When it comes to maximizing the potential of your Airbnb property, few things move the needle more than a strategic reconstruction. But with countless design options, budgets, and guest expectations to consider, how do you choose the right path forward?
At Evacanza, we specialize in transforming properties into top-performing short-term rentals. Drawing from our experience managing a diverse portfolio of homes, we’re here to guide you through the reconstruction decision-making process—from light refreshes to full-scale transformations.
And before you start with the reconstruction, remember, you are not the customer so it’s best to set strong personal preferences aside.
Step 1: Evaluate your property’s current performance
Before you swing a hammer or order new furniture, start with the data:
- Occupancy rates: Are you frequently booked or seeing long gaps between guests?
- Guest reviews: Do they mention outdated spaces or poor functionality?
- Pricing vs. competition: Are your rates on par with similar listings in your area?
If your performance is underwhelming compared to top properties in your market, based on similar occupancy and location, it could be a signal that reconstruction could be a high-ROI move.
Step 2: Define your target guest
Your reconstruction choices should reflect the expectations of your ideal guest. Ask yourself:
- Are you targeting group of people, families, or luxury vacationers?
- Do your current finishes and amenities match what these guests want?
- Will premium upgrades help attract higher-paying clientele?
The clearer your audience, the easier it is to design a space they’ll fall in love with—and book repeatedly.
Step 3: Focus on function first
While aesthetics matter, functionality is what separates pretty listings from profitable ones. This will come in handy also in the cleaning after the guests have checked out. Prioritize updates that improve:
- Guest flow – Think open floor plans, better furniture layout, and uncluttered spaces.
- Storage – Add practical storage for guests and cleaning teams alike.
- Durability – Choose finishes and furniture that withstand heavy use without compromising style.
Our team at Evacanza always starts with a design that’s guest-friendly and host-efficient.
Step 4: Take it one step at a time
Reconstruction doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Many hosts benefit from a phased approach:
- Phase 1: Surface-level upgrades like paint, lighting, and hardware.
- Phase 2: Furniture replacement, soft goods, and layout optimization.
- Phase 3: Structural changes, bathroom/kitchen renovations, and smart home upgrades.
This lets you spread out investment over time, reducing downtime and financial strain—while still improving your property’s performance incrementally.
Step 5: Set a proper budget
Think of reconstruction not just as a cost, but as an investment in future income. A few budgeting tips:
- Allocate 5-15% of your property’s value toward smart upgrades
- Balance splurges (like a spa-style bathroom) with savings (like durable but affordable flooring)
- Always factor in potential revenue increases post-renovation
We help clients map out ROI projections so decisions are grounded in financial strategy, not just aesthetics.
Step 6: Choose partners who understand Airbnb
Not all contractors or designers are familiar with short-term rental dynamics. At Evacanza, we bring specialized experience in:
- Optimizing for guest flow and visual storytelling
- Selecting furnishings that withstand turnover and cleaning
- Coordinating renovation timelines around booking calendars
- Staging for professional photography and Airbnb search visibility
Choosing a partner who understands both design and performance metrics is key to a successful transformation.
Questions to Ask Before You Start
Use this checklist to evaluate whether your Airbnb is ready for reconstruction:
- Is your decor outdated or inconsistent?
- Are there recurring guest complaints about the space?
- Do you want to target a higher-tier market segment?
- Are maintenance issues increasing?
- Have you plateaued in revenue growth?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, a strategic reconstruction could dramatically shift your rental performance.
What’s next for you?
Schedule your free property assessment today and take the first step toward transforming your space—and your success.