Keys to iStopOver Success!
I spend a lot of time helping hosts using iStopOver create great listings, and I also spend a lot of time interacting with guests helping them find their ideal stopover spot. One of the best parts of using iStopOver is the freedom hosts have in creating their listings. Anyone with excess space in their home can list on our website and charge the price they desire. In doing so, this creates a diverse range of accommodations types and rates within our online marketplace. Our hosts often ask for help in creating a listing that results in many bookings.
Our experience is that there are TWO major reasons that some listings result in many bookings – price and listing-content.
PRICE: Price is obviously a major reason guests use iStopOver, and setting the right price is key in closing bookings:
- Before setting your price, do your research! Take a look at the other listings in your location or similar locations, and see what other people are charging. What kind of amenities do they provide their guests?How is their location in comparison to your own?These are the kinds of questions you need to be asking yourself in order to ensure that your listing price is fair and competitive.
- Consider what guests are thinking when they see your listing. Your guest has probably looked at hotel costs in your area, and they will be considering all of their options.
- Test, test and test again. Remember that you can change your price at any time, and as often as you want. The best way to find the ideal price point is by trying a few price points and seeing where you attract most bookings. Remember that charging less for your place will tend to mean that more guests will book with you, and may net you more profit overall. Don't forget that the majority of individuals who use this service are budget travelers. Try different rates and see what works for you.
- Use the rates schedule! A lot of guests will want to stay for a week or more at a time. The rates schedule provides you with a great opportunity to offer deals to guests who stay for longer periods of time. It also allows you to charge a premium for weekends or specific dates throughout the year such as New Years Eve or long weekends.
GREAT LISTINGS: Having an attractive and well crafted listing is the surest way to interest potential guests. Here are a few suggestions to get the most out of your listing:
- Make a list of features and amenities that will be included with your rental. Will you be offering a breakfast? Are you willing to pick your guest up from the airport? These can be important factors for a guest when they are determining whether to book with you, and can also justify slightly higher prices. Try and think about what makes your place unique and attractive. Make sure this list of features and amenities is clearly visible in your listing description.
- Photos. Guests keep telling us that great photos are one of the most important reasons they choose to book a listing. Make sure you have high resolution, crisp, and well-taken photos that show the highlights of your place. Consider having your photos professionally taken or try borrowing a high-end digital camera in order to get the best pictures you can.
- Reputation is important! Take it slow. If you're new to the site and haven't gotten any reviews yet, it will be harder to get bookings - especially with a high price. Once guests start staying with you and leaving their reviews on your listing, you will begin to build momentum. This will help you attract more guests and may allow you to charge more for your place. Remind your guests to give your home or apartment a review after they have stopped over!
- BE CREATIVE! Make sure that your description tells a story about what is special about your place and why it is special. Offer something novel and fresh to your guests that gives your listing real value and guests will be lining up to stay with you before you know it!
-Brett, Marketing Intern
