Decorating your investment home abroad to maximum effect

Times are hard, but the fact remains that hundreds of thousands of Brits own homes abroad. And as times get harder, more people are looking to recoup some of the money spent on buying not only their investment property but also that lovely holiday home that they bought in the good times.
But this is presenting a problem of its own: with many more rental properties on the market, how do you set your property apart from literally hundreds of others?

The trick is to make your property a relaxing place to escape to – a place that soothes and restores the spirit in these restless times. And how exactly do you achieve this?

For many, the choice of décor revolves around where the house is situated, but my feeling is that where ever in the world your property is, holiday makers are looking for exactly the same thing – they are looking to escape their daily life and RELAX!

Colours should be restful and unobtrusive, with walls of a neutral colour. A common theme running through the entire home, with splashes of colour in cushions and pictures, gives a restful and comforting atmosphere. If you are near the sea perhaps you could introduce a few subtle (I repeat subtle…) touches such of driftwood or sea shells carefully arranged, sea paintings etc. A property near ski resorts needs to be warm and welcoming, one in a hot and humid climate needs to be airy and laid back – but they both need to be a restful retreat from the outside world.

Cut out clutter altogether and keep things neutral and classic – which is NOT the same as bland and boring! Small touches in the right colour can make a world of difference. I subscribe to the utterly beautiful magazine ‘World of Interiors’ – to me they are inspirational. For years I have been cutting out photos of the homes that excite and delight me. I have stuck them into albums – you’ve no idea how therapeutic this is! Then later on I just have to browse through my 14 albums (I kid you not – I have just counted) and I am utterly transported and inspired.

Human nature being what it is, if something is not their own, people will take less care of it. You need a property that is easy to look after, will not date and will always look smart. The last thing you need is a home that requires high maintenance, especially as you may be doing this and from a distance. Incidentally, lots of easy-to-use cleaning equipment – things like a good, sturdy, small vacuum cleaner – will mean a better chance that your property will be looked after.

Bear in mind that strong sunlight can damage fabrics. Salt or pool water walked into the house can be especially destructive if your furniture is covered in anything less than hardy fabrics. Couch and chair covers need to be easily laundered – best case scenario are covers that can be removed and dry cleaned or laundered. Don’t be tempted to go for cheap and nasty here – it shows very quickly.
Wooden floor surfaces are great as they are easy to look after. Stone tiled or ceramic floors work well too in hot climates - people may be walking in and out, sometimes dripping water all over the floors and a floor that is easily cleaned is essential. Carpets in my opinion are a bit of a no-no.

If the climate is hot and humid you will need air conditioning plus shutters for the windows are a good idea. They keep the room darkened, are low maintenance and great for keeping rooms cool for that afternoon lie-down! Blinds are a great choice too. I must confess that I have had cool cream blinds fitted throughout my flat and curtains now seem hot and messy! You need to weigh up the chances of them getting broken however…

Your beds must be of the very best quality – there is nothing that puts people off more than an uncomfortable bed. A good quality mattress with a mandatory mattress cover is what is required.
Repeat business is the best possible kind and, if you play your cards right, you will have reliable, dependable people coming back year after year - and that’s first prize in the rental stakes.

Good luck!

Kim
The Overseas Guides Company
http://www.overseasbuyingguide.com