If you own an Airbnb or short-term rental in Vancouver, you’ve probably noticed how competitive the market’s become. Guests from out of town aren’t just looking for a place to sleep anymore — they’re looking for memorable, Instagram-worthy experiences.
One of the easiest ways to stand out (and justify higher nightly rates) is right in your backyard — an outdoor living space and maybe even a putting green!
Why Outdoor Amenities Sell
Recent data from AirDNA shows that properties with standout amenities like hot tubs can earn up to 35% more revenue per available room. But while hot tubs can be maintenance headaches — leaks, power bills, and constant cleaning — a putting green and/or low-maintenance landscape delivers long-term value with almost zero hassle.
Here’s why:
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It lasts decades (20+ years with minimal maintenance).
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It never breaks down or needs chemicals.
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It photographs beautifully and appeals to golfers and families alike.
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It positions your listing as a destination, not just a place to stay.
In fact, one Vancouver property — the Golf Villa on SW Marine Drive — built its entire brand around backyard putting green and quickly began attracting premium bookings and high-end clientele right away.
What Does a Putting Green Actually Cost?
Let’s put some numbers to it. A typical backyard putting green runs about $4K–$12K CAD depending on size and features. Spread out over 10–20 years, that’s just a few dollars a day.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Size | 10-Year Cost | 20-Year Cost | Break-Even Nightly Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 sqft | $47–$59/mo | $32–$39/mo | $2–$4/night |
| 300 sqft | $73–$98/mo | $50–$63/mo | $3–$6/night |
| 500 sqft | $110–$140/mo | $75–$90/mo | $5–$9/night |
Most Airbnb hosts can easily charge $10–$20 more per night just by adding “Private Putting Green” to their title and photos — meaning your investment pays itself off quickly.
Low-Maintenance, High-Return
Compared to hot tubs, putting greens are a clear winner:
| Factor | Hot Tub | Putting Green |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 5–15 years | 20–40 years |
| Maintenance | High | Very low |
| Operating Costs | $750–$1,200+/yr | ~$150–$375/yr |
| Guest Premium | +$25–$50/night typical | +$5–$15/night needed |
| Risks | Breakdowns, dirty water | Minimal – always ready to use |
Once installed, they double as usable yard space, save you on lawn care, and create an amenity that never fails to impress.
How to Turn a Putting Green Into Bookings
After installation, the key is how you present it:
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Add “Private Putting Green” in your listing title.
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Showcase it within the first 3 photos — wide exterior shot, close-up of the cup, and one in-use image.
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Create a comfortable seating area nearby so guests see it as a third outdoor space.
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Add soft lighting so it’s usable at night. (We can help you with this)
Track your performance for 30–90 days after installation — you’ll likely see higher occupancy, more reviews mentioning your outdoor area, and better RevPAR (Revenue per Available Rental).
The Local Angle: Why This Works in Vancouver
Vancouver’s short-term rental market thrives on outdoor living spaces — especially in spring and summer. A custom putting green not only helps your listing pop in Airbnb’s search filters (“outdoor features,” “family-friendly,” “unique stays”) but also saves time and water compared to maintaining grass. Plus, there’s a ton of great golf courses throughout the lower mainland, attracting casual and competitive golfer enthusiasts alike.
For local hosts managing multiple properties, the long-term ROI is even greater. A one-time investment adds decades of booking appeal.
Ready to Build Yours?
At Turf Team Landscaping, we design and install custom putting greens that are Airbnb-ready — low-maintenance, photo-friendly, and durable enough to handle constant guest turnover.
We handle:
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Full design and installation
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Utility locates and irrigation reroutes
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Access planning (stairs, parking, or rooftop installs)
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Annual touch-ups and tune-ups
If you’re ready to increase your nightly rate, boost bookings, and make your listing truly unforgettable, we’d love to help.
