Airbnb and VRBO Receiving no traffic

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Airbnb and VRBO Receiving no traffic

Prachi Metha
Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes

Hi All,

I am a new STR owner in the Phoenix/Tempe/Mesa area. I have set up my listing on both Airbnb and VRBO but I haven't received any traffic on Airbnb and on VRBO I received some inquiries and booking (but I had to cancel due to discounting). My pricing is pretty decent for a 3bed/2bath with a pool. What am I doing wrong? Forums and groups in my area are mentioning that they are receiving recent bookings. I have blocked my calendar until July 25th but post then it is wide open.

If anyone can help, I can pass my listing links too in a DM.

Any thought? 

3Reply
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Collin HaysBusiness Member
Property Manager · Gatlinburg, TN · Member since 2020 · 3k+ posts · 4k+ votes
5y

I can tell you this, both airbnb and vrbo have made a major cash grab in the last 12 months.  They are charging guests up to 20% service fees now, not to mention what they are charging hosts/homeowners. The result of that is many guests are finding other ways to rent properties.

We are seeing more direct bookings through our own website, and are going to be investing heavily in alternative marketing channels over the next year.  VRBO and abnb both are killing the goose.  It always happens.

[email protected]806-672-7102
SMOKY MOUNTAIN FALLS INC.51 Review
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  • Chuck MastersPro Member
    Investor · Bel Air, MD · Member since 2015 · 95 posts · 57 votes
    5y

    Can you post your airbnb and vrbo listing so we can give you some feedback?

    [email protected]
    5Reply
  • Luke CarlPro Member
    Rental Property Investor · Tennessee Florida · Member since 2016 · 4k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    5y

    Either your price is way too high or you’re in the wrong market. Use the enemy method 

    Podcast Guest on Show From Surviving on $30/Day to 30+ Properties Thanks to Blue-Collar Skills
    0Reply
  • Collin HaysBusiness Member
    Property Manager · Gatlinburg, TN · Member since 2020 · 3k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    5y

    I can tell you this, both airbnb and vrbo have made a major cash grab in the last 12 months.  They are charging guests up to 20% service fees now, not to mention what they are charging hosts/homeowners. The result of that is many guests are finding other ways to rent properties.

    We are seeing more direct bookings through our own website, and are going to be investing heavily in alternative marketing channels over the next year.  VRBO and abnb both are killing the goose.  It always happens.

    [email protected]806-672-7102
    SMOKY MOUNTAIN FALLS INC.51 Review
    WebsiteView Page
    14Reply
  • Lien VuongBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Boston, MA · Member since 2018 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    5y

    It's either marketing (pictures, description, local amenities) or pricing is inappropriate for the area. I go with Airbnb recommendations to find what's best for the market demand. 

    [email protected]
    The Elle Group5152 Reviews
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    1Reply
  • Joshua Strickland
    Investor · Flowery Branch, GA · Member since 2019 · 413 posts · 412 votes
    5y

    Check the locals trends link on Airbnb. It will show you how many days out the average guest is booking. If that date is less than whenever your first availability is, then you might have your answer.

    1Reply
  • Al Williamson
    Rental Property Investor · Sacramento, CA · Member since 2011 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    5y

    @Prachi Metha your listing isn't terrible but it didn't have any oohs or ahhs.

    My first thought is that ABB might be hiding you a little due to your cancelations. 

    Also, let me recommend you reach out to your own friends and family on Facebook. Let them know your place is available.

    Yes, it is OK to ask people to dance. You don't have to wait.

    I specialize in direct marketing. If you aren't able to get results with vrbo and Airbnb, then reach back to me.

    4Reply
  • Chuck MastersPro Member
    Investor · Bel Air, MD · Member since 2015 · 95 posts · 57 votes
    5y

    I agree with @Al Williamson you aren’t telling me why I would want to stay there. What are the features of the property that stand out. What is close by, what can I do once I’m there.

    I also wouldn’t say ‘New Listing’ in the title. 

    Price seems reasonable, but why $175 cleaning fee, does it need to be that high?

    Also your area is more a winter destination? Does your area attract snowbirds?

    [email protected]
    3Reply
  • Nancy E.
    Bellevue, WA · Member since 2017 · 14 posts · 8 votes
    5y

    I'm a vrbo user I just came back from your area yesterday. Its really hot now! I looked at your listing. The pictures are lovely.  The dish photos are a nice touch!  Normally we use mainly  mugs but maybe the teacups with saucers appeal to some also.   and you are pet friendly. That is helpful.  You are appealing to a family demographic with the pool, maybe enough of the  the families don't think of Mesa. I noticed the airport yesterday was primarily younger ( 20s to 40s) compared to when I stayed in  the 55 community last winter. So they are around...  I think its a bit of a season thing.  Maybe run a weekly rate ? Maybe a discount to start out?  It looks really nice, its not the photos! 

    1Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Nancy E.:

    I'm a vrbo user I just came back from your area yesterday. Its really hot now! I looked at your listing. The pictures are lovely.  The dish photos are a nice touch!  Normally we use mainly  mugs but maybe the teacups with saucers appeal to some also.   and you are pet friendly. That is helpful.  You are appealing to a family demographic with the pool, maybe enough of the  the families don't think of Mesa. I noticed the airport yesterday was primarily younger ( 20s to 40s) compared to when I stayed in  the 55 community last winter. So they are around...  I think its a bit of a season thing.  Maybe run a weekly rate ? Maybe a discount to start out?  It looks really nice, its not the photos! 

    Prefect! Thank you so much! I will do some summer discounting 

    0Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Chuck Masters:

    I agree with @Al Williamson you aren’t telling me why I would want to stay there. What are the features of the property that stand out. What is close by, what can I do once I’m there.

    I also wouldn’t say ‘New Listing’ in the title. 

    Price seems reasonable, but why $175 cleaning fee, does it need to be that high?

    Also your area is more a winter destination? Does your area attract snowbirds?

    Yes I will add all those details and make updates to my listing. I really appreciate your input.

    0Reply
  • Michael BaumPro Member
    Olympia, WA · Member since 2016 · 8k+ posts · 7k+ votes
    5y

    Hey @Prachi Metha, get rid of the enameled steel teapot. They look nice but are not compatible with the glass stove top. They will stick to the glass and pull a chunk right out of it.

    I had one and that is exactly what happened. Replace it with either a stainless steel unit or an electric teapot. Costco has some good deals on electric teapots so that is what we got.

    I might also add some more art to some of the walls. It looks nice but I would add more color with artwork on the empty walls.

    The kitchen could use a bit more "stuff". Small appliances like a crock pot, etc. More spices as well. We have over 40 spices in our cabinet. They can be had cheap and are a nice thing to provide. Do you have a blender, maybe a steamer? We have a ton of small appliances for people. 

    0Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Al Williamson:

    @Prachi Metha your listing isn't terrible but it didn't have any oohs or ahhs.

    My first thought is that ABB might be hiding you a little due to your cancelations. 

    Also, let me recommend you reach out to your own friends and family on Facebook. Let them know your place is available.

    Yes, it is OK to ask people to dance. You don't have to wait.

    I specialize in direct marketing. If you aren't able to get results with vrbo and Airbnb, then reach back to me.

     Thank you @Al Williamson I will try those marketing techniques and see how they result.

    0Reply
  • Bruce WoodruffPro Member
    Contractor/Investor/Consultant · San Diego / Phoenix · Member since 2021 · 12k+ posts · 15k+ votes
    5y

    Prachi - You place looks nice and I believe is priced fairly. (Cleaning fee would turn me off though)

    As was mentioned though.....it looks a bit bland. Like a motel room. Add some character.....maybe western, since Arizona is considered 'Wild West' ? That's how I did my places up around Prescott.....people seem to like it....

    0Reply
  • Joe SplitrockPro Member
    Moderator
    Rental Property Investor · Sioux Falls, SD · Member since 2015 · 9k+ posts · 18k+ votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Prachi Metha:

    Hi All,

    I am a new STR owner in the Phoenix/Tempe/Mesa area. I have set up my listing on both Airbnb and VRBO but I haven't received any traffic on Airbnb and on VRBO I received some inquiries and booking (but I had to cancel due to discounting). My pricing is pretty decent for a 3bed/2bath with a pool. What am I doing wrong? Forums and groups in my area are mentioning that they are receiving recent bookings. I have blocked my calendar until July 25th but post then it is wide open.

    If anyone can help, I can pass my listing links too in a DM.

    Any thought? 

     Your first available month is August in Phoenix. Do you live in Phoenix? I can't imagine that is a popular month for vacationing. My friend told me he can't even use his pool because it is so hot some days. Even people looking in August may not want to take a chance on someone new with no reviews. My advice is let Airbnb control the pricing, which means low pricing but it will attract bookings. Also consider flexible cancellation. After you get some positive reviews under your belt, you can raise pricing. When we started on AirBNB, we prices well below what we wanted, but we booked three months out within two days. If your price is right, it will book. That tells me your price is too high for being new.

    1Reply
  • Colleen F.Pro Member
    Investor · Narragansett, RI · Member since 2013 · 8k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    5y

    It is summer in Phoenix so make sure your listing reflects summer prices. You blocked until July 25th so you are looking at august bookings when it is even hotter so maybe it is the time of year.  If there are venues close to you mention them.  If there are events  close mention them too...  Steps to the xyz festival. close to x park.   I would also describe the neighborhood and maybe put a more set back house picture.  ...Quiet street, also it is a small point but "we love to travel so we furnished our home with travelers in mind" might be rephrased as  Furnished with everything the busy traveler might need including xyz. Maybe listing those things like pool toys etc that are sometimes missing in your travels. You want them to connect with the house, not you.  The other thing is it could be anywhere, you don't have any southwest flavor and travelers may lean more towards a local flavor when traveling. You could just do some southwest pictures, southwest bowls on top of the cabinets instead of the baskets, outdoor decorations. The vibe is good its just doesn't say welcome to phoenix. overall though it may be the season. 

    If you want a review you might give a couple of nights discounted to someone you know for the promise of a review. They would have to be reliable of course.   I would say though it may be the season. 

    0Reply
  • John UnderwoodPro Member
    Investor · Greer, SC · Member since 2014 · 13k+ posts · 17k+ votes
    5y

    Offer some temporary discount pricing so you can get some 5 Star reviews. That should help you.

    0Reply
  • Aaron B.
    Global · Member since 2019 · 48 posts · 52 votes
    5y

    A friend of mine was silently blacklisted by Airbnb and his reservations were non-existent, including pre-existing bookings that got canceled. Basically, a former tenant did not announce she has an animal and when she arrived, the housekeeper denied her entry because it was against the house rules. She went and complained to Airbnb and told them that it was a service animal (but never mentioned it to the owner), and his account (and all rentals under it) were immediately blocked. He did not realize it until a few days later and contacted Airbnb to find out what happened...they said they blocked him for discrimination. His account has been restored to normal after this incident, but he was not notified in a timely manner. Make sure something weird is not going on with your account like this by calling support and verifying.

    0Reply
  • Zambricki Li
    Real Estate Agent · Los Angeles CA + Lake Tahoe, NV and CA · Member since 2021 · 180 posts · 158 votes
    5y

    @Prachi Metha try and go twenty bucks cheaper than the cheapest listing in your area. If it still doesn’t rent then you may need new photos/verbiage/marketing.

    0Reply
  • Mohammad Alam
    Rental Property Investor · Brooklyn, NY · Member since 2018 · 2 posts · 1 vote
    5y

    @Prachi Metha

    I’m looking to rent for a week in Tampa

    0Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Mohammad Alam:

    @Prachi Metha

    I’m looking to rent for a week in Tampa

    Hi @Mohammad Alam I am in on tempe Mesa border ,AZ . What days are you looking for?

    0Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    Originally posted by @Colleen F.:

    It is summer in Phoenix so make sure your listing reflects summer prices. You blocked until July 25th so you are looking at august bookings when it is even hotter so maybe it is the time of year.  If there are venues close to you mention them.  If there are events  close mention them too...  Steps to the xyz festival. close to x park.   I would also describe the neighborhood and maybe put a more set back house picture.  ...Quiet street, also it is a small point but "we love to travel so we furnished our home with travelers in mind" might be rephrased as  Furnished with everything the busy traveler might need including xyz. Maybe listing those things like pool toys etc that are sometimes missing in your travels. You want them to connect with the house, not you.  The other thing is it could be anywhere, you don't have any southwest flavor and travelers may lean more towards a local flavor when traveling. You could just do some southwest pictures, southwest bowls on top of the cabinets instead of the baskets, outdoor decorations. The vibe is good its just doesn't say welcome to phoenix. overall though it may be the season. 

    If you want a review you might give a couple of nights discounted to someone you know for the promise of a review. They would have to be reliable of course.   I would say though it may be the season. 

     Thank you so @Colleen F your insights are super helpful. I will implements some of them immediately.

    Colleen F.:

    0Reply
  • Jaquetta T Ragland
    Real Estate Agent · Winston Salem, NC · Member since 2014 · 486 posts · 303 votes
    5y

    @Prachi Metha I’ve been seeing a lot of memes lately on Instagram making jokes about going back to hotels from AirBnbs because of all the added fees, cleaning fees, etc. Is there anyway to lower the fees on your listing?

    0Reply
  • Charles Kao
    Specialist · Grand Rapids, MI · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 611 votes
    5y

    @Prachi Metha

    Post your listing and are you sure traffic or just no bookings? Always price your place under market until you get a few reviews.

    0Reply
  • Ryan Swan
    Real Estate Agent · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2012 · 640 posts · 457 votes
    5y

    Maybe I'm confused but you've had the calendar blocked until July 25th? When was it open this spring? 

    June and July are naturally lower booking months, while Jan-April (even May) are going to be peak season months. 

    So possibly you missed out on the high season where you can build up bookings and reviews, and are now in low season without any traffic. 

    1Reply
  • Prachi Metha
    OP
    Dublin, CA · Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 15 votes
    5y
    This was very helpful. 
    Originally posted by @Joshua Strickland:

    Check the locals trends link on Airbnb. It will show you how many days out the average guest is booking. If that date is less than whenever your first availability is, then you might have your answer.

    0Reply
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