Your home away from home has turned out to be an oasis for the family weekends and summers away, but has it lagged in your expectations for generating rental revenue? This spring take note of some of the expert tips from CottageCountry.com.
1. Take Good Shots: Potential renters want to know that yours is a safe and solid bet for their vacation. They have many properties to choose from, so it is vital that yours stands out. Take quality photos in good lighting of every room of the property and different aspects of it from outside. Do not post low-light or out of focus shots. If you need to, borrow a high functioning digital camera from a friend or family member. Highlight the selling features of your property, such as the boat dock, the fire pit, the outdoor living space, or the intimate master bedroom.
2. Emphasize the Details: In addition to good photos, renters are looking for some key information. If you fail to provide it in your listing, they will most likely move on to an ad that does. Is the property family friendly? Are pets allowed? How many people can it comfortably sleep? What furnishings/linens are provided? Is the water treated and safe to drink? Is firewood provided? What sorts of amenities are available nearby (fire halls, medical services, grocery stores, baseball diamonds, bodies of water, ski hills, etc.)? Do you have the property professionally cleaned between visits? Do you have Wi-Fi or other Internet connections set up? Is the property accessible all seasons? What activities are there to do within the area? Be informative. The more answers you can provide in your listing, the more interest you will generate.
3. Advertise to a Large Audience How do potential renters currently find your property? Posting your cottage, cabin or condo on a website such as CottageCountry.com exposes your vacation home to an international range of renters for an affordable annual fee. Cottage Country lists properties by regions throughout Canada and the United States. Utilizing a host website allows you to create your own attractive webpage with a convenient online availability calendar and a secure contact system; upload up to 18 quality pictures of your locale; build your reputation as a rental with posted user reviews and ratings; have access to phone and e-mail support; and often a rental guarantee.
4. Spruce Up your Cottage’s Appeal: If it were you seeking out a perfect spot for a week away, would you choose your cottage based on the pictures you have taken? If it is time for a fresh coat of paint, some weeding and flower planting, landscaping or wood work, get it done before you launch your webpage. Your cottage will be judged by its cover, so if it needs work get it done. The property should be as appealing to the renter as it was to you when you made its purchase.
