|
It may sound obvious but the way you reply to enquiries can make the difference in whether you get the booking or not. This is usually the first point of contact that you will have with a renter and first impressions really do count.
Traveling2florida will generate two different types of enquiry: -
1 General Enquires – go out to all owners who have availability in the area the renter has enquired about.
2 Property Specific Enquires – go out only to the owner of the specific property the renter has enquired about.
Please keep the following in mind when you are replying to enquiries:
Be patient & polite
You may not be able to tell at first if you are dealing with a seasoned renter or if you are dealing with someone who is renting for the first time. It can be frustrating having to answer a large number of questions some of which you may consider to be dumb, but to the renter it could be the difference between booking your home and staying in a hotel.
Answer questions fully
It can be frustrating and annoying to receive a standard reply from someone that does not answer any of the questions you have asked. If you don’t answer the potential customers' questions, they will not feel valued and will be more likely to book someone else’s property.
Write clear, professional e-mails
Most renters enquire about a number of properties, if not a number of web sites. Make sure that your emails stand out…
1 Keep replies to the point
2 Put a link to either your own web site or your page on traveling2florida
3 Always put your name and contact details at the end of your email, include all international dialing codes with phone numbers
4 Use your property name in the subject line of the email and not just Re: traveling2florida vacation enquiry
Respond promptly to enquiries
Generally renters will send enquiries to several different properties - if you don’t get your reply in quickly they may have already booked another property. The quicker you reply to renters' enquiries and questions the more valued they will feel and the more likely they are to book your property.
Templates
I know it sounds obvious but you may want to create a series of templates to help you save time when replying to enquiries. The templates should contain all the information a renter will need to make the decision to book your home. It should also be adaptable so you can personalize it and answer any questions they may have.
Supply extra information – send a follow-up email
A well written follow up email is a great idea - it gives you a chance to give the renter more information about the area, new attractions, new restaurants, additions and enhancements to your home. Please use this opportunity to provide extra information and not just to ask if the renter has made their mind up. In the past I have felt like I was being stalked by some home owners - if a renter feels like this there is no way they will book your home. If you send a follow-up email only send one, especially if you are replying to a general enquiry.
Be Enthusiastic
Don't forget - enthusiasm is infectious! Show genuine interest in the renter and passion for your property. If you are laid back about your home you can’t expect others to get excited enough to book it.
|
Articles