Good Design is a Business Investment

When it comes to STRs, design isn’t just about aesthetics—it directly impacts bookings and revenue. Even if you’re tempted to cut corners after buying the property, now’s not the time to skimp.

A thoughtful, cohesive design:

• Grabs attention in crowded listings
  
• Justifies higher nightly rates
  
• Encourages repeat bookings and glowing reviews

2. Should You Hire a Designer, Stager, or Friend?

Not all design help is created equal. Here’s how to think about your options:

• Interior Designer (STR-specific): The gold standard. They understand function, durability, and guest expectations. Look for firms like Somerled Designs, who specialize in STRs and balance aesthetics with ROI.
  
• Traditional Home Stager: Caution here. Staging for resale is very different than staging for hospitality. Most stagers aren’t thinking about guest comfort, durability, or repeat use.
  
• Creative Friend: Can be a great budget-friendly option if they have a good eye and understand the business needs of short-term rentals.

3. Splurge vs. Save: Where to Invest

If your budget’s tight, prioritize these items for durability and guest satisfaction:

• Beds & Mattresses: Your #1 review risk (or reward).
  
• Sofas: Choose cleanable, sturdy options with performance fabric.
  
• Showers & Kitchens: Invest in amenities that feel hotel-grade.
  

Want to save? You can scale back on decor, small furnishings, and lesser-used spaces—but make sure your photos still shine.

4. STR Designers Know More Than Just Style

A good STR designer isn’t just thinking about colors and couches—they’re thinking about:

• Layouts that maximize bookings
  
• Photo-worthy vignettes
  
• Guest flow and maintenance ease
  
• Long-term ROI on furnishings
  

They’ll also help you avoid costly mistakes and may pass along discounts through tools like Minoan, which gives hosts access to trade pricing on top brands.

5. Property Management? Know Your Options

Joanna also asked about property management. Here’s our take:

• Self-Hosting: Keeps more money in your pocket and helps you learn the ropes. We recommend starting here if you can.
  
• Hiring a Manager: If you go this route, interview carefully. Look for:
  
  • STR-specific experience
    
  • Solid revenue management strategy
    
  • Preventative maintenance plans
    
  • Strong guest support systems

Ask to speak with other owners they manage for. And remember—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

Have More Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your hosting questions to the Hosting Hotline and tune in to the podcast for answers. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more tips: @thanksforvisiting_.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Somerled Designs | Short-term rental interior design from real estate investors
• Minoan | Save big on furniture and decor for your STR
• Are you a brand-new host? | Get the Hosting Handbook today!