How to Book Last-Minute Rentals at Your Vacation Property
Tactics you can use to increase last-minute bookings of your vacation rental property.
Your goal should be to have all or most of your rentals booked ahead of time. Realistically, booking in advance is not always possible. The following are a few of the tactics you can use to increase your bookings year-round:
A popular way of grabbing last minute vacationers is to change the headline on your listing. Think of something that would be eye-catching to a potential vacationer looking to rent a vacation home in your area. For example, “May 10-17 Cancellation!! Destin West-700 Ft. Lazy River-Corner Condo! Gorgeous!” If a renter does a search for a vacation home for particular dates, your property might show up. Even if they are not looking for specific dates, showcasing an available week might make a renter jump on a particular opening.
Another effective method for booking those hard-to-rent weeks or to fill a last minute cancellation is to add a Special Offer display to your listing.
Research shows that many online vacation planners actively search for Special Offers. You can use them to advertise reduced rates during slower seasons, offer last minute discounts or just to make your listing stand out. See our article on The Skinny on HomeAway Special Offers.
Special Offers increase bookings. A special offer doesn't have to be a deeply discounted rate. It can be a complimentary dinner at a local restaurant, free attraction tickets or even a welcome gift basket left for renters at your second home upon arrival. Advertise whatever makes your property unique. Be creative!
The key to booking last minute rentals is to think like a last minute renter! Consider upcoming dates and what you're willing to offer to get those bookings.
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