Furnishing a Vacation-Ready Short-Term Rental in Myrtle Beach
- Bee Setups
- 2 days ago
- 14 min read
Thinking about setting up a vacation rental in Myrtle Beach? It's a great idea, but getting it ready for guests can feel like a lot. You need furniture that looks good, holds up to use, and makes people want to book again. Whether you're furnishing your first place or adding to your portfolio, knowing what to get and how to get it done makes all the difference. Let's talk about how to furnish your short term rental in Myrtle Beach the right way.
Key Takeaways
When you furnish a short term rental in Myrtle Beach, focus on creating distinct zones for living, sleeping, and cooking that feel welcoming and practical for guests.
Durable furniture and stylish decor are important for guest experience, but also consider outdoor areas to make the most of the Myrtle Beach location.
Turnkey furnishing services can simplify the process, handling everything from design to setup, saving you time and potential headaches.
Budgeting is key; understand typical costs and explore financing options to manage expenses and maximize your investment's return.
Choosing the right furnishing partner is vital for a successful setup, ensuring quality, efficiency, and a property ready to generate income quickly.
Essential Furnishings For Your Myrtle Beach Rental
Setting up a short-term rental in Myrtle Beach is more than tossing a few chairs and beds into a house. If you want a place where guests feel comfortable from the first moment, every room needs the right touches. Here’s what matters most:
Creating A Welcoming Living Space
The living room will be the heart of most Myrtle Beach rentals, so it can’t be an afterthought. This space needs to strike a balance between style, practicality, and a bit of local personality. To create a space that guests will actually use:
Offer plenty of seating—think a sturdy sofa, armchairs, and maybe a sleeper for families.
Install a TV that’s easy to use; streaming options are a huge plus.
Add a coffee table and side tables for snacks, drinks, and remote controls.
Include a few games, some beach reads, and coastal-inspired decor (but skip the cheesy stuff).
Make sure there’s enough light for hanging out at night.
When guests walk in, they want a place that feels relaxing, uncluttered, and right for get-togethers after a day by the water.
Comfortable And Functional Bedrooms
Bedrooms are where guests spend a third of their time, so every detail matters here. Guests need more than just a mattress:
Quality mattresses and bedding (go for comfortable, not cheap)
Matching sets of sheets, pillows, and comforters for every bed
Bedside tables with lamps and easy-to-reach power outlets
A dresser or closet with hangers—hangers matter, trust me
Full-length mirrors, blackout curtains, and basic wall art
Sleep Setup Must-Haves | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Queen/King Bed Frames | Fits families or couples better |
Cozy Bedding | Good reviews often mention sleep |
Extra Blanket/Pillows | Flexibility for different guest needs |
Blackout Curtains | Guests sleep late on vacation |
You want guests to wake up happy, not with a crick in their neck or sunlight in their eyes.
Equipping The Kitchen For Guests
A well-equipped kitchen is still one of the key reasons travelers pick a short-term rental. It’s got to be more than just a coffee maker and a couple of mugs. Here’s a quick checklist:
Full set of pots, pans, and basic cooking utensils
Dishes and glassware for at least the max number of guests
Starter supplies—coffee, filters, salt, pepper, dish soap, and some trash bags
Microwave, toaster, and a blender (smoothies and frozen drinks—this is Myrtle Beach, after all)
Dishwasher if possible, plus enough dish towels
A rental with a true chef-ready kitchen stands out, especially for families and longer stays—something that helps boost repeat bookings according to higher earning potential in well-furnished vacation rentals.
Put yourself in your guest’s shoes: would you want to hunt for a spatula or pay for takeout every night?
Careful attention to these furniture basics sets your rental apart and keeps the five-star reviews coming (which matter more than you think when there’s so much competition at the beach).
Optimizing Your Rental For Guest Experience
Making your Myrtle Beach rental stand out is all about the details. It's not just about having furniture; it's about creating an environment that guests will love and remember. This means thinking about how people will actually use the space and making it as comfortable and practical as possible.
Designing For Durability And Style
When you're furnishing a rental, especially in a busy spot like Myrtle Beach, you need items that can handle a lot of use but still look good. Think about materials that are easy to clean and tough. For example, performance fabrics on sofas and chairs can save you a lot of headaches down the line. It’s a balance – you want it to feel stylish and inviting, but also know it can withstand sandy feet and the occasional spill. Durability doesn't have to mean boring; there are tons of great-looking options out there.
Here’s a quick look at some durable material ideas:
Performance Fabrics: Stain-resistant and easy to wipe down.
Solid Wood or Metal Furniture: Generally holds up better than particle board.
Tile or Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring: Great for high-traffic areas and spills.
Tempered Glass Tabletops: Less likely to shatter than regular glass.
Incorporating Local Charm And Amenities
Guests come to Myrtle Beach for a reason – the beach, the golf, the entertainment. Your rental should reflect that! Adding touches that speak to the local vibe can make a big difference. Think about artwork that features local scenes, or even just having beach towels and chairs readily available. Providing things that make their stay easier, like a good coffee maker or extra blankets, shows you've thought about their comfort. If your property is near popular golf courses, consider mentioning that in your listing and perhaps having a few golf-related magazines around. You can find great investment locations near golf courses that attract a specific type of renter.
Consider these local touches:
Local art or photography.
Beach gear (chairs, umbrella, towels).
A small selection of local guides or magazines.
Comfortable, high-quality linens.
Guests often book based on photos and descriptions. A well-designed, locally-inspired space creates a stronger first impression and can lead to better reviews.
Ensuring Outdoor Spaces Are Guest-Ready
If your rental has a balcony, patio, or yard, don't let it go to waste! Outdoor spaces are a huge draw, especially in a place like Myrtle Beach. Make sure there's comfortable seating, maybe a small table for morning coffee or evening drinks. Good lighting can also make a big difference for evening use. Even a simple setup with a couple of chairs and a small table can make the space feel more usable and appealing. Think about what guests would want to do outside – relax, eat, enjoy the weather. Providing that opportunity makes your rental more attractive.
Here’s what to consider for outdoor areas:
Comfortable seating (chairs, small sofa).
A small table for drinks or snacks.
Outdoor lighting for ambiance and safety.
If space allows, consider a small grill or fire pit.
The Turnkey Approach To Furnishing Rentals
Thinking about furnishing your rental property yourself can feel like a huge task, especially if you're not in town or just don't have the time. That's where the turnkey approach comes in. It's basically a service that handles everything from picking out furniture to getting it all set up in your property. This means you can go from an empty space to a guest-ready rental with minimal effort on your part.
Understanding Turnkey Services
Turnkey services are designed to be a complete, done-for-you solution. They typically cover the whole process:
Design Consultation: They'll work with you to understand your vision, target guest, and budget.
Sourcing & Procurement: They find and buy all the furniture, decor, and essentials.
Logistics & Delivery: They manage all the ordering, shipping, and scheduling.
Assembly & Installation: Their team delivers, assembles, and places all the items.
Staging: They arrange everything to make the space look its best for photos and guests.
It's like handing over the keys to a professional team who then hands them back when the place is fully furnished and ready to rent.
Benefits Of Professional Furnishing
Using a professional furnishing service can save you a lot of headaches. For starters, they know what works in rental properties. They focus on durable items that can withstand guest use, and they design spaces that photograph well for listings. This can lead to better bookings and higher rates. Plus, they often have access to furniture at better prices than you might find on your own. It really cuts down on the guesswork and potential costly mistakes.
Here's a quick look at what some services might include:
Package Type | Typical Starting Price* | What's Included (General) |
|---|---|---|
Standard | $995 + Furniture Cost | Studios/1BR, basic setup |
Essentials | $2,500 + Furniture Cost | Single Family/Larger Apt, Interior only |
Premium | $4,500 + Furniture Cost | Interior, Exterior, Amenities, Wall Treatment |
Luxury | $6,500+ + Furniture Cost | High-end properties, custom elements, murals |
*Note: Prices are examples and vary by provider and scope. Furniture costs are additional.
Streamlining The Setup Process
When you opt for a turnkey service, the timeline is usually much shorter than doing it yourself. Instead of weeks or months of coordinating deliveries and assembly, these companies can often get a property ready in 3-6 weeks. They handle all the moving parts, from ordering to final placement, which means your property can start generating income much faster. It takes the burden off your shoulders and gets your investment working for you sooner.
The biggest advantage is peace of mind. You're entrusting the furnishing to people who do this for a living. They understand the balance between style, durability, and cost, all aimed at maximizing your rental income. It's a way to avoid the common pitfalls new hosts encounter, like buying furniture that doesn't hold up or creating a space that doesn't appeal to renters.
Budgeting And Financing Your Rental Furnishings
Setting up a Myrtle Beach short-term rental comes with some big spending choices. If you don’t plan your budget or financing early, the costs can get out of hand, or you might end up skimping on things that really help attract guests. Here’s how to approach the numbers, explore payment options, and keep your return healthy.
Typical Furnishing Costs For Rentals
Furnishing a vacation rental isn’t cheap, but knowing what to expect means fewer surprises. Size, property style, and package choices matter. Here’s a look at common cost ranges for a turnkey setup:
Property Size | Low-End Setup | Mid-Range | High-End |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Bedroom | $12,000 | $15,000 | $18,000+ |
2 Bedroom | $15,000 | $18,000 | $22,000+ |
3 Bedroom | $18,000 | $22,000 | $26,000+ |
4 Bedroom | $25,000 | $30,000 | $35,000+ |
Remember, these numbers usually include the key furniture, kitchenware, décor, and sometimes outdoor items. A true “turnkey” package means you (and your guests) can walk in and use everything from day one.
A realistic budget not only keeps your project moving, but also helps you avoid cutting corners you’ll regret when guests leave critical feedback.
Exploring Financing Options
Buying everything outright isn’t the only way to get going—there are several options to spread costs:
Financing Packages: Some furnishing companies offer special plans, turning a big upfront cost into a manageable monthly payment. Approval can be quick, with funds arriving in a few days.
Personal or Business Loans: If you qualify, a business or personal loan puts more control in your hands. Just watch the rates and repayment terms.
Credit Cards: Okay for short-term float, but be careful of interest rates if you can’t pay off the balance quickly.
Here are some example monthly payments seen for turnkey setups:
Example Location | Property Size | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
Houston, TX | 1bd | $132 |
Austin, TX | 2bd | $189 |
Nashville, TN | 3bd | $317 |
Smoky Mountains, TN | 4bd | $357 |
Joshua Tree, CA | 5bd | $486 |
Maximizing Return On Investment
You’re not just spending money—you’re making a move to boost earnings. Keep ROI in focus by:
Choosing mid-range items that are durable, not luxury pieces that won’t gain you extra bookings.
Focusing spend where guests notice most: beds, seating, and kitchen essentials.
Avoiding over-customizing unless it really fits the local guest market (think: surf theme, not gold-plated faucets).
Regularly reviewing how your furnishings hold up so you fix or replace before it impacts your listing.
A thoughtful setup pays you back not just in bookings, but in reviews, repeat guests, and less stress about emergency replacements. Take time to plan, compare options, and don’t stretch yourself too thin upfront.
Choosing The Right Furnishing Partner
So, you've decided to bring in the pros to handle the furnishing for your Myrtle Beach rental. Smart move! Picking the right company can save you a ton of headaches and, honestly, a lot of money in the long run. It's not just about picking out pretty furniture; it's about finding someone who gets the rental business and knows how to make your property attractive to guests while also being durable enough to handle constant turnover.
What To Look For In A Furnishing Company
When you're shopping around, don't just go for the first name you see. Think about what really matters for your rental. You want a company that understands short-term rentals specifically. They should be able to show you examples of places they've done, especially ones similar to yours. Ask about their design process – do they just pick stuff, or do they actually create a plan based on your property and who you want to attract?
Here are a few things to keep on your checklist:
Experience with Rentals: Have they done this before? How many properties have they furnished?
Design Style: Does their style match what you envision for your Myrtle Beach place? Can they adapt to different aesthetics?
Durability Focus: Do they talk about using furniture that can stand up to guests, or are they just picking the cheapest options?
Turnkey Service: Do they handle everything from design to delivery and setup, or are you managing parts of it?
Budget Alignment: Can they work within your budget and still deliver a great result? Do they offer financing options?
Evaluating Experience And Track Record
Don't be shy about asking for references or looking at their portfolio. A company with a solid track record will have plenty of examples to show you. Look for reviews online, too. See what other property owners have said about their experience. Did the company deliver on time? Was the communication good? Were there any hidden costs?
It's also helpful to see if they have experience with properties like yours. Furnishing a small condo is different from furnishing a large beach house. Some companies even have different packages for different property types or budgets, which can be a good sign they've thought this through.
Package Type | Ideal For | Typical Setup Fee (Excl. Furniture) | Revisions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Studios & 1bd Apartments | $995+ | 2 | Good for corporate or student housing |
Essentials | Single Family Homes, Larger Apartments | $2,500+ | 3 | Interior only, no exterior or amenities |
Premium | Single Family Homes, Larger Apartments | $4,500+ | 4 | Interior, exterior, amenities, wall treatment |
Luxury | High-end properties ($500+/night) | $6,500+ | 5 | All-inclusive, custom amenities, murals |
Partnering For Long-Term Success
Think of this as more than just a one-time setup. A good furnishing partner can become a valuable asset as you grow your rental portfolio. They understand your goals and can help you make design choices that will pay off in the long run, both in terms of guest satisfaction and property value. They should be able to provide insights into what works in the Myrtle Beach market specifically, helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Ultimately, you're looking for a partner who can take a load off your shoulders, deliver a high-quality result, and help you make more money from your rental. It's about finding someone you can trust to get the job done right, so you can focus on other aspects of your business.
Accelerating Your Rental Launch
Launching a short-term rental in Myrtle Beach can be daunting, especially if you're aiming for a quick turnaround. Still, speed doesn’t mean sacrificing guest appeal or cutting corners. Here’s how to get your property guest-ready—faster and smarter.
Reducing Setup Timelines
If you want your listing up and running quickly, planning is everything. Most successful hosts follow a series of steps:
Choose a turn-key furnishing solution. Many companies will handle everything—from design, sourcing, to setup—instead of DIY shopping and assembly, which can take months.
Approve designs and purchases quickly. Have your goals and target guest profile ready so decisions don’t get bogged down.
Bundle deliveries and installations. Coordinating all furnishings, decor, and supplies to arrive for a single install shrinks your timeline dramatically.
Stay available for key approvals. If your provider has questions about style or upgrades, being reachable keeps things moving.
Typically, a full-service setup can shrink your timeline to just 3–6 weeks, compared to 2–3 months if you go it alone.
Achieving Faster Occupancy
Occupancy equals income, so the faster you go live, the sooner you see a return. Here are ways to speed things up:
Pre-market your listing: Start your Airbnb or VRBO page with professional photos as soon as the main rooms are staged. You can update images later when everything is perfect.
Communicate with your furnishing team: Ask for a firm project schedule and regular progress reports. Delays often come from miscommunication, not major setbacks.
Address regulatory and cleaning tasks early: Secure your short-term rental permit, install locks and WiFi, and hire cleaners before setup wraps up. Don’t wait until the last day.
Typical Fast-Track Timeline
Step | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
Sign furnishing contract | Day 1 |
Design & product approvals | Days 1–7 |
Ordering & shipping | Days 7–21 |
Delivery, assembly, and setup | Days 21–35 |
Professional photos & listing | Days 30–40 |
The Impact of Professional Staging
A professionally staged home isn’t just about looks; it also cuts launch headaches and boosts your bottom line. Well-staged spaces photograph better, draw more clicks, and get booked faster—sometimes before you’re even done setting up. Listing with high-quality images and designed spaces gives confidence to guests, helping fill your calendar right out of the gate.
When you streamline your furnishing and prep, you shift from being stuck in setup mode to accepting your first guests before you know it. A quick, coordinated launch can mean the difference between a slow start and immediate income in the Myrtle Beach rental market.
Ready to get your rental property up and running fast? We make it simple to get your place ready for guests. Don't wait to start earning! Visit our website today to learn how we can help you launch your rental quickly and easily.
Ready to Make Your Myrtle Beach Rental Shine?
So, you've got your Myrtle Beach vacation rental ready to go. Furnishing it right is a big part of making sure guests have a great time and want to come back. It’s not just about filling a space; it’s about creating an experience. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by the whole process, or just want to make sure you're doing it the best way possible, remember there are services out there that can really help. Companies like Bee Setups can take the guesswork out of furnishing, handling everything from design to delivery so your property is guest-ready fast. They help make sure your rental stands out and brings in those bookings. Ready to get started? Check out how a professional setup can make a difference for your rental property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it usually take to furnish a rental property?
Getting a rental property ready to welcome guests can take about 3 to 6 weeks. This time can change depending on how big the place is, what items you pick, and if everything is in stock and ready to go. Companies like Bee Setups can help speed this up, often getting properties ready in 3-6 weeks, which is much faster than doing it all yourself.
What's the typical cost to furnish a vacation rental?
The cost to furnish a rental can vary a lot. For a one-bedroom place, you might expect to spend around $12,000 to $15,000 or more. Bigger homes with more bedrooms will cost more. For example, a 4-bedroom home could cost between $25,000 and $30,000. There are different packages available, like Bee Setups' 'Essentials' or 'Premium' options, which can help manage costs.
Can I get help furnishing my rental if I live far away?
Absolutely! Many people who own rental properties live in different states or even countries. Companies that offer full furnishing services, like Bee Setups, handle everything from start to finish. They can manage the whole process, send you updates, and get the property ready without you needing to be there in person.
What is a 'turnkey' furnishing service?
A 'turnkey' furnishing service means the company does everything for you, from designing the space to buying all the furniture and decor, and then setting it all up. You basically get a fully ready-to-go rental property. It's like turning a key to unlock a perfectly furnished home, hence the name 'turnkey'.
How can I make sure my rental stands out to guests?
To make your rental stand out, focus on creating a welcoming and stylish space that looks great in photos. Use durable furniture that can handle guests. Adding local touches or unique amenities can also make a big difference. Companies like Bee Setups use data to design spaces that attract more views and bookings.
Are there options to finance the cost of furnishing my rental?
Yes, there are ways to finance furnishing your rental property. Some companies offer payment plans or financing options that let you spread the cost over time instead of paying a large amount upfront. This can make it easier to manage your budget and get your property ready faster. Bee Setups, for example, provides financing options for qualified clients.