If you’re leaving your short-term rental’s outdoor space as “just a patio,” you’re leaving money on the table — and probably falling behind competitors.
Today’s travelers don’t just want a place to sleep. They want a vibe.
A mini escape.
A reason to book your home instead of the one down the street.
And in many markets — especially here in Northeast Florida — the backyard is your secret weapon.
This guide walks you through:
Let’s get you more bookings, better reviews, and that “this place is perfect” comment — starting in your own backyard.
It’s simple: people don’t travel to sit inside.
Especially in vacation markets, guests want:
Here’s what a killer outdoor space can impact:
📈 STRs with outdoor living areas averaged 20–30% more revenue annually in Florida coastal markets in 2024 (source: AirDNA + Deal Room network)
Here’s what books better — broken down by value:
Add:
✔ Adirondack chairs
✔ Gravel or paver base
✔ Firewood starter kit or propane
✔ Edison string lights on poles or pergola
Notes:
Look for:
✔ Weatherproof table that seats your guest count
✔ Cushioned lounge seating
✔ Umbrella or shade structure
💡 Tip: Add a simple bar cart, outdoor rug, or faux plant to take it from “meh” to “magazine.”
Must-haves:
✔ Propane or charcoal grill (with extras provided)
✔ Grill tools
✔ Clear signage for safety + use
These photograph beautifully and give guests reasons to choose you.
The guest might be reading your description…
But the booking happens because of the photos.
Backyards that book follow these principles:
🔗 Want a guide to staging for STR photos? Download our free Photo Checklist
| Feature | Budget Range |
| Fire Pit Setup | $500–$1,200 |
| Dining Table + Seating | $800–$2,500 |
| String Lights | $75–$200 |
| Outdoor Rug | $100–$250 |
| Hammock/Swing Chair | $150–$400 |
| Cornhole/Game Set | $100–$200 |
| Planters + Greenery | $200–$500 |
| TOTAL: | $2,000–$5,000 for a complete guest-ready space |
📈 Add-on value: These upgrades can boost your ADR by $40–$100/night in the right markets.
Before you design anything, ask:
Who is this backyard for?
The best STRs lean into their vibe — they don’t try to be everything for everyone.
Great outdoor spaces only work if they stay clean, safe, and photo-ready.
✔ Clean seating areas + check for spider webs/dirt
✔ Test string lights + bulbs
✔ Confirm grill is clean and propane filled
✔ Restock fire pit supplies
✔ Refresh landscaping
✔ Deep-clean patio and power wash if needed
✔ Check for broken furniture or damaged items
💡 Pro tip: Have your cleaners or inspectors send a weekly outdoor photo to your team for quality control.
✔ Comfortable seating for your guest count
✔ Lighting (solar, string, or sconces)
✔ One entertainment element (fire pit, games, hammock)
✔ Grill + utensils
✔ Outdoor rug, throw pillows, styled accents
✔ Clear instructions in your house manual (esp. for hot tubs + fire use)
✔ Photos that sell the vibe
You don’t need acreage or a pool to win bookings.
You need:
When your backyard becomes part of the vacation experience, not just the backdrop — you’ll see the bookings follow.
We help investors:
👉 Get the Backyard STR Design Guide
👉 Book a consult with Joseph Ellen Designs
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