Is a Pet-Friendly Rental the Key to More Bookings?
As a vacation rental owner, staying ahead of the competition means constantly finding ways to make your property stand out. One feature that has increasingly captured the attention of travelers is allowing pets during their stay.
With more people treating their pets as family members, the demand for vacation rentals that welcome furry companions has surged. According to Airbnb, searches for pet-friendly properties increased by over 90% between 2019 and 2021. In fact, recent data shows that pet-friendly vacation rentals had a higher occupancy rate, averaging 54% in 2022, compared to 48% for those that don’t allow pets. Recent trends also show that travelers are not only seeking pet-friendly accommodations but are also willing to pay extra for the privilege of bringing their beloved pets along.
By making your rental pet-friendly, you can tap into this growing market, attract more bookings, and enhance your rental’s appeal. Let’s explore why allowing pets could be a smart move for your property and how it can significantly impact your bottom line.
Growing Demand for Pet-Friendly Stays
The desire to bring pets along for vacations has skyrocketed in recent years, reflecting a broader shift in how people view their pets as a part of their family. According to Airbnb, 55% of pet owners prefer to bring their pets on vacation rather than leave them behind. This growing trend indicates that offering a pet-friendly space is not just a passing fad but a strategic move to attract a larger audience. By catering to travelers who are actively searching for properties that welcome pets, you can make your rental stand out in a crowded market and meet the needs of pet-loving guests.
Pet Owners Are Willing to Pay More
Pet owners are often ready to invest more for the chance to bring their pets on vacation. Many guests are willing to pay extra for the privilege of bringing their pets, whether it’s through an additional cleaning fee, pet fee, or a slightly higher nightly rate. If you choose to charge a pet fee, the amount can easily cover the cost of a deep clean and provide an opportunity for additional profit! (A deep clean is highly recommended for allergy purposes, but in our experience, most pet owners who travel with their furry friends are experienced and have well-behaved pets. Therefore, damages are not as frequent as you might expect.) According to Rentalscaleup, 50% of travelers are prepared to pay more for a pet-friendly stay. This willingness to spend extra not only makes your property more attractive to a wider pool of renters but also helps boost your bottom line, demonstrating the significant revenue potential of offering a pet-friendly rental.
Increased Bookings and Longer Stays
Allowing pets could be the key to filling those off-season dates. Pet owners often face limited options when traveling with their furry companions, making pet-friendly properties more attractive and likely to be booked early—and for longer periods. With fewer properties offering this amenity, you’re more likely to see increased bookings, even during slow times, boosting your occupancy rate and overall revenue.
Building Loyalty with Pet Owners
Pet owners are among the most loyal renters. Once they find a property that accommodates their pets, they’re likely to return time and time again. These guests often develop a strong attachment to properties that welcome their furry friends, leading to repeat bookings. Additionally, pet owners tend to be very vocal about their positive experiences, sharing their stays with fellow pet-loving friends, family, and on social media. Positive reviews from satisfied pet owners can boost your property’s visibility and reputation, generating word-of-mouth referrals that bring in even more bookings. The loyalty of this market segment can also result in longer stays and increased occupancy, as pet owners prioritize destinations that make their travels easier and more enjoyable.
Mitigating the Cons
While there are challenges to consider, such as potential damage and additional cleaning, these can be managed effectively. GoodNight Stay implements a comprehensive damage insurance policy to cover any unexpected costs related to pets, providing you with peace of mind. Additionally, many owners charge a pet deposit or cleaning fee to cover extra expenses, and clear house rules can set expectations and help prevent issues.
Gaining a Competitive Edge with Pet-Friendly Perks
Not all vacation rentals allow pets, giving those that do a significant advantage in the market. Allowing pets not only caters to a niche audience but also boosts your listing’s visibility on highly competitive platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. To make your property even more appealing, consider adding pet-friendly amenities like pet beds, water bowls, and fenced yards, as recommended by Airbnb’s travel guide. Listing your property on niche sites like BringFido.com can further attract pet-loving travelers actively searching for pet-friendly accommodations, helping you stand out in a crowded market.
Ready to Make Your Property Stand Out?
Making your vacation rental pet-friendly is a smart way to increase bookings, attract loyal guests, and stand out in a crowded market. With a growing number of travelers preferring to bring their pets along, you’ll tap into a niche market eager to find the perfect property.
If you’re a property owner in Scottsdale, AZ, now is the perfect time to consider making your rental pet-friendly. Scottsdale has been named the 2024 Most Pet-Friendly City by WalletHub and also topped LawnStarter’s list of Most Dog-Friendly Cities. This recognition underscores the city’s commitment to pet-friendly amenities and can be a significant selling point for your property.
GoodNight Stay is here to help you seamlessly transition to a pet-friendly property, unlocking the potential for more bookings, increased revenue, and guest loyalty. From creating pet-friendly spaces with the help of our design team to boosting your listing’s appeal, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Interested in learning more? Reach out today for a free income evaluation, and let’s explore how making your home pet-friendly can elevate your vacation rental game and enhance your success!
