Transform Your Short-Term Rental: Expert Secrets to Designing Unforgettable Guest Experiences

Welcome to another episode recap from the Vacation Rental Revolution Podcast, where Vodyssey’s founder Shawn Moore dives deep into what truly sets a successful vacation rental apart. In this episode, Shawn is joined by Mike Whitfield, principal designer at Wind Development and a long-time collaborator with Vodyssey. Together, they reveal the secret sauce behind creating extraordinary guest experiences—experiences that don’t just fill calendars, but also build lasting memories and drive higher returns.

Why Guest Experience Is the Heart of Short-Term Rental Success

In the world of short-term rentals, it’s easy to focus on numbers—occupancy rates, nightly rates, and reviews. But as Shawn and Mike emphasize, the real advantage comes from delivering an experience guests can’t find anywhere else. In Mike’s words, “We’re in the experience business.” If you skip this stage and focus only on marketing or acquisition, you’ll always be chasing the market instead of leading it.

The Journey: Crafting a Story in Every Home

Mike’s background is steeped in storytelling—growing up in a family dedicated to hotel and commercial design, he learned that every space should tell a story. This philosophy translates directly to short-term rentals. Instead of generic decor, successful properties lean into what makes their location special. Whether it’s a beach house, a city loft, or a cabin in the woods, your property’s theme should celebrate its setting without falling into cliché.

• Lean Into Location: Guests choose your property because they want to experience something unique. Don’t shy away from the area’s signature features; embrace them in your design.
• Room-by-Room Storytelling: Mike recommends breaking your property into chapters. Each room should have a theme, a story, and a standout feature.
• Pops of Color and Meaningful Touches: Avoid overused decor and instead use color and authentic, regionally-inspired items to make a lasting impression.

Following these principles not only delights guests but also simplifies your marketing—because the experience sells itself.

The Vodyssey Advantage: A Proven Design and Investment Process

One of the most overwhelming parts for new owners is knowing where to source decor and how to pull together a cohesive story in their property. That’s where Vodyssey’s process shines. By joining Vodyssey, members gain access to expert designers like Mike, a streamlined design algorithm, and a step-by-step blueprint tailored for short-term rentals.

• Signature Look and Feel: Vodyssey properties stand out with recognizable, authentic designs that guests remember and rave about.
• Decades of Data-Driven Design: Years of experience and guest feedback have shaped a process that works in every market, from Disney to Nashville to the Bourbon Trail.
• Full-Service Support: The Vodyssey approach is holistic—combining guidance on acquisition, design, and marketing, so you never feel overwhelmed or alone.

Three Pillars for Rental Success

Shawn and Mike break down the formula for vacation rental success into three essential pillars:

1. The Right Property in the Right Location: No amount of design can fix a poor location or an overpaid property. Start with a solid foundation.
2. Creating a Unique Experience: This is where design comes in. Thoughtful, story-driven spaces do 95% of the heavy lifting for your marketing.
3. Marketing That Amplifies Your Story: Once you have a signature experience, marketing becomes much easier and more effective.

Skip the second step, and you’re left trying to sell a forgettable, model-home-like experience—one that guests won’t recommend or return to.

Action Steps: How to Bring This to Life in Your Own Property

If you’re ready to transform your short-term rental, start by focusing on your guest’s journey. Walk through your property as if you were a first-time guest. Ask yourself:

• What story does each room tell?
• Are there unique, memorable touches that reflect the location?
• Does your design deliver on the promise of an experience, not just a place to stay?

For those overwhelmed by the process, Vodyssey’s community and expert team are here to help. Our signature design process, ongoing coaching, and access to top-tier professionals make it possible for anyone—regardless of experience—to create market-leading properties.

Ready to Stand Out?

Design is not an afterthought—it’s the core of what makes your investment thrive for five, seven, or even ten years before a refresh is needed. The Vodyssey method delivers results that members see in higher occupancy, glowing reviews, and personal pride.

Take the Next Step Toward Lifestyle and Financial Freedom

Are you ready to stop dreaming and start building a life you don’t want to take a vacation from? Book a call with our team and discover how the Vodyssey approach can help you create unforgettable guest experiences, maximize your returns, and achieve your vision of lifestyle and financial freedom.

For more inspiration and actionable insights, be sure to check out the rest of our blog at vodyssey.com/blog.