How Pools and Spas Strengthen Your Short-Term Rental’s Bottom Line

For short-term rental (STR) owners, profitability hinges on two things: occupancy and nightly rates. As platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo grow increasingly competitive, the pressure to stand out and drive higher revenue per booking continues to rise. Fortunately, one upgrade consistently delivers both immediate and long-term returns: installing a pool or spa.

Whether you're managing a vacation home, a coastal cottage, or a luxury retreat, adding a well-designed pool or spa can significantly boost your STR’s bottom line. Here's how.

1. Command Higher Nightly Rates

Travelers are willing to pay more for premium amenities—and pools and spas top the list. In many U.S. markets, short-term rentals with pools earn 20–50% more per night than comparable listings without one. A heated spa, plunge pool, or modern fiberglass pool instantly elevates the perceived value of your property.

Even budget-conscious travelers will stretch their nightly budget for the added luxury of a private pool. The result? A strong return on investment, especially in warm-weather markets where pool use extends across several seasons.

2. Increase Occupancy Rates

A private pool or spa doesn’t just justify a higher rate—it helps you book more nights. These amenities make your listing more attractive on crowded rental platforms, helping you stand out in a sea of similar homes.

Guests often filter searches by specific amenities. If your property doesn’t offer a pool or spa, it may not even appear in search results for families, couples, or groups seeking a resort-like experience. More visibility leads to more bookings—and that translates directly to your bottom line.

3. Enhance Guest Experience and Reviews

Pools and spas turn a stay into an experience. Guests appreciate the convenience and comfort of unwinding in their own private oasis. Whether it’s families with kids, couples on a getaway, or groups celebrating a special occasion, a pool adds to the memory-making.

Better guest experiences often lead to better reviews. And better reviews improve your ranking on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, which means even more exposure and bookings over time. It’s a positive cycle that starts with offering a standout feature.

4. Boost Property Value and Marketability

Beyond bookings, a pool or spa can significantly increase your property’s resale value. In markets that cater to vacationers or second-home buyers, a well-built outdoor space is often a key selling point—and one that can help you command a higher sale price.

Fiberglass pools, in particular, offer an ideal solution for STR owners. They install quickly, require less maintenance than traditional gunite pools, and hold up well to high guest turnover.

A Smart Investment in Guest Experience and Profit

Pools and spas aren’t just aesthetic upgrades—they’re income-generating assets that improve your STR’s performance across the board. From higher rates and better reviews to longer stays and increased property value, the benefits ripple far beyond the water’s edge.

At Saône Pools, we specialize in turnkey fiberglass installations designed for maximum impact and minimum stress. Let’s make your short-term rental a destination worth booking—and rebooking.