Your Vacation Rental listing description is your first chance to make an impression.

Discover tips for writing descriptions that grab attention and get bookings.

When potential guests are scrolling through dozens of vacation rentals, what makes them stop and click on yours? It’s not just the photos (though we’ll get to that in another post), it’s also your vacation rental listing description. A well-crafted description does more than just list features—it paints a picture of what the guest’s experience will be like. It stirs emotions and makes them think, “This is the place for me.”

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In this episode, I’ll break down how to write a compelling vacation rental description that not only grabs attention but also turns lookers into bookers. You’ll learn how to use keywords effectively and infuse your description with emotional language to engage potential guests.

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Know Your Audience Before You Start Writing

Before you start typing, take a moment to think about who your ideal guest is. Are they families looking for a weekend getaway? Couples wanting a romantic escape? Maybe it’s business travellers seeking a quiet workspace with fast Wi-Fi.

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Once you know your audience, writing your description becomes a lot easier. For instance, if you’re targeting families, you’ll want to highlight amenities like a spacious kitchen, backyard, or proximity to kid-friendly activities. If your place is more suited for couples, maybe you’ll talk up the cosy atmosphere, the hot tub, or the quiet, secluded location.

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Tip: Your description should reflect your ideal guest’s needs and preferences. Use language that speaks to them directly, almost like you’re having a conversation.

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Grab Their Attention With An Engaging Introduction

The first two sentences of your listing description are crucial. Think of them as the headline of your advertisement. If it’s bland, potential guests might scroll right past. But if you hook them right away, they’ll be eager to learn more.

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For example, instead of starting with “This is a 2-bedroom home with ocean views,” try something more engaging like, “Wake up to the sound of waves crashing just outside your window in this beautiful seaside retreat.”

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Can you feel the difference? The second option creates a vivid image and sets the stage for an experience, not just a place to sleep.

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Use Emotional Language To Tell A Story

People don’t just book vacation rentals—they book experiences. Your description should paint a picture of what staying at your property will feel like. Think of it as storytelling with a purpose.

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Let’s say you own a cosy mountain cabin. Instead of writing, “The cabin has a fireplace and hiking trails nearby,” you could go for something more immersive like, “Picture yourself curled up by the crackling fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa after a day exploring scenic hiking trails just steps from your door.”

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You’re not just listing features; you’re helping the guest imagine what their stay could be like. This kind of emotional language resonates with people and makes them more likely to book.

Incorporate SEO Keywords For Better Visibility

While crafting a great description is all about creating an emotional connection, you can’t forget about the practical side: SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Using relevant keywords will help your listing show up in searches on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.

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Start by thinking about what a potential guest might search for when looking for a property like yours. Are they searching for “beachfront rentals,” “pet-friendly cabins,” or “luxury city apartments”? Whatever your rental offers, make sure those key terms are naturally woven into your description.

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But be careful not to overdo it! You want to keep the description readable and engaging, not stuffed with repetitive phrases. For example, instead of saying, “This beachfront rental is the perfect beachfront escape for anyone looking for beachfront views,” you could say, “This stunning home offers uninterrupted ocean views, making it the perfect retreat for beach lovers.”

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Highlight Unique Selling Points Without Overloading The Reader

When writing your description, it’s easy to get carried away listing every single feature. While it’s important to mention the highlights, you don’t want to overwhelm the reader. Instead, focus on 3-5 key selling points that will resonate most with your target audience.

For example:

• Breathtaking mountain views from every room.

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• Private hot tub, perfect for relaxing under the stars.

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• Located just 10 minutes from the town centre with cafes and shops.

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Notice how these features aren’t just listed—they’re framed in a way that shows the guest how they’ll benefit from them.

Discover the golden rules of vacation renting with our essential guide, ‘Unpacking Your Property – The Top 25 Secrets to Successful Vacation Properties.’ Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your strategy, this guide is packed with invaluable insights that will help you increase your occupancy rates and maximize your profits. Get your free copy now and start your journey to rental success!

What feature of your vacation rental do you think most attracts guests?

Share in the comments.

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End With A Strong Call To Action

Your listing description shouldn’t just fizzle out at the end. You want to encourage potential guests to take action. A good way to do this is by wrapping up with a call to action that gives them a sense of urgency or excitement.

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For example, you could end with: “Ready to make unforgettable memories? Book your stay today and start planning your perfect escape!” This kind of language encourages the reader to book now, rather than keep browsing other options.

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In Conclusion

Writing a compelling vacation rental listing is about more than just describing the property—it’s about selling an experience. By understanding your target audience, using emotional language, and incorporating SEO keywords, you can create a listing that not only captures attention but also leads to bookings.

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Now it’s your turn: Take a look at your current listing description and ask yourself, “Does this paint the best picture of what my property offers?” If not, use the tips from this article to tweak and refine it. You’ll be amazed at the difference a few well-chosen words can make!

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In the next episode, I will talk about How To Take Stunning Photos For Your Vacation Rental Listing.