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  Newsletter for Vacation Rental Homeowners , May 2009: Owner Community Newsletter  
 
     

Owner Community Newsletter - May 2009
Accepting Pets
Have you pondered over whether or not to accept pets? Learn the pros and cons and how to create your pet policy if you decide to go that route.

More webinars

 
Seminars and Workshops
Boston, MA........... June 2
New York, NY........ June 3
Melville, NY.......... June 4
Washington, DC.... June 17

Learn more
 
Owner Tip of the Month
"With over 100 restaurants within walking distance or a five-minute drive, we put out a nicely bound hardback notebook for guests to write their own reviews. In five years they've nearly filled two books, so they clearly enjoy doing it."

Congratulations to Richard (#83549), winner of a HomeAway prize pack!

Read May's top owner-submitted tips
 
Attention HomeAway.com Owners

On June 2, we're launching the "Save our Summer Vacation" campaign, where we'll give away 3 vacations totaling $20,000! Send your past guests an email and encourage them to write in (or upload a video) telling us why they deserve to win a free stay in your home. (Pssst...you can enter too!) Help spread the word.

P.S. If your home is not listed on HomeAway, you too can be part of this contest. Call now for details 866-200-4739.
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Letter From the Editor
Is it really almost June already? While I'd love to say that I've gotten my dreaded spring cleaning out of the way, let's be honest: I'm last-minute Lizzie again! But I realize with summer just around the corner, now is the time to lay the groundwork for a profitable and problem-free summer season.

This month's newsletter is chock-full of everything you need to know to grab the summer season by the horns, from quick and easy decorating ideas to the secret weapon I've discovered to put an end to the headache (and guilt trips) that come with last-minute cancellations.

Last month's newsletter really struck a chord with a lot of you, and we were so pleased to hear so many great ideas, suggestions and tips you sent us to share with other owners. Your feedback inspired us to create a new feature to spotlight the very best tips we receive each month. And (because who doesn't like a contest?) we'll award a special prize to our favorite tip from each month. So keep the tips coming!

Happy Renting!
Christine Karpinski


Featured Article
What to Do if Your Peak Summer Weeks Are Not Fully Booked
If your summer calendar isn't full just yet, don't despair - there's still plenty of time to fill the gaps. Travelers who feel their jobs or bonuses are in jeopardy might just be waiting until last minute. But that doesn't mean they'll be foregoing their vacations altogether. Learn creative strategies you can use to reach out to indecisive travelers and entice them to book today. Read more



Must do chores before your summer guests arrive
1. Do: Check your roof for any damage from snow, hail, or wildlife. Don't: Wait for your roof to cave in while your guests are in the middle of a rousing game of Scrabble.
2. Do: Grab a squeegee and some white vinegar to wash away the winter build-up on all windows and sliding glass doors.
Don't:
Compel your guests to write "Wash Me" in the grime with their fingertips. Read 3-10


news & updated articles
10 Ways to Spruce up Your Home for the Busy Summer Season 
Low-cost, high-impact decorating projects you can finish in 24 hours or less
   
How to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space  
Maximize your square footage and enhance your home's appeal to potential guests with an inviting outdoor living area
   
What You Need to Know about Travel Insurance 
Amid fears about swine flu and other economic catastrophes, give anxious travelers the peace of mind to book your home
   
Turn Your Ski Home into a Summer Destination
Stay booked after the snow melts - even if summer is not your busy season
   
25 Things to Include in a Local Attraction Book  
From restaurant menus to WiFi passwords, show your guests you've thought of everything
   
How to Hire a Housekeeper
Whether you are new to the business or just searching for new help, here are some insights on where to look and what to (reasonably) expect from your housekeepers
   
How to Use Google Maps in Your Listings  
Give travelers the location information they crave without sacrificing the safety and privacy of your home
   
Using Facebook to Promote Your Vacation Rental  
It's not just for your kids - social networking can drive inquiries and encourage repeat renters, and you don't have to be a teenager to figure it out
   
Spring Cleaning Checklist
It's that time of year again for cleaning, restocking and replacing at your vacation rental
 


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