The Capstone Log Lodge: http://www.homeaway.com/145855 The Mt. Hood region in Oregon only has 23 properties currently listed on HomeAway (as of 1/23/07).  Mt. Hood itself only has 7.  While this may seem like a good thing because there is less competition in the area, it actually makes it harder.  When prospective renters start looking for vacation accommodations, they want to feel as though they've seen all of their options.  If they don't see a property that jumps out at them right away, they may decide to go to a different vacation spot or stay in a hotel.  The key in areas with just a few listings is to create listing that sells itself and makes propspective renters say "This place is perfect.  I've got to stay here."

PROPERTY HEADLINE & PROPERTY ACCOMMODATION SUMMARY

 

Terrific thumbnail photo.  It showcases the house and conveys the privacy and seclusion of the cabin.  If you're trying to book renters for the summer season, consider putting up a photo of the house in the summertime.    The headline is good and describes the property's highlights.  Consider changing it periodically to target renters for the upcoming season.

PHOTOS AND CAPTIONS

The great thing about your photos is that they provide a clear picture of what certain aspects (beds, sofa, tv) of your property look like. The hue of your interior photos is very orange and dark, which commonly occurs when cabins are photographed with little natural light.  To combat the "orangeness," try taking interior shots during the time of day when the most light is coming in through the windows.  Another option is adjusting the color balance of the photos in a photo editor like Adobe Photoshop Elements, which can be downloaded for a 30 day free trial. Another suggestion, when taking photos of furniture like couches or beds, make sure that you get the entire object in the frame.  This will help convey a sense of the size of the room and will better please the eyes.    Great choice including a photo with a Christmas tree in it.  This will definitely help sell your property to those looking to book around the holidays.  Trade out the photo with another of the tv when you're trying to book the summer months.  Also, good use of the captions.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY

Your description is very detailed and hits all of your properties highlights, but seems a bit disjointed.  Here's a quick stab at improving its flow: Capstone Log Lodge is a unique 3,000 square foot log cabin situated on four private, forested acres facing Mt. Hood, featuring rustic mountain decor and new furnishings. Old growth trees and the soothing sounds of nature will surround you as you sit on the front deck watching the wildlife with Mt. Hood looming in the background. The back yard boasts a large wood deck with a covered new hot tub that seats seven, a gas grill, and patio furniture for enjoying a family barbecue in the summer months. The wood burning stove in the downstairs living room will keep you warm and cozy when the snow is falling. Year round, you can enjoy your vacation right here without ever leaving the lodge. Your family can watch a big screen TV on the large wrap-around leather sofa that will seat everyone comfortably. The kids will stay entertained with the game area that includes board games, miniature pool, air hockey, TV and video games. This pet friendly cabin is perfect for the whole family or a large group! Good location details. Consider separating this section into landmarks and activities to make it easier to follow.

AVAILABILITY CALENDAR

Great job keeping your calendar up-to-date.  It can be time-consuming to keep it updated when you have a 2-night minimum, so I applaud your dedication.

RENTAL RATE & FEE TABLE

Very complete rate table.  Since the "Notes" line on each of your rate seasons is the same or similar, consider moving this information down to the area below the table.  This will clean up the table and make it easier to scan.

BASIC PROPERTY FEATURES

Very detailed and complete.  The numbering of the bedrooms in the "Bedrooms" section could be confusing for some renters.  When I first saw this section, I thought, "Where's Bedroom 1?"  Since you provide a child's highchair, do you also provide a portable crib?

AMENITIES & ATTRACTIONS

You property has a lot to offer a renter and you definitely show that in this section.

Good use of the further details section.  One suggestion: Use colons or commas in the "Ski Areas" sentence to make it easier to read.  Perfect use of the contact info section. The Diagnosis: This ad is very complete and has a lot of potential.  Consider changing the ad seasonally to target different types of renters. Do you have additional suggestions for this ad? Email us.