Being Pet-Friendly Brings More Occupancy
The last two years have shown a growth in the demand for Orlando pet-friendly vacation rentals. A recent study has shown that 42% of guests need accommodations that are pet-friendly. Half of our inquiries daily are asking for the availability of a fenced-in yard or condo that has pet-friendly setups in the community. The growth has come from guests not wanting to be away from their furry friends for a week. Both the family and the pet are stressed while separated causing families to not enjoy their vacation like they want to.
Pet Agreements
Our property management staff requires all guests that are bringing pets to notify us beforehand. They must fill out pet agreements disclosing that that pet is within acceptable breeds of the homeowner’s association restrictions and that they are potty trained. This will vet out the process of getting complaints from the vacation rentals next door and prevent damages in the homes.
42% of the Business
If your home is not currently pet-friendly, we suggest that you do so. Otherwise, you will be turning away 42% of the business. Our policy is that we require a property protection fee from guests before arriving that insures the home during their stay up to $500. This should cover any damages from the pet if the event arises. More occupancy means more income in your pocket each year. Don’t let the fear of a pet damaging the home hinder you from optimizing your income.
Start With Some Basics
We recommend getting a simple food and water bowl that is shiny with a little toy. Take a great quality picture to advertise that you are pet-friendly. If you have a pet at home, add this in your listing as well so the guest is more likely to feel comfortable booking with you. Our office dog has been known to greet guests who visit our office offering a more friendly atmosphere.
Reviews
Encourage your guests to write reviews from the perspective of the pet and share pictures of the pet. Everyone already knows your home is in a great location and clean so have some fun with these. This will help you stand out among other listings.
Not Sure?
If you’re not sure if you want to turn your vacation rental into a more pet-friendly environment, please reach out as we’d love to assist you in answering any questions you might have. We know this isn’t for everyone, but we’ve seen great results in this rising trend of pet-friendly vacation rentals.
As you can see, we are extremely active with our marketing efforts. We would love to have the opportunity to manage and market your vacation home. Last year, we did not have one vacation home occupied less than 220 nights and our average vacation home was occupied 248 nights annually…that is over 20 nights a month! Check out more of our Orlando Vacation Property Management Tips.