According to estimates from the VisitFlorida research department, the Sunshine State welcomed a record-setting 140.6 million tourists last year.
That means plenty of competition for vacation property owners in the state. So many of them are trying to attract guests that it can feel like a massive crowd yelling all at once.
What can your property do to stand out? How can you make guests hear you in such a competitive market?
Read on to learn about proven strategies for attracting guests to your vacation rental.
Optimize Your Listings
Optimizing your listings is one of the most important parts of vacation rental marketing. It starts with carefully crafted content highlighting your property's location and best features.
Create content that improves your SEO or search engine optimization. High-ranking keywords and local terms help you reach the top of online search results.
The visual side of the listing is just as important. Invest in professional photographs that show how beautiful and comfortable the property is.
Use Online Methods of Attracting Guests to Your Vacation Rental
Create a website for your property. Make sure it follows SEO best practices and offers quality content and visuals. This will ensure that your property is seen when travelers search for a place to stay.
Email and social media let you connect with potential and future guests. Offer discounts to encourage repeat bookings.
Emphasize Guest Experience
Rental properties live or die by guest experience.
Be willing to go the extra mile with steps such as:
- Welcoming gestures such as local snack baskets
- Information guides about the area
- Flexibility in check-in/check-out times
These steps encourage repeat bookings. They encourage positive word-of-mouth vacation rental marketing, one of the most effective forms. It can also encourage reviews.
Encourage Positive Reviews
Positive reviews are one of the most important guest attraction strategies. According to SEO company BrightLocal, at least 42% of consumers trust them as much as personal recommendations.
When trying to get them, remember two key things. First, a positive guest experience is key. Second, ask, and you shall receive.
Encourage guests to leave a follow-up message after their stay. Use a non-intrusive method, such as a card asking for feedback.
You can also use online vacation property marketing methods to gather reviews. Ask for them on social media or in your mailing list.
Adapt Your Pricing Strategies
Using the best vacation rental pricing strategies is a way to increase vacation bookings while maintaining your income.
Research the market to see what other properties in the area charge. Make yours competitive in comparison.
Use a dynamic pricing model. Adjust to the demand based on the time of year, increasing during peak seasons and decreasing during off-seasons.
You can also offer a range of attractive discounts. They could be for:
- Early or last-minute booking
- Extended stays
- Group stays
- Special occasions
Get Professional Vacation Rental Management
Attracting guests to your vacation rental requires strategies such as optimizing your listings, focusing on guest experience, encouraging reviews, and adapting your pricing.
PMI Pasco is a short-term rental management company in Land O' Lakes, Florida. We offer comprehensive services to maximize your rental income and minimize stress.
Our goal is to provide the best possible experience for owners and guests. Contact us for more information today.
