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How Important is a View?
by Robin Fowler

A room with a view. It’s what we all love to have on vacation. Or is it?

When you are looking to purchase a new vacation rental property, you likely have many criteria. Large bedrooms, new construction, and ample storage might be some of things that are important to you for your vacation rental property. And, you might be thinking that a vacation rental with a beautiful view might be the only way that you will ever attract customers. After all, you will probably be competing with other vacation rentals in the area, and your vacation rental will need to be up to the standards. In that case, buying a vacation rental with a view is smart. But, is a view everything?

While it is true that many, if not most, vacationers are looking for that stunning beach or mountain view, there are some that are just as happy with clean an comfortable accommodations that are close to the area attractions and activities. In those cases, cost and budget is often a factor. When you are looking for a vacation rental to purchase, think about the crowd you are targeting.

A vacation rental with a view will equal higher rent, because you can (and should) charge it, both for the premium view and to be on level with similar vacation rentals in the area. Higher rent will also equal higher expectations from guests. These customers will likely be looking for luxury, inside and out. The higher rent you charge might not end up in your pocket, but might end up going back into your vacation rental in the way of furnishings, décor, and amenities.

But, if you are on the fence about owning a vacation rental with a view, you might consider targeting the budget-conscious vacationer. Those with young kids, or even younger couples might not be able to afford the higher rents of fancier rentals, and might not find a view all that important anyway. Owning a vacation rental without a view means that you can charge lower rent, and not have to spend nearly as much on décor or furnishings. Plus, lower rents might attract more bookings in the long run, especially if your vacation rental is attractive, is close to the beach, the slopes, or the river, and has all the comforts of home!

Here’s another thing to think about: vacation rentals that don’t offer a premium view can offer guests coziness, seclusion, and tranquility. That can be one way to market your vacation rental, in order to make it sound as appealing as rentals with mountain or ocean views.

But, views do often mean that a vacation rental is more brightly lit and more elevated, like on a mountainside for example, in order to take advantage of views. This might prove to be more appealing to the majority of your renters. Vacation rentals with great views also mean a higher property value and resale value. However, vacation rentals with a great view also mean that they will cost you more money at purchase!

To view or not to view? Well, it depends. Think about what you want in a vacation rental home. Will this home eventually be your primary residence, say when you retire? If that’s the case, how important is a view to you? Look at the other vacation rentals in the area in which you are interested in purchasing. And think about what rental market you want to target. When it comes to choosing a vacation rental with a view, go with your gut!