11 Tips to Prepare Your Property for Winter Guests
Winter in Central Victoria experiences colder mornings and shorter days. That shift means your property needs careful planning beyond a quick clean-up. The tips below will help you prepare your property for winter guests with less stress and fewer surprises.
Tip 1: Make sure your heating's ready for cold nights
Guests arriving in Central Victoria during winter expect warmth immediately. To avoid poor first impressions, ensure gas heaters are serviced before the season. Provide clear instructions near controls to reduce callouts.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for added comfort and better bill management during longer stays. It also offers the benefit of an energy-efficiency audit, helping you identify patterns for future seasons.
Tip 2: Seal out draughts and keep the warmth in
Older homes lose heat through small gaps, which often go unnoticed until the chill sets in. Simple draught sealing can make a big difference when trying to keep the space warmer.
You want to focus on weather-stripping around doors and windows, and seal visible cracks with flexible filler. If your windows are large or single-glazed, thermal curtains can help retain warmth while adding softness to the space. These updates reduce heat loss, cut down on energy use and improve the overall experience for your winter guests.
Tip 3: Protect pipes from freezing
Central Victoria doesn't get harsh winters, but overnight temperatures can still dip low enough to freeze exposed pipes. When that happens, even a small blockage can lead to water damage, guest complaints, and expensive repairs.
A good first step is scheduling pipe insulation around taps, outlets, and garden lines. If you have irrigation installed, switch it off during the colder months. For properties with older plumbing, running warm water occasionally during a cold snap can help prevent blockages.
Tip 4: Do a safety check before guests arrive
During winter, safety checks are crucial. Test smoke alarms and replace old batteries. Ensure gas heaters are well-ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide risks. Place a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location, and include an emergency contact sheet near the front door or kitchen for quick access. Additionally, review your landlord insurance to confirm coverage for heating failures or other seasonal issues that could disrupt a guest's stay.
Tip 5: Book your winter inspection, roof check, and clean the gutters early
Wind and rain in Central Victoria can expose property weaknesses. Book a winter inspection to identify minor issues early. A roof leak check is essential, especially for older homes with ageing tiles. If trees surround your property, regular gutter clearing prevents water pooling and slow leaks. Schedule a deep clean before winter bookings to ensure everything’s in top condition.
Tip 6: Style beds with cosy winter layers
Cold nights in Central Victoria call for more than a basic bed setup. Use flannel sheets, thick blankets, and heated mattress pads to make guests feel welcome. Keep spare bedding easily accessible in an ottoman or labelled storage box. Soft textures and muted tones set the right atmosphere, adding to your cosy décor. These thoughtful touches help create a lasting impression and ensure guests feel comfortable during chilly stays.
Tip 7: Offer thoughtful extras guests will love
Winter often slows the pace, which makes small comforts feel even more valuable. When guests return from a cold afternoon out, a few extra touches can help them settle in quickly.
Consider a pair of slippers by the bed to add comfort without much effort. You could hang a robe, tuck hot water bottles into a small basket near the lounge, or set up a coffee station for late check-ins. These details may not appear in your listing, but they often get mentioned in reviews.
Tip 8: Make outdoor areas safe and slip-free
Winter mornings can leave walkways damp and cold underfoot. If guests arrive after dark, outdoor areas should feel safe and easy to move through. Use motion-sensor lighting near steps or uneven paths to help guide their way. In colder zones, keep a shovel or non-slip matting near the entrance.
While updating outdoor safety, take time to inspect any older windows. Upgrading to storm-proof windows can improve insulation and reduce the risk of winter drafts or rattling frames.
Tip 9: Stock a winter emergency kit
Power cuts and outages in Central Victoria are rare but not impossible during the colder months. A simple winter kit gives guests peace of mind and shows that you've planned beyond the basics. Include torches, extra blankets, a first-aid kit, and a spare phone charger.
Your guests should know where to find the kit, so highlight this in the welcome guide or emergency contact sheet. Also, list after-hours maintenance contacts so they know who to call if something goes wrong overnight.
Tip 10: Showcase your property's winter highlights
Seasonal touches can change how guests experience your space. Warm lighting, layered textures, and soft furnishings add instant comfort during colder months.
Mention elements like cosy décor, heating, and small winter extras in your listing to show guests what to expect. If your property includes thermal curtains, note them as a feature that helps retain warmth and block out early dusk.
Tip 11: Give guests clear winter instructions
Even well-equipped homes can feel unfamiliar in colder months. Simple guides for heating systems, hot water units, and appliances can help guests settle in, especially after long drives. Label dials and switches to avoid confusion at night. Include a printed emergency contact sheet near the kitchen or main entry.
Before arrival, send a short message with directions and after-hours maintenance details. These small steps ensure a smooth, organised stay with fewer late-night questions.
Get your property guest-ready this winter with Bendigo Signature Accommodation
Preparing your property for winter doesn’t have to be stressful. At Bendigo Signature Accommodation, we understand the challenges of maintaining your property during the colder months. That’s why we take care of everything, from coordinating emergency repairs to maintenance, so you can focus on your guests. Let us handle the details - explore our offers today for stress-free property management.
