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by LUGGit Marketing Team
Published August 30, 2024
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The vacation rental market is now more competitive than ever with the rise of online platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com where travelers can find millions of listings with just a few clicks. Just look at Airbnb, one of the biggest vacation rental websites, which alone has over 8 million active listings worldwide.
Your listing is the first contact your guests will have with your property and your only chance of causing a great first impression. A great vacation rental listing shouldn’t be just an ad, but also give them a glimpse of your brand’s story and help them imagine themselves creating great memories there.
Guests will judge your property according to its listing against millions of others. In this article, we share tips to help your listing stand out and increase your bookings.
1. Pick a catchy title
The title of your listing should convince guests to click on it. It should be short but descriptive, and highlight what makes your property unique. Also, take into consideration the character limit for each booking platform (on Airbnb the limit is 50 characters).
Think about including key features like the type of accommodation, location (for example, a nearby landmark), or a standout amenity, and avoid using generic terms like “great” or “nice”.
Examples
- Beachfront Condo with Stunning Ocean Views
- Cozy Cabin with Private Hot Tub & Firepit
- Luxury Penthouse with Rooftop Pool
- Rustic Mountain Retreat Near Hiking Trails
- Charming Cottage in Historic District
2. Write a compelling description
After deciding on the title, it’s time to write a description. It should be as detailed as possible and cover all the selling points of your property.
It’s also helpful to understand who your guests are and what they’re looking for. Are they couples, families, business travelers? Try to put yourself in their shoes and paint a picture of what they’ll experience during their stay.
Some things you should include in the description
- Unique selling points (what sets you apart from the competition)
- Nearby attractions, restaurants, and public transportation
- List of amenities and services
- Keywords to help boost your listing in search engines
Remember to always be honest and use a friendly tone. Do not overstate aspects of your property, since that can set expectations too high and lead to disappointment from your guests.
3. Take high-quality photos
High-quality photos not only enhance your professionalism but also immediately capture the attention of potential guests. To achieve the best results, hiring a professional photographer is highly recommended, especially one who specializes in real estate photography. According to Airbnb, listings with professional photos can earn up to 20% more than those without, so this is an investment that can really make a difference.
If you choose the DIY route, be sure to use a good camera and pay attention to details. Make sure the place is well-lit, clean, and neatly arranged, and take photos of every room and all the amenities you offer. When choosing your main photo, pick the best feature of your property (let’s be honest, it’s probably not the bathroom!).
4. Set competitive prices
Pricing can be a deal-breaker for many guests, but choosing the right pricing strategy can be challenging. Set your rate too high and you might deter potential guests, too low, and you could leave money on the table or give the impression that your property is of lesser quality.
Pay attention to what competitors charge in your area, especially if they have similar properties, and adjust your price according to seasonality and proximity to special events. Remember to always state any additional fees (like cleaning charges) to avoid surprises.
Dynamic pricing
Dynamic pricing tools can help you get your pricing strategy right, by automatically adjusting rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. There are a lot of tools to choose from and some booking websites like Airbnb have integrated dynamic pricing options.
5. Detailed list of amenities
Guests will prioritize different things. Some might value high-end kitchen appliances to cook for the family, some might be looking for pet-friendly units and some might want a fast wi-fi connection to work remotely.
Providing a detailed list of all the amenities you offer, will help your guests determine if your vacation rental fits their needs and set clear expectations. Try categorizing amenities by room to help guests find what they’re looking for faster and start with your most unique amenities.
When setting up your listing, remember to...
- Always keep in mind who your typical guests are and what they might be looking for.
- Highlight your property’s unique features, whether that’s the view, special amenities, or proximity to landmarks.
- Be honest and avoid setting expectations too high.
- Keep all the information updated.
Use these tips to create an irresistible listing for your vacation rental and turn it into a powerful tool for your business. By doing so, you will not only increase your bookings but also create a better experience for your guests.
If you want to take your guest experience to the next level, we offer a free solution for vacation rental hosts and property managers. LUGGit handles your guests' luggage before check-in and after check-out, giving them more time to explore the city. Plus, you earn commissions every time they use our service!
