Today in Vacay: Maximizing Your Online Presence in Vacation Rental Management

We created the Today in Vacay series to keep readers up-to-date on the rapidly changing trends and updates impacting the vacation rental management space.

The forecast for this vacation season is toasty south of the Equator, balmy as usual closer to it, and maybe a bit chilly in the northern hemisphere. While it is low season for some, that doesn’t necessarily mean low sales. Wherever you are, your property can still be the perfect place for someone. The secret is to get yourself out there and show the world what you’ve got. Today, that means maximizing your online presence. Here are some trending topics in vacation rental management to consider as you hone your strategy.

Vacation rental management is leading the way

Vacation rentals used to be considered “alternative” accommodations. Hotels were the industry’s bread and butter. No more. According to Homeaway.com and Phocuswright research, private accommodations (any home, or space within a home, rented as accommodation to travelers) are leading the way. What’s more, bookings made via online rental sites and OTAs have outpaced individual vacation rental manager websites since 2014, and the gap continues to widen. The takeaway is pretty clear. Leverage a channel management solution to maximize your business exposure across a variety of distribution channels.

Get googled

It had to happen. Google has stuck its very big toe in the water of the vacation rental world. After all, many travelers start their search on Google. Now they can type in a location on Google Trips, and out pop discounts on tours, activities, events and car rentals in that area. The discounts come from partnerships between Google and the booking platforms or companies providing them, like BeMyGuest, Expedia, TripAdvisor and Urban Adventures, and many others.

How can you stand out in the sea of properties and deals? Create a great vacation rental website. Be sure to talk up trips and activities in your area, especially the ones offering discounts. Grab as much guest data as you can—make them YOUR guests by catering to their individual needs. A mobile guest app is a great way to create a personalized experience for each guest, and approve communication prior to and during their stay.

Stay tuned for more vacation rental management news updates from Today in Vacay!