How Thoughtful Renovations Increase Airbnb Bookings and Nightly Rates

At Cedar and Stone, we’ve learned that not all renovations are created equal—especially when it comes to short-term rentals. Strategic upgrades can dramatically increase nightly rates, occupancy, and guest satisfaction, while unnecessary changes can drain budgets without delivering returns.

In this post, we’re sharing the renovation choices that consistently make the biggest impact on our Airbnb properties.

Focus on Guest Experience First

Guests may not notice what’s behind the walls, but they immediately feel the difference when a space is bright, comfortable, and functional. Our renovation decisions always start with one question: How will this improve the guest’s stay?

High-impact areas include:

• Comfortable sleeping spaces

• Clean, modern bathrooms

• Functional kitchens

• Inviting living areas with thoughtful lighting

The Power of Lighting

Lighting is one of the most overlooked upgrades—and one of the most powerful. Swapping outdated fixtures for warm, layered lighting instantly elevates a space and improves listing photos.

We prioritize:

• Warm LED bulbs

• Statement fixtures in dining and living areas

• Bedside lamps for convenience

• Bright, clean bathroom lighting

Durable, Stylish Finishes

Short-term rentals see more wear and tear than traditional homes. We select materials that balance durability with design:

• Luxury vinyl plank or refinished hardwood floors

• Washable, neutral wall colors

• Quartz or solid-surface countertops

• Easy-to-clean tile in bathrooms

These finishes hold up over time while still delivering a high-end feel.

Results That Matter

After implementing thoughtful renovations, we consistently see:

• Higher nightly rates

• Better guest reviews

• Increased repeat bookings

• Less ongoing maintenance

Renovating with intention doesn’t just improve aesthetics—it directly impacts revenue.