Fix My Listings: Updating Your Vacation Rental Before It’s Too Late

Jeff Iloulian
12/3/2024

When was the last time you fixed your vacation rental listings? Whether new to hosting or a seasoned pro, keeping your listing fresh and optimized is essential to standing out in a crowded market. After all, your listing is your product; it’s the first impression potential guests get of your property.

To help vacation rental hosts maximize their listing potential, we created Fix My Listing, an online series in which we examine individual listings and identify areas for improvement. We also do this via consultation calls with individual members who need help. In this blog, we’ll cover the key takeaways from the series to help you refine your listing and unlock its full potential.

What Makes a Listing Stand Out

While pricing strategies and marketing are essential to driving bookings, much of the work (and arguably the hardest part) comes down to the listing itself.

A well-crafted listing captures attention, communicates value, and sets the stage for unforgettable guest experiences. Here’s how to perfect your listing’s core elements for maximum impact.

Designing a Website that Converts

For hosts relying on direct bookings, your website is often guests’ first interaction g with your property, and first impressions count.

Focus on these key elements:

• Navigation – Guests should be able to easily find details like pricing, availability, and amenities.
• Mobile optimization – With over half of web traffic coming from mobile devices, ensure your site is user-friendly on phones and tablets.
• High-quality visuals – Professional photos and clean, modern layouts can make a big difference in how guests perceive your property.
• Reviews – Include standout quotes from guest reviews to build trust and establish credibility.

Craft Titles and Descriptions that Sell

Your listing title is a headline, so you need to make it count. A strong title highlights what makes your property unique. For example:

• OK: “3-Bedroom Rental”
• Better: “Luxurious Oceanfront Villa with Private Pool”

Your description should expand on this, painting a vivid picture of what guests can expect. Instead of listing amenities like a “king-sized bed” or “spacious deck,” focus on how those features enhance the experience. For example, “Wake up in a plush king-sized bed and step onto your private deck to enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over the ocean.”

Pro tip: Use concise, guest-focused language. If you’re stuck, tools like ChatGPT can help you get started.

The First Five Photos Are Everything

When guests scroll through listings, the first five photos often make or break their decision to click. Make these images count by featuring:

1. The exterior (especially if you have a killer view)
2. The main living area
3. The primary bedroom
4. Unique amenities (like a pool, fireplace, or game room)
5. The kitchen or dining area

Use professional photography with natural lighting to create a welcoming vibe. Try not to exceed 35–40 photos in total, and write captions that highlight details such as the size of the bed in the room or the number of seats at the dining table.

Interior Design Matters

Your first five photos are nothing without good interior design. Thoughtful interior design enhances your property’s appeal, drawing in guests and turning views into bookings.

Your property’s interior should feel like an extension of its surroundings. A good place to start is by choosing a decor style that matches the vibe of your property and location. Avoid overly personal decor—your guests should not feel like they’re intruding in someone else’s space.

Durability is just as important as style. Invest in contract-grade furniture specifically designed for commercial use that can withstand heavy wear and tear. Pair these solid pieces with plush mattresses, hospitality-grade linens, and luxurious bathroom amenities to leave a lasting impression.

Functionality matters too. Ensure your dining area and living spaces accommodate the number of guests your property sleeps, so everyone has a place to relax and gather. Thoughtful amenities like a dedicated workspace, board games, or smart TVs add convenience and elevate the guest experience.

Marketing Performance

Once your listing looks its best, the next step is getting it in front of the right audience. Strategic marketing can help your property stand out and drive bookings. Here’s how:

• SEO optimization – Consider what your target guests are searching for and use those keywords to rank higher on search platforms.
• Use booking site tools – Check off as many Airbnb and Vrbo amenities as possible to improve your search ranking.
• Reviews – Encourage guests to leave reviews by sending a friendly follow-up after their stay.
• Partner with influencers – Work with creators who align with your audience and offer a free or discounted stay in exchange for promotion.

Getting Started

Start with a listing audit. Look at your photos, title, description, and decor with a critical eye. What stands out? What could be improved? Identify areas that need attention and prioritize them.

Next, use guest feedback. Reviews often highlight what guests loved and what they felt could be improved. If multiple guests mention unclear instructions, outdated decor, or a missing amenity, these are clear opportunities for improvement.

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