The short-term rental market is growing at a dizzying pace and there are increasing opportunities for property owners to make money. At the same time, it is easy to make mistakes that reduce profits, lower ratings on booking sites and discourage guests from coming back again. The good news? Most of these can be easily avoided.
Below, we look at the most common traps hosts fall into and practical ways to guard against them.
1. Unprofessional property photographs
Photos are the first thing potential guests see when browsing listings on booking sites. Poor shots, dark interiors or haphazard framing can make your flat look unattractive, even if it is in fact very comfortable.
How to avoid?
- Invest in a professional photo shoot - it's a one-off expense that pays for itself quickly.
- Take care with good lighting - photos taken in natural light are more inviting.
- Show off the details - e.g. a comfortable bed, a view from the balcony, atmospheric accessories.
Professional photos increase the click-through rate of the offer and increase the booking rate by up to several tens of per cent.
2. Description of the offer too general or outdated
The description "nice flat in the centre" will not convince anyone today. Guests expect accurate information: how many beds there are, whether there is air conditioning, how the internet works and how close the tourist attractions are.
How to avoid?
- Create descriptions rich in keywords: 'short-term rental flat with sea view', 'accommodation with free parking in the centre'.
- Highlight unique features - e.g. high-speed Wi-Fi for those working remotely, a balcony with a view, access to a gym.
- Update the content regularly - if there is a new attraction in the area, put it in the description.
A well-written description means that guests know immediately what to expect and are less likely to make complaints.
3. Lack of a transparent pricing policy
Guests do not like to be surprised by additional costs. If the price in the search engine differs from the final price (because you add cleaning, a tourist fee or a deposit), you may lose your booking.
How to avoid?
- Use clear rules - define what is included and what you have to pay extra for.
- Use booking management systems such as mobile-calendar, which automatically show guests the full price of their stay.
- Analyse your competitors' policies - price transparency is an element that builds trust.
Price transparency is not only about guest comfort, but also about fewer questions and misunderstandings.
4. Poor management of the availability calendar
Double bookings are an owner's nightmare and a major reputational risk. All it takes is a moment's inattention when manually updating the calendar to expose yourself to negative feedback.
How to avoid?
- Make use of Channel Manager, which automatically synchronises calendars between Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia and other platforms. Thanks to the technology, the problem of double bookings can be completely eliminated.
5. Chaos at check-in and check-out
Guests appreciate simplicity. If they have to ring several times to get to the flat, or don't know where to leave the keys, the whole stay starts with frustration.
How to avoid?
- Prepare clear instructions: check-in/check-out times, address, code for the key box.
- Send automatic messages to remind you of the details of your stay.
A well-organised check-in process is the first step towards positive feedback.
6. Ignoring communication with the visitor
Failure to respond promptly to a question may cause the customer to choose another offer. Nowadays, visitors expect a response almost immediately.
How to avoid?
- Use automatic message templates in mobile-calendar to send booking confirmations, directions or payment reminders.
- Set a standard - e.g. reply within 1-2 hours.
- Monitor messages even after check-in - a quick response to an issue raises a guest's rating.
Communication is the key to building relationships and guest loyalty.
7. Underdeveloped cleanliness
Cleanliness is the most frequently rated element in Airbnb and Booking.com reviews. All it takes is a minor omission to receive a downgraded rating, and this directly affects the number of bookings.
How to avoid?
- Hire a professional cleaning service or prepare a thorough checklist for the team.
- Take care of the details - fresh bedding, no dust, clean bathroom.
- Schedule a quality check every few stays.
Visitors are happy to return where they feel comfortable and hygienic.
8. Lack of basic amenities
Guests expect a hotel-like standard. The lack of Wi-Fi, hairdryer or coffee machine is a common reason for dissatisfaction.
How to avoid?
- Take care of the necessary equipment: high-speed internet, iron, basic cleaning products.
- Think of the extra perks: Netflix, a capsule coffee machine, a guide to the area.
- Ask guests in a survey what they missed - this is the best source of knowledge.
Small investments in facilities quickly pay off in the form of higher grades.
9. Outdated information in the offer
Travellers are guided by the description, and if they find a different reality on the spot, they will feel cheated.
How to avoid?
- Update descriptions and photos regularly, especially after renovations or changes to the area.
- Inform about new attractions, restaurants or facilities.
- Check your ad at least once a quarter.
With an up-to-date offer, you avoid misunderstandings and gain positive feedback.
10. No off-season strategy
Many owners focus solely on the summer or festive season, and in the other months their flat stands empty.
How to avoid?
- Develop special offers - weekend packages, family discounts, last minute promotions.
- Consider working with portals such as Travelist, Triverna or Groupon to help sell stays in the low season.
Consistent occupancy means more stable revenues and a quicker return on investment.
Summary
Short-term rentals are a business that can generate high revenues, but only if they are managed well. Professional photos, clear rules, fast communication and modern booking tools are what set the best hosts apart from the rest.
Mobile-calendar helps avoid the most common mistakes - try it out today!
