Maximize Airbnb ROI: Outdoor Upgrades That Drive Bookings & Revenue

In the world of short-term rentals, standing out from the crowd is everything. Whether you’re listing a cozy cottage on Airbnb or a luxury home on VRBO, outdoor amenities can make or break your booking rates. Guests today are looking for so much more than simply a place to sleep. They want their getaway to feel like an experience. A smart outdoor remodel can deliver exactly that while enhancing property value and increasing your rental revenue.

If you're a homeowner looking to turn the yard of your short-term rental into a heavenly haven, read on. We’ve complied five outdoor upgrades that pack the most punch in terms of guest satisfaction…and your bottom line.

Why Your Rental’s Outdoor Space Matters

An eye-catching outdoor space can be one of the most influential factors in a guest’s decision to book a property. A beautifully designed backyard sets the stage for relaxation, entertainment, and unforgettable moments. All included in the price of a guest’s stay and the only thing they have to do is step outside. That’s why investing in your outdoor space for Airbnb isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. It’s a strategic move with lasting ROI.

At System Pavers, we specialize in outdoor remodeling that blends beauty, durability, and functionality. With over 30 years of expertise designing and installing everything from paver patios to pergolas, we know how to craft spaces that make guests fall in love. It just so happens these are some the same features that will make your rental become a guest favorite.

Top Outdoor Features That Boost Rental ROI

1. Outdoor Kitchens: The Ultimate Entertainer’s Draw

Today’s travelers use vacation time to carve out more moments to connect. And nothing brings people together like food. A well-designed outdoor kitchen turns your backyard into a hub for grilling, sipping, and socializing. Add a dining area under a pergola, and you’ve got a five-star amenity that can help justify charging a higher nightly rate on your bookings.

2. Fire Pits & Fireplaces: Cozy Comfort That Books Year-Round

Whether it’s a fire pit under the stars or a dramatic outdoor fireplace, fire features are one of the most-searched amenities on Airbnb. They offer ambiance, warmth, and a place for storytelling. Just add smores and you have all the key ingredients for an unforgettable guest experience!

3. Hot Tub & Pool-Ready Spaces: Luxe Living Without the Installation

While System Pavers doesn’t install pools or hot tubs, we do create gorgeous spaces around them. Our paver pool decks, composite decking, and pergola-covered patios are perfect for supporting your existing water features. Even if you’re not ready to take the proverbial plunge by adding a pool or hot tub to your rental, a deck or pergola can be a functional way to prep your space for future upgrades. These additions can significantly increase listing visibility and rates in competitive markets.

4. Outdoor Lighting: A Small Touch with Big Impact

Yes, thoughtful outdoor lighting increases safety and reduces liability. But it also transforms your backyard into an enchanting nighttime retreat. From pathway lights along paver walkways to simple string lights overhead, lighting creates atmosphere and extends usability well into the evening.

5. Paver Patios, Driveways & Walkways: Style Meets Durability

Every successful rental needs a solid foundation. Our paver patios, driveways, and walkways offer timeless beauty, are low maintenance, and are built to be exceptionally durability. These are all key for high-traffic rental spaces. Bonus: These upgrades also photograph exceedingly well (hello, Insta-worthy shots) while standing up to daily wear and tear with ease.

Other Smart Rental-Friendly Backyard Upgrades

• Artificial Turf

  A lush, green yard without the hassle of mowing or watering. Guests (including kids and pets) love it. Hosts love it more.

• Water Features

  From fountains to bubbling urns the sound of flowing water adds an instant sense of peace and tranquility.

• Composite Decking

  An ideal low-maintenance solution that resists fading, staining, and splintering, it’s a perfect choice for high-use rental properties.

Outdoor ROI for Short-Term Rentals: Why It Pays Off

Investing in your outdoor space is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your rental property’s revenue. Here’s why:

• Higher Nightly Rates

  Guests are willing to pay more for upgraded amenities.

• Increased Bookings

  Beautiful outdoor areas help listings stand out in crowded markets.

• Better Reviews

  Happy guests leave better reviews. Better reviews lead to more bookings.

• Lower Overall Maintenance

  Durable, professionally installed features reduce long-term upkeep costs.

These benefits add up to a serious outdoor ROI for short-term rental properties. What a beautiful way to make your investment work harder for you, season after season!

Let’s Design Your Airbnb-Ready Outdoor Space

Whether you’re gearing up for your very first short-term rental or upgrading an existing property, System Pavers can help you create an outdoor living space that wows your guests and works for your business. From curb appeal that make a grand first impression to fire pits, pergolas, and more, we offer solutions designed to elevate your property and maximize return.

Ready to turn your rental into a booking magnet? Book your complimentary consultation with System Pavers today and discover the power of a professionally-designed outdoor space that’ll help ensure Airbnb success.