Dynamic Pricing is Crucial to STR Success
Dynamic pricing of vacation rentals refers to the practice of adjusting the nightly rate of a property based on real-time market demand and other factors, such as seasonality, local events, and availability. This means that the rental price of the property can change frequently and automatically based on the changing market conditions. Dynamic pricing helps short-term rental-property owners to optimize their rental income, attract more guests, and stay competitive in the market by setting the price that reflects the current demand for the property. Dynamic pricing is crucial to the success of vacation rental homes for several reasons:
1. Maximizing revenue. Dynamic pricing allows property owners to adjust the price of their rental home based on demand and availability. This means they can charge a higher price during peak season or when there is high demand and lower the price during low season or when there is less demand. By adjusting the price based on market conditions, property owners can maximize their revenue. For example, the nightly rate in Park City, UT will be higher during ski season as opposed to the summer months.
2. Competitive pricing. Knowing how, and when, to adjust the nightly rate helps vacation rental homes remain competitive by ensuring that the price of the rental home is always in-line with the market. This allows property owners to stay competitive with other rental properties in the area and attract more guests. For example, if you're deciding on an Airbnb in Joshua Tree, CA, you're likely to skip over a listing that's priced as high as it was during festival season (i.e. Coachella).
"Dynamic pricing allows owners to maximize their revenue and yield, by making quick, data-driven decisions as a market evolves. It also positions owners who embrace dynamic pricing to have a competitive advantage over other owners in the market by being able to move faster to meet demand where it is at." - Summer Founder & CEO, Paul Kromidas
3. Increased occupancy. Homes priced dynamically attract more guests and increase occupancy rates. Simply-put, when the price is lower, more people may be willing to book the property, and when the price is higher, the property owner can capitalize on the high demand.
4. Better guest experience. Dynamic pricing can also improve the guest experience by ensuring that guests pay a fair price for the rental home. When the price is too high, guests may feel like they are being overcharged, and when the price is too low, they may feel like they are getting a low-quality rental. By adjusting the price based on market conditions, property owners can provide guests with a fair price, making it more likely for them to return from their getaway having had a top-tier, memorable experience.
Have questions for the Summer team? Drop us a line at hey@gosummer.com.