HOW TO BUILD A WEBSITE
FOR YOUR RENTAL
Creating a website for your rental property that leads to more bookings and stands out from the crowd
Introduction
Learning to build a website for your rental property can make you more competitive online, increase bookings, and provide guests with a memorable first impression of your rental. Here’s a simple five-step process to help you build a website that attracts and converts potential customers.
Step 1: Find a domain
If you want to build a website, you have to start by purchasing a domain name that reflects your rental property. Don’t try and get clever here, just roll with something descriptive and compelling. Choose a name that’s easy to spell, memorable, and accurately represents your business. Think about something like “bentonvillebnb.com.” Simple, easy to say, easy enough to spell. A poor example might be “bauxitevacationstay.com” (people will misspell “Bauxite).
Once you have the perfect domain in mind, buy it through domain registrars like GoDaddy, for example.
Step 2: pick a website platform
Next, select a website builder that matches your needs and technical skills. There are many options available, like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress. WordPress is a popular choice because of its flexibility and customization options, but it may have a steeper learning curve and require help from a designer. Research different website design platforms to find the one that best fits your style and budget.
Step 3: build your website
Now it’s time to create an immersive online experience that makes potential guests feel like they’re already on the property. Use high-quality, captivating photos that showcase the best features of your rental. Write compelling descriptions that paint a picture of the experience. Include important details about amenities, local attractions, and any unique selling points. Ensure that your website is fast-loading, easy to navigate, and aesthetically pleasing, making it effortless for visitors to explore and get to your call to action quickly.
Step 4: optimize for search engines (SEO)
SEO is crucial to make sure people find your site. Research the keywords your target audience uses when searching for rental properties like yours. Use these keywords naturally in your content, headings, and meta descriptions. Don’t skip this step—without SEO, your beautiful website may remain hidden from potential guests.
If you’d like to get some basics on how this works, check out our blog on the basics of SEO.
Step 5: Integrate Your Listing
Lastly, make it easy for visitors to book directly from your website. Embed a booking engine or link to your listing on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. Ensure the booking process is straightforward and user-friendly, keeping your goal in focus: more bookings. Avoid distractions that might cause potential guests to leave without booking.
YOUR NEXT STEPS...
If you’re ready to spend more time running your short-term rental and less time running the website, click the button below for a free consultation on a website build! You give us the info, we handle everything from the keyword research for your listing to the integration of your rental software.