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The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Website for Your Short-Term Vacation Rental

For hosts managing accommodations, advertising and selling their properties can be challenging. If you’re already showcasing your property on one or more short-term rental channels, congratulations—you’ve completed the first step. But what comes next?

To maximize bookings and revenue, you need a systematic approach to marketing. While social media and influencer partnerships can help, the most crucial tool in your arsenal is your own website.

This blog post will walk you through the importance of having a website, its benefits, and how you can create one from scratch—even without being a tech expert!

Note: The service onNinth provides does everything (and far more like SEO, HostGPT chatbots) below. If you don’t think you want to venture down this path, please reach out to us. If you are more of a DIY person, please continue!

Why Every Host Needs a Website

In a competitive short-term rental market, it’s essential to stand out. Having your website requires some effort upfront but offers unmatched advantages:

Benefits of Having Your Website

  1. Promote Multiple Accommodations:
    Whether you have a single property or several, a website allows you to showcase them in the best light.
  2. Build Your Brand:
    Differentiate your rental with unique branding—logos, photos, and a personal touch.
  3. Direct Communication:
    Engage directly with potential guests and offer a comprehensive view of your amenities.
  4. Save on Commissions:
    Avoid the high fees charged by platforms like Airbnb. Direct bookings mean more revenue for you.
  5. Marketing Control:
    Use SEO, blogs, and email campaigns to attract travelers and improve your visibility online.

How to Create Your Short-Term Rental Website

Follow this step-by-step guide to build a fully functional website that can handle direct bookings.

Step 1: Choose a Hosting Provider

A hosting provider is the backbone of your website. We recommend HostMelon or SiteGround, but there are many out there.

  • Open an account at HostMelon or SiteGround.
  • Choose a hosting plan and submit your order.
  • Purchase or link a domain name that represents your brand.

Tips for Choosing a Domain Name:

  • Make it unique and easy to spell.
  • Include your brand name and relevant keywords.

Buy your Domain:

Step 2: Set Up Managed WordPress Hosting

WordPress is a user-friendly platform that allows you to build your site without coding knowledge. A managed WordPress hosting plan simplifies installation, backups, and security.

Using HostMelon:

  • Once you receive your login info, Log in.
  • Go to Apps and then click your domain and then click Install Next to WordPress leaving the default values
  • Allow ~5 minutes for WordPress to install and check your email for login details
  • Go login and to base WordPress site and get ready to start building a site (or hire it out)

Step 3: Install a Theme for Accommodation Rentals

We suggest the Bute theme for minimalists, or any of the WEN themes, or the Palmeria theme for its clean, professional design tailored for short-term rentals.

  • Download the theme.
  • Upload and activate it through your WordPress dashboard.

Step 4: Set Up Payment Processing with Paypal or Stripe

Stripe enables secure online payments.

  1. Create a Paypal or Stripe account.
  2. Set up API keys.
  3. Integrate Paypal / Stripe with your website to accept card payments in the next step.

Step 5: Install the WP Booking System or Motopress Plugin

The WP Booking System and Motopress plugin streamline booking management. Once installed, activate it from your WordPress dashboard.

Step 6: List Your Accommodations

Add your properties with the following details:

  • High-quality images.
  • Descriptions highlighting features and nearby attractions.
  • Amenities, occupancy limits, and rates.

Step 7: Set Seasonal Prices and Booking Rules

  • Seasonal Pricing: Adjust rates for high-demand periods like holidays or events.
  • Booking Rules: Define minimum stay requirements, check-in/check-out policies, and special discounts.

Step 8: Add Additional Payment Methods

Enable deposit payments or full upfront payments via Paypal / Stripe.

Step 9: Sync Your Website with Other Channels

Use tools like the WP Booking System Premium to synchronize your bookings across platforms and prevent double bookings.

Step 10: Add Reviews

Showcase testimonials from previous guests to build trust. Add these through your WordPress dashboard.

Tips for Optimizing Your Website

1. Content is King

Engage your audience with unique and useful content:

  • Highlight local attractions and events.
  • Share travel tips for the area.
  • Create a “Hidden Treasures Guide” to showcase lesser-known gems nearby.

2. High-Quality Photos

Invest in professional photography to showcase your property. Ensure images are:

  • Bright and clear.
  • Organized in a logical order (e.g., entryway, living spaces, bedrooms).

3. Mobile Optimization

Make sure your website looks and functions perfectly on mobile devices.

4. SEO Strategy

Use targeted keywords, optimize image sizes, and create compelling page titles to rank higher in search results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Poorly written descriptions.
  • Low-quality photos.
  • Overly restrictive booking policies.
  • Ignoring secure payment options.

Conclusion

Building a website for your short-term rental has never been easier. With a well-optimized website, you can increase bookings, build your brand, and take control of your revenue.

Ready to get started? Use this guide to create your dream site, or let experts handle it for you!

Want a professional to build your site?
Contact us via email, chat or phone.

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