@Mirlene2 Phoenix is one of the worst places (I think it is actually THE worst place) in the U.S. to open a short-term rental right now. It is highly oversaturated with short-term rentals, as everyone jumped in just like you did during the last couple of years. Too many rentals, not enough guests. It will be very difficult to make a living in this business right now in Phoenix. People couldn’t even fill their nights for the Super Bowl, which was startling.
Do a search for other properties like yours within a 5-mile radius or so. Take a look at the availability on a few of them. Are they in the same boat you are? If not, I’m wrong, which is actually a good thing, and the next thing to do is look closely at their photos and listing offerings and compare them to yours. You want to offer as good or better amenities and terms.
Another idea is to try to tailor your listing to some sort of theme, to make it unique enough to attract guests to your listing among the masses. Maybe some kind of retro 90’s theme, sports theme, desert theme…something to make guests think it would be fun to stay there. No longer can you just enable a listing and expect the guests to break down your door wanting to stay.
Another thing is to have professional photography done. Expert photographers will really know how to use lighting, props, furniture adjustments, etc. to present your property in the best possible light.
Also, change your title, for SEO purposes. Guests are not going to put “Chateau” or “Villa” in the browser search bar - they are going to look for “Historic Home close to xxxx”, or similar.
As far as your other businesses, my uninformed opinion is that your cleaning business holds the most promise. Good cleaners are very hard to find everywhere. Heaven knows there are enough short-term rentals in your area that probably need the help.
