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Social Media Success for Short-Term Rentals: A Guide to Boost Bookings and Build a Following

Transform Your Short-Term Rental into a Social Media Sensation


Key Points for Hosting Success:

  • Memorable and Clever Branding: Select a distinctive name that captures the essence of your space and resonates with potential guests.
  • Inspiring High-Quality Photos: Use captivating and sharp images that showcase the best aspects of your rental to entice and engage viewers.
  • Collaborate with Local Influencers: Forge partnerships with influencers and content creators in your area, offering discounted stays in exchange for compelling content.
  • Become a Local Online Ambassador: Establish a strong presence in relevant online circles, engaging with local businesses and community tags to boost visibility.5. Elevate Your Hosting: Dive into our comprehensive guide for invaluable insights to take your hosting endeavors to new heights.



Discover the Power of Social Media to Boost Bookings

Navigating the vast world of social media might seem like wandering through an uncharted forest. But fear not, we're here to guide you on how to create captivating content and leverage social media to attract more bookings for your short-term rental. Tom Feldman, a seasoned Airbnb Superhost from Tye Haus in Skykomish, Washington, shares his winning and authentic approach to building a following and making his rental a must-visit destination.

Learn the Proven Social Media Strategies from Tom of Tye River Cabin Co.

"Our journey as hosts began in 2012 when we acquired our first A-frame cabin, Tye Haus. We revamped it, listed it on Airbnb, and started an Instagram account showcasing our home amidst breathtaking scenes from the area – our hikes, local attractions, and the beauty of our grounds. Soon after, the renowned photographer Alex Strohl contacted us for a collaboration. We hosted him for two months, providing a creative retreat in exchange for sharing his stunning photos on our feed. When we started posting Alex's pictures, our popularity skyrocketed, paving the way for many more fruitful collaborations and contests.

Today, my family manages three A-frame cabins, hosting influencers from around the world. By featuring their credited content on our feed, we offer them a space to explore, adventure, and unwind. This unique marketing technique has transformed our occupancy rate from 30% to nearly 100%, filling up weekdays and off-season months. Additionally, we've amassed an online following of nearly 115K. Allow us to share our top tips on putting your property on the social media map."

Step 1: Name Your Space

The first step in marketing your rental might seem small, but it carries significant weight – give your space a distinct, memorable, and clever name. This allows you to create a brand for your home and secure a unique Instagram username. To find the perfect name, consider the type of home, any thematic elements, connections to your location, or historical significance. Research what other listings are doing and what names are available on social media. For Tom, his first cabin, Tye Haus, drew inspiration from the neighboring Tye River and the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, resulting in a perfect fit.

Step 2: Start with Stunning Photos

Once you have your name and social media handles ready, kickstart your online presence with breathtaking pictures. Never underestimate the power of visual appeal – your images are the first things potential guests will notice, so they must be inspiring! Ensure your photos are consistent, high-quality, and accurately represent your property. Highlight what makes your rental unique, whether it's the interiors, character, or location. If you're not confident in your photography skills, investing in a professional photographer can be a game-changer.

Step 3: Foster Creative Collaborations

To generate eye-catching content for your feed, collaborate with influencers such as photographers, bloggers, and videographers. Offer discounted stays in exchange for credited content. This strategy drives traffic to your page as new users discover your home through the influencers' posts. When reaching out to influencers, be professional, clear, and establish mutual expectations for the partnership. Empty inventory? Use downtime to your advantage by inviting a local influencer for a stay and generate additional content for your feed.



Step 4: Build a Following

Once your online presence is established with great images, it's time to make your presence known. Be an online ambassador in your area, engaging with relevant circles and local businesses. Partner with brands to host contests and giveaways, cross-promoting audiences. These activities also help you build an email database.

Step 5: Embrace Authenticity

Avoid excessive self-promotion and be genuine in your interactions. Building authentic connections with your audience is key. Avoid overloading posts with hashtags; instead, opt for a more subtle, organic approach. Building a following takes time, so stay patient, creative, and true to your brand.

By following these tips and embracing your unique style, your short-term rental will shine on social media, leading to increased bookings and higher occupancy rates. Happy hosting!

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