Getting ranked on any type of search database is vital to the success of a business and is the key to what Digital Firefly Marketing does. Our client list ranges from sites selling everything from artificial plants to designer jeans. Our goal for all of our clients is to get them ranked as high as possible. Those posting properties on VRBO need to do the same thing. Here are some strategies that will help your listing get ranked on VRBO.

Ready to Get Ranked on VRBO?

VRBO or Vacation Rental By Owner is the answer for those looking to rent out residences they own to vacationers. VRBO is one of the most popular databases for connecting travelers with those who want to rent out their property. Due to VRBO’s popularity, it is becoming increasingly difficult to stand out above the competition. The solution is to edit your listing in ways that will optimize it for VRBO and get the inquiries flowing.

Make a Good First Impression

Giving your listing a catchy and attractive title is the first and best way to start getting clicks. An easy way to do this is to make your listing’s title seem urgent. For example, phrases like “Summer Travel Special” or “Spring Getaway Package” tend to be very effective. These phrases shows potential guests you are offering a deal no one else is providing. The key is to make your title stand out.

If you have ever gone through the process of booking a hotel for any kind of getaway, you also know how important photos are. Your listing’s profile picture should be unique to attract potential guests. If your property has an indoor pool, a photo of that amenity should be your listing’s profile picture because an indoor pool is uncommon. Be sure the photos are professional and include very clear captions as to what each photo is displaying. This makes your listing credible and informative. It is also important to fulfill VRBO’s maximum photo allowance. VRBO allows 24 images per posting and reaching this maximum results in a higher rating.

Provide All the Details

The information you include in your listing and how it is presented is also very important to your ranking. Be sure your description is detailed and professionally written. In a well-written way, your listing must describe the property in full detail down to the type of bedding that will be provided. It may seem insignificant, but it is almost the number one question potential renters ask when inquiring about the property over the phone. Be sure you don’t include features and amenities your property does not have either. If you do not have jet skis at your dock, do not include that detail in your listing. This will lead to bad reviews, which will hurt your ranking.

The calendar of both availability and rates is also vital to your listing. As soon as a customer books your listing, they must block the days booked off the calendar. This eliminates questions on your property’s availability. Make your booking policy crystal clear, too. Be sure to provide rates for every season and holiday, as well as when payments are due and the details of your cancellation policy. This creates happy users that become happy customers.

Check in After Checkout

After those who have booked your property leave happy, the best way to ensure you continue to have guests is to request reviews. Always be sure to have happy guests leave comments about their experiences with you and your property on your VRBO page. Those looking to book properties almost always look at reviews. Of course listings rated with more stars tend to rank towards the top. Positive reviews are free, effective promotions for your listing.

Lastly, VRBO is a well-oiled machine. The site is very user friendly and has a “Manage a Listing” page with answers to any and all questions those posting listings may have, so don’t be afraid to use it.