Managing a short-term rental in Utah can be incredibly lucrative during peak seasons. Whether it's ski season in Park City, summer festivals in Salt Lake City, or adventure tourism in Moab, there’s no shortage of opportunities to maximize bookings. But what about the off-peak seasons?
Many hosts see a significant dip in revenue during slower months, but with the right strategies, you can keep your Airbnb occupied and profitable year-round. Here’s how to do it.
During off-peak times, setting the right price is crucial. Dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs, Beyond, or Airbnb’s Smart Pricing can help you adjust your rates based on local demand, competing listings, and events happening nearby. Lowering your nightly rate slightly during slow periods can make your property more appealing without drastically reducing your revenue.
Remote work has made longer stays more appealing to travelers. Offering a discount for week-long or month-long bookings can help fill your calendar during off-peak months. Highlight your property’s amenities like fast Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces, and comfortable living areas to attract remote workers. Consider offering special packages, such as including workspace essentials or providing local tips for remote professionals.
Even during slower seasons, there are still plenty of reasons to visit Utah. Promote unique local events, seasonal attractions, or lesser-known hiking trails near your property. Partnering with local businesses to offer discounts or experiences—like guided snowshoeing in winter or fall foliage tours—can make your listing stand out. Use social media to highlight these partnerships and share guest experiences.
Refreshing your listing photos with seasonal touches can make your property look more inviting. Consider adding images that showcase your space during fall foliage, winter snow, or spring blooms. Captivating visuals help guests imagine themselves enjoying your space, regardless of the season. Also, update your listing description to mention seasonal highlights and local recommendations.
During slower months, offering additional amenities can make a difference. Consider adding perks like: - Complimentary breakfast items or snacks - Free early check-in or late check-out - Cozy touches like extra blankets, fire pits, and a coffee station during colder months - Outdoor gear rentals (like snowshoes or hiking poles) - Local guidebooks or personalized itineraries highlighting off-season activities
Update your Airbnb description and title to reflect seasonal perks. For example, highlight proximity to winter sports during ski season or scenic drives during fall. Consider creating a seasonal social media campaign showcasing your property’s unique features and off-peak appeal. Engage with local tourism groups and share content that attracts visitors looking for a more peaceful, off-season experience.
Identify which types of travelers are more likely to visit during off-peak times. For instance: - Remote workers looking for extended stays - Couples seeking quiet getaways - Families on budget-friendly vacations - Outdoor enthusiasts looking for unique, less crowded experiences
Create tailored packages or special rates to attract these groups. For example, offer discounted rates for couples booking mid-week stays or provide family-friendly amenities like board games and kids’ activity suggestions.
Great communication is essential in securing bookings, especially during slower months. Respond to inquiries quickly, offer flexibility with booking changes, and provide detailed information about your property’s amenities and nearby activities. Be proactive about offering suggestions for local experiences, even during the off-season.
Off-peak seasons in Utah don’t have to mean lower revenue. By leveraging dynamic pricing, appealing to long-term guests, and highlighting local experiences, you can keep your Airbnb profitable year-round. Adjust your strategy, stay proactive, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to attract guests even when tourism slows down.
At Outland Short-Term Rental, we specialize in maximizing revenue through strategic pricing, dynamic marketing, and guest experience optimization. We know the ins and outs of the Utah rental market and can help you make the most of every season.
👉 Want to learn more about how we can help your Airbnb thrive year-round? Visit our Services Page to see how we can support your hosting journey. Ready to boost your revenue? Contact us today for a free consultation.