Only 5% of Vacation Rentals Booked Online

Here is a statistic that just blew me away when I learned it.  The % of business booked online for hotels vs. for vacation rentals.

Hotel vacations booked online - over 55%

Vacation rental vacations booked online - about 5%

Since the overall online activity of consumers is only increasing, it is imperative that work on closing this gap.  Vacation Rentals need to create an environment where guests are able to get all the information, trust the property manager, and are execute the transaction online.

OK.  I know there are many arguments against the online booking.  But let me be bold.  If we do not address these issues and create an industry that is as 'online-friendly' as hotels, retailers, banks, phone companies, car dealers, (you get the idea)...............we, not the guests, will be left behind.

So lets all review our online offerings.  Is the information presented professionally?  Is the information complete?  Can the guest 'book' the vacation, or just make a 'reservation' that requires a phone call?  Can guests find you online?