• The STR Report
  • Posts
  • 📈 Unlock Year-Round Bookings: Top Tips to Boost Your Occupancy Rate

📈 Unlock Year-Round Bookings: Top Tips to Boost Your Occupancy Rate

Discover proven strategies to keep your short-term rental in high demand, no matter the season! 🌟

Community Perks with The STR Report

📊 Property Analysis – Instantly discover key metrics like Rent, Cash flow, ROI, and Cash-on-Cash returns to make smarter investment decisions for your Airbnb, Mid-term, or Long-term rentals.

🔎 Personal Airbnb Investment Finder – Connect with an expert to handpick profitable Airbnb properties that match your criteria. With 200+ successful deals, all cash-flowing, you’re in good hands. Take 15 seconds to fill out the form to see how all of these properties are experiencing at least a 15% Cash-on-Cash return.

🤑 STR Loans & More – Need funding for your next short-term rental? Expect expert guidance, personalized service, and the best possible rates.

April 28th, 2025

Good afternoon STR Report Community!

In today’s issue, you will find:

📱Today’s Article: 📈 Unlock Year-Round Bookings: Top Tips to Boost Your Occupancy Rate

📈 Trending Market Highlight: St. Simons Island, Georgia & Winter Park, Florida

✉️ STR News: Airbnb cracks down on off-platform payments and guest registrations & more

💸 Mortgage Rate Watch

🌳 Unique Airbnb of the Week

🏫 Subscriber Perks: Go Live Playbook, including: Beginner’s Guide E-Book, Guest Communication Messaging Templates, Airbnb Welcome Guide Template, STR Buy Box Template, & Tax Savings E-Book

Community Perks: Property Analysis, Personal Airbnb Investment Finder, and STR Loans & More

📬 See our collection of newsletters here: Prior Newsletters

📈 Unlock Year-Round Bookings: Top Tips to Boost Your Occupancy Rate

Tips for Boosting Your Occupancy Rate Year-Round

Maximizing occupancy rates is every short-term rental (STR) owner’s goal, but it takes more than just listing your property. To stay competitive and profitable, you need to implement strategies that ensure your property stays booked year-round, regardless of seasonal fluctuations.

1. Dynamic Pricing: Adapt to Market Conditions

One of the most effective ways to increase occupancy is by using dynamic pricing. Keep an eye on local market trends, demand surges, and even your competitors’ rates. Use pricing tools like Beyond Pricing or PriceLabs to adjust your nightly rate in real-time, ensuring you’re always offering competitive prices without undervaluing your property. By doing so, you can attract more bookings during off-peak seasons without leaving money on the table during peak times.

2. Enhance Your Listing’s Appeal

A well-optimized listing is crucial for attracting guests. High-quality photos, a compelling description, and a list of unique amenities can make all the difference. To stand out, highlight special features like an outdoor hot tub, pet-friendly policy, or proximity to local attractions. Don’t forget to include a welcoming tone in your listing, emphasizing what makes your property a memorable experience.

3. Offer Discounts for Longer Stays

Encourage extended bookings by offering a discount for longer stays. Consider providing discounts for weekly or monthly bookings, especially during the shoulder seasons. Long-term guests not only boost your occupancy rate but also save you the hassle of frequent turnovers and cleaning. You could even set up special packages for remote workers or digital nomads, making your property ideal for stays of 30 days or more.

4. Leverage Seasonal Marketing

Adjust your marketing strategy to reflect the changing seasons. For example, during the winter months, promote cozy amenities like fireplaces and proximity to ski resorts. In summer, highlight outdoor activities and nearby hiking trails. Tailor your promotions to what guests are seeking during that particular time of year to appeal to specific needs.

5. Build Relationships with Repeat Guests

Returning guests are more likely to book again, so focus on nurturing relationships. Consider offering loyalty discounts for repeat bookings or special perks like early check-in or free late checkout. Keeping your guests happy is an easy way to guarantee future bookings and a higher occupancy rate, as satisfied guests are more likely to spread the word about their experience.

6. Create Flexible Policies

Flexibility is key in the modern travel landscape. Offering flexible cancellation policies, especially during uncertain times, can make your listing more appealing to potential guests. The peace of mind that comes with flexible booking options can encourage hesitant travelers to choose your property over others with stricter policies.

7. Partner with Local Businesses

Collaborate with local businesses and attractions to offer exclusive deals or experiences for your guests. Whether it’s discounts at a nearby restaurant, tickets to a local event, or a guided tour, these partnerships can make your property more attractive. This not only boosts your occupancy rate but also strengthens ties with the community.

8. Leverage Social Media and Online Reviews

Keep your property top-of-mind by engaging on social media platforms and encouraging guests to leave reviews. Positive reviews can help build trust and credibility, while a strong social media presence keeps you visible to potential guests. Share testimonials, behind-the-scenes content, and seasonal promotions to create excitement about your property.

Conclusion: Stay Consistent, Stay Competitive

Achieving high occupancy rates year-round requires ongoing effort and attention to detail. By implementing dynamic pricing, enhancing your listing, offering discounts for longer stays, and staying flexible, you can keep your property booked throughout the year. Keep your guests happy, stay active on marketing platforms, and never stop adapting to market changes, and you'll see your occupancy rate soar!

Call to Action: 📅 Ready to increase your bookings? Start optimizing your STR now with these tips, and watch your occupancy rate rise! 👇

Have questions or need help with your rental strategy? Contact us at Home Team Luxury Rentals for personalized advice!

St. Simons Island, Georgia 🐚

Downloadable St. Simons Island, Georgia Short-Term Rental Market Report

St. Simons Island STR Market Report.pdf778.88 KB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $374.97 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 54.74%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $70,070.02 per year

Read our full St. Simons Island, Georgia Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

Winter Park, Florida🌷

Downloadable Winter Park, Florida Short-Term Rental Market Report

Winter Park STR Market Report.pdf3.41 MB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $207.90 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 63.08%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $47,817.76 per year

Read our full Winter Park, Florida Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

📬 See our collection of 30+ market reports here: Prior Trending Market Reports

📝 Airbnb cracks down on off-platform payments and guest registrations
Airbnb has announced a new policy effective May 10, 2025, prohibiting hosts from collecting off-platform fees and using third-party guest registration systems. ​

💸 Steadily secures $30 million Series C funding
Steadily, a digital landlord insurance provider, has secured $30 million in Series C funding, bringing its total funding to $89.5 million, to accelerate growth and expand its offerings in the landlord insurance market.

💻 Inspirato's Longtime President David Kallery Is Out
Inspirato has terminated its longtime president, David Kallery, effective immediately, with CEO Payam Zamani assuming the role, as the company grapples with declining revenue and a significant drop in market capitalization since its 2022 public debut.

💰 Expedia Makes It Harder for One Key Members to Earn Vrbo Rewards
Expedia Group is altering its One Key loyalty program by eliminating OneKeyCash earnings on Vrbo bookings for Blue tier members starting May 22, while higher tiers-Silver, Gold, and Platinum- will continue to earn rewards on Vrbo, with no changes to earnings on Expedia.com or Hotels.com.

💸Mortgage Rate Watch – April 28th, 2025

Current Mortgage Rates (as of April 28, 2025):

  • 30-Year Fixed: 6.84% (-0.08%)

  • 15-Year Fixed: 6.25% (-0.05%)

  • 30-Year Jumbo: 7.25% (-0.07%)

  • 30-Year FHA: 6.34% (-0.12%)

  • 30-Year VA: 6.35% (-0.08%)

  • 7/6 SOFR ARM: 6.72% (-0.13%)

Market Overview:

Mortgage rates have continued to decline slightly, reflecting a stable performance in the mortgage-backed securities (MBS) market and lower Treasury yields. This signals investor optimism regarding controlled inflation and the possibility of further Federal Reserve rate cuts in the coming months.

Despite recent rate drops, the housing market faces challenges due to persistent affordability issues and a lack of inventory.

Rate Trends & Forecast:

  • Short-Term: Mortgage rates are expected to remain stable, with minor fluctuations depending on economic indicators and Federal Reserve decisions.

  • Long-Term: The Federal Reserve’s actions will be a key determinant in future mortgage rate movements. If inflation continues its downward trend, further rate cuts may occur in 2025.

For real-time mortgage rate updates, visit Mortgage News Daily.

Bored of staying at regular Airbnbs? 🌳

Escape to the extraordinary at the Spyglass Treehouse, nestled high among towering redwoods in Sonoma County. This architectural marvel, created by Artistree, seamlessly blends artistry, sustainability, and a deep connection with nature. Inside, you'll find a luxurious king-sized bed, an Infrared Sauna, and a cedar hot tub, all framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the lush forest. The space is designed with bespoke furnishings, eco-friendly amenities, and sustainable features like solar panels and a rainwater collection system. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this private sanctuary, where you can relax, rejuvenate, and celebrate life with an optional "Celebration Package." The Spyglass Treehouse is not just a getaway; it’s an experience in harmony with the natural world, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, romance, and environmental consciousness.

Subscriber Perks:

📖🏡💰 Go Live Playbook

The "Go Live Playbook" is your all-in-one guide featuring a beginner’s guide e-book, messaging templates, Airbnb welcome book, STR buy box template, and tax savings tips to kickstart your short-term rental success.

Community Perks with The STR Report

📊 Property Analysis – Instantly discover key metrics like Rent, Cash flow, ROI, and Cash-on-Cash returns to make smarter investment decisions for your Airbnb, Mid-term, or Long-term rentals.

🔎 Personal Airbnb Investment Finder – Connect with an expert to handpick profitable Airbnb properties that match your criteria. With 200+ successful deals, all cash-flowing, you’re in good hands. Take 15 seconds to fill out the form to see how all of these properties are experiencing at least a 15% Cash-on-Cash return.

🤑 STR Loans & More – Need funding for your next short-term rental? Expect expert guidance, personalized service, and the best possible rates.

Partner with Us!

If you have a project you’d like us to promote, or a product or service you’d like to share, please reach out to us at [email protected].

We appreciate you being a part of our STR community and for sharing our group with your business partners and associates. Thank you!