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To Hot Tub
or Not To Hot Tub?
by Robin
Fowler
To hot tub or not
to hot tub? That is the question among many vacation
rental owners. Is it the best choice for your property?
Should you install a hot tub in your vacation rental?
That is one of the big questions that seems to be asked
by many vacation rental owners. The truth is, hot tubs
are a huge draw to potential renters, and many vacation
rental owners report that most of their inquiries ask
specifically if the property has a freestanding hot tub.
If you are considering installing a hot tub in your
rental property, here are a few things to consider:
• A hot tub will add value to your vacation rental
property
• A hot tub will give you a leg up with the local
competition, meaning that your property might be more
appealing to potential renters than others in the area
without such an amenity
• A hot tub will make your property more attractive,
fun, romantic, etc.
• Many vacationers not only prefer hot tubs in their
rentals, but will only rent properties that include them
So, it seems like a no-brainer when it comes to the
question of whether to install a hot tub or not. But,
you should think about the potential risks and downsides
involved, too.
• There will be extra maintenance required. Extra
maintenance means extra expense. This includes the cost
of having someone maintain and fix the hot tub, as well
as the cost of chemicals to keep it safe and hygienic.
There is also an increased risk of damage by your
renters. You might consider increasing your damage
deposit if you put in a hot tub
• Depending on where your property is, there are going
to be various building codes and other regulations, such
as where you can put the hot tub, the type of
arrangement it is in (on a deck, patio, etc.), and
dealing with health inspections to make sure that it is
safe for your guests to use
• There is an increased liability whenever you have an
amenity of this nature on your property. You must take
any precautions necessary to safeguard against children
or anyone getting hurt in or around the hot tub. This
might include installing a temperature timer, a hot tub
cover, and detailed instructions for guests. Regular
maintenance will help as well
You might be considering installing jetted bathtubs in
your vacation rental as a way to get around a full hot
tub installation. While these are a very nice touch in a
bathroom, keep in mind that they only hold one or two
people. Most renters are looking for a hot tub that will
hold four or more people, as well as offer a certain
type of ambience, such as under the stars on a deck or
patio. Having a hot tub also seems to be somewhat of a
necessity for properties located in colder climates
where guests enjoy skiing.
A hot tub can be a great investment and excellent
addition to your vacation rental property. In the
vacation rental ownership game, it seems that hot tubs
are the way to go. If you decide to install one on your
property, know the risks and expenses of having one, and
know that you will be offering renters one more amenity
that will help your property stand out from the rest!
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Need
help? Call toll-free 1-800-929-VLBO
