From vintage trailers to treehouses, Alex Wilson and Dawn Crawford's love for unique accommodations led them on a journey they never imagined. Host Unusual was born, offering a platform for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience. But their story doesn't end there. As they pushed boundaries, Host Unusual's listings expanded to include everything from bunkers to UFOs, and even a giant boot! Property owners now have a targeted audience, while travellers discover a world of extraordinary experiences. Who knows where their journey will take them next? One thing's for sure, Host Unusual is redefining the way we travel.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Delve into the advantages of featuring distinctive properties on specialized websites.
• Gain exclusive knowledge about the evaluation process for properties on Host Unusual.
• Understand how to leverage niche platforms for targeted audience exposure.
• Comprehend the crucial role experiential travel plays in the evolving travel sector.
• Recognize the crucial contributions of direct bookings to property owners' bottom line.

We're all about promoting direct bookings, which seems like a good fit to be here. - Alex Wilson

Say hello to Alex Wilson, travel aficionado and co-founder of the groundbreaking platform Host Unusual. Alex's expertise in the world of marketing and his keen understanding of the shifting landscape of the travel industry culminated in the creation of this niche listing site that showcases rare and unusual places to stay. Upholding the values of promoting direct bookings, Alex has been instrumental in connecting property owners with discerning travellers looking for incredible and memorable experiences.

Connect with Alex:

Hostunusual.com

https://www.instagram.com/hostunusual

https://www.facebook.com/hostunusual

https://www.linkedin.com/company/host-unusual

Host Unusual has a new member joining offer so I'd urge any owners with an unusual property to get in touch to discuss further.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:03:18 - Unusual Properties

00:08:45 - Niche Listing Sites

00:11:46 - Worldwide Properties

00:14:43 - Hooking People's Attention

00:15:03 - Varied Content

00:16:38 - Partnership with Property Owners

00:17:24 - 1500 Properties and Counting

0:18:25 - Pandemic and Staycation Boom

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

Are you tired of unpredictable booking levels? In this episode, I reveal my secrets to getting direct bookings every day while diversifying your channels. But what happens when one of your main channels suddenly disappears? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the power of direct bookings and channel diversification to optimize your hospitality business.
• Uncover how social media can skyrocket your brand's presence and drive engagement.
• Learn to craft content that resonates with your target audience by addressing their needs and offering solutions.
• Realize the significance of focusing on concrete booking numbers rather than being swayed by vanity metrics.
• Grasp the importance of using persuasive call-to-action techniques to inspire guests to book direct stays.

Don't wait until your makeup is perfect or your hair is done. Get your brand out there. Tell everyone about it. Create brand awareness. - Jenn Boyles

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Don't Panic! Your Business Isn't Failing

00:02:04 - Tactics to Boost Your Bookings Flow

00:03:57 - Direct Booking Success Booking Engine

00:05:00 - Vanity Metrics and Direct Bookings

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

Have you heard these myths about rental success and the guest experience?

Myth #1: As long as the place is clean, guests will be happy.

Myth #2: The guest experience doesn't matter, as long as you have a good location.

Myth #3: You don't need to go above and beyond for guests, they just want a place to sleep.

But here's the truth: a positive guest experience is essential for rental success. From first impressions to little touches that make guests feel valued, it all adds up to positive reviews, repeat visitors, and ultimately, increased rental income. Tracey Northcott is here to share her expertise on how to elevate the guest experience and maximize your rental potential.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the secrets behind triumph in the hospitality universe.
• Unlock the power of impactful branding for transient rentals.
• Delve into the crucial connection between guest experience and rental victory.
• Understand the vital role of a supportive community for expansion and guidance.
• Acquire fundamental techniques to stay agile amidst market fluctuations.

My special guest is Tracey Northcott.

Meet Tracey Northcott, a successful short-term rental host with over a decade of experience in the industry. Originally from Australia, Tracey has been living in Japan for over 20 years, where she has had the opportunity to build a thriving rental business that focuses on providing unique and memorable hospitality services. As a firm believer in the value of exceptional guest experiences, Tracey has managed to attract a loyal following of guests who come back year after year, making her business stronger even in these uncertain times. Tracey's passion for people and curiosity about different cultures enable her to create truly unforgettable experiences for her guests.

I just really like people as well, so I'm always curious about how people live and what they're interested in. Taking care of people where they sleep is actually a real privilege. - Tracey Northcott

Connect with Tracey:

Website: https://www.tracey-northcott.com

Website: https://www.tokyofamilystays.com

Instagram: @traceynorthcottconsulting

Instagram @tokyofamilystays

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:03:14 - Rental Business Model

00:07:40 - Preparing for the 2020 Olympics

00:10:28 - Overcoming Challenges

00:12:16 - Local Experience

00:16:38 - Building a Vision and Mission Statement

00:19:00 - Adapting to Change and Making Wise Investments

00:22:26 - Building Relationships and Branding

00:25:52 - Solving Problems and Providing a Full Experience

00:29:20 - Success in Hospitality

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Sign up for the free masterclass – The 4-step framework for a profitable direct booking sales engine: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

Dave Cordner had always known the importance of video marketing for his short-term rental business in Belfast. But it was during the pandemic that he truly realized its power. As the tourism industry came to a standstill, Dave took it upon himself to showcase his beloved city through videos. He showcased local attractions, restaurants, and interviewed locals. What he didn't expect was the incredible response he received from viewers. His videos not only helped him secure direct bookings but also turned him into an unofficial ambassador of Belfast. Want to know how Dave's video marketing strategies can help your business thrive? Keep reading.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Find out how video marketing can boost your short-term rental bookings.
• Grasp the importance of mastering five fundamental aspects to grow your short-term rental business.
• Delve into the untapped potential of up-and-coming social media platforms for property managers.
• Leverage local insights and skills to gain a competitive edge over online travel agencies.
• Embrace a growth mindset to ensure long-term success in the short-term rental industry.

My special guest is Dave Cordner.

Say hello to Dave Cordner, a short-term rental expert with a knack for video marketing. Dave's enthusiasm for his city, Belfast, has translated into a thriving business - Central Belfast apartments. With over 70 properties under his wing, Dave has mastered the formula for marketing through informative and engaging video content. In addition to his property management success, Dave has also authored the Amazon best-seller Short Term Rental Revolution, which further demonstrates his expertise in the industry. Get ready to be inspired by his unique approach to showcasing the best his city has to offer.

Connect with Dave:

Website: https://davecordner.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBRTOpYXoi3dhCXoNRU8JjQ

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@centralbelfast?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airbnbcoach?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_airbnbcoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centralbelfastapartments/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:06:26 - Using Video to Promote Your Local Area

00:09:56 - Becoming a Local Expert and Building Trust

00:11:31 - Direct Bookings and Driving Revenue

00:12:37 - The Power of Experiential Videos

00:14:05 - Starting with Video Content

00:17:30 - TikTok for Short Term Rentals

00:19:18 - The Short Term Rental Revolution Book

00:23:53 - Entrepreneurial Mindset for Short Term Rentals

00:27:32 - Best Guinness in Belfast and Short Term Rental Managers

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to focus on increasing your short-term rental's direct bookings, but you feel stuck in the same place. Perhaps you've tried running promotions or lowering your prices, but nothing seems to work. The frustration of not seeing results is all too real. It's time to stop spinning your wheels and start implementing a strategy that works. By breaking down your goals into manageable tasks, prioritising vision and leadership development, and utilising effective problem-solving and decision-making techniques, you can achieve significant direct booking growth. In this episode, I show you how to turn your vacation rental business around and pave the way to success.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the importance of vision and strategic thinking to succeed in short-term rentals.
• Learn how breaking down goals leads to significant direct booking growth.
• Discover the value of leadership development for short-term rental owners.
• Find out the secrets behind effective problem-solving and decision-making in direct bookings.
• Explore innovative direct booking solutions that pave the way to short-term rental success.

Whatever Direct Booking Success means to you, you must start thinking of yourself as the CEO of your business. - Jenn Boyles

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - The Importance of Having a Vision for Your Business

00:02:47 - Prioritising Leadership Development

00:03:54 - Strategic Thinking and Taking Action

00:05:10 - Thinking Like a CEO

Join the Free Masterclass at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/masterclass

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

From aspiring police officer to successful hotel manager, Craig Webb's journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the power of digital marketing. But what's even more surprising is how his experience in the hotel industry can revolutionise the short-term rental market. Are you ready to learn from his insightful strategies and take your business to the next level?

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Master dynamic pricing strategies to boost direct bookings.
• Discover enticing amenities that drive guests to book directly.
• Unveil intricate revenue management techniques for maximum savings and profit.
• Achieve the perfect balance between OTA and direct bookings for cost-effective customer acquisition.
• Cultivate loyal customers through thoughtful gestures and tailored offers.

With a remarkable 32-year career in hospitality, Craig Webb has seen it all. He spent 17 years managing two hotels in the picturesque Cotswolds, mastering every aspect of the industry from marketing to rate management. As someone who has successfully transitioned from traditional hotel management to digital marketing, Craig has a wealth of knowledge to offer short-term rental owners. He is passionate about helping others learn from his experiences and adapt their businesses to the ever-changing landscape of hospitality.

‘I was doing crazy things just to get eyes on my business and try to generate direct bookings, even back then.’ - Craig Webb

Connect with Craig: https://www.webbmarketing.info/

Free SEO guide for hospitality that you can do yourself: https://webb-marketing.lpages.co/seo-tips-for-hospitality/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:02:27 - Craig's Journey,

00:08:03 - Blurring Lines,

00:10:03 - Rate Management,

00:14:48 - Hotels vs. Short Term Rentals,

00:17:22 - Reasons to Book Direct,

00:21:22 - Accounts and Cost Analysis,

00:23:57 - Direct Booking Success,

00:26:44 - SEO for Hospitality

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Are you a vacation rental property manager who wants to take your guests' experiences to the next level with personalised and exceptional services?

Meet Jacob Wedderburn-Day, a savvy entrepreneur who co-founded Stasher, a brilliant solution to a common travel problem - luggage storage. With a strong background in economics and a passion for business, Jacob has used his expertise to create a platform that connects travelers with local businesses, allowing them to securely store their bags while exploring a new city. As a guest on Direct Booking Success, Jacob shares his insights on the importance of offering additional services to guests for a complete experience, and how vacation rental property managers can benefit from these services.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the advantages of Stasher for property managers and direct booking to boost business.
• Recognize the significance of providing extra services to guests, enhancing their overall experience.
• Grasp the concept of the Peak-N Rule and how it helps strike a balance between guest satisfaction and practicality.
• Learn about the perks of Stasher's insurance coverage and impact of its international growth.

‘As property managers, you probably put a lot of emphasis on that first interaction and then maybe under-appreciate how important the ending is.’ - Jacob Wedderburn-Day

Refer guests to Stasher and you’ll received a 20% commission or discount for every bag: https://stasher.com/partners

Connect with Jacob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-wedderburn-day-499258111/

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:01:02 - The Idea Behind Stasher,

00:04:32 - Stasher as an Ancillary Service for Vacation Rental Owners,

00:08:33 - Parental Support and the Need for Stasher,

00:11:07 - The Importance of the Last Impression,

00:13:47 - Stasher - The Luggage Storage Solution,

00:15:02 - Balancing Guest Experience and Rules,

00:18:47 - Stasher's Coverage and Insurance,

00:21:39 - The Stasher Process for Property Managers and Guests

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

Sustainability pioneer and vacation rental tech entrepreneur Vanessa de Souza Lage introduces the world's first sustainability badge for vacation rentals, offering a simple yet impactful way for property managers to reward eco-friendly practices and gain visibility in a growing market.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Grasp the crucial role sustainable tourism plays in vacation rentals and the preservation of natural resources.
• Uncover powerful techniques to incorporate sustainable practices in managing your rental properties.
• Familiarize yourself with the vital requirements to secure the Sustonica Badge.
• Develop key communication skills to exhibit your commitment to sustainable efforts to your guests effectively.
• Experience the advantages of sustainability: draw in more guests and reduce your carbon emissions simultaneously.

Vanessa de Souza Lage is a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism in the vacation rental industry. With nearly 20 years of experience, Vanessa has played a significant role in shaping the industry as an entrepreneur and tech innovator. She co-founded Rentals United, a successful channel manager, and has recently launched Sustonica, the first sustainability badge for vacation rentals. Vanessa's dedication to the environment and the industry has led her to create impactful solutions that benefit both property managers and the planet. Her friendly, approachable demeanor and wealth of knowledge make her an inspiring figure in the world of sustainable tourism.

Sustonica Website

Take the Free Test

Beat the Microbead App

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction

00:01:08 - Vanessa's Background

00:09:21 - Sustonica's Origin

00:14:09 - Community Impact

00:17:08 - Sustainability vs. Hotels

00:17:52 - Sustainability in the Hotel Industry

00:19:05 - Simple Sustainability Wins

00:24:15 - Selling Sustainability to Homeowners

00:28:03 - The Growing Demand for Sustainability

00:32:16 - The Certification Process

00:34:58 - Sustainability in Vacation Rentals

00:35:30 - Criteria for Air Conditioning

00:37:41 - Marketing to Children

00:38:43 - Sustainability Chart

00:40:24 - What Direct Booking Success means to Vanessa

Find out more about Jenn Boyles

Follow Jenn Boyles on Instagram

Join the Marketing Hub for Hospitality Free Facebook Group

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023

Are you tired of trying to drive direct bookings by engaging with random guests on social media, only to see no results? 

It's time to ditch the ineffective approach and focus on what really works. Join me in this episode and discover the power of engaging with perfect guests on social platforms, showcasing property benefits beyond just amenities, producing compelling content that captivates potential guests, and promoting a property by emphasizing advantages for guests. With our proven three-step strategy, you'll finally be able to harness the full potential of social media to boost your bookings and grow your short-term rental business.

‘It's not all about you. It's about the guest and what you can give them.’ - Jenn Boyles

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the power of engaging with perfect guests on social platforms.
• Learn the techniques of showcasing property benefits beyond just amenities.
• Uncover the art of producing compelling content that captivates potential guests.
• Master the skill of promoting a property by emphasizing advantages for guests.
• Get a proven three-step strategy to drive direct bookings using social media.

Take the challenge

From Likes to Bookings: A 3-Part Social Media Challenge for Vacation Rental Managers: https://directbookingsuccess.com/fromlikestobookings

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

She left her city life behind to move to a remote island and run a holiday let management business with her husband. But when unexpected demand for bookings grows beyond their expectations, will they be able to keep up and maintain their success? Find out in this intriguing tale of a small business that went from zero to 100% direct bookings.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Develop meaningful liaisons with property owners and guests for a strong business base.
• Stay prepared for evolving ventures by adopting flexibility and scalability.
• Immerse yourself in the world of varied marketing approaches to captivate different target audiences.
• Win customer allegiance through tailor-made services that fortify trust.
• Get acquainted with the crux of establishing a unique selling proposition to lure potential clients.

My special guest is Jane Mack, a holiday let coach and consultant with a fascinating journey. Jane and her husband bought a holiday home property management company back in 2010, and decided to expand it to offer advertising and bookings. By 2012 they had created a full blown holiday letting agency. Their business continued to grow until they sold it to the UK’s largest holiday letting company in 2017. Having managed over 100 holiday properties, thousands of guests and with 10 years of hands-on experience, she decided to help others in the holiday let industry to grow their businesses, just as she had done. 

See more: https://linktr.ee/janemackcoaching

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:08 - Introduction,

00:01:02 - Background and Experience,

00:06:02 - Expanding the Business,

00:09:38 - Offline Marketing,

00:12:45 - Catering to a Diverse Customer Base,

00:13:55 - Marketing Strategies,

00:15:50 - Personal Touch and Repeat Customers,

00:19:28 - Importance of an Office,

00:25:25 - The Importance of Using Technology and Investing in Business,

00:26:48 - Tips for Growing Your Business,

00:30:03 - Life After Selling a Business,

00:32:32 - What Direct Booking Success means to Jane

Book your free 15 minute call with Jenn Boyles here: https://directbookingsuccess.com/call

If you are struggling with direct bookings right now whether that is moving away from using the online travel agents like Airbnb or just getting more bookings in right now, then I’m here to help. 

Show notes are available at: https://directbookingsuccess.com/podcast/

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directbookingsuccess

Join the Marketing Hub Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketinghubforholidayrentals

Sign up to the Free Direct Booking Success Summit 2023: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/