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What have you noticed about inquiries and bookings at the start of 2009?

"So far the inquires have started earlier but nothing firm." - Michael, Kearny and Katrine Almaguin Area, Ontario

"A lot of folks with budget concerns, and an amazing number of small groups, 1-3 guest who want to stay for a month, cheap." -Judith, Santa Cruz, CA (HomeAway, VRBO, VacationRentals.com)

"We've had a lot of bi-weekly inquiries which was great. But they have had unrealistic expectations as far as what they can find for the money they want to pay. Everyone wants a deal!" Diane, Siesta Key, FL (HomeAway #223138, VRBO #194615)

"Huge! Most I've seen in awhile. It's about the total cost of a vacation as opposed to splitting it with another family. Can't split airfare....can't split a 2 bed hotel room...can't split room service...." - Joe

""So far this is the best year for the less in demand months. The better dollar value regards the Euro seems attractive and wealthier people seek better deals by downgrading from 2 bedrooms to one or seek less expensive yet exotic neighbourhoods if only with the best amenities they are used to." - Dicharry, Paris (VRBO)

"I notice that people are looking for a deal/steal for prime summer weeks. They say things like, "I know you are hurting in your area of the country, so I want to make a deal". They also tell me that they are hurting finacially, so could I reduce my rates. I am not cutting my rates as they are realistic, but there are owners who will. I know this as I have had people email me back to let me know that they found an owner who did cut their rates. I want to encourage owners to set a realistic price but don't give away your business. There are people out there that are trying to take advantage of nervous owners. Be realistic, don't be scared. You can always negotiate later in the season if you have a vacant week, but negotiating 6 months in advance is not realistic." -Tom, Michigan (HomeAway) 

"I hate to be negative but, so far, we've had a pretty crummy rental year. We usually do lots of rentals in the first quarter. This yr we've had lots of calls but everyone seems to want to wait a bit before signing on. I think we'll get more last minute rentals, later in the spring. We are priced fairly and I always allow for a bit of wiggle room. Especially this yr, people like the idea of getting a bit of a bargain. That wks for me - esp for small famiies or just a couple. Here's hoping things pick up soon. These concerns may be more pronounced in the northeast, as we are so tied to Wall St and the financial industry." - Kathy, Martha's Vineyard, MA (HomeAway #105691, VRBO #55574) 

"So far we have recieved only one call! It is early, I know, but I was hoping for more traffic. I plan on re-visiting my site to see if any changes are needed." -Tom, Surry, ME (HomeAway #224950)

"I agree with one Owner, who is suggesting not to give away condos for cheap! I am an owner myself and I see many inquiring guests would like to rent for almost nothing. As much as I am trying to help..I also need to watch my cost. I spent a lot of time buying, furnishing and then decorating my unit I own and I still spending money on replacing things, yes it's upsetting, when a guest comes back to me saying - he got for better price as I alredy keep my prices low. Yes! tHere is always a room/last minut/ when yu can give that"cheap" price - just to fill it out the empty gap. I have done this way and has been working, so far. Happy Rental Year to All of US!!" - Christine, Playa del Carmen, Mexico (HomeAway #200577, VRBO #39650) 

"They are up. I believe that this is because guests get more bang for the buck when they stay with us vs. a hotel. I think the economy is helping us, not hurting us." -Alfred, Ko Olina, HI (HomeAway #163412, VRBO #129629, VacationRentals.com #648)

“Realtors are slowly becoming obsolete. Owners are beginning to see the value and profitability in internet listing.” - Anonymous Owner, NJ