Critique my listing,Angela,Canada

[Angela3272]

Hi! We are new to Airbnb and just listed a property. We haven't had many bookings and would love to get your feedback on what could be wrong with our listing. We are using smart pricing and not sure if we should be using it! Any help would be appreciated. 

Here my listing: https://www.airbnb.com/h/richibuctobaysideoasis

[Sofia959]

@Angela3272 When you use Smart Pricing, your nightly rates automatically adjust based on demand. You can define a lowest and highst price in order to not lose your financial goal.  Personally I don't use it. I am relativly new and I also do not have bookings. I lowered my price independently and it helped. 

I wish you good luck. 

[Kia272]

@Angela3272  Smart pricing is a really bad idea. I think your price is already too low. The algorithm will lower the price even further just to get bookings. 

Decide on the value of your place and stick to that as your lowest price. That's my best advice. 

Other than that, bookings are all about supply and demand. You're not doing anything wrong, so there just may not be demand in your area right now. Build up some good reviews and you'll be fine. Good luck. 

[Patti-And-Marty0 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Angela3272 

Your location looks really amazing, and I think you're right to lead with an exterior shot even though I wouldn't usually say that.

I have some suggestions that I hope will help. Photos are so important, take your time and try different times of the day to get the best light. Most of your photos have weird angles, try straight on and without a wide angle lens. Some colourful artwork would brighten up the rooms and add interest, especially in the bedrooms which are quite sparse. You should have bedside tables and lamps on each side of the beds. The kitchen photo should be better- declutter the counters and wait for the right light.

The fire-pit is a great feature- so feature it! Have the fire burning and a shot with the lake in the background. That might even become your cover photo.

I see you allow 8 guests but there are beds for 6 and the table seats 6... and only one shower.  I would say 6 max for your space.

I can't comment on your price, don't know your area but with better photos you should get more interest.

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Angela3272 The problem with Smart Pricing is that it doesnt allow you to vary the min and max seasonally. It will also miss local events that should increase the price.I am not sure it even recognises July 4th!