"Basically what they do is just log on. They create a customer record and then they create property records underneath that. A lot of people own more than one vacation rental in the given area. Then, it becomes a private little rental company, so somebody may own say three properties on Kawai and they live there. They manage them themselves. This gives them the opportunity to put pictures online, put descriptions online, advertise their rentals with direct e-mail links to the owner with phone numbers through just an online ad. We give them the capability to manage an online calendar so that their potential guest will know whether or not their unit is available, especially in the busy season. It is really self-catering. The guest is able to look up a unit that is available for the vacation they are looking for and then communicate directly with the homeowner.
Companies like Online Vacations leave the advertising work up to the renter. Renters can manage their site exactly the way they want to. All creative control goes to the renter, but not without some help from the website.
"We cater to the homeowners as far as the website is concerned. We also see the inquiries, what guests are asking for," Mello says.
Places like Online Vacations may charge an annual fee to advertise. However, the revenue you make from getting your property will offset the costs, Mello says.
Vacationers have so many options these days. Renting properties from online sources can help reduce vacation costs in many instances. Websites like Online Vacations, also offer amenities other companies may not. They give a list of restaurants and attractions near the rental properties you will be staying at.
Mello says the reason their system works so well is because it offers what other larger vacation corporations can't.
"We allow homeowners to advertise their vacation rental and manage it themselves. They take the pictures. They upload them. They write the text; they set their rates. It's totally self-catering - they do it all. There's also a calendar they can use to show if a unit is available," Mello says.
If you are planning to rent your vacation home to others on the internet, signing up with a company like Online Vacations, may be the right choice for you. There are many companies to choose from. All you have to do is a little research and find the best match for you. You can get more details by contacting them. They can send you a pamphlet or brochure on how their system can best benefit you.
