How To Get More Bookings From Your Holiday Home

Even if your property is currently managed by a company you know and trust, the truth is that you could benefit greatly by taking a few simple steps to ensure that your property gets more exposure than just through your management company.

Even if your property is booked 100% of the time (and lets be honest, its probably not) you would do well to advertise your property elsewhere, since you never know what the future holds. Maybe you could have a fall-out with your property management company, or maybe they could go bankrupt. If your bookings come from a variety of sources, you're not putting all your eggs in one basket.

So what are your options in terms of increasing exposure?

1. Advertise on a variety of vacation rental websites.

Customers are unlikely to find your website directly (if you have one) but vacation rental websites can attract thousands of visitors daily, many of which may see your property. The truth is that a single booking would probably pay for your whole vacation home advertisement budget, so its not something you should overlook. A good place to start would be First Choice Vacation Homes. Some vacation rental websites offer limited time free listings, its always a good idea to take advantage of these where possible.

2. Show off your property as best you can

The most important aspect of your property are your PICTURES. Take lots and get a professional photographer to help if you need to. A property will never get a booking if the customer cannot see what they are going to get. Also make sure you describe your property and the local area as fully as possible, and be competitive with your prices!

3. Get your own website.

Most Vacation Home websites allow you to place up to 12 pictures of your property on their listings. While this gives customers a good indication of what the property will be like, its less than ideal. A keen owner may want to display up to 50 pictures of their property. This shows to the customer that the owner is proud of the property and is not trying to hide anything.

In addition, your own personal website you can give customers a whole wealth of information that you couldn't possibly display on a vacation rental website. Perhaps a map of the location of your property, local information, testimonials, prices, special offers, faqs, or you may wish to take bookings directly from your website. Remember you can't rely on your management company for all your bookings.

First Choice Vacation Homes also offers inexpesive personal vacation home websites.

Advertising Special Deals and Promotions on Your Vacation Rental Websites

There is no doubt that the Internet has revolutionized the advertising of vacation properties. Many vacation websites have areas where you can run special rates for your property. You may want to reduce rates when there is a peak season time period that is difficult to get booked, last minute cancellations or off-season specials.

You may be surprised at the revenue you can generate during weeks when your property normally sits empty. Many vacation property owners offer off-peak discounts of up to 60% or more compared to their high season rates. You need to run an eye catching ad that shows potential rentors that your property is the best opportunity out there. Be flexible and consider reducing the number of minimum nights required or giving someone a free night's stay if they book a minimum number of nights at your place.

Get to Know Your Competition

Check other online properties that are similar to your property so you know your rental is priced right and you can use this information as part of your sales pitch when corresponding with a potential guest. You need to make sure it is worth your while to rent the property, but keep in mind that an unsold rental week can never be recovered.

Ask For Feedback From Rentors

Perhaps your bookings have suffered for reasons that are not readily apparent. Take a close look at your property and try to see your place as your potential guests do. Does your place look tired or bright and inviting? Do your pictures show your unit in the best light? Is it time to invest in some new furniture? Its incredibly important to get feedback from rentors to see what you could do to improve the appeal of your property.

Making the necessary improvements to your property can be a key driver in improving your bookings. If you make major improvements, do not forget to update your websites to let guests know about your improvements and be sure to include it in any correspondence (i.e. new hot tub, remodeled kitchen). There is a direct correlation between rental income and how a property is furnished.

Make Your Property Unique

Little touches go a long way and can distinguish your property from the competition. Make sure you mention these in your vacation rental listings and in emails to prospective clients. These may include:

* Leave a couple of movie tickets or free DVD rental coupons on the kitchen counter with a small note for your guests.

* Have someone pick up an inexpensive flower arrangement for the dining table.

* Provide some free hot drinks packets, soft drinks or small snacks.

* Stock your kitchen with a full assortment of condiments and spices.

* Place entertainment guides, brochures on local attractions, restaurant recommendations, maps and transportation information on the kitchen counter.

Keeping in Touch with Past Guests and Other Contacts

Just before the beginning of your peak season, we recommend sending an e-mail or mailing a card to guests that have inquired, but may have not booked, as well as guests who have rented before. Let them know that your property is still available for rent and you look forward to hearing from them in the upcoming year. Since a fair amount of guests return to the same resort area again, it keeps your name in front of them when it's time for next year's trip. A little bit of marketing effort on your part can help you get repeat and new bookings.

Sending a thank you note is an added personal touch and is a great way to show your clients that they are considered an important and valued guest.

I hope these tips help increase the revenue of your vacation rental home.