What Renters Look For in a Vacation Rental Listing and What You Can Do About It

While travelers looking at your property listing want to know as much as possible about your vacation home, they are still looking for specific things. Taking their preferences and concerns into account when creating or updating listings is one of the best marketing strategies to help increase your bookings.

Renters want to know what kind of experience they would have at your vacation home.

* Try to show how comfortable your home is. Having pictures of overstuffed couches, highlighting special amenities like hot tubs, or listing kitchen accessories gives travelers an idea of what your vacation rental has to offer. It can help them understand what it would be like to stay in your home.
* Explain whether you own a cabin rental or a beach condo. But don't forget to reinforce your property description with photos showcasing the view from your home. If your cabin rental overlooks the lake or if snowcapped mountains are visible from the master bedroom, try including a photo. Images like this will get potential renters excited about renting from you.
* Show them why your home is better than the competition. Most people on vacation want to escape their daily lives. Through pictures, vivid description, and a detailed listing of amenities you can illustrate how your vacation home will help them achieve their vacation goals.


Travelers use your listing to learn what your vacation home has to offer that other homes or hotels in the area do not.

* Explaining local attractions or landmarks will help travelers plan their dream vacation. Including distances from your vacation rental to local activities in your property listing will also help them compare your home's location to that of your competition.
* Describe the activities the home itself offers. If your rental offers a variety of activities that appeal to your target market, you are likely to increase your bookings. When families book a beach condo, they appreciate kid-friendly amenities like pools or board games. Couples might enjoy spending evenings together in their homes watching a movie or roasting marshmallows in the fireplace.


Travelers appreciate professionalism from vacation rental owners. Here are some simple policies to demonstrate your professionalism.

* Credit cards are the accepted method of payment for internet transactions. You will build instant credibility with by accepting major cards such as Visa, MasterCard, or Discover. If you cater to business travelers or corporations looking for business retreat venues, then you might consider accepting American Express as well.
* Be honest in all your dealings with potential renters. Whether you are writing a property description or responding to inquiries, honesty is always the best policy. Demonstrating friendliness and integrity will make them happier to work with you towards a booking.