Are booking rates down?

[Chris23665]

Hello fellow hosts,

I've had a great occupancy rate for the last 2 years. Since November, this rate has dramatically decreased, despite good reviews.

I'm currently running a promotional price, also using smart pricing. I have decreased (not increased) my prices, yet bookings are rarely coming at all. This was unthinkable just a few months ago, and for the last two years.

Has anybody else dealt with this issue? If so, is there any advice you can share on how to get things back on track? Is the algorithm not showcasing some properties anymore? What can one do to fix this?

Many thanks,
Chris

[Amira326]

Hi Chris

Just checked out your listing. Is it possible the competition in your area has changed and that's taking away traffic from you? If that is the case perhaps consider making few changes to your studio for a cozier look. Anything from a duvet cover, a small rug, a framed piece of art on the wall, a vase to a bedside lamp- these small details can make a difference and not cost much.

[Alex]

Hi @Chris23665! 

I'm sorry to see you are going through a slow period with bookings. Don't get discouraged! Better times will come! 🤗

If this is okay with everyone, I'm going to tag some experienced hosts to see if they can give you some advice on how to overcome this situation: @Nathan146, @Roy1245 and @Shelley159. 

Wishing you the best of lucks!

Alex

[Chris23665]

This is much appreciated Alex, thank you so much for your help!

Chris

[Shelley159 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Chris23665 

I've searched for your property using Davis, UC Davis and Davis Downtown. I could not find it on the first 5 pages for any of the 3 search terms. 

The two things that I think will make a big difference here, are free cancelation and lower price. I see you say the price is already reduced, but there are many listings that rank well that are cheaper. Check your position, then run a promotion on a limited set of nights and see how a lower price moves you upward for those specific nights (be sure to use Private Mode, and a search term that you think your guests will use).

Instant book can also help. Basically you need to get the bookings jumpstarted again, then you'll rank better once there are more recent good reviews coming in.

Hope it helps!

[Chris23665]

Thank you very much, Shelley, this is very helpful!