How We Increased STR Occupancy from 60% to 90% in 3 Months (Lessons Learned)

Question

When we took over managing this short-term rental, it was struggling with low occupancy, inconsistent guest reviews, and poor pricing strategies. Within three months, we optimized the listing and implemented key strategies that took it from 60% to 90% occupancy. Here’s what worked:

✅ Listing Optimization – We rewrote the description with high-ranking keywords, added professional photos, and used a compelling title to stand out.✅ Dynamic Pricing – Instead of fixed rates, we used pricing tools like [PriceLabs / Beyond Pricing / Wheelhouse] to adjust rates based on demand, local events, and seasonality.✅ Automated Messaging – We set up scheduled guest messages to improve communication, reduce cancellations, and enhance the guest experience.✅ Superhost Strategy – We focused on getting 5-star reviews by optimizing the guest experience, from check-in instructions to small welcome gifts.

🎯 The result? A 30% increase in bookings and a revenue boost of 40%!

👉 Question for the community: What strategies have helped you increase your STR occupancy? Let’s share and learn from each other!

Anja Schaer · Answer

Hi Aliya, jumping from 60% to 90% occupancy in three months is impressive—your strategies are gold! As an STR/MTR host and co-host in the Atlanta Metro Area, I’ve seen similar wins with dynamic pricing and polished listings. One tactic that’s boosted my occupancy is a hybrid co-hosting model: we market listings to insurance and corporate housing partners for mid-term stays (months to a year), pushing rent from $2,300/month to $7,300/month. It fills gaps, cuts turnover, and locks in steady income. What’s your property’s target guest vibe—leisure or business? Let’s swap more ideas!

Collin Hays · Answer

Great job!

Aliya Turner · Answer

Hello Anja,Yes, I would love to add more mid-terms rental and I will love to share ideas and work together. Where are you located, I am Based in Nashville, TN and I be going to Atlanta, Ga once a month for business as well.

Jacob Heart · Answer

Congratulations that is quite the improvement!

Tyler Divin · Answer

That all sounds great. Something else you might do is do an amenety audit. See what amenities the competition has that you don't have. For example, adding little things like a pack-n-play, high chair, and coloring books can attract more families, or a dedicated workstation can help snag business travelers to fill in during the week. If the property is in Nashville, some things can be added to attract bachelorette parties. Good luck, and keep up the good work!

Laura Winters · Answer

Yes, you lower the price, your occupancy rate goes up. That is the market economy. If you are having 90% occupancy during the winter season, your price is way below the market unless you are in the winter season market. (If then, your occupancy should be up naturally compared to 3 months ago without doing anything)

If you want to compare occupancy, you need to do year-to-year comparison. You fixed a lot of things and you are heading in the right direction! Congratulation

How We Increased STR Occupancy from 60% to 90% in 3 Months (Lessons Learned)

How We Increased STR Occupancy from 60% to 90% in 3 Months (Lessons Learned)

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