Before you start renting your vacation home, it's best to first determine who would be the most likely target for renting your cabin, cottage, condo, or villa. Your initial thought might be to try to target all groups, but it's important to realize that might be a little unrealistic. Not every home is going to be perfect for all kinds of travelers. A large home would naturally attract more large groups, as opposed to a one-bedroom home that would attract couples. A home in a popular tourist destination (e.g. Myrtle Beach) would attract a different type of traveler than a home in a rural, lesser-known destination (e.g. Ely, MN).

Where you home is located would also come into play in attracting different travelers. Destinations where the majority of your guests would fly into, such as Hawaii, would have different booking patterns and minimum stays than a home in popular drive-to weekend destinations. Figuring out your target market is important for the success of renting your home. Knowing who you're renting to will likely help you determine how and where to advertise your home, what sort of furnishings you need, and which amenities to add that will help draw in your target renters.

Price Groups Budget-Minded Deal-Seekers Luxury Family Groups Couples Families with Children Under 5 Families with School-Age Children Families with Teenagers Families with Adults Children Large Groups or Family Reunions Specialty Groups Snowbirds Pet Owners Golfers Skiers International Travelers Corporate Travelers This is by no means an all-inclusive list of potential renter groups to target, but should give you an idea of who you may consider marketing to and furnishing your property for. © Copyright 2008 HomeAway, Inc. Updated 9/3/08 by Kristin Dorsett.

Creating a Top-Notch Marketing Plan for Your Vacation Rental  Pointers for attracting more travelers, getting your financials in order, and determining your personal keys to success. How to Market Your Vacation Home to Families with Children  Tips for attracting groups traveling with young children. Marketing Your Vacation Rental to International Travelers: FAQs  Answers to commonly asked questions about advertising and renting to travelers form outside the U.S. The Importance of Marketing to Last-Minute Travelers  Why reaching out to potential last-minute guests will increase your vacation rental bookings.