Slow bookings in the Catskills

[Emma4059]

Hi Airbnb community! I've been hosting for 3.5 years in the Catskills and I've noticed a significant drop-off in bookings this spring. I have great reviews and amenities (hot tub available year round), and my place is pet friendly. I've lowered pricing - pricing is generally competitive based on the area - and offered last minute booking deals, and have been flexibility on the nightly minimum (used to be 3 nights but now permitting 2 during some weeks). It's still been SO slow and I'm a little concerned. I would welcome any feedback on my listing to make it more appealing / competitive - thanks in advance!

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52266478?source_impression_id=p3_1746560629_P3L2CJ-jY-hYV2Fv

[Marie8425]

@Emma4059 

I wonder it mentions you use the cabin occasionally did you recently?  The Airbnb Search Computer might of mistakenly said not available equals low traffic.  That low traffic designation affects your display which lowers traffic more. 

Fixable though because everything looks great.

Use Airbnb Custom Discounts You can pick a couple of days like 3 different weeks 20% discount Airbnb will market the sale dates.

The other thing is especially when not available dates, make sure your keeping your listing Date Modified current so the computer knows Host is still active.  Any change on your listing that prompts you to click Save updates that field.

[Salah93]

Hello Emma,

I hope what I’m about to share helps you attract more guests! I’ve been hosting on Airbnb on and off for nearly three years, so I’ve seen how the market fluctuates here in Bahrain (and the Middle East in general). Many companies rent out places monthly on Airbnb just to pocket the bonuses, which I honestly find unprofessional.

That said, I’ve taken the time to read every single review for apartments in our building and the surrounding area to better understand what guests are saying and how I can improve my own listing. One thing I noticed is that most hosts allow one-night stays. I completely understand that it can be inconvenient or even uncomfortable but here’s how I’ve made it work for my setup:

I allow one-night stays during weekdays and I make sure to personally connect with my guests. Surprisingly, about 40% of them end up extending their stay by 2–3 nights. Weekday bookings are competitive, especially in a building like ours where many hosts don’t focus on cleanliness or even basic amenities like tissue paper or coffee.

By allowing one-night stays only on weekdays and keeping weekends to a minimum of two nights, you can attract more guests who may stay longer if they enjoy the experience.

Another tip: I’m not a fan of promoting listings on third-party websites or using bots to auto-adjust pricing. Instead, I recommend watching nearby listings and setting your prices competitively without compromising your profits.

Also, consider adding a cleaning fee for one-night stays, but waiving it for guests who book multiple nights. It’s a small change that guests appreciate.

Finally, think about what guests really want. Adding simple touches like board games, chess, playing cards, or Monopoly can make your place more memorable and encourage more bookings.

Last point which I haven’t talked about because Miss Marie have talked about which is consider promoting by the 15/20% on the dead season or off season time 

Wishing you all the best with your hosting!

[Samantha1377]

Unfortunately, I think a lot of this is because of the political and economic climate. When people are fearful of recession or general uncertainty they are less likely to spend and more likely to save for a rainy day. We spoke to a pricing professional about our airbnb and they said a lot of the airbnb market is being hit with this- you are not alone! I really hope your bookings pick up! 

[Emilie]

Hi @Emma4059, 

3.5 years is a long time -I'd love to hear what you've learned along the way!

Did you get a chance to review the suggestions Marie, Salah and Samantha have shared with you? 

We'd love to know if you're going to try and implement any of their ideas, and how they help. 🙂

Thanks, 

Emilie