The global short-term rental market is experiencing massive growth—currently valued at over $100 billion and projected to reach $170 billion by the end of 2019. More homeowners than ever are realizing the potential of vacation rentals to generate steady income, with over 660,000 U.S. vacation homes listed on Airbnb alone.

Travelers are increasingly favoring the space, privacy, and unique experiences offered by vacation rentals over traditional hotels. A Goldman Sachs study revealed that guests who stayed in a vacation rental between 2011 and 2016 are now 50% less likely to choose a hotel in the future.

So, how can you ensure your property stands out and keeps guests coming back? Here's a complete guide to marketing your rental and delivering a five-star experience.

Market Your Vacation Rental Across Multiple Online Channels

To maximize visibility, list your property on multiple trusted vacation rental platforms:

Each platform attracts different types of guests, so choose the ones that align with your target audience.

Bonus Tip: Leverage social media. Create a custom hashtag for your rental so guests can share their experiences on Instagram and Facebook. You can also run Google Ads (PPC) or YouTube video campaigns to broaden your reach.

Build a Dedicated Website for Your Property

A personal website adds professionalism and credibility to your listing. Make sure your site includes:

High-quality images and/or videos
An updated calendar
Real-time pricing
Online booking capabilities

Drive all your traffic from social media and ads to this site. Research shows that travelers are twice as likely to book when online booking is available.

Craft a Compelling and Accurate Property Description

Your listing should tell a story while clearly outlining what guests can expect. Include:

A catchy title
Overview of the property
Two or three accurate, appealing adjectives (e.g., cozy, spacious, modern)

Be truthful. If it’s a small space, say “intimate” instead of “large.” Misleading descriptions lead to poor reviews.

Cover These Essentials:

Pet Policy:
Will you allow pets? If yes, what kind and is there an additional fee?
Note: In the U.S., service animals must be accommodated regardless of your pet policy.
Standout Features:
A hot tub, backyard firepit, or game room can seal the deal—highlight them.
Bedrooms & Beds:
List the number of bedrooms and specific bed types (queen, king, bunk beds, etc.). These details help attract the right audience.
Neighborhood Info:
Showcase local restaurants, attractions, and activities—but only after you sell the appeal of your property itself.
Contact Details:
Include a phone number and/or email so guests can reach out with questions.

Keep Your Listing Fresh

Treat your listing like a living document. Update it regularly to reflect:

Renovations or new features
Seasonal shifts in language or focus
New nearby attractions or events

For example, in the winter, use terms like cozy retreat or perfect for holiday getaways. In summer, emphasize sunny outdoor spaces and nearby beaches.

Invest in High-Quality Photos and Videos

Professional visuals make all the difference. Include:

Clean, well-lit interior and exterior shots
Wide angles and tidy staging
Edited, but realistic photos

Video walkthroughs and drone footage offer an immersive experience and help build trust. A short video tour can dramatically increase interest—especially if you’re targeting long-distance travelers.

Pro Tip: Listings with over 20 photos receive 83% more inquiries, according to FlipKey.

Final Thoughts

Marketing a vacation rental isn’t just about getting noticed—it’s about creating an experience that earns glowing reviews and repeat bookings. By combining effective listing strategies, accurate descriptions, and professional visuals, you can turn your rental into a high-performing property in a growing $100 billion industry.

How to Successfully Market Your Vacation Rental Property in a Booming $100 Billion Industry