Selling a short-term rental (STR) property requires more than just putting it on the market—you need to attract the right buyers who understand its potential. Investors familiar with short-term rentals are specifically looking for properties that promise good returns, efficient management, and compliance with local regulations. By using the right strategies, you can significantly increase your listing’s visibility and ensure that the leads you attract are qualified and serious about purchasing.
Here are ten ways to help you maximize views to your listing and improve the quality of your leads:
1. List Your STR Property on Niche Platforms
Instead of relying solely on broad real estate platforms like Zillow or Realtor.com, choose a niche platform that caters specifically to short-term rental investors. Chalet, for example, helps you put your property directly in front of an audience of knowledgeable STR investors. These buyers are already interested in short-term rentals, so they’re more likely to appreciate the revenue potential of your property, making this an ideal platform for serious leads.
2. Highlight Proven Rental Income and Performance Metrics
Investors prioritize properties with a strong financial track record. Make sure your listing highlights key short-term real estate financial data such as:
- Annual revenue
- Cap rate
- Occupancy rates
- Average daily rate (ADR)
- Operating expenses This data helps buyers assess the property’s profitability and long-term potential, making them more likely to make serious offers. Clear financial performance data sets your listing apart, especially with experienced investors.
3. Work with a Chalet Partner STR Real Estate Agent
Working with a real estate agent who specializes in STR properties gives you an edge. A Chalet Partner STR agent understands the nuances of short-term rental investments and can understand exactly how to market your property to reach a network of potential buyers who are actively seeking STR opportunities. These agents also provide guidance on pricing your property competitively while maximizing its appeal to potential buyers.
Top 200 Airbnb Rental Markets
Use our Airbnb comparison tool to instantly compare the top 200 short-term (Airbnb) rental markets in the US
4. Optimize Your Listing for SEO
Just like websites, real estate listings benefit from search engine optimization (SEO). Use terms like “profitable Airbnb property” or “turnkey short-term rental” to improve visibility in search results. Well-optimized listings rank higher on real estate platforms, ensuring your property is seen by more potential buyers. Focus on keywords that STR investors commonly search for, helping your listing reach the right audience.
5. Provide Comprehensive Information on STR Regulations
STR investors often prioritize properties in areas with favorable regulations. Ensure your listing mentions whether the property is in an STR-friendly zone or any existing licenses and permits. Being upfront about local rules reassures buyers that they won’t encounter unexpected legal hurdles. Chalet offers an extensive library of STR rental regulation guides to help you stay updated on the latest changes in your market, allowing you to make sure your listing meets all compliance standards before selling.
6. Use Professional Photography and Virtual Tours
First impressions matter, especially for short-term rental properties that must appeal to both guests and investors. Hire a professional photographer to capture your property’s best features, and consider offering virtual tours for remote buyers. High-quality visuals not only attract more views but also give potential buyers confidence that your property is well-maintained and ready for immediate use.
7. Leverage Social Media and STR Investment Groups
Social media is a powerful tool for reaching a targeted audience. Share your listing in STR-focused Facebook groups or LinkedIn forums where short-term rental investors frequently discuss potential deals. Highlight your property’s revenue-generating potential and use photos or short video tours to draw attention. Engaging with investor communities online can dramatically boost your listing’s exposure.
8. Create a Detailed Investment Analysis Packet
Providing potential buyers with detailed financial projections gives them a clear picture of what they can expect from their investment. An investment packet should include cash flow projections, ROI potential, and operating costs. Offering this level of detail upfront signals to serious buyers that your property is a well-considered investment, and it saves them the time of calculating the property’s potential profitability themselves. Create your investment analysis packet with the help of Chalet’s generative AI solution. Speak to a Chalet STR expert today to get started.
9. Offer Seller Financing
Attract more qualified buyers by offering flexible seller financing. This can be particularly appealing to STR investors who may be looking to quickly expand their portfolios but don’t want to go through the traditional financing process. Seller financing not only makes your property more accessible but also broadens the pool of serious buyers who are ready to act quickly.
10. Feature Positive Guest Reviews
If your property has a history of strong guest reviews, make sure these are front and center in your listing. Positive reviews demonstrate to investors that the property is well-received and already functioning successfully as an STR. This makes it easier for them to step in and maintain the momentum without having to overhaul the guest experience. A property with a great reputation among guests will be much more attractive to buyers seeking a turn-key operation.
Conclusion
By taking a strategic approach to marketing your short-term rental property, you can ensure that your listing reaches a targeted audience of experienced STR investors. Niche platforms like Chalet and specialized STR real estate agents can help connect you with qualified buyers, while detailed financials, regulatory transparency, and high-quality presentation make your property stand out. Implementing these strategies will not only increase your listing views but also attract the right buyers—those who see the true value in your short-term rental investment.
