Why Have a Website for Your Short-Term Property Rentals
Have you been running your business without a website? This strategy can work for a little bit while your business is new or small. But, in order to grow, continually attract new guests, build stability independent from booking platforms, and deliver amazing customer service, a website is more than a marketing tool, it is a necessity.
As a destination location, you have limited time and money to market your business. This leads many short-term rentals and campgrounds to opt for only using booking platforms and maybe social media. We get it! Booking sites are where the sales happen. Facebook pages and Instagram accounts are easy to set up and, for many, fun to manage.
6 Reasons to Have a Website for Your Short-Term Rental
1) Expand Your Audience
While many people are on Airbnb and other booking sites or on Facebook and Instagram, not everyone is! You are missing out on a portion of people who can’t easily find and interact with your business. Even for people who are on these platforms, it is tough to beat their algorithms, rise above the growing competition, and be seen.
2) Show Your Style and Brand
Facebook Pages and booking site listings all look the same. A website allows you to show off your business brand. Websites are static, so customers don’t need to scroll through your posts to see everything you offer. Potential customers are used to how websites are set up and can easily navigate them to find the information they need.
3) Improve Searchability
Pop on Google and put in a search for your type of business and the city you are in. Do you show up on the Google Map? Are you in the top 5-10 searches? If not, potential customers may not be finding you. A website can be optimized, a fancy word for helping your business show up at the top. You’ll need a website address or Facebook page to set up a Google business page, one of the best ways to be found on local searches.
4) Build Customer List
Want to create or grow an email list? Creating ways for customers to sign up for a newsletter is easy with a website. Add an opt-in page for a newsletter or offer a free download like a packing list or local guide. Without one, the booking sites own your customer information, making reaching out to them for future bookings challenging. You don’t own the contact information for your social media followers either!
5) Offer Direct Booking
You can set up a website with links to booking platforms. However, there are many benefits to enabling direct booking on your site in addition or instead of relying on booking sites. Reduced booking fees mean more money in your pocket and the ability to offer guests better rates. Remove the fear that a bad review may get you kicked off a platform or that new updates will bury your listing.
6) Add New Revenue Streams
Want to sell merchandise, home decorations, experiences, or other brand items? Adding a shop to your website is a great way to bring in additional revenue!
Not sure what website platform to use? If you want to build your own site, we find WIX to be one of the easiest and best for vacation rentals. Templates are ready to go, and they take you through a step-by-step process of creating a website. Some platforms specifically for short-term rentals include:
If you are ready to set up your first website and need some guidance, reach out! hello@growthcapacityservices.net
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