Owning a vacation rental in Memphis can be a rewarding investment β but what happens when your property isnβt delivering the returns you expected?
From inconsistent bookings to high maintenance costs, even a well-located home can underperform without the right strategy.
At REI America, weβve helped countless investors turn struggling rentals into profitable, consistent income streams. Here are 5 effective solutions to help you boost your low-earning vacation rental and start seeing real results.
π‘ 1. Reevaluate Your Pricing Strategy
Pricing can make or break your rental performance.
If your rates are too high, potential guests will look elsewhere; too low, and youβre leaving money on the table.
β
Solution: Use dynamic pricing tools like AirDNA or PriceLabs to adjust your rates based on demand, local events, and seasonality.
π Pro Tip: Analyze your competition β what do top-performing rentals in your area charge per night? Adjust accordingly to stay competitive.
𧳠2. Optimize Your Listing Presentation
Your online presence is your propertyβs first impression.
Low-quality photos, vague descriptions, or outdated information can instantly reduce your booking rate.
β Solution:
- Hire a professional photographer for high-quality images.
- Rewrite your listing with engaging, guest-focused descriptions.
- Highlight nearby attractions, amenities, and unique features.
π¬ Pro Tip: Rentals with 20+ photos and keyword-rich descriptions receive up to 40% more bookings.
π§° 3. Reduce Maintenance Costs with Preventive Care
Frequent repairs and sudden expenses can eat into your profits. A proactive approach can save thousands annually.
β Solution:
- Schedule routine inspections for plumbing, HVAC, and roofing.
- Use smart home systems to monitor energy usage.
- Build a relationship with trusted local contractors for quick, affordable service.
π Pro Tip: Budget 10β15% of your rental income annually for preventive maintenance β not reactive fixes.
β 4. Target the Right Guest Profile
Not all guests are created equal. Identifying and marketing to the right audience can drastically increase your occupancy rate.
β Solution:
- If your rental is near Graceland or Beale Street, focus on tourists.
- For suburban or larger homes, target families or business travelers.
- Partner with local relocation companies for long-term stays.
π― Pro Tip: Tailor your propertyβs amenities (e.g., workspace, family-friendly setup) to match your ideal guest type.
π 5. Consider Professional Property Management
If your vacation rental is still underperforming, it may be time to bring in the pros.
β
Solution:
A property management company like REI America can handle everything β from marketing and guest screening to pricing optimization and maintenance β ensuring consistent income and peace of mind.
π‘ Pro Tip: Outsourcing management can increase your net revenue by 20β30%, even after fees, due to improved occupancy and efficiency.
π Conclusion
A low-earning vacation rental doesnβt have to stay that way.
With the right strategy, professional support, and data-driven insights, you can transform your Memphis property into a high-performing investment that works for you β not against you.
At REI America, we specialize in helping property owners and investors maximize returns while minimizing stress.
π Call us today: 901-808-8448
π Visit: www.reiamerica.com
π§ Email: sales@reiamerica.com
REI America β Real Estate. Real Returns. Real Legacy.
