You might already know this, but adding amenity fees to your vacation rental can boost your income without making your base price look high. It’s a neat way to keep your nightly rate competitive, yet still make some extra cash on the side. Lots of travelers expect extra perks (pool access, parking, stuff like that), and many don’t mind paying for them separately. If you’re not charging for those extras, you could be leaving money on the table.
And it’s kind of smart. Instead of bundling everything into one price, you break out the extras, so guests only pay for what they actually use. It sounds simple, but it changes the way people see your rental. Some might book because your base price looks affordable. Others who want the pool or parking can just pay for those things. Everybody wins, or at least, that’s the idea.
1. Understand What Amenity Fees Are
Amenity fees cover extra features or services that go beyond the basic rental. Think about stuff like pool access, hot tubs, parking spots, or even bike rentals. Instead of adding those costs to your nightly price, you list them separately. That way, guests see a lower base rate but pay more if they want those extras.
It makes sense, right? Not everyone will use every amenity, so this way, only the people who care about them pay. It feels fairer, but sometimes it can get a little tricky figuring out what belongs in the base rate and what you should charge extra for.
2. Choose Which Amenities to Charge For
Start by making a list of all the extras you offer. Which ones actually cost you money or need upkeep? For example, pool heating or cleaning the hot tub costs time and money. These are good things to consider charging for.
But stuff like Wi-Fi or basic kitchen supplies? You probably want to include those in the base price. Charging for Wi-Fi might annoy guests because they expect it to be free. The trick is knowing what your guests see as standard and what feels like a perk. That line shifts depending on the place, the market, and maybe even the season.
3. Research Local Market Practices
It helps to look around and see what other rentals nearby are doing. Are they charging for parking or pool access? If yes, how much? You want your fees to make sense in your market. Too high, and you’ll scare people off. Too low, and you’re losing out.
Sometimes, though, you’ll notice inconsistencies. Like some places charge a ton for parking, while others don’t charge at all. It’s confusing. So, maybe you take the middle ground, or just do what feels right for your setup.
4. Keep Fees Clear and Transparent
Guests hate surprises. That’s the bottom line. If you hide amenity fees deep in the fine print, expect complaints. Make your fees clear and upfront, right in your listing and during booking.
Simple language works best. Instead of vague wording like “extra charges apply,” say “Pool Access Fee: $20 per stay.” Straight to the point. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in how guests trust you.
5. Consider Flat Fees vs. Per-Person or Per-Day Charges
Here’s a choice you need to make: Do you want to charge a flat fee per stay? Or do you want to charge per person or per day? Flat fees keep it simple. For instance, a $30 pool fee per stay. Easy math for everyone.
But sometimes, a per-person or per-day fee makes more sense. If you rent out bikes or paddleboards, why charge someone who’s not using them? This method feels fair, but it can get complicated to manage. You might have to explain it more often.
6. Test Different Fee Structures
You probably won’t nail it the first time. Try different fee setups and see how guests react. Maybe start small and watch if bookings drop or complaints rise. Then adjust from there.
For example, charging for parking might scare some guests off, but a small pool fee might not. It’s not always obvious what works until you test it.
7. Use Fees to Highlight Unique Amenities
Amenity fees can actually help you show off what makes your rental special. Say you have a rare hot tub, or a private beach path, or a game room. Charging a fee signals these aren’t run-of-the-mill extras.
People might be willing to pay more if they think they’re getting something exclusive. But be careful; it has to feel worth it. Otherwise, guests might think you’re nickel-and-diming.
8. Communicate Value to Guests
Don’t just slap a fee on and hope guests pay. Explain what they’re getting. If the pool fee covers heating and cleaning, say that. If the parking fee means a guaranteed spot, make that clear.
When guests understand the value, they’re more likely to accept the cost without grumbling.
9. Combine Amenity Fees with Dynamic Pricing
Amenity fees work well alongside dynamic pricing. Your base rate can go up and down with demand, but amenity fees can stay steady or change differently.
That way, you keep your rental attractive during slow times with a low base rate, but still earn extra when things get busy.
10. Track Your Results and Adjust Regularly
Keep an eye on how amenity fees affect your bookings and revenue. Use your booking platform’s reports or just a simple spreadsheet. See if fees make guests hesitate or if they boost your income.
Don’t be afraid to tweak or drop fees that don’t work out. It’s a process, not a one-and-done deal.
Making Amenity Fees Work for You
Amenity fees are a handy way to turn small extras into extra income. Just keep things clear, fair, and tied to real value. Stay flexible and listen to guest feedback.
If you want a platform that helps you set and manage amenity fees without the headache, Houfy makes it straightforward. It’s built for hosts who want to highlight their best features while keeping pricing transparent. Give it a try and see how small fees can add up over time.
