An Easy and Very Effective Tip to turn email inquiries into reservations and really help your guests in the process!

Seasoned owners and property managers will agree that most inquiries are very similar - travelers want to see if you are who you say you are, if your property is as advertised, where the property is located, what are nearby services and attractions, if you have availability and how to reserve.

Here is an insider tip that will save you money in telephone bills, save you and your staff’s time, save the traveler time and help you get more bookings.  It is simple and often over looked, but powerful.  If you have a personal vacation home website much of this and more info can be covered, but be sure to include it in your replies too!  HOW DO YOU REPLY TO YOUR RENTAL INQUIRIES?  If by email then get the most bang for your buck!

You can copy and paste this info or create your own!  Your reply to travelers should be standardized and packed with useful information.  Here is how many owners respond - especially if you have a ton of inquiries in your email.

Hello Susan - We received your request and the dates are available.  To get more info or if you have questions call me or go to my website www.fantasticrentalhomeslocatedindestinflorida.com

Thanks - Rental Owner - Phone: (123) 123-1234

OR CONSIDER USING this simple but information packed REPLY?  It’s more professional and shows that you CARE!  It conveys that you know the area, have a good product and you are easy to do business with!

Dear Susan -

Thank you so much for your inquiry about our Destin, Florida vacation rental!  We have checked our availability calendar for you and the dates you have requested are available!  It is our desire to make you feel at home and provide you with a great vacation rental experience. 

Many of our Destin guests and incoming visitors have similar questions when they are trying to find the best home to suit their needs.  For this reason we have compiled for your review some important things to consider in your decision.  Of course you can always give us a call or log onto our personal website at ………………  to view availability and more details.  Looking forward to having you as a guest to our Destin Home!

Very Important - READ THIS BEFORE BOOKING ANY DESTIN VACATION RENTAL:

Where exactly is the home located?  This home is located just a minute from the intersections of Fillmore Avenue and Lexington Blvd.  It is in the gated community of Whilshire Estates.  Once you book a reservation we supply the exact address.

How far from the airport?  The nearest International Airport is Jeff Foxworthy International located at….and it is only 10 minutes to the front door of this home.  If you are driving down the best route is…

Is the home furnished and should I bring any additional items?  This home is completely turnkey.  We have stocked the home with all cookware, dinnerware, silverware, beds, linens, tvs, dvds, vcrs.  There is even a gas bbq grill on the back patio with a table and seating for 4 to take in the sunsets.  Previous guests suggest bringing golf clubs, a good book and a bathing suit!  Just stock the refrigerator and you’ll be set!

Do you offer high speed internet and telephone service?  Yes!  This home has wifi (wireless internet) for your laptop computer and there are 2 cordless phones for free local calls and an answering machine.  You will need to use your cell phone or calling cards for international and long distance cards.

What are the nearby activities and services?  We believe this to be an excellent location to enjoy all that Destin has to offer.  The sandy beaches are just 10 minutes drive and there is plenty of public parking, for dining we recommend you try Joe’s Crab and Fish or 1 of the 50 restaurants located with 5 minutes, the Aquarium for the kids is just 2 miles away and you can find pizza, bowling, ice cream and go kart racing next door!  For a romantic getaway be sure to try the little Italian restaurant listed in our welcome book.

How do I make a reservation?  Easy just log on to our website……………….add your info here.

What are your arrival and departure requirements?  We require a minimum 7 day stay.  Any nights beyond 7 are pro-rated at the nightly rates.  Monthly rates are posted on our personal site/listing.  Arrivals must be on Sunday after 4 pm and departures must be on Sunday before 10 am. 

How do I get keys for the home?  Easy! Once your reservation is confirmed and paid for you will receive a final confirmation that includes detailed directions to the front door, the security code for the lock box, area info, emergency contact info, arrival and departure directions.  The keys for the pool and clubhouse are right inside on the kitchen table.

What is your cancellation policy?  We require a $300 reservation deposit and…………………..your info.

Do you have any guest reviews or references?  Yes!  You can view this info………………….here.

We know that you have many choices when finding a Destin vacation home and we thank you for your consideration!  If we can be of further assistance in any way just give us a call or email.  Here is the link to our personal website………….

Best Regards -

Destin Vacation Homeowner

Phone - (888)-000-1234

Email:  destindestindestin@destin.com

You can standardize your email replies by creating a template like this one customized with your info and saving it as a draft in your email account or on your computer.  Each time you get a vacation rental request just copy and paste your new “thorough” response into your reply.  Be sure to customize it to your liking. It will take you just a few minutes to create and will save you time and money!  You really can’t provide too much info to your potential guests!

Any other ideas on how to turn inquiries into reservations?  Share your tips here!