In the vacation rental industry, unpredictable events can quickly derail even the best-laid plans. From storms and natural disasters to last-minute cancellations, property managers face more pressure than ever to protect their revenue while keeping guests happy. The real challenge for property managers isn’t avoiding these events but preparing for them in a way that safeguards revenue and builds guest loyalty.
Grace Souter, Director of Marketing Services at Bluetent, kicked off the conversation with a timely reminder: the real-world storms hitting the Outer Banks mirror the operational challenges property managers face every day. Joined by Tim Woodward, Jared Paglialonga, and Scott Leggett, the panel set out to unpack marketing and operational strategies that can help businesses weather disruptions and keep bookings strong.
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Guest Experience as a Safety Net
One of the first takeaways centered on the importance of communication. Guests who feel informed and cared for are far more likely to rebook or remain loyal, even if their current stay is disrupted. The panel emphasized:
- Proactive updates about weather events or policy changes.
- Clear, accessible cancellation and rebooking policies.
- Using technology like automated emails and SMS for real-time guest communication.
When guests know exactly what to expect, they view property managers as trustworthy partners rather than obstacles.
More Innovative Marketing in Unpredictable Times
Tim Woodward dove into how marketing can provide stability during uncertain seasons. His advice included:
- Flexible messaging: Highlight the ease of rebooking and flexible stay options.
- Geo-targeted campaigns: Focus on drive-to markets less likely to be disrupted by flight cancellations.
- Content marketing: Provide blog posts, guides, and resources that establish your brand as a reliable authority during turbulent times.
By keeping messaging empathetic yet confident, property managers can position themselves as safe bets for guests looking for certainty.
Policies That Protect Revenue
Jared Paglialonga spotlighted how the right policies buffer against lost income. He recommended:
- Offering trip insurance options at checkout.
- Implementing tiered cancellation policies that balance flexibility with business sustainability.
- Creating loyalty incentives for guests who choose to rebook rather than cancel.
These practices not only safeguard cash flow but also strengthen long-term guest relationships.
Operational Readiness
Scott Leggett closed the discussion with a focus on operational preparedness. From updating emergency plans to ensuring staff are trained for quick response, he stressed that property managers who act before disaster strikes recover faster. He also pointed out the role of technology integrations in streamlining everything from mass messaging to work order management.
Why This Matters Now
With extreme weather events and travel disruptions becoming more frequent, storm proofing your bookings isn’t just about risk management, it’s about creating a business model that thrives no matter the circumstance. Property managers can stay ahead by blending empathetic guest communication, innovative marketing, protective policies, and operational readiness.
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