May 2018

Vacation rentals – The future of living

Vacation rentals are not just vacation rentals anymore. Though it can be problematic for property owners to be in business for the mid and low seasons, there are a few tips and tricks that will still do the trick.

As simple as they are, the following tips can help you boost your bookings –

1. Welcome guests looking for shorter stays

It is a known fact that most potential customers are always on the lookout for cheaper options when it comes to booking for a shorter period of time. Naturally, any visitor looks for a flexible alternative for short stays. Do not set limits on the minimum number of days, and offer deals that are convenient for you as well as your guests.

1. Provide discounts and packages

Create packages for guests staying for a longer duration. The bookings come automatically when the value of your services outweigh the price, since customers find it much easier to say ‘YES’ to a value when the services are much more valuable than the costs involved. For instance, you can offer wellness retreats such as a spa retreat within the cost of the accommodation. These promotions can be highlighted through online social media for example.

1. Look for and optimize your packages for countries with low fare rates

Keep up with your competitors and the deals they offer regionally. Make use of online booking sites to find the lowest fares to reach your destination from ‘anywhere at all’, preferably from the locations you had your previous guests come from. This will give you a clearer idea on the fare sheet. Set out better packages for the cheaper rate flights and promote it again through online media.

1. Organize events during your guests’ stay

You can try arranging for a local event, given you have a huge patio or garden on your property. Organize movie nights or even wine tasting, thereby building great rapport with your customers. This surely boosts your chances of them recommending your rental to their friends and family, thereby increasing the long term commitment to you.

1. Distribute your listings to websites

Try distributing your listings in the niche websites where it is easier for people to find what you are offering. This is very useful when your rental is in a remote location and drives traffic.

1. Approach local conference organizers

Find leads from local Conferences and events. If a small one, you might be lucky enough not to be charged with any commission. Partner up with the organizers and become the accommodation partner. Try to attract them with valuable offers.

For a positive ROI, you have to go a little out of the way to allow customers experience a greater value for their stay – more value than the price incurred on them. With the above mentioned easy strategies, take a step ahead and upgrade your sales during the mid and low seasons. It is not quite as beneficial to build value by upgrading the cost rather than the experience of your customers.