Sidmouth is one of Devon’s most popular coastal destinations, but competition between holiday lets is strong. To maximise bookings — especially outside peak season — your property needs to stand out, feel welcoming, and be easy for guests to choose.
This guide covers the most effective ways to increase bookings for your Sidmouth holiday let, based on what guests look for, what platforms reward, and what consistently improves reviews.
1. Improve Your Listing Photos
Photos are the number‑one factor in booking decisions. Strong images can increase bookings dramatically.
Focus on:
- Bright, natural lighting
- Clean, uncluttered rooms
- Wide‑angle shots of each space
- A tidy garden or balcony
- A welcoming entrance
- A few lifestyle shots (coffee setup, cosy sofa, beach bag)
If your photos are older or taken on a phone, updating them can instantly boost your listing’s appeal.
2. Write a Clear, Guest‑Focused Description
Your listing should highlight:
- What makes your property special
- Why Sidmouth is a great place to stay
- Who the home is ideal for (couples, families, walkers)
- Key features (parking, garden, Wi‑Fi, sea walks, accessibility)
- Any recent upgrades or improvements
Avoid generic descriptions — make it feel personal and local.
3. Keep Your Calendar Updated
Booking platforms reward active hosts.
- Update availability regularly
- Block out owner stays early
- Open up shoulder‑season dates
- Add minimum‑stay rules strategically
An active calendar helps your listing appear higher in search results.
4. Offer Flexible Check‑In and Check‑Out
Guests love flexibility, especially weekend travellers.
Consider:
- Later check‑outs
- Earlier check‑ins
- Self‑check‑in with a lockbox
- Clear arrival instructions
This reduces friction and increases last‑minute bookings.
5. Provide Hotel‑Level Cleanliness
Cleanliness is the biggest driver of reviews — and reviews drive bookings.
Your cleaning should include:
- Fresh bedding and towels
- Spotless bathrooms
- Sanitised kitchen surfaces
- Vacuumed and mopped floors
- Dust‑free shelves and skirting boards
- Clean windows
- Tidy outdoor areas
If you need reliable cleaning or turnaround support, Mind My Home can handle this locally.
6. Add Thoughtful Extras
Small touches make guests feel valued and increase repeat bookings.
Ideas include:
- Tea, coffee and milk
- Local biscuits
- A Sidmouth map
- Recommendations for walks and cafés
- A welcome note
- Board games or books
- Beach towels or picnic blanket
These extras cost little but create memorable stays.
7. Respond Quickly to Enquiries
Fast replies = more bookings.
Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com boost listings that respond within minutes. If you’re not local, consider enabling:
- Instant Book
- Automated responses
- A co‑host or local contact
This keeps your listing competitive.
8. Encourage and Manage Reviews
Reviews are essential for ranking and trust.
To improve them:
- Ask guests politely for feedback
- Respond to reviews professionally
- Fix recurring issues quickly
- Keep communication friendly and clear
A property with consistent 5‑star reviews will always outperform similar listings.
9. Keep Your Pricing Competitive
Sidmouth has seasonal fluctuations. Adjust pricing based on:
- Peak season
- Shoulder season
- Local events (Folk Festival, Regatta, Christmas)
- Last‑minute gaps
- Length‑of‑stay discounts
Dynamic pricing helps you stay competitive without lowering standards.
10. List Your Property on Multiple Platforms
More visibility = more bookings.
Consider listing on:
- Airbnb
- Booking.com
- VRBO
- Sidmouth Holidays (your own site — ideal for local exposure)
- Your personal website
Your Sidmouth Holidays site is especially useful because it’s free and local — perfect for owners wanting more direct bookings.
11. Maintain Your Property to a High Standard
Guests notice when a home is well cared for.
Check regularly:
- Paintwork
- Carpets
- Furniture
- Outdoor areas
- Appliances
- Heating and hot water
- Wi‑Fi reliability
If appliances need testing, you can use Premium Testing — your own service.
Increase Bookings With Reliable Local Support
If you want help with cleaning, inspections, guest preparation or ongoing home management, Mind My Home provides trusted support for Sidmouth holiday‑let owners.