Whether you are staging a home to sell, or staging a home for potential bookings, the photos you use make a big difference. Many home renters make the mistake of using photos that appeal to the wrong market, resulting in less bookings. Understanding your market is key to keeping your property booked throughout the year.
What is the Difference?
Staging to Sell (Real Estate)
When you are staging a home to sell, photos should reflect a “less is more” dynamic. The idea here is to allow the buyer to imagine their own life in that space. While the home isn’t empty, as the buyer will want to see its potential, it should look like a blank slate with lots of possibility and room to personalize once they move in.
Staging to Book (Short-Term Rental/Hospitality)
Staging a home to book is almost the exact opposite. You want these photos to appear bold and desirable, and most importantly stand out over others in travel feeds. Visitors should feel excited when booking, and looking forward to spending their time in that space while it is theirs.
Tips for the Best Booking Photos
A Photogenic Experience: Regardless of why they are booking the rental, chances are they are going to want to share their experience with others, and especially on social media. Utilize themed decor where you can (i.e. a lakefront property might have anchor trinkets, or “home is where the lake it” signage).
Designated “Photo-Op” Areas: Does the rental have a fantastic patio, or a scenic balcony that overlooks the surrounding area? Highlight these areas as places to take selfies or group photos to commemorate their time spent there.
Multi-Functional Guest Amenities: Do you provide a coffee bar in the kitchen? Is there an small area that can act as a workspace? Mentioning these “adding extras” will give your rental a more personal touch.
Finding a Balance: Consider your target audience, and who is most likely to visit your rental. Make the space appropriate and relatable. This doesn’t necessarily mean over the top, but about adding something more than generic comfort.
Working with a professional vacation rental property management company assures that you are booking your rental more frequently with new and returning guests. For more information, call CG’s Vacation Rental Property Management at (570) 390- 0874 or visit cgsvacationrentals.com.
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