Vacation Rental Summer Metrics: What Savvy Owners Should Be Tracking

Summer is the busiest time for many vacation rental owners, so now might be a good time to stop and reflect: was it a win? Sure, bookings may have been solid, but how did your vacation rental property really perform? Were you happy with your occupancy? Were guests raving in reviews, or were there a few surprises you didn’t expect? Understanding what worked (and what didn’t) can help turn an average season into a stellar one next year. Here are a few things to consider:

Revenue Matters—But Context is Everything

Revenue is often the first metric owners focus on, and for good reason. A strong income keeps your investment profitable, but it’s just as important to see how your property stacks up against the market. Did your summer earnings align with similar homes in your area? Did your property management company maximize rates during peak demand, or could they have captured more last-minute reservations? Did they note any occupancy patterns and identify gaps that could have been filled? Looking beyond raw numbers and considering market context will help you gain a more realistic view of your property’s performance.

What Do Your Guest Reviews Say About Service Levels?

Guest reviews directly reflect the experiences you provide and are a powerful determinant of attracting future bookings. Did your average rating increase, stay, or drop this summer? Lower or stagnant ratings might indicate lapses in guest communication, cleanliness, maintenance issues, or something you hadn’t considered. It’s often the small details that impact how guests feel about their stay.

A skilled vacation rental management company will consistently maintain high standards. They’ll also actively work to improve guest satisfaction through prompt issue resolution, thoughtful amenities, and clear communication. Tracking review trends over time is something else they should manage, to ensure your property remains competitive and guest-friendly year-round.

Response Times—Did Your Property Manager Deliver?

Prompt, proactive communication can make or break a guest’s experience. Did your property manager respond quickly to guests’ questions or issues this summer? While you can’t prevent minor inconveniences from happening, prompt and courteous resolution goes a long way. 

Examples might include a guest arriving late and their door code not working properly—quick replies ease their stress and set a positive tone. Or a maintenance request, like broken AC on a hot summer day—fast action shows guests they’re valued. If your vacation rental property manager’s response times lagged, it could be costing you in reviews and repeat bookings, key factors that directly impact your vacation rental’s long-term success. Reviews like the ones below let our vacation rental owners know their guests are in good hands:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“The staff there were outstanding. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and quick to get things done.” ~ Eric

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 “Had a couple issues with the dishwasher and AC but the maintenance staff was great and came right away.” ~ Harry

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Customer service was over the top.” ~ Melanie

Are Guests Already Rebooking for Next Year?

Guest rebookings are one of the strongest indicators that your property is being managed effectively. When guests return repeatedly, your property management company is more than likely doing a stellar job. If not, it could be a warning sign that something isn’t clicking, whether it’s inconsistent service or unmet expectations.

A reputable property management company understands the importance of building guest loyalty by providing exceptional experiences and personalized touches. When guests leave glowing feedback and express a desire to return, it’s a clear sign your property (and property management company) is leaving a lasting impression:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“LOVED this experience and definitely will be back!!🩷🙌🏽” ~ Brionna

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We enjoyed the property for our second time.”  ~ Brian

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We would love to stay here again!” ~ Julie

Expert Vacation Rental Management with Scenic Stays

If your vacation rental didn’t perform as well as you hoped this summer, don’t wait until next season to make a change. Partnering with the right property management company will help you get the most from your short-term rental property. Contact us today to learn more!!

Inquire about our Property Management services!

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