How to Boost Your Accommodation Listings in 2025
As we head into 2025, the short-term rental market is as competitive as ever. Guests are getting pickier, and booking platforms like Airbnb are evolving all the time.
If you want your Bellarine Peninsula accommodation—or any Aussie getaway—to stand out from the crowd, it’s time to step up your game.
Whether you're new to the scene or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of ways to get ahead of the pack. From optimising your listing for search engines to embracing new tech and sustainability, here are my top tips to boost your bookings in 2025.
1. Optimise Your Listing for Search Engines (SEO)
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer for getting more eyes on your listing. In 2025, more and more travellers are searching for their dream stay using search engines and booking platforms. To make sure your accommodation pops up in their results, here’s what you need to do:
- Use Local Keywords: Think about the words guests are using when looking for places to stay. For example, “Bellarine Peninsula holiday house,” “family-friendly stays in Bellarine,” or “coastal retreats Bellarine Peninsula” can help you target the right crowd.
- Write Detailed Descriptions: The more specific and engaging your description, the better. Make sure to highlight your best features—be it a cosy fireplace, close proximity to beaches, or a gourmet kitchen. Mention any recent updates or new additions like tech upgrades or sustainability features.
- Optimise for Local Searches: Don’t forget to include local references like “5-minute walk to the beach,” “close to wineries,” or “near top Bellarine Peninsula attractions.”
- SEO Keywords: “2025 holiday rental trends,” “Bellarine Peninsula accommodation,” “coastal retreats”
Pro Tip: Keep your listing fresh and up-to-date! Platforms like Airbnb favour listings that are regularly updated.
2. Show Off Your Property with Professional Photography
In 2025, the importance of high quality photos can’t be overstated. Good photos do more than just show the property—they capture the vibe of your space and make it more attractive. Here’s how to make your property stand out visually:
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Highlight Unique Features: Whether it’s stunning views of the coastline, a pet-friendly home, or your outdoor BBQ area, make sure your photographer captures the things that set you apart.
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Show Accessibility Features: Guests with specific needs are increasingly looking for accessible options. If you’ve added ramps, wider doorways, or other accessibility features, make sure your photographer highlights these.
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Lifestyle Shots Work Wonders: Photos of guests enjoying the space—whether it’s a family dining at the table, a couple watching the sunset from the balcony, or friends relaxing by the pool—will resonate with potential bookers. People love to see how they’ll feel in your space, not just what it looks like.
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SEO Keywords: “professional property photography,” “showcasing Airbnb photos,” “how to photograph holiday rentals,” “Bellarine Peninsula holiday rental photography”
Pro Tip: Listings with high quality photos attract more attention and engagement, leading to better booking rates.
3. Tech-savvy listing? Promote it!
Tech-savvy guests expect more in 2025, and incorporating smart home features can make your property stand out. Consider these modern upgrades to keep your property ahead of the curve:
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Smart Home Gear: Things like smart thermostats, keyless entry, smart lighting, and voice assistants (think Amazon Alexa or Google Home) make the guest experience smoother and more convenient.
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Reliable Wi-Fi: With people working remotely, reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi is a must. Make sure your internet is up to scratch and mention it in your listing.
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Virtual Tours: Offering a 360-degree virtual tour or a video walkthrough is a great way to let potential guests see the space from every angle before they book. Especially for properties with ramps, grab rails and accessibly features that are hard to capture in a still image.
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SEO Keywords: “smart home holiday rental,” “holiday accommodation with tech features” “remote work accommodation,” “high-speed Wi-Fi holiday rental”
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to mention any tech upgrades in your description—guests will love the convenience and modern feel.
4. How to highlight sustainability in your holiday accommodation.
Aussie travellers are increasingly eco-conscious, and by making your property more sustainable, you’ll attract a growing audience of environmentally aware guests.
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Eco-Friendly Practices: Install energy-efficient appliances, use solar power if you can, and offer recycling bins. Simple things like composting and reducing water usage can make a big difference.
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Sustainable Furnishings: Consider sustainable decor, like furniture made from recycled materials, or use eco-friendly bedding and towels.
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Promote Your Green Efforts: Make sure your listing mentions your sustainability initiatives, whether it’s a solar hot water system, water-saving fixtures, or your commitment to reducing plastic waste.
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SEO Keywords: “eco-friendly holiday rental,” “sustainable Airbnb,” “green accommodation Bellarine Peninsula,” “eco retreats Australia”
Pro Tip: Being eco-friendly not only appeals to a growing market but also helps you stand out as a responsible, forward-thinking host.
In addition, if you would like to see some truely inspirational sustainable accessible properties all in one space, check out Heartful Travel.
5. How to personalise the guest experience
Guests in 2025 want more than just a place to stay—they’re after an experience. Offering a personalised touch can make your accommodation more memorable and encourage positive reviews and repeat visits.
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Custom Welcome Packages: Greet guests with something special, whether it’s local wine, a basket of Aussie treats, or a list of your favourite local spots. Personalise it based on the season or guest preferences.
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Tailored Communication: Use automated messages to send guests personalised check-in details, local recommendations, and special instructions. Being clear and thoughtful in your communication goes a long way in building trust.
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Unique Local Experiences: If you can, team up with local businesses to offer guests something unique, like a private winery tour, a cooking class, or a nature walk. This makes your listing not just a place to stay but a gateway to unforgettable experiences.
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SEO Keywords: “personalised holiday rental experience,” “local experiences Bellarine Peninsula,” “custom welcome packages for guests,” “luxury stays Bellarine”
Pro Tip: People love feeling looked after. Small touches like a handwritten welcome note can make a big difference.
For unique guest books, check out my previous blog here
6. Keep Your Listing Fresh & Engage with Reviews
Staying active on your listing and engaging with guest feedback is a simple but effective way to boost your visibility and trustworthiness.
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Update Your Listing Regularly: Keep your photos, description, and calendar up to date to show that your listing is active and well-maintained.
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Respond to Reviews: Whether it’s a glowing review or constructive criticism, engaging with your guests shows that you care. Positive engagement boosts your credibility and encourages others to book.
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SEO Keywords: “how to update your Airbnb listing,” “honest guest reviews,” “how to get better reviews for your accommodation”
Pro Tip: Platforms like Airbnb reward active listings with higher visibility, so make sure you’re keeping your listing fresh and responding to reviews.
In 2025, boosting your accommodation listing is all about adapting to changing guest expectations and staying ahead of the competition. Whether it’s SEO optimisation, embracing smart tech, adding sustainable features, or offering a personalised experience, there are plenty of ways to make your property stand out. And if you pair these strategies with professional photography, you’ll have a winning formula that attracts more guests and generates higher bookings.
Ready to boost your accommodation’s appeal in 2025? If you’re keen to showcase your property through professional photography that highlights all your unique features, get in touch today!
Let’s make sure your listing shines.
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