With all the properties on HomeAway, you may be wondering how the site sorts through them when travelers enter a particular search. The order of properties on the search pages is based on a number of factors. The primary factors that influence the order of search results are: 1.  HomeAway Network Properties.  The listings that are featured on all 4 of the HomeAway Network sites (HomeAway.com, GreatRentals.com, CyberRentals.com, and A1Vacations.com) will receive priority over listings that are just featured on HomeAway.com.  Non-HomeAway Network Properties are then sorted using the same guidelines listed below.

2.  Updated Calendars: Users prefer listings with calendars that are kept up-to-date. Therefore, those owners that update frequently will be rewarded with listings that appear closer to the top of the page for their location.

3.  Special Offers: Listings that are running a current Special Offer provide additional benefits to renters.  These listings are not only found in the "Special Offers" section of the site but will also be given priority within their geographic classification. 

4.  Number of Photos: Travelers also prefer listings with more photographs. HomeAway Network subscribers have the opportunity to include up to 12 photos at no additional charge. Make the most of this space and exposure by uploading all 12 photos.  This is your opportunity to sell your home and potentially have it appear higher in searches.

5.  Structured Rates.  Travelers favor listings that have complete and detailed information about rental rates in one specific place.  Including your rates in the structured rates table on your HomeAway listing will not only help your page to appear higher within searches, but your prices will also appear in the summary box on the search page.  This gives travelers an at-a-glance look at your rates and how they compare with other homes in your area.  Listings that do not use the structured rates table will automatically move to the bottom.  Just remember to keep your rates up-to-date because once a date has passed, the rates will no longer show up in your listing.

Keep these pointers in mind to create a thorough listing and to help make your property show up higher in HomeAway searches.

The Top-Searched Vacation Rental Amenities Which amenities are at the top of travelers' lists?   How to Write Your Ads for the Search Engines, too! When writing your advertisements, use search engine optimization (SEO) to attract more renters.   The 7 Photos to Include in Every Vacation Rental Listing   Put yourself in the shoes of your vacation rental guest. Would the photos of your property make YOU want to rent it?   The Skinny on HomeAway Special Offers Just what exactly is a Special Offer and what can it do for you?

© Copyright, HomeAway Inc 2006, Updated 9/12/08