As a short-term rental (STR) host, repeat guests are gold. They save you time and money on marketing, reduce dependency on OTAs (like Airbnb and Vrbo), and help build a loyal customer base. The key is to wow your guests, build relationships, and give them incentives to book directly with you.
If you’re looking to boost direct bookings and turn one-time guests into repeat visitors, here are some tried-and-true strategies you should implement:
1. Do the Needful – Provide an Outstanding Experience
It all starts with the basics. If your guests don’t have a stellar experience, they won’t return—period.
Here’s what you need to focus on:
✅ Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable – Your property should be spotless. This is the #1 factor influencing guest satisfaction.
✅ Be Responsive – Quick and friendly communication before, during, and after their stay makes guests feel valued.
✅ Surprise and Delight – Small gestures like a welcome note, complimentary snacks, or a guidebook with local recommendations go a long way.
A seamless, enjoyable experience ensures that when guests think about returning, your property is their first choice.
2. Offer a Discount to Book Direct
People love discounts, especially when they feel like they’re getting an exclusive deal. Let guests know they can save 5-15% (or whatever you decide) by booking directly instead of through third-party platforms that charge fees.
How to Promote This?
📩 Post-Stay Email: Send a thank-you email with a direct booking discount for their next trip.
💌 Handwritten Note: Leave a personalized note at checkout with a reminder about direct booking perks.
🔖 Business Card or Flyer: Provide a small card with your direct booking website and discount details.
🎁 Loyalty Offer: If they return within a year, they get an additional night free or an exclusive upgrade.
3. Partner with Local Businesses for Mutual Benefits
Your guests want unique experiences, and local businesses want more customers—this is a perfect opportunity to build win-win partnerships.
How It Works:
🎟️ Leave a Gift Card: Provide a small gift card ($20-$100, depending on length of stay + nightly rate) to a popular local restaurant, coffee shop, or attraction. This makes guests feel special and encourages them to explore the area.
🤝 Collaborate with Local Businesses: Reach out and ask if they’d be open to referring customers to you in exchange for sending your guests their way. Many will say yes—especially if they see the value in cross-promotion.
💰 Set Up a Referral Kickback: Some businesses may even offer you a small commission for sending guests their way. You help your local economy while enhancing the guest experience—it’s a win-win!
4. Run a Quarterly Raffle for Reviews
Guest reviews are crucial for credibility, SEO, and social proof. To encourage more reviews, set up a quarterly giveaway where guests earn an entry for every review they leave.
How It Works:
🔹 Guests get one entry for each review they post on Google, Airbnb, your direct booking site, etc.
🔹 Every three months, you randomly select a winner for a free 2- or 3-night stay.
🔹 Announce the winner via email or social media (this also reminds past guests about your property!).
Not only does this help generate more reviews, but it also keeps your property top of mind for guests considering another trip.
5. Stay in Touch Through Email & Social Media
Guests won’t remember to book with you if they forget about you! Stay on their radar with regular touchpoints.
📧 Email Marketing – Send periodic emails with:
✔️ Special promotions
✔️ Local events & attractions
✔️ Updates about your property
✔️ Exclusive returning guest discounts
📱 Social Media Engagement – Encourage guests to follow you on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Post engaging content, travel tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your property.
💬 Direct Messages & Personalized Check-ins – A quick “Hope you’re doing well! Let us know if you ever want to book again—we’d love to host you!” can work wonders.
6. Start a Referral Program
Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful. Reward past guests for referring friends and family.
🎁 How It Works:
✔️ If they refer someone who books a stay, they get $50 off their next booking (or a free night, an experience upgrade, etc.).
✔️ New guests who book through a referral get a small discount or special perk.
✔️ Promote this in your thank-you emails, social media, and inside your property.
People love sharing great experiences—give them an extra reason to spread the word!
Final Thoughts
Getting repeat guests for your STR is all about delivering a fantastic experience, building relationships, and providing incentives to book directly. A well-executed strategy can reduce reliance on OTAs, increase your profit margins, and turn your short-term rental into a thriving, guest-loved business.
Which strategy are you excited to try first? Let me know in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to hear what’s working for you! 🚀🏡💰