In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, many vacation rental owners are reevaluating their strategies, particularly those considering or currently managing midterm rental properties. As the traditional summer busy season may be quieter than usual, adapting to the needs of guests looking for longer stays can open up new opportunities. We tuned into HomeAway’s recent webinar 'Prepare for Travelers Looking to Book,' and integrated their insights with strategies particularly effective for midterm rentals, such as flexible cancellation policies, heightened cleanliness standards, and amenities valued by longer-staying guests. Here are three adapted ways to increase bookings this summer, tailored to both vacation and midterm rental markets:
Create a flexible cancellation policy.
77% of HomeAway’s surveyed travelers said they are more likely to choose travel accommodations with flexible cancellation policies. A moderate policy is ideal with a 100% refund within 30 days of cancellation, and a 50% refund within 14 days of cancellation. If you want to be really accommodating, you can offer a relaxed policy of a 100% refund within 14 days of cancellation, and a 50% refund within 7 days of cancellation. Be sure to highlight your cancellation policies in search filters and in your header to increase your bookings.
Up your cleanliness AND be sure to share your updates.
HomeAway found that 51% of travelers are paying more attention to cleanliness standards of bookings, and 82% of travelers find cleanliness information helpful . In our blog post “Post-Coronavirus Essential Actions for Your Vacation Rentals,” we highlight ways to make sure your vacation rental is completely disinfected. Once you have a new policy in place, be sure to share it in the property description, in the onsite property information, and on door hangers, signs and checklists. Also, ask guests to mention cleanliness in their reviews.
Offer and advertise free parking.
26% of HomeAway’s surveyed travelers said they are more likely to drive to their destinations rather than fly. Cater to the drivers by offering free parking at your rental.
Although this is a crazy time, stay positive. HomeAway found that 70% of travelers are still willing to stay in a vacation rental this year.
For more vacation rental insights and ways to increase bookings, visit HomeAway. Also be sure to check out our Vacation Rental Resources.
Related: 6 Lakeside Vacation Rental Amenities from Amazon, Prepare Your Vacation Rentals for the Coronavirus
