From all reports, higher gas prices do not seem to have cut down the number of road trips that vacationers are taking. Major destination resorts have reported higher occupancy rates this year. This trend has allowed hotels to increase their rates this year and offer fewer discounts. Vacation rental property managers are reporting that prime properties were rented much earlier this year. This trend has been reflected in our own experience, with the prime weeks of the Summer and Fall seasons being booked earlier than ever before. If you are not experiencing this general increase in activity, you may wish to evaluate your marketing strategy.

While most people rent vacation homes in advance, some wait until the last minute.  You can position yourself to scoop up those travelers by making a few adjustments to your marketing and rental procedures.   Then, you will make more money, as you will be able to keep your calendar full throughout the year.

Is your vacation rental located near a golf course?  If so, you should make the most out of your location.  Include golf amenities in your home so renters will be more likely to stay with you.  By including certain amenities, you will be able to keep a full rental calendar.    

Televisions can make or break a vacation rental home.  While you might think renters are only interested in other amenities such as pools and hot tubs, they want to have access to televisions as well. By providing enough TVs in your vacation rental, your property will be more appealing to renters.

If you are a vacation rental owner that wants to use a management agency, you need to be sure you pick the right one. There are lots of agencies available that are competing for your business.  You need to narrow down the prospects by examining each company.