How to get rentals off season

Question

Hello -

I have a rental home in Fort Myers and I just want short term rentals (1-3 months) because it's my primary home but I am in Islamorada to take care of my parents and I want to go back when I can. I have airbnb and vrbo and furnished finder but am getting nothing off season - summer. Any ideas? Minimum one month per HOA rules.

Josh Sedivy · Answer

Thanks for sharing your situation, it's totally understandable, especially with your home being your primary residence. Off-season in Fort Myers can be tough, but there are ways to improve your booking chances, even with a 1-month minimum:

Here are a few ideas that might help:

1. Optimize for Digital Nomads & Travel Nurses

Since you’re already on Furnished Finder, make sure your listing has:

Detailed amenities (Wi-Fi speed, desk/workspace, blackout curtains)

Flexible move-in dates

Highlight proximity to hospitals or coworking spaces

2. Cross-post on Facebook Groups

Search for and post in local groups like:

“Fort Myers Seasonal Rentals”

“SWFL Travel Nurses Housing”

“Snowbirds Rentals Florida”

You can often find direct tenants this way and avoid platform fees.

3. Adjust Pricing for the Slow Season

It’s worth temporarily reducing your rate or offering small incentives

Consider including utilities and highlight that it’s “turnkey ready.”

4. Reach Out to Relocation Companies

Local real estate agents or relocation services sometimes need furnished homes for clients during transitions.

I hope this helps!

Wesley W. · Answer

It's tough if your market is not a retirement destination area or one that has a dearth of locum medical staff.  One thing you can try is significantly reducing the rate for the off season.  I own a vacation rental in central FL in a large retirement community and in the summer I advertise it for hundreds less than my carrying costs.  I'm thrilled if I get anyone because it mitigates the loss in the low season.  Many of my summer bookings are folks that have sold their home but are waiting to close on their new one, or are in the area to take care of a relative.