Maximizing performance is no longer an option these days. Here are pointers to make the most out of your listing on Surf to Ski Retreats.com.

Remember: YES YOU CAN have a significant impact on the success of your listing just by following a few simple guidelines.

Understand Search Engines: We all know how to search the web but did you create your listing with search engines in mind? The content in your listing affects your listing’s performance notably. Having more content in your listing will generally increase you listings ranking in search engine results. Even if renters don’t read all the info, search engines always read every word and rank your listing accordingly. Be sure to write with search engines in mind. Don’t be worried about too much information, just keep it well organized. For example- If your property is near Disney World then then more you write about Disney World the better ranking your listing will have against other properties when vacationers search using “Disney World” as part of that search.

Listing Title: The listing title is your headline. There is usually a specific reason vacationers pick your property. Price? Location? Amenities? The listing title is your first chance to let vacationers know why they want to stay at your place. Some examples: “Special Price - 5th Night FREE”, “Pet Friendly”, “Walk to the Beach”, “Washer and Dryer”, “Perfectly Private”, “Last Minute Specials” also if you are part of a popular resort you may wish to use the name in your headline for vacationers to easily identify “Prince Resort #1254, Near the Pool”. The key is to know what keywords vacationers are using in searches and then take advantage of that knowledge when creating your headline. Remember on Surf to Ski Retreats.com you have 45 Characters available to use in your listing title. Put them to good use.

Photos: Generally the more photos the better. Renters feel more secure about renting a place when they feel like the have a solid understanding of the unit and surroundings. Photos should be:

1. Accurate- (don’t use pictures from 2007) Using out-dated or misleading photos doesn’t help in the long run. Successful VR owners rely on repeat customers to lower costs and any dishonesty will come back to haunt you.
2. Clear and Well Lighted- Take the extra effort and use lights if needed. Blurry photos make a poor impression
3. Informative- Photos of the inside should include each room and you should include at least one picture from the curb or exterior. Photos also reinforce your written description and help your property stick in the potential renter’s mind.
4. Eye Catching- Pictures of the view and pictures of near by activities. Help the potential renter feel like they are already there enjoying their vacation.

Short Description: The short description is displayed in search results and at the top of your listing. Highlight the most important features about your rental and your service. It is not necessary to list # of beds or other generic info as already display in most cases. If your property is weak on distinguished characteristics it may be more valuable to list what services your offer like: excellent short notice cancellation and refund policy, 24/7 emergency contact, itinerary consulting, discounts on local entertainment/service/food and other non-property related items.

Manage Contacts/Inquiries: For every booking there is alway 10-30 that don’t pan out. Each inquiry has value even if it doesn’t turn into a booking. What do you do with those contacts? Toss them in the trash? Save every contact, take notes and measure every inquiry. If they don’t book, why? Down the road you will have a list of contacts to use to take proactive steps to increase bookings. Also when you measure your inquires it will help with determining your marketing plan.

Act Quickly: First come, first served; the early bird gets the worm and so on. Be the first to get back to your inquiry. It shows prompt service and makes a great first impression. In many cases a renter will contact several places and book the first that replies back, especially in competitive markets that have very similar properties.

Testimonials: Testimonials have a strong psychological affect on renters. If they see a very happy and satisfied customer they will be less hesitant to rent and makes you appear established. They may also highlight and reinforce key features of your property and service. It also puts you listing in our reviews section which increases your visibility on our site.

Blog: Send us an article about your area, property, business or whatever else is relevant and be sure to include some pictures. We will post it on the blog, link to your listing(s) and link to your companies website. This is a free and easy way to increase visibility. email blog posts to: brian at surftoskiretreats dot com.

Share/Network: The action menu in the right column contains the share button. If you’re a member of myspace.com, facebook.com, twitter.com, digg.com or any of the hosts of other networking sites you can easily share your listing to those websites. Ask friends and customers to share your listing. If you don’t have accounts with these websites, they are free and it usually take less than five minutes to create an account.

Tweak and Revise: Making small changes to your listing and then measure the results. Just change your listing title for a couple months. What is the result? Refining your listing may help you find that advantage you’ve been looking for.

I wish y’all success. If you have any questions about maximizing your listing feel free to contact me.

If you have tips you’d like to share please comment below.

Thanks,

Brian