Maximising those calendar gaps to boost your vacation rental success

How Travelnest can support you

As a vacation rental host, your main aim is to avoid too many gaps in the first place. With Travelnest, you can set one-night minimum stays in your less popular booking periods. We recommend marketing these towards business travellers, or solo travellers needing an overnight stay. Smart Pricing will automatically adjust your pricing to competitive rates so you don’t need to worry about it too much. Our one-stop platform for your bookings, communication and calendar management will support you to keep your gaps filled. But what can you do with the gaps that inevitably end up happening from time to time?

Taking inventory like a pro

To make the most of your calendar gap optimisation, start by walking through your property as if you’re a guest. Flip lights on and off, fiddle with the taps, and give the appliances a whirl. This simple exercise can bring potential issues to light—literally!

Guest reviews are a goldmine of information. Keep a close eye on them and follow up to ensure everything worked smoothly during their stay. Addressing feedback promptly not only improves your property but also shows future guests you're attentive and responsive.

Chairs that wobble, doors that squeak, or wonky toilets? Time to fix them! Look around your property to identify items showing wear and tear. Replacing or having backups ensures that your guests won't face any hiccups during their stay.

Scheduling maintenance like a maestro

Got a leaky tap or a temperamental heater? Use the lull in bookings to schedule repairs. Getting these sorted now prevents bigger issues down the road and maintains your property's appeal.

Set aside time for regular maintenance checks. Schedule a plumber for any water-related quirks and an electrician for any wiring woes. These preventative measures will save you headaches later.

Planning renovations or major projects? Sometimes, blocking out dates for these is unavoidable. But ensuring they’re done during quieter times minimises the impact on your income.

Deep cleaning for that sparkling shine

Your property likely gets a good scrub between guests, but think deeper occasionally. Hire your trusty cleaners for a more thorough clean or roll up your sleeves and tackle it yourself. Pay special attention to cupboards, drawers, and appliances like the oven.

If you're comfortable getting hands-on, tackle this yourself to save some cash. Otherwise, a professional deep clean ensures every nook and cranny is gleaming.

Don't forget the outdoor furniture! A good clean can make a huge difference in first impressions and overall guest satisfaction.

Garden glory

A well-kept garden is a sight to behold. Schedule extra gardening sessions to ensure everything's tidy and seasonal. Fresh plants and clean driveways can boost your curb appeal significantly.

Pay attention to little things like hanging baskets and seasonal blooms. They add charm and warmth, making your rental feel like a home away from home.

Remember, the outside is the first thing guests see. A bit of extra care here can set the tone for their entire stay.

Revamping the décor

Tired cushions, scuffed walls, and outdated decor can drag the place down. Consider a decorator to refresh paint jobs, replace worn sofa covers, and inject new life into your aesthetic.

Even simple updates can make your property look fresh and inviting. New cushions, art, and a coat of paint can transform the space without breaking the bank.

Regular updates prevent your space from feeling stale and keep guests coming back season after season.

Conclusion

Those empty dates in your calendar? They're not a loss—they’re an opportunity. By using them wisely for vacation rental maintenance and property upkeep strategies, you're setting your property up for success in the busy months ahead. Remember, a little effort now leads to happier guests and increased bookings later.

Interested in learning more about how to optimise your vacation rental property? Join Travelnest for up-to-date information and advice on-hand all year round.