How To Name Your Vacation Rental According To Vacation House Rules' Scott McGillivray

Cabins, beach houses, villas, and other vacation rentals stand out when selling a service and experience. Naming your vacation rental is a huge step in creating a unique and memorable occasion for your guests. Scott McGillivray, host of "Vacation House Rules," sees branding as crucial when running a vacation rental and advises coming up with a name connected to a theme or concept that makes your property memorable, per House Beautiful. 

Branding your vacation rental is an effective way to establish a unique identity, attract guests, and stand out in a competitive market. When you have the overall branding right, it'll be easier to come up with a fitting name. His property is called The Hawks Nest because of its views and fresh air, and it is a great example of how to create a narrative that can draw in potential guests using the environment and highlights of your rental.

"The most important factor in getting high demand for your property is branding it," McGillivray told House Beautiful. As with any business venture, the right branding is the key to success. To get it right, start by defining your target audience and who your ideal guests are and understanding what they value in a vacation rental. Next, develop a narrative or story that will connect with them. This will lead to crafting a brand identity that will align with the experience you want to offer to this audience while creating a memorable vacation rental.

Some examples of target audiences are families, couples, friends, and frequent travelers. If you want to attract families going on vacation, your brand identity will be safe, warm, and inviting; for honeymooners, it will be all about romance and excitement; for friend groups and seasoned travelers, you can communicate a strong sense of adventure. Concepts like these are a great foundation to start brainstorming the perfect name.

Start by thinking about the overall vibe of the property, from the location to any unique aspects, because those can be worked in the name. Consider what makes your vacation rental special and what sets it apart from others in the area. Is it the stunning view, the luxurious amenities, or the proximity to local attractions? Incorporating these benefits or unique selling points into the name can help draw potential guests.

Think of words and phrases that paint a nice picture or evoke a positive emotion to make your property more appealing. Most importantly, keep the name easy to remember. It should be simple yet unique, not lengthy or difficult to understand. A good name will roll off the tongue easily and might even be fun to repeat. When you have the right name, you can sell not just the space but also the experience that potential guests can look forward to.