1. Bargain Hunters. Although the bargain hunters might be frustrating during the peak season, you might be willing to entertain their offers once the slower seasons roll around. Take advantage of those deal-seeker inquiries by promoting your available weeks in the fall. Chances are the bargain hunters might just take what they can get. 2. Semi-Locals. Since “high gas prices” seems to be playing on repeat in the news, travelers might start avoiding those soaring airfares and taking trips closer to home. Reach out to those travelers that are within driving distance and looking for a long weekend out of town. And don't forget that many schools are closed for Fall Breaks or Columbus Day, providing families with some extra vacation time.

3. Empty Nesters. When the kids are all grown, many parents will take advantage of their new-found freedom (and extra spending money) by hitting the road. Without kids, these couples are probably less restricted by school calendars and vacation days and may be more inclined to travel in the off-season to avoid the crowds. Be sure to emphasize the benefits of traveling to your town once the tourists have started to fizzle out.

4. Honeymooners. Let's face it – a June wedding isn't for everyone, at least not if it's 102 degrees where you live. Reach out to couples planning fall weddings, and promote your home as a perfect honeymoon destination. Try to up the romance-ante in your ads by featuring candles, rose petals, and champagne in your photos.

5. Special Event Travelers. Even though your city may not be hosting the Olympics, there could be plenty of other festivals and concerts that might attract travelers to your area. Be sure to promote local events within your vacation rental listing - even if it means hayrides at the neighborhood pumpkin patch or your local Renaissance Festival – because you never know which renters it might grab.

6. Sports Enthusiasts. Many college alumni will travel to their alma mater to attend football games and other sporting events, and don't forget the loyal fans of your city's professional teams. Whether the teams are champions or chumps, if you have access to these tickets, you might consider including them in a package to attract the die-hard fans.

7. Pet Lovers. Reach out to those travelers that won't leave Fluffy or Mrs. Whiskerson at home during family vacations. You might avoid accepting pets during your peak weeks simply because you'll fill those dates regardless, but during the slow season, try to expand your target market.

8. Employee Retreats. Many companies will try to boost morale amongst employees and get the creative juices flowing by heading outside the cubicle walls. A healthy mix of brainstorming sessions and rounds of golf can do wonders for business goals. Or sometimes professionals just need some time away from the hustle bustle of the office (and the water cooler chatter) to catch up on work and get inspired. Emphasize the quietness of your home and the convenience of your work space for these working vacationers.

9. Early Skiers. Even though many slopes don't really start to get busy until December or January, the first snow of the season could be as early as October or November. As long as it sticks, early skiers might be seeking out quieter slopes and discounted rates to get a jump on their ski season. 10. Guys/Girls Getaways. We're not saying you should try to host a rowdy bachelor party at your vacation home, but sometimes guys and girls of all ages just need to get away from home and from each other! Be sure to feature the local attractions that would appeal to these groups (golf courses, fishing, spas, shopping, etc.) And you don't necessarily have to have a large home – remember mother/daughter and father/son getaways as well.

Which groups have you noticed that travel in the fall?

Creative Ways to Keep a Large Home Booked in the Slower Season  Pointers for keeping your large vacation rental home full during the off season. How to Market Your Vacation Home to Couples  Target groups of couples traveling together with the right language and amenities. Operation Off-Season: 12 Tips For Attracting & Accommodating Guests  Quick tips and advice for keeping your vacation rental home booked during the off-season. Why You Should Set Up an Auto-Reply to Respond to Inquiries  Using an auto-responder to inquiries assures potential renters of your vacation rental home that you got their inquiry and will get back to them shortly.

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