Once they find what they like, make them stop shopping

So they came to your site.  They liked your site.  They liked your properties.  They liked one so much that they want to come and stay there.  So they look to book, but they can only make a reservation or send you an inquiry.

     Good News:  They are contacting you.

     Bad News:  First place they go after making the inquiry or the reservation is your competitor's website.

The way to fix this is to allow true online booking.  Allow them to have the confidence and peace-of-mind that they have your vacation rental booked.  They like that.  And it keeps them from shopping further.  (all that, besides the fact that you do not have to do a bunch of emailing and phone calling.

Ralf