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The Beckon Blog

Maximizing Your Airbnb Occupancy: Smart Solutions for Hosts

8/28/2024

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Picture this: You're scrolling through your Airbnb dashboard, and your occupancy rates are soaring. Your revenue has increased by 30%, and your guest reviews are glowing. Sounds like a dream? Let's turn it into reality.

As seasoned Airbnb optimization experts, we've cracked the code to boost your occupancy while keeping guests happy and regulators off your back. Ready to transform your space and your bottom line? Let's dive in.

Smart Space Solutions: More Than Just Heads In Beds
When it comes to boosting occupancy, it's tempting to simply add more beds wherever they'll fit. However, this approach can lead to cramped spaces and unhappy guests. Instead, focus on these smart space-planning techniques:
  1. Flow is key: Ensure guests can move around comfortably, even with luggage. A study by the Hospitality Design Institute found that guests are 40% more likely to leave positive reviews for spaces they perceive as "open" and "easy to navigate."
  2. Privacy matters: Create separate sleeping areas where possible, using room dividers or clever furniture placement. We know that guests value privacy AND togetherness.
  3. Storage is a must: Provide ample space for guests to unpack and feel at home.
  4. Multi-functional magic: Invest in furniture that serves dual purposes, like storage ottomans or stylish sofa beds.
Remember, a well-designed space not only accommodates more guests but also leads to better reviews and repeat bookings.
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 A Revolutionary Addition - Bunk Beds for Adults?
Let's discuss a recent project at one of our homes in Music City. A charming Nashville home with a spacious guest room that was, frankly, not realizing its full potential. Enter our carpenter extraordinaire, Adam, armed with wood, nails, and a vision.
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The result? A set of bunk beds that is sturdy enough to support adults, stylish enough to feature in a home decor magazine, and smart enough to double the room's occupancy. We're SO excited about how this project turned out and the owner couldn't be happier. Want to see more of this beautiful space? You can book this home here. 

Practical Tips for Instant Improvement
Not ready for that big of a renovation? Here are a few things to consider to help your listing reach its potential.  
  1. Optimize Your Listings: Use high-quality photos that showcase your space-saving solutions.
  2. Highlight Unique Features: Make that custom feature or clever storage solution a selling point in your description.
  3. Create a Floor Plan: Help potential guests visualize the space before booking.
  4. Invest in Quality Linens: Comfortable sleeping arrangements, no matter how compact, lead to happy guests and glowing reviews.
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Ready to Reimagine Your Space?
Every Airbnb property has hidden potential waiting to be unlocked. Whether it's a cozy studio that needs a Murphy bed or a family home that could use a bunk bed makeover, we're here to help.
Our team of creative problem-solvers, including master craftsmen like Adam, are ready to transform your space. We don't just curate homes; we craft solutions that boost your occupancy, and delight your guests.

Let's Make Magic Happen
Don't let underutilized space eat into your profits any longer. Let's start reimagining your Airbnb together. Who knows? Your property could be our next success story.

Remember, in the world of Airbnb hosting, it's not just about having space - it's about making the most of every square inch. Are you ready to maximize your potential? Let's chat. ​
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The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Airbnb Furnishings: Boost Bookings and Revenue

8/22/2024

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As veteran Airbnb hosts with over a decade of experience, we've seen it all when it comes to family travel. Our team has personally navigated the challenges of vacationing with kids of all ages, and understands firsthand what makes a short-term rental truly family-friendly.

​We're passionate about creating spaces that don't just accommodate families – they welcome them with open arms and we're sharing our hard-earned wisdom to help you transform your Airbnb into a haven for traveling families.  By implementing these tried-and-true tips, you'll not only make life easier for your guests but also boost your bookings, increase your revenue, and garner those coveted five-star reviews. 
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Essentials for Infants and Toddlers
  • Safe Sleeping Spaces - A portable crib or Pack 'n Play can be a lifesaver for parents traveling with infants. While the staple is a pack and play for most rentals, we love a full size portable crib to best accommodate a larger age range. It’s still small enough to store away in a closet or to put in your car if you choose to keep it off site. Make sure to provide clean sheets and a comfortable mattress.
    • Portable Crib  and Mattress
    • Crib Mattress Encasement
    • Pack and Play
    • Pack and Play Mattress Cover and Sheet 
  • High Chairs - A high chair or booster seat for mealtime can make dining much easier for parents and safer for young children. Pro tip - steer clear of high chairs with fabric seats.  The clean up is so much easier and your chair will in turn, last years longer. 
    • ​High Chair 
    • Bonus points for a splat mat
  • ​Changing Table Supplies - Don't worry about providing diapers or wipes to your guests - between sizing and brand loyalty, it just isn't worth it!  That said, what is often forgotten about in a rental home is a place to dispose of those old diapers. Consider purchasing a diaper pail to keep your room odor-free and safe from little wandering hands. 
    • ​Diaper Pail
    • Disposable Bags
  • Baby Monitor - Even the most well packed baby monitor can be broken on a long trip (we know firsthand) and there’s nothing better than knowing there’s one waiting for us on the other side.  There are dozens on the market that are connected to smartphone apps, however, for short term rentals, we love the tried and true monitors that are an easy set up and go for parents!
    • ​Baby Monitor
  • Children's Dinnerware - You don’t know how wonderful having a few pieces of child-size dinnerware is until you don’t have it on vacation.  Spill proof cups and ergonomic silverware can make or break a peaceful dinner experience.  We opt for the silicone–unbreakable, microwave and dishwasher friendly, and will suction to the table or high chair with ease!
    • ​Plates and Bowls 
    • Silverware
    • Baby Cups and Big Kid Cups​​
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Essentials for Young Children 
  • Safety Gates - If your home has stairs, safety gates are an incredible value add for parents.  Make sure to purchase enough to cover the top and bottom of each staircase.  We recommend gates that have doors for easy accessibility for the family.  We love this one for its ability to fit most wide hallways and the Y-mount for those stairs with banisters.
    • ​Safety Gate
  • Toys and Books - A small selection of toys and books can keep young children entertained. Consider items that can easily be washed and don’t have pieces that are integral to have all of them to enjoy (here’s looking at you, puzzles)
    • ​Magnetic Tiles
    • Toy Cars and Track Mat
    • Foam Blocks 
As you prepare to outfit your Airbnb with these family-friendly essentials, be sure to explore our Amazon storefront for a curated list of recommended items. From portable cribs to safety gates, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to create a welcoming environment for families.

​And if the process feels overwhelming, we’d love to help you outfit your home or even manage it directly! Click here to start chatting with us today and make your hosting experience easier than ever. Happy hosting!
Please note: Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Rest assured, we recommend these products because we genuinely love and use them ourselves, not because of the small commissions we receive. Your support helps us continue to provide top-quality content.
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Elevate Your Short-Term Rental with Proactive Maintenance: Strategies for Vacation Property Owners

8/20/2024

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As a leading property management company overseeing short-term rentals across the country, we understand that efficient maintenance is crucial for guest satisfaction and property longevity. In nearly a decade in the vacation rental industry, we've learned that a proactive approach to property upkeep benefits both property owners and guests.
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Reactive maintenance - fixing things only when they break - might seem cost-effective in the short term, but it often leads to:
  1. Decreased guest satisfaction and negative reviews
  2. More extensive and expensive repairs
  3. Reduced property lifespan
  4. Lower occupancy rates in vacation rentals
We firmly believe that it is in our collective best interest to stay in front of the problem. Our proactive strategy for vacation rental maintenance includes:
  1. Regular Inspections - We conduct thorough inspections between guest stays and schedule comprehensive quarterly check-ups. This allows us to catch potential issues before they become problems affecting guest experiences.
  2. Preventive Maintenance Schedule - We maintain a calendar for each property, scheduling routine tasks like:
    1. HVAC system tune-ups
    2. Gutter cleaning
    3. Air filter changes
    4. Smoke and carbon monoxide detector testing and battery changes
  3. Quick Response Protocol - When issues do arise, our team is ready to act. We have a network of trusted local contractors in each location, ensuring swift resolutions for our short-term rental properties.
  4. Technology Integration - We use property management software to track maintenance history, schedule tasks, and analyze patterns. This data-driven approach helps us anticipate needs and optimize our processes in the vacation rental industry.
  5. Staff Training - Our team undergoes regular training to spot potential issues and perform basic maintenance tasks, reducing the need for external contractors for minor fixes in our rental properties.
  6. Quality Control - We regularly review our maintenance processes, seeking feedback from property owners, guests, and staff to continually improve our approach to short-term rental management.
  7. Seasonal Preparedness - Given our diverse locations, we have specific maintenance protocols for each season. For example, winterizing properties in Lake Tahoe or preparing for hurricane season in Cape Cod.
  8. Guest Education - We provide clear instructions for guests on proper use of amenities and who to contact if issues arise, helping prevent accidental damage in vacation rentals.
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Our comprehensive approach has created a system that:
  • Keeps vacation rental properties in excellent condition at all times
  • Reduces financial risk for property owners
  • Enhances guest experience by ensuring well-maintained properties
  • Allows for quick resolution of any maintenance issues
  • Maintains positive relationships with both owners and guests
This tactic has become an invaluable part of our short-term rental management business model. It allows us to provide top-tier service, maintain our properties to the highest standards, and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all parties involved.

In the competitive world of short-term rentals, this attention to detail and proactive problem-solving sets us apart, contributing to our success across our diverse markets in Nashville, East Tennessee, Lake Tahoe, and Cape Cod.
Work With Us
If you own a vacation rental property and want to ensure it's always well-maintained, consider partnering with our experienced property management team. We'll handle the details so you can focus on enjoying the returns from your investment. Click the button above to learn how we can help maximize the potential of your short-term rental.
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Top 3 Airbnb Marketing Strategies to Boost Bookings and Maximize Rental Income

8/14/2024

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In the fast-paced world of short-term rentals, standing out is crucial. So much can influence a guest's decision to book your property, but your marketing strategy is one of the most important. We're one of the top Airbnb managers in Tennessee and here are three simple yet highly effective tactics that we know will help you boost your bookings and maximize your rental income.
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Professional Photography
First impressions matter, and when it comes to short-term rentals, photos are everything. High-quality, professional photos can make a significant difference in attracting guests to your property. Hire a professional photographer who specializes in real estate photography and make sure you express to them your favorite features of the home. They will know how to showcase your property in the best possible light and highlight its unique features. 

Captivating Listing Descriptions
Once you've grabbed a potential guest's attention with stunning photos, captivate them with an accurate and enticing description of your space. Your listing description should be informative, engaging, and highlight the unique selling points and amenities of your property. Remember to keep your description concise, and easy to read, as guests are more likely to skim through long paragraphs. Resources like ChatGPT can be an excellent help, especially by adding the phrase "Optimize for SEO," but make sure you edit the output so you don't sound too much like a robot! 

Guest Reviews and Testimonials
Positive guest reviews can significantly impact your booking rates, so it's important to encourage satisfied guests to leave feedback. Be proactive in requesting reviews from your guests, and when you do receive a review (positive or negative!) be sure to respond promptly and express your gratitude. Your public interactions with your guests really tell prospective guests a lot about you, so be mindful of your responses.  

Incorporating these three simple marketing tactics into your strategy can help you attract more guests and boost your bookings. Does marketing strategy and management make your head spin? Would you prefer to find an Airbnb manager to trust your business with? We're the guy. Let's get started here. 
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  • What We Do
    • Manage Your Airbnb
    • Expert Consulting
    • Manage Your Home
    • Design + Furnish
    • Find an Investment Home
  • Work With Us
  • Stay With Us
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • Join Our Team
  • Our Must Haves