Buying a second home or vacation property comes with a unique blend of excitement and responsibility. Unlike your primary residence, this home needs to balance comfort, durability, guest-readiness, and ease of maintenance—often from afar. The first 30 days set the tone, helping you design a space that’s welcoming, functional, and resilient enough for family, friends, and future guests.

Below are the eight key focus areas, each with a brief overview and actionable steps to make your second home work beautifully from day one.

1. Make a Plan Before You Furnish

Before you start buying furniture or décor, take time to understand how the space will function, how often you’ll use it, and who your typical guests will be—family, friends, renters, or a mix. Planning helps avoid over-purchasing and ensures your selections fit the space, your lifestyle, and long-term maintenance needs.

To consider:

• How you’ll use the home (personal use, hosting, potential rental)
  
• Your typical group size and sleeping needs
  
• Storage limitations
  
• What can be reused vs. what should be bought new
  
• Budgeting in phases instead of furnishing everything at once
  

2. Prioritize Durability Over Trends

A second home typically sees more activity, varied guests, and heavy use, so materials matter. Choose items that withstand spills, gear, wet boots, sunscreen, and the general wear and tear that comes with resort-area living.

Focus on:

• Stain-resistant fabrics
  
• Durable indoor/outdoor rugs
  
• Solid wood tables over veneer
  
• Washable slipcovers
  
• Scratch-resistant surfaces
  
• Mudroom-style entry solutions
  

3. Maximize Comfortable Sleeping Capacity

Creating flexible, comfortable sleeping arrangements is essential in a second home, where guests often include extended family or groups. The goal is to maximize comfort—not overcrowding—while choosing bed sizes that truly fit each space.

Strategies & Guidelines:

• Use queens for most adult rooms (they fit the widest range of guests)
  
• Choose kings only when the room allows easy movement and proper flow
  
• Opt for twins or bunk beds (including twin-over-full) in smaller rooms or for kids
  
• Add sleeper sofas in bonus spaces for extra flexibility
  
• Leave walking space on both sides of the bed whenever possible
  
• Pair rooms with appropriately scaled nightstands and lighting
  
• Provide extra linens and labeled storage bins
  
• Use bedframes with built-in storage for tighter spaces

4. Stock the Kitchen Thoughtfully

A well-stocked kitchen is one of the biggest comforts of a second home. Guests rarely know your system, and you may be arriving late at night—so simplicity and duplicates matter.

Essentials:

• Two full sets of pots/pans
  
• Extra utensils and dish ware
  
• Sharp knives and cutting boards
  
• Coffee setup (drip + Keurig or French press)
  
• Slow cooker or Instant Pot for group meals
  
• Clear labeling for pantry and drawers
  
• Backup basics: foil, spices, cooking oil
  

5. Create an Owners Closet (Lockable)

A dedicated owner’s space keeps your personal items secure and ensures consistency between visits. This is especially useful if you plan to host friends, family, or even future renters.

What to store:

• Personal toiletries
  
• High-quality linens reserved for your visits
  
• Specialty kitchen tools
  
• Seasonal clothing
  
• Expensive gear (ski boots, snowshoes, fishing gear)
  
• Replacement supplies (light bulbs, batteries, filters)
  

6. Decorate with Style—but Keep It Practical

Second-home décor should feel inviting and elevated without being high-maintenance. The goal is timeless comfort, not themed kitsch.

Tips:

• Use location-inspired colors without going overly literal
  
• Choose washable throws and pillow covers
  
• Favor art and accents that enhance the environment
  
• Avoid clutter—guests need space
  
• Keep surfaces simple and easy to clean
  
• Add durable entry mats, hooks, and storage baskets
  

7. Consider Hiring a Property Manager

Even if you don’t rent the property, a property manager or home-watch service can save time and give peace of mind. They ensure your home is ready when you arrive—and protected when you’re away.

Helpful tasks they handle:

• Pre-arrival heating/cooling
  
• Snow removal or outdoor prep
  
• Stocking basics (toilet paper, soap, pantry staples)
  
• Changing filters, checking alarms, monitoring leaks
  
• Coordinating repairs
  
• Post-departure walkthroughs
  

8. Follow the 30-Day Setup Plan

Your first month is the perfect window to get your home fully functional. This timeline keeps the setup stress-free and organized.

Days 1–10

• Assess each room
  
• Order essential furniture
  
• Set up sleeping spaces
  
• Install smart home devices
  

Days 11–20

• Stock the kitchen
  
• Complete linen and towel inventory
  
• Create owners closet
  
• Add basic décor and storage systems
  

Days 21–30

• Finalize furniture
  
• Add decorative touches
  
• Test all appliances
  
• Bring in a property manager (if desired)
  
• Make a list of future upgrades
  

Whether you’re setting up a vacation home for personal use, future guests, or eventual rental potential, those first 30 days make all the difference—and you don’t have to navigate the process alone. The Skinner Team has helped countless second-homeowners across Summit, Eagle, Park, and the surrounding mountain communities create spaces that are both beautiful and functional from day one. If you’re ready for expert guidance, local insight, and a team who knows mountain living inside and out, reach out to the Skinner Team. We’re here to help you make the most of your home in the mountains—today and for years to come.