A poll of 2,000 holidaymakers found that people are quick to judge a potential holiday home – and there are certain dcor choices that are likely to put them off
A quarter of holidaymakers judge a potential holiday home in under 10 seconds. More than a quarter of holidaymakers make snap judgements about potential holiday homes within just 10 seconds of browsing, new research reveals.
A survey of 2,000 travellers discovered that kitchens featuring chipped cabinet doors, beaded curtains and fridge doors covered in magnets are major turn-offs for potential guests.
Meanwhile, 52% would be put off by dolls or mannequins lurking in bedrooms, whilst furry toilet seat covers would be an absolute deal-breaker in bathrooms. On the flip side, premium bedding and handy charging points could make bedrooms far more attractive to visitors.
Amy Durn, interior design partner for Booking.com, which commissioned the study, said: “Travellers today are looking for homestays with personality, but the key is balance.”
She added: “You don’t need the whole house to be dramatic, just one element that lodges in a guest’s mind. It should be memorable for the right reasons.”
The research also revealed that 43% of holidaymakers reckon they can decide whether accommodation gets a thumbs up or down quicker than it takes to boil a kettle.
Regarding outdoor spaces, the biggest put-offs included messy gardens (61%), or areas lacking greenery or featuring too much concrete (41%).
A further 38% wouldn’t fancy seeing excessive artificial plants or fake topiary, whilst 35% would be deterred by shabby barbecue kit. However, a chic outdoor dining space would catch the eye of 52% of travellers, and 37% would give the green light to properties boasting a hot tub or hot tub.
Within the property, homeowners should steer clear of taxidermy or animal heads (40%) as general lounge décor that potential guests find off-putting, whilst 32% would turn their noses up at carpets featuring 80s floral patterns.
The research also revealed that nearly two thirds of those surveyed (63%) have never contemplated letting out their own properties, believing their homes aren’t ‘renter ready’.
Meanwhile, one in five (22%) feel ashamed of their home décor, the OnePoll.com data shows.
Amy Durn from Booking.com commented: “You don’t need a full renovation to turn a home into a desirable holiday rental.”
She explained: “A few intentional design choices can completely change how a space feels and photographs.”
Durn emphasised the importance of first impressions: “Guests form an opinion within seconds, and small styling upgrades often have a bigger impact on bookings than big, expensive changes.”
She added: “It’s about presenting a home that feels cared for, cohesive, and easy to imagine staying in.”
TOP 10 LIVING ROOM DÉCOR CHOICES THAT PUT OFF POTENTIAL HOLIDAY RENTERS:
1. Taxidermy or animal heads
2. Excessive knick-knacks/ornaments (dust collectors)
3. Excessive wall clutter e.g. lots of plaques, signs, or random frames
4. 80s/90s (e.g. busy geometric or floral prints) carpets
5. Glittery or diamante cushions / accessories
6. Fake houseplants
7. Heavy drapes or dark, dated curtains
8. Chintzy lace curtains
9. Wall decals or removable stickers on the walls
10. ‘Live, laugh, love’ artwork
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