With new regulations, a highly competitive Melbourne market and reduced demand due to interest rate hikes – it’s more important than ever for Airbnb hosts to focus on maximising occupancy. Adapting to these challenges means using smart pricing strategies, effective marketing, and a strong emphasis on guest experience.
1. Make Your Airbnb Stand Out
People booking a holiday rental want an experience, not just a place to stay. Style your property to appeal to guests. Avoid mismatched furniture and instead, create a unified look with thoughtful décor. Always ensure your photos match the current furniture and styling. Invest in professional photos or updating pre existing photos to showcase your property’s best features. Highlight any unique amenities, like a spa, fireplace or view, to make your listing more appealing.
2. Set Event Pricing Early
Melbourne is fortuniture to host many major events that drive high demand for short-term rentals. Plan ahead and adjust your pricing for peak times well in advance to capture higher rates. Events like the Australian Open and Grand Prix bring in significant crowds, so it’s crucial to set competitive rates for these periods to avoid being underpriced.
3. Focus on Key Local Events
Stay informed about major events that can boost your bookings. These events create prime opportunities to maximize income:
- Australian Open
- Grand Prix
- Easter Weekend
- School Holidays
- Local festivals like the Comedy Festival
- AFL Finals
- Spring Racing Carnival
- Long weekends
- Christmas and New Year’s Eve
4. Use Dynamic Pricing for Your Airbnb
Dynamic pricing tools can adjust your rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events, which can help maximize income without constant updates.
- Manual Pricing: Monitor similar properties, especially around popular events, to ensure your rates are competitive.
- Automated Pricing: Consider tools like Airbnb’s Smart Pricing, Beyond Pricing, or Price Labs, which automatically adjust your rates based on demand.
5. List Your Property on Multiple Platforms
To reach a wider audience, list your property on multiple platforms, such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and Stayz. This strategy increases your property’s visibility and can help maintain a steady flow of bookings. If managing multiple listings feels overwhelming, consider using software that synchronizes bookings and streamlines guest communications.
6. Build Up Reviews and Work Toward Super host Status
Positive reviews significantly boost your property’s appeal and position on Airbnb. To build up your reviews:
- Focus on clear communication with guests.
- Ensure the property is spotless for every check-in.
- Work with professional cleaners who understand Airbnb standards for five-star results.
- Review all guests
7. Tap into Your Network for Longer Bookings
Leverage your connections with relocation companies or insurance providers, as they often need short-term housing for families. Building these relationships can lead to longer bookings and provide more stability in your rental income. By putting these strategies into practice, you can keep your property competitive, attract more guests and maintain profitability as the market evolves. Maximizing occupancy and adapting to market changes will help ensure your property’s success even during challenging times.
