Before you panic about why your vacation rental property has not been booked for what could be one of the busiest weeks of the year, consider these ideas for drawing traffic and adding interest to your listing.

• Shorten your minimum stays. If it is late in the game, it is better to accept a 3 or 4 night renter versus a no night renter! Consider updating your headline to reflect the change, and be sure to make a note in the rate section of your listing.

• Change the headline to grab a spring break renter. Add ‘Spring Break'; or the actual dates of your opening to your headline for those renters specifically searching for that time frame.

• Keep your calendar up to date. It seems obvious, but it can be overlooked. If your calendar does not reflect this important opening, then renters will not know those dates are still available! Keeping your calendar up to date not only keeps you organized but also prevents potential renters from ruling out your property.

• Switch out winter photos for more appealing spring pictures. If your main thumbnail shows your house with Christmas decorations, it may not be drawing the springtime renters. Make sure your pictures show appropriate spring or summer photos.

• Highlight any activities and festivals in your area. You can check on local websites and with the Chamber of Commerce for special events that might entice renters to visit your location.

• Offer a last minute special. Specials can be your hook for those renters that are still on the fence. Offering a last minute deal may cause the renter to book quicker instead of stalling on the decision, but don';t give your home away! See our article on Lowering Rates for more information on specials.

As always, it is important to check email often and follow up with past inquiries. A phone call adds a personal touch and might help renters that were still up in the air.

24 Ways to Cut Costs at Your Vacation Rental: Part 3    Save $$$ at your vacation home by embracing your inner do-it-yourselfer and planning ahead.