HomeAway Vs. Google
Google’s recent change to search algorithms is now going to favor local vacation rental businesses instead of the large “Online Travel Advertising” sites, like HomeAway. What does that mean? That means savvy Vacation Rental Companies can take back that number one spot when vacationers are searching for local properties for rent. Some have predicted and have already reported lower inquiry rates from companies like Homeaway, FlipKey, Bookings.com directly related to Google’s recent change.
HomeAway has also recently implemented a new subscription based program that will shake up the inquiries as well. In the past you were able to buy different levels of subscriptions which would move you up the list for more subscriptions. Now your reviews and specific search criteria’s will dictate your positioning on HomeAway or VRBO which could also lead to a lower volume of inquiries and ultimately less rental revenue for 2017.
The recent changes have favored the rental companies and will inevitably negatively impact the Rental by Owner. Vacation Rental Companies have been waiting a long time for Google’s Search Engines to favor them and it looks as though that time has come. If you have ever considered having a professional management company manage your home now is the time to make the switch in efforts to increase your revenue instead of a decrease for the 2017 season.
Guaranteed Contracts
What are Guaranteed Contracts and are they a benefit to the Homeowner or the Management Company? Recent trends in the Vacation Rental Market have shown some management companies offering a “guaranteed contract” to homeowner’s who are weary about handing over control of their property. A guaranteed contract sets a specific amount of money the homeowner is guaranteed on a monthly basis with certain utilities and general maintenance included, like pool cleaning, landscaping, trash pick-up.
For example, if Vacation Homes of Hilton Head feels as though your property has the potential to have a gross rental income of $100,000 and the overall utility and carrying cost is around $25,000 we will guarantee you a total income of $75,000 for a specific time frame. This helps homeowners know that rental money is always going to be available. If you would like to know more, please contact us.
Benefits of Working With Vacation Homes of Hilton Head
- Locally owned and operated company whose number one priority is owner satisfaction.
- New and improved user friendly website that offers online bookings so renters do not have to pay a 4-9% service fee now required by VRBO, HomeAway and AirBnb.
- Each reservation has damage protection of $3000 for accidental damage to property.
- Owners have a dedicated Owner Liaison available for their every need.
- Sign a contract before October 31, 2016 and receive a $2000 cleaning credit!