Listing critique please!

[Patricia4798]

Hi all,

I need help critiquing one of my listings. It's a condo that performs very well (about every night) throughout the summer as it has beach access and directly next to a concert venue. However I'm lucky if I get 2 nights booked in the off season. As of now I'm considering etting an electric fireplace and staging the photos to look more warm and welcoming for the cold months. Other than that I am struggling to get it booked!  Please help! 

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/587532477701221170?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=8fbc1d0a-b0f8... 

[Melissa2762]

Hi @Patricia4798 ,

I love your idea of adding an electric fireplace to cozy up your condo in the winter months!  I would add some colorful local art to brighten your space as well - color in photos draw attention and will make your condo stand out better as guests search.  I would bring color into throw pillows, add layers with throw blankets (especially in the winter), a bright rug (jewel tones)...  I am all about layering and adding texture, and providing guests with something unexpected.  After making the improvements you decide upon, I would hire a professional photographer to take new pictures.  Include a coffee/cocoa station in the kitchen, complimentary toiletries and have them take some close ups of those things as well.  Maybe a cozy throw on the back deck over a chair with hot cocoa on the table - give them the experience of enjoying the view.  Then place your best 5 photos first.  I would include 3 interior photos and 2 exterior within those 5 and make sure the interior photos show 3 different spaces in the condo - kitchen, living, bedroom.  In my descriptions, I try to write them giving guests an idea of the experience they will have in the property.  "after a day of...  retreat back to the condo for ..." or "this is a great home base after exploring..."  Add games for 2 and 4, books, cards, etc. and include them in your pictures.  Make sure they have things to do in the space while there.  I would also add a small wall-mount tv in the bedrooms, Americans like their tvs!  Your park like setting is beautiful and I would play on that with describing all there is to do and see.  Best of luck!

Melissa

[Alex12451]

Hi Patricia. 

Property looks very refreshing and nice for summer.

If I was looking to book from a personal PoV I would think it’s a bit cold looking for winter months. I’d suggest adding some colour and warmth.
the fire is a great idea. Maybe some seasonal photo changes would work to make it stand out for the season and a few personal touches in each area to make it more ‘cosy’ and home from home.  

[Achilleas11]

Hello Patricia,

Adding the electric fireplace will definitely make the space feel much more inviting during the colder months. To help maximize bookings in the off-season, consider re-staging the photos to focus on creating a cozy, warm atmosphere. Layering in a few plush blankets and pillows, perhaps in earthy or warm tones, can add to that effect. It might also help to set up a few “indoor activity” touches, like a board game or a book nook, so potential guests can picture themselves relaxing indoors. If you can, add a hot cocoa or tea setup in the kitchen area for an extra welcoming touch.

Another angle might be to showcase any nearby winter activities or cozy spots around town. Even if beach access and the concert venue are your summer highlights, giving some focus to off-season appeal, like scenic beach views or local winter events, could make a difference. You might even consider a slight price adjustment or a discount for longer stays to entice winter travelers. With these updates, your condo could become a perfect winter retreat!

[Amber976]

Hi Patricia! 
I too would make it look a little more warm and inviting for when it’s colder outside. If you have a fireplace I would  picture that in your listing. Your place looks great tho! When it’s off season I typically Lower my pricing per night as well, and maybe have it so someone could book just one night if they would like too..I didn’t look off hand if you have a two night minimum stay or not. I hope this helps. 😊

[Bhumika]

Hi @Amber976 @Achilleas11 @Alex12451 @Melissa2762 , thank you so much for sharing your fantastic suggestions with our host @Patricia4798 😍

Hi @Patricia4798 , what do you think of these suggestions? Are there any ideas below that strike the best with you? We look forward to hear more on how you progress with the listing 🤗 All the best! 

I also wanted to share a Community Center Tip 💡: To tag members in comments and notify them, just type @ followed by their name—it should pop up!

[Alexandra2189]

Hello @Patricia4798 !

You have a very nice place!

I love everything the other hosts suggested.

What I would suggest is be even more ''agressive'' about lowering the renting cost on the lower season then you already did.

What about, instead of renting 179$ (I'm in Canada so maybe the real price is different), you rent it 120$ a night or even, go as low as 110$? Would it be possible to lower the cleaning cost as well?

I know that when it comes to our renting, we have a price in mind that we find hard to move out from.

But wouldn't it be better to rent 20 nights a month at 120$/110$ then 1 night at 179$ when the season is slow?

Just a thought, I'm sure you will take the best decision suited for your present situation!

Best of luck!

Alexandra