Vacancies can quietly chip away at your rental income, but the good news is—there are proven ways to keep your calendar full. Whether you manage one cozy cabin or a growing portfolio of vacation homes, minimizing downtime between bookings starts with a smart strategy.
Let’s walk through the top tactics that help vacation rental owners reduce vacancies and keep guests coming back.
Price Your Rental Competitively
Pricing too high can scare guests off. Too low, and you’re leaving money on the table. The sweet spot? Use market research tools to compare similar rentals in your area. Adjust your pricing based on demand, seasons, and special events nearby.
Tip: Consider dynamic pricing tools to automatically optimize rates. Or working with a manager who does. Cascadia Getaways has over a decade of experience doing short term rental pricing.
Enhance Property Appeal
First impressions matter. A fresh coat of paint, modern furnishings, thoughtful amenities, and updated photos go a long way. Keep your property clean, well-lit, and inviting—inside and out.
Don’t forget curb appeal: tidy landscaping, outdoor lighting, and clean entryways set the tone.
Market Like a Pro
Use high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and guest-focused headlines to make your listing stand out. Be present on all the top booking sites and don’t underestimate the power of social media.
Consider virtual tours or videos to give guests a real feel for your space.
Deliver a 5-Star Guest Experience
Happy guests become repeat guests—and your best marketers. Offer simple touches like a welcome kit, local recommendations, or early check-in. Respond quickly to messages and go the extra mile for special requests. At Cascadia Getaways we know how important this is, which is why we have 24/7 guest service coverage.
Add Amenities that drive bookings!
Stand out with amenities that drive people to book. Consider your guests and design an experience for everyone. Having a hot tub for the adults to relax in, games for the children, toys for the younger kids, pickleball court or basketball hoop for the more active folks. Your selling an experience!
Use Promotions Strategically
To fill gaps in your calendar, offer limited-time discounts, last-minute deals, or bundle packages during off-peak times. A small drop in price is often better than a week of vacancy.
Stay on Top of Maintenance
Prevent problems before they start. Schedule regular inspections, fix small issues fast, and upgrade amenities when needed. A well-maintained property leads to better reviews—and more bookings. At Cascadia Getaways, we follow up with every guest stay to get feedback and resolve issues with out in house maintenance team.
Screen Guests Thoughtfully
Use a screening process that checks reviews, verifies identity, and sets clear house rules. This protects your property and promotes smoother stays, reducing the chances of last-minute cancellations or damages.
Consider a Property Management Partner
If you’re feeling stretched thin or juggling multiple properties, a professional property manager can handle bookings, guest communication, cleaning coordination, and pricing strategy—helping you maximize occupancy. Cascadia Getaways has been managing short term rentals for over a decade, schedule a no pressure chat with an industry expert!
FAQ: How Do I Reduce Vacancies in My Vacation Rental?
How can I attract more guests to my vacation rental?
Improve your photos and listing descriptions, be present on top platforms, and use pricing tools that keep your rates competitive.
Should I offer discounts to avoid vacancies?
Yes, especially during slow seasons or to fill last-minute openings. Strategic discounts are better than empty nights.
What makes guests want to return?
Consistency, comfort, cleanliness, and small personal touches like local welcome baskets or thank-you notes can create memorable stays.
How do I keep guests happy?
Respond quickly, solve problems fast, and communicate clearly. Guests value attentiveness as much as amenities.
Is hiring a property manager worth it?
If you’re short on time or scaling your business, a good property manager can help you increase bookings and reduce vacancies efficiently. Property managers can focus on the details you might not have time for and are trained hospitality professionals who can earn you those five star ratings!
Final Thoughts
Reducing vacancies in your vacation rental isn’t about luck—it’s about planning. With the right mix of pricing, marketing, maintenance, and guest care, you can build a strong, year-round booking strategy.
Cascadia Getaways is here to support your journey—whether you’re starting with one listing or scaling a thriving vacation rental business.