With the widespread and uncertainty of the coronavirus, the travel industry is taking a hit. Ryman Hospitality Properties Inc reported 77,000 cancellations during the first week of March, accounting for $40 million in lost revenue (Source: Bloomberg). While companies such as Ryman and Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc are reporting financial loss, they emphasize this is a temporary situation. In the meantime, we encourage short-term vacation rental owners to take steps to prepare their rentals and keep guests informed. Here is what we recommend:
-
Clean, clean, clean
Scrub every surface according to CDC Standards. Take extra precaution with items like comforters and throw blankets that are sponges for germs. Consider switching to machine washable options (if you do not have those already) like this Linespa Quilted Comforter or this Tuddroom Faux Fur Blanket. Refer to our Vacation Rental Property Cleaning Checklist for additional guidance.
-
Stock up on essentials for germ protection
Put hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in a visible spot in most rooms of the household. Also put a bottle of hand soap at every sink. Business Insider also suggests having on-hand:
-
Communicate with your guests
Let your guests know that you are taking every precaution to clean and disinfect your vacation rental. Also provide your guests with the tips and tools needed to stay healthy. The CDC and World Health Organization have ample resources for you to share with your guests.
For additional coronavirus and vacation rental tips, see Lodgify's Coronvirus Protection Guide.
For more vacation rental resources, visit our Vacation Rental Tips Page.
Related: Complete Guide to Visio’s Residential Rental Loans, 14 Interesting Vacation Rental Market Statistics