Owning a short-term rental (STR) in South Africa can be a lucrative investment, but even small mistakes can eat into your profits. If you’re not seeing the returns you expected, you might be making one of these costly errors.
1. Pricing Incorrectly
Many homeowners either overprice and scare off bookings or undervalue their property, missing out on potential revenue. Dynamic pricing tools can help you adjust rates based on demand, seasonality, and local trends—ensuring you maximise occupancy and earnings.
2. Poor Listing Photos
In a digital world, first impressions matter. Low-quality, dark, or cluttered photos can make even a stunning home look unappealing. Invest in professional photography to showcase your property at its best—this alone can increase bookings by up to 40%!
3. Not Prioritising Guest Experience
A guest’s experience starts before they even arrive. Slow responses, unclear check-in instructions, or lack of personal touches can lead to bad reviews and fewer future bookings. Ensure seamless communication, a spotless home, and little extras (like a welcome note or local treats) to turn guests into loyal return visitors.
4. Ignoring Maintenance Issues
That dripping tap or faulty light might seem minor, but neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs and unhappy guests. Regular inspections and a trusted cleaning team can keep your property in top condition and prevent negative reviews.
5. Not Optimising for Direct Bookings
Relying only on Airbnb and Booking.com means high commission fees and less control. A strong direct booking strategy, including a professional website and repeat guest incentives, can increase your profits and build a loyal customer base.
6. Overlooking Security and Guest Screening
A relaxed approach to guest vetting can lead to property damage and lost income. Using secure booking platforms, deposits, and guest verification helps protect your investment while ensuring only responsible travellers stay at your property.
Avoiding these common mistakes can boost your income, improve guest satisfaction, and protect your property’s long-term value. If managing everything feels overwhelming, a professional STR management company can help you streamline operations and maximise revenue—without the stress.
Need expert advice? Chat to us today about optimising your STR investment!
Calls: 087 188 4245
Emails: [email protected]
Website: www.euphoricleisure.com
