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Your property's earning potential depends on more than location. It depends on condition, design, and how well the experience matches what today's guests expect when they arrive in Aspen Snowmass.

Frias Properties has managed vacation rentals here for over 50 years. We know which upgrades move the needle, and which ones don't. This page walks you through what we're seeing in the market, how we rate our properties, and what the highest-performing units have in common.

What's Changed in Aspen Design?

Five years ago, Aspen's design signature blended mountain lodge warmth with contemporary touches: reclaimed wood, stone, wrought iron, and rich color palettes that felt rooted in the landscape.

Today, that aesthetic has moved toward minimalism. Clean lines. Neutral palettes. Scandinavian-influenced interiors that prioritize simplicity, comfort, and well-being. New properties like Mollie and the Viceroy reflect this shift, and so do the best-performing homes in our portfolio.

This past winter, our top-performing vacation rentals were the ones that reflected these newer trends.

Clean, bright open living space that combines
stainless steel appliances and natural wood finishes.

Clean line and Sub-Zero appliances,
punctuated with white and natural wood finishes.

Guests appreciate sophisticated lighting, gas fireplaces,
and neutral decor pallettes.

The properties that feature amenities like steam showers, jetted tubs,
heated floors and/or towel bars, also tend to book quickly at higher rates.

Why Upgrades Matter

Better guest experience

Modern amenities, quality furnishings, and thoughtful design create stays guests remember, and return for. Positive reviews follow.

Higher nightly rates

Renovated kitchens, updated bathrooms, and premium amenities like hot tubs or high-end audio/visual systems allow you to command stronger rates and stay competitive on Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com.

Competitive advantage

In a market with strong inventory, the properties guests choose are the ones that stand out visually and functionally. Upgrades give yours an edge.

More reviews and referrals

Guests who leave satisfied are more likely to write a review and refer friends. That compounding effect matters more than any single booking.

Property preservation

Regular upgrades address wear before it becomes damage. Maintaining your property's condition protects its long-term value, not just its short-term revenue.

Our Recommendations

Minimum upgrades every 3 to 5 years

Frias Properties manages accommodations across a wide range — economy to luxury. Not every unit needs a steam shower or heated floors. But every unit benefits from periodic investment.

We use a defined property rating system so guests can reliably choose a rental that matches their expectations and budget. Each property is evaluated on condition, amenities, furnishings, views, and overall presentation.

Below are the criteria for each rating tier.

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Luxury

Our most premium category. Luxury properties feature awe-inspiring views, curated design, and access to top-tier amenities. To qualify, a property must have most of the following:

  • Curated furnishings and artwork with a cohesive design aesthetic
  • High-end finishes: stone or granite countertops, hardwood floors or new carpet, detailed millwork
  • Fully stocked kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances
  • Superior bathrooms with steam shower and/or jetted tub
  • State-of-the-art TVs and audio/visual systems
  • Artfully designed lighting
  • Amenities such as fitness equipment, pool, and hot tub
  • Gas or wood fireplace with complimentary firewood
  • Air conditioning
  • Garage or dedicated parking

Premier

Reserved for our highest-level Independence Square hotel rooms and condos. These rentals feature beautiful décor and furnishings, and most have superior views of downtown Aspen. To qualify, a property must have most of the following:

  • Beautiful décor with furnishings and artwork that create a cohesive aesthetic
  • Efficiency kitchen with updated appliances
  • Upgraded bathrooms
  • Flat-screen TVs and updated audio/visual technology
  • Air conditioning
  • Superior views of downtown Aspen

Deluxe 

Well-appointed homes, townhouses, and condos with appealing design, newer furnishings, and strong building amenities. To qualify, a property must have most of the following:

  • Updated furniture, recently replaced flooring or carpet, and complementary artwork
  • Nice finishes: stone or granite countertops, quality window coverings, newer cabinetry
  • Fully stocked kitchen with newer appliances
  • Flat-screen TVs and updated audio/visual technology
  • Gas or wood fireplace with complimentary firewood
  • Common pool and hot tub
  • Air conditioning encouraged
  • Off-street parking

Standard

Comfortable, tastefully decorated rentals with quality furnishings and complete kitchens. Most have a fireplace. To qualify, a property must have most of the following:

  • Functional spaces with suitable furniture, clean flooring or carpet, and framed artwork
  • Clean, fully stocked kitchen with functional appliances and synthetic countertops
  • Operational window coverings, lighting, and flat-screen TV
  • Gas or wood fireplace with complimentary firewood
  • Limited amenities and complimentary parking
  • Central location with easy access to Aspen

Economy

A practical option for budget-conscious travelers. Economy rentals feature complete kitchens, functional furnishings, and convenient access to everything Aspen offers. To qualify, a property must have most of the following:

  • Functional spaces with operable furniture, clean flooring or carpet, and framed artwork
  • Clean, fully stocked kitchen with functional appliances and synthetic countertops
  • Operational window coverings, lighting, and flat-screen TV
  • Gas or wood fireplace with complimentary firewood
  • Limited amenities and complimentary parking
  • Central location with easy access to Aspen

HIGH PERFORMING UNITS

Measured by RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Rental)

The properties below have undergone meaningful remodels: appliance upgrades, hardwood floors, new carpet, modern interiors, and refreshed artwork. Each consistently outperforms the broader market on revenue per available room.

Please contact your Director of Operations/Property Manager for a personalized recommendation to enhance your property and unlock its profit potential.