How to Market Your Short-Term Rental to Remote Workers
The rise of remote work has created a growing demand for short-term rentals (STRs) that cater to digital nomads and remote professionals. Marketing your property to this audience requires emphasizing work-friendly features, flexible booking options, and amenities that support productivity. This article explores strategies to attract remote workers and boost your STR occupancy.
Why Market to Remote Workers?
1. Expands Your Guest Demographics
Remote workers are a growing segment of the travel market, especially in urban, suburban, and rural areas.
2. Encourages Long-Term Stays
Many remote workers prefer extended stays, reducing guest turnover and increasing revenue.
3. Minimizes Seasonality Impacts
Remote professionals often travel year-round, filling gaps during off-peak seasons.
4. Boosts Guest Satisfaction
Providing work-friendly amenities enhances the guest experience and drives positive reviews.
Step 1: Optimize Your Property for Remote Work
1. Create a Dedicated Workspace
Designate an area with:
A desk and ergonomic chair.
Power outlets and USB ports.
Adequate lighting.
2. Ensure Reliable Wi-Fi
Advertise fast, stable internet speeds and provide Wi-Fi details in your listing.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Speedtest to verify your network performance.
3. Include Work Essentials
Provide items like:
A printer and scanner.
Stationery (pens, notepads).
Coffee or tea for productivity breaks.
Step 2: Update Your Listing Description
1. Highlight Work-Friendly Features
Emphasize amenities that cater to remote professionals.
Example:
“Stay productive in our dedicated workspace with a comfortable chair, desk, and high-speed Wi-Fi perfect for video calls.”
2. Offer Flexible Booking Options
Mention availability for:
Extended stays.
Monthly rentals with discounts.
3. Use Targeted Keywords
Incorporate phrases like:
“Remote work-friendly rental.”
“Perfect for digital nomads.”
“Work-from-anywhere accommodations.”
Step 3: Provide Flexible Policies
1. Allow Long-Term Stays
Encourage extended bookings by offering discounts for weekly or monthly reservations.
2. Flexible Check-In/Out Times
Cater to professionals with varied schedules by providing early check-in or late check-out options.
3. Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Many remote workers travel with pets, so consider allowing furry companions.
Step 4: Leverage Marketing Channels
1. Social Media Campaigns
Promote your work-friendly property on platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
Pro Tip: Use hashtags like #WorkFromAnywhere and #RemoteWorkTravel.
2. Targeted Ads
Run Facebook or Google Ads aimed at remote workers, highlighting your property’s features and long-term stay discounts.
3. Collaborate With Remote Work Communities
Partner with platforms like Remote Year or Outsite to reach digital nomads.
Step 5: Highlight Local Attractions
1. Showcase Nearby Cafés and Coworking Spaces
List recommendations for local spots that are popular among remote professionals.
2. Promote Recreational Activities
Mention activities like hiking, biking, or beach access for after-work relaxation.
3. Emphasize a Quiet Environment
If your property is in a serene location, highlight the peaceful setting as ideal for focus and productivity.
Step 6: Enhance Guest Communication
1. Pre-Stay Communication
Send detailed information about workspace amenities and local resources before check-in.
2. Provide a Digital Guidebook
Use platforms like Hostfully or Touch Stay to create a resource for:
Wi-Fi instructions.
Workspace setup tips.
Local business services.
3. Offer Support During Stays
Be available to address questions or troubleshoot issues, such as Wi-Fi problems.
Step 7: Encourage Guest Reviews
1. Request Feedback From Remote Workers
Ask guests to highlight their experience working remotely at your property.
Example Review Prompt:
“We’d love to hear how our workspace and amenities supported your remote work needs!”
2. Share Positive Reviews
Feature testimonials on your listing and social media to attract similar guests.
Case Study: Marketing to Remote Workers
Scenario:
An STR owner in Austin, TX, wanted to attract digital nomads to a 1-bedroom apartment.
Actions Taken:
Upgraded the unit with an ergonomic workspace, fast Wi-Fi, and a printer.
Updated the listing to emphasize work-friendly amenities and long-term stay discounts.
Ran Instagram ads targeting remote workers in major cities.
Results:
Monthly occupancy increased by 25%.
The average booking length grew from 3 nights to 14 nights.
Positive reviews praised the workspace and convenience of local coworking options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Workspace Setup: A lack of dedicated work areas can deter remote workers.
Failing to Advertise Wi-Fi Speed: Connectivity is a top priority for remote professionals.
Overlooking Long-Stay Discounts: Competitive pricing encourages extended bookings.
Tools to Attract Remote Workers
Lodgify: Build a direct booking site with targeted offers.
Hostfully: Create detailed digital guidebooks for guests.
Speedtest: Verify and showcase your Wi-Fi speed.
Cross-Link Opportunities
Explore related articles to improve your STR business:
How to Market Your STR on Social Media
How to Build Guest Loyalty for Your STR
How to Enhance the Guest Experience for Your STR
Additional Resources
Airbnb Host Blog: Tips for catering to remote workers.
Hostfully Blog: Insights on work-from-anywhere trends.
BiggerPockets STR Forum: Discussions on marketing to digital nomads.
Conclusion
Marketing your short-term rental to remote workers requires thoughtful preparation, targeted advertising, and a focus on work-friendly amenities. By optimizing your property and listing for this growing audience, you can attract long-term stays, reduce guest turnover, and build a steady stream of income. Start implementing these strategies today to make your property a top choice for remote professionals.
