Winter can be a difficult time for Airbnb rental owners, as demand for reservations tends to decrease, particularly in destinations associated with the summer season. Conversely, it is the highlight of the year for mountain towns near ski resorts, which are also the most popular. It is possible to optimize your rentals and maintain attractive rental income even during the low season. Julie, director ofconcierge agency in Biarritz offers us an overview of best practices regarding the winter season in Airbnb rentals.
Open your calendar in advance to collect as many reservations as possible
One of the most important aspects of maximizing your Airbnb rentals in winter is opening your booking calendar in advance. By allowing travelers to reserve your accommodation in advance, you increase your chances of getting the maximum number of reservations. Travelers are more likely to book accommodation that is available rather than waiting and risking not finding availability later.
It's often tempting to focus only on the summer season and neglect bookings for winter. However, by planning ahead for the summer season, you can increase your Airbnb rental returns during the winter. Don't forget to regularly update your reservation calendar and release periods corresponding to the opening of ski resorts or important events in your region.
Plan for the opening of ski resorts for mountain rentals
If you have a rental in the mountains and more particularly near a ski resort, it is essential to plan for the opening of the ski resorts to maximize your reservations in winter. Winter sports attract many travelers and knowing the opening dates of ski resorts is essential to attract these travelers. Ski resorts generally announce their opening dates during the months of July or August. Once you know these dates, release them on booking platforms to attract travelers planning their winter vacations in advance.
Also don't forget to take into account the end-of-year festive periods, which are very popular with travelers. The Christmas and New Year holidays attract many tourists looking for a stay in the mountains to enjoy winter sports and the festive atmosphere.
Find out about events in the city of your Airbnb rental
It's important to stay informed about events happening in the city or region where your Airbnb rental is located. These events can attract many travelers and represent an opportunity to optimize your reservations in winter. For example, the Deauville American Cinema Festival, the Lille Braderie or the Fête des Lumières in Lyon are events that attract a large number of visitors and can increase the demand for Airbnb rentals in those times when the season is not still or more at the strongest.
To take advantage of these events, it is essential to allow potential travelers to rent your accommodation during these periods. Be sure to highlight these events in your ad and mention the benefits of your location in relation to these specific events. This will help you stand out and attract more bookings during the winter season.
Adapt your short-term rental to the winter season
To maximize your Airbnb reservations in winter, it is important to offer equipment adapted to this season in your accommodation. Travelers are looking for warm and comfortable accommodations during the winter, so meeting their specific needs is essential. Here are some amenities you can offer to make your home more attractive in winter:
- Efficient heating: Make sure your heating system works well and can maintain a pleasant temperature in the home during the winter.
- Extra blankets: Provide extra blankets so travelers can warm up on cold evenings and get into a cozy atmosphere.
- Equipment for winter sports: If your accommodation is located near a ski resort, provide ski lockers or other equipment to facilitate the practice of winter sports.
- Adapted kitchen appliances: Offer appliances such as a raclette or fondue to allow travelers to enjoy hot and friendly dishes during their stay.
By adding these amenities to your accommodation, you increase your chances of getting reservations in winter. Don't forget to update your listing to highlight these amenities and attract travelers looking for a comfortable stay during the winter season.
Check all the equipment in the accommodation to avoid unpleasant surprises
Before the winter season, it is essential to check all the equipment in your home to avoid unpleasant surprises when tenants arrive. Some equipment may see less use in summer and may not function properly after a long period of inactivity. Here are a few things to check before winter:
- Electrical network: Make sure that all electrical devices are working properly and that the electrical network is in good condition.
- Heating system: Check that your heating system is working properly and can maintain a comfortable temperature in the home.
- Water system: Make sure faucets, plumbing and water heating systems are working properly.
- Roller shutters: Check that all roller shutters are working properly and can be opened and closed without problems.
By carrying out these checks, you avoid unpleasant surprises and technical problems that could spoil the tenants' stay. Do not hesitate to have defective equipment repaired or replaced to provide an optimal stay experience.
Review the nightly prices offered on your seasonal rental ad
Seasonality and events in your area can significantly impact Airbnb rental prices. To maximize your rental income in winter, it is important to regularly review the nightly prices offered on your seasonal rental ad. Here are some tips for adjusting your prices based on demand:
- Analyze demand: Track booking trends and identify periods of high demand. During these times, you can increase your prices slightly to maximize your revenue.
- Special Offers: Offer special offers for long-term bookings or for off-peak periods when demand is low. This may encourage travelers to book your accommodation over another.
- Competition: Keep an eye on prices offered by other owners of similar rentals in your area. Try to stay competitive by adjusting your prices accordingly.
If you don't feel comfortable adjusting prices yourself, you may want to consider hiring an Airbnb concierge who can help you manage your rental and set prices. These agencies specialize in managing seasonal rentals and can help you maximize your rental income all year round.
Take advantage of your summer reservations
Even if they do not by definition take place during the winter season, your summer reservations can be used to optimize your Airbnb rentals in winter. Take advantage of these past bookings to get good reviews and improve your profile and listing. Reviews are key to convincing travelers to book your accommodation, and positive reviews can greatly increase your chances of bookings.
During the summer season, when you see fewer bookings, make sure you welcome your guests, meet their needs and provide them with an exceptional stay experience. Ask them to leave a review about their stay and encourage them to recommend your place to other travelers. These positive reviews will help you attract new bookings more easily in winter.
Optimizing your Airbnb rentals in winter can be a challenge, but with the right techniques, it's possible to maintain attractive rental income even during the low season. By opening your booking calendar in advance, adapting your accommodation to the winter season, checking your amenities and adjusting your prices, you can attract more travelers and maximize your winter bookings. Don't forget to use your summer bookings to get good reviews and improve your profile on booking platforms.
