Vacation Rentals Hints - Tips of How to Get Your Guests Returning Again and Again

Whether you own an exclusive, luxury villa or are catering more for the budget vacationer, repeat bookings and returning guests are by far the most cost effective way of filling your property. How to get that all-important repeat booking, therefore, becomes something that is worth taking some interest in.

You know, from your own experience, that when you finish your own vacation felling happy and content then you will be more likely to at least think about returning at a future date. Your renters will be the same. You want them to tell their family, friends and work mates about what a great time they have had and recommend your property as a great place to stay.

Now there are obviously some things that are out of your control such as inclement weather, delayed flights or bad traffic - but there are also things you can do to try and ensure that anybody spending time at your vacation rental has as good a time as possible and so leaves in the mood to give your property some free advertising.

Mostly it comes down to common sense and putting yourselves in their shoes. People generally go on holiday to "get away from it all" or to "take it easy". Let them. For many the first interaction will set the tone and so as soon as you receive the first enquiry try and respond as quickly as possible - don't leave time for doubt to set in. Be prepared for any questions you may receive - these will be varied and will include everything from detail on local restaurants through medical facilities and childcare. Being able to answer these questions will help to put potential renters minds at rest.

Obviously make sure that your advertising is honest and up to date and make sure your property is clean and furnished to show it at its best. Check the utilities and facilities and have a system in place to take care of the petty annoyances such as blown light bulbs or leaky faucets.

If you have postcards or business cards or even notepads/notepaper with your property on them, ensure that they are available at your property from day one. This way they are more likely to be picked up and maybe passed on.

A welcome pack is always a nice option. Some people charge for these but a free one will always come as a nice surprise. These do not have to be a great expenditure - a few grocery items such as milk and tea or maybe some soap or shampoo could be enough to make the difference.

Leave a list of local amenities and include things like business numbers, directions to a good restaurant, the local store etc. especially if your vacation rental is in a rural area. Also include emergency numbers for peace of mind.

Make sure that you or your agent on the ground is available to your guests. A friendly welcome is always a nice thing. Remember when your guests arrive they may be tired and not take all that you tell them aboard. Leave your number and tell them that if they have any questions later to feel free to call. Perhaps a call during the vacation is a nice touch - but remember not to be too intrusive and remember they are on holiday, they may not be up quite as early as you!

Use any feedback you get from visitors to your vacation rental as valuable information. If there are suggested improvements or something that has caused a grievance, try and get them dealt with promptly - this again will help with increasing your repeat bookings.

Whilst most of this is common sense, try to remember to always think about what your guests will be feeling, thinking and wanting. Think about your own experiences, good and bad, on vacation and become your own vacation consultant - it will save you time and money in the long run.