Existing listing under new ownership

[Jennifer4972]

We recently bought a home that was an Airbnb and we wanted to continue. We created our listing and the previous owner has been great working with us to try to capture future bookings he had with the property. So far we have had about 1/2 of the guests rebook with us. A few have inquired but haven’t rebooked. Is there anything else we should be doing?  I don’t want this to be a negative experience for these guests.  Unfortunately I have experienced a cancellation of a property I rented on VRBO this summer. This notification came 48 hours before we left for Alaska which was very stressful. I definitely don’t want this to happen to any of these guests. 

Jennifer

[Alicia753 · Accepted solution]

Hi Jennifer,

It sounds like you’re handling the transition very thoughtfully, and with a few additional touches, you can ensure guests feel confident booking with you. A personalized message to guests who haven’t yet rebooked, acknowledging the change and warmly inviting them to your new listing, can go a long way. Adding a small incentive, like a discount or complimentary amenity, could make rebooking more appealing and help them feel appreciated during this transition.

Emphasizing the continuity of the property’s quality and reassuring guests of the security of their booking are key. Let them know you’re dedicated to a seamless experience, and perhaps mention any improvements you’ve introduced. Updating your listing photos to reflect any changes can also reassure guests that they’re returning to a familiar, reliable place.

Offering flexible check-in or check-out times, when possible, can also be a helpful gesture, as it brings an extra level of comfort to guests. Clearly outlining your cancellation policy in your listing and emphasizing your commitment to honoring future reservations will further reinforce a sense of stability.

Staying responsive to guests’ inquiries and encouraging feedback from those who rebook will help you fine-tune the experience, ensuring that each guest feels valued and reassured. With these added touches, your dedication to a smooth transition will certainly resonate with future guests.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Upfish Management