With the kids off from school and many people wishing summer wasn’t so far from the winter holidays, spring break is one of the most popular times for people to travel and stay in a vacation rental. Whether travelers plan to enjoy some fun in the sun or hit the slopes, spring break is guaranteed to be a busy time for many vacation rental owners. Always keeping a rental in prime shape – both in-person and online – can help owners get the most out of spring break travelers and embrace the peak season for their rentals.
According to a , renters who book airfare 70 days in advance will receive the best rates. Savvy travelers know that they need to book their spring break travel plans early in order to get the best rates. In fact, according to a recent , travelers prefer to start planning and booking their accommodations 2-3 months in advance.
This is why you should have a marketing strategy and implementation plan for your rental property now. can help you maximize your bookings. Using local keywords, highlighting your amenities, and investing in high-qualify photography are great ways to make your listing more attractive to spring breakers.
Whether you have a rental in the Florida gulf or the Colorado mountains, here are a few ways to start preparing your vacation rental for your spring breakers today.
Add amenities to your rental that will delight your guests
Try adding creative ways to wow your guests. There are numerous ways you can enhance your renter’s experience, here are just a few to consider:
- Purchase snorkel gear and share a list of great snorkeling sites close to your rental.
- Place a snack basket on the kitchen counter for you renters to enjoy after a long day of travel.
- Purchase new sheets. Renters notice when they’re sleeping on cheap sheets. They will appreciate the upgrade.
- Place folded towels on beds for a hotel experience.
Guests appreciate attention to detail. Think of that made you feel comfortable when traveling and implement them in your own – and make sure you update that information on your listing! When you make your guests feel at home, they will be more likely to rebook with you and leave you a glowing review.
Examine past reviews for feedback
can yield an increase in future bookings. Many travelers want to read reviews from past renters. These reviews may sway spring breakers to book your vacation rental or influence them to move on to the next one.
In the slow season, take time to look over your reviews. Your previous renters’ feedback will help you enhance future renters’ booking experience.
Hire a cleaning service to deep clean your vacation rental
The winter months can add wear and tear on your property. If you don’t get a head start on, it could end up costing you time and money.
For example, you may want to rent a power washer to clean your siding and patio. Weather in the winter months can be unpredictable, leaving your rental with mildew and stains. Power washing is an inexpensive way to make your rental sparkle like brand new.
Address maintenance and safety issues at your rental
A broken HVAC system or burst pipe can ruin any renters’ vacation. You want to ensure your rental is working efficiently and effectively throughout their stay.
Take the time to inspect every appliance and potential maintenance issue. If you’re not handy, you will want to have access to someone who can make the necessary repairs. You can use the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors as a guideline for how long home features and appliances should last.
Handling maintenance issues will not only provide for a better guest experience, but can prevent any accidents at your home. Checking for can avoid potential accidents your renters may face.
You may want to check areas such as the bathroom floors and the security of your rugs. Making little adjustments throughout the rental can help avoid minor accidents.
Evaluate your rental insurance policies
When you purchased your vacation rental, you most likely purchased the as well. With the ever-changing legal landscape, you should make time to review your insurance policies on a regular basis. You want to ensure your property meets local insurance regulations and ordinances.
By reviewing your insurance, you may also be able to find less expensive policies with the same coverage.
Create a list of restaurants and activities your renters will enjoy
This may be the first time your renters are visiting the area. They will want to know where to go and what to do. You’re an expert on the community and should share your knowledge with your renters.
Develop a list of restaurants and activities that your spring breakers will enjoy. You may want to create personalized lists for each type of vacationer you encounter.
For example, if you have a family with a newborn staying at your rental, you may want to create a family-friendly list. Think of activities and restaurants that are easy to get to and accommodate children of any age.
Your renters will appreciate the time and energy you put into the list, and it will make their experience that much better.
Getting a head start on prepping for spring break will help you maximize your bookings as well as create an unforgettable vacation experience for your renters.
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