Last January, we counted down 10 Vacation Rental Resolutions for the New Year and have come up with 10 more to add to the list. 1) Set definite goals and objectives. It's easy (especially if you've been renting your cottage for awhile) to get complacent. By setting specific goals, you're giving yourself something to work toward.
2) Accept credit cards (if you don't already). More and more, travel is becoming a paperless marketplace—don't get left behind. 3) Get organized. It'll make your life much easier in the long run. 4) Stay abreast of news in your vacation area. Subscribe to the local paper, sign up for Google alerts, or read the newspaper online.
5) Say no to bottom feeders. Don't give your property away. 6) Get the most from your paid listings. Put up 12 quality photos, write descriptions that really sell your condo or home, and use the rental rates and amenities tables. You're not going to get as many inquiries and bookings if you listing is incomplete or hastily thrown together. 7) Be proactive. Create and stick to a preventative maintenance schedule. 8) Solicit reviews from past renters. 9) Respond to every single inquiry—even if you're booked or the renter is asking for a discount. The number one complaint we get from HomeAway and VRBO visitors is that vacation rental owners don't respond. 10) Take time to enjoy your home yourself.

What advice do you have for other owners of vacation homes?

4 Reasons to Create a Property Inventory for Your Vacation Home  Having a clear inventory of which items you have in your vacation rental property is very important. The Top Ten Things You Should Have In Your Vacation Rental Rules  A good rental policy can go a long way toward protecting you and your renters from common vacation rental “disasters." Annual Maintenance Checklist for Vacation Rental Homes  The winter season can be hard on a home. For that reason, either spring or fall is the best time to perform annual maintenance tasks. The Importance of Proper Preventative Maintenance  Preventative maintenance can make things work more efficiently and last longer.

© Copyright 2008 HomeAway, Inc. Updated 9/5/08 by Kristin Dorsett.