Pet-Friendly Beats Location According to Vacation Rental Guests

Here's something that surprises a lot of rental owners. When travelers pick a vacation rental, whether the dog can come matters more than where the house actually sits. That's straight from VRBO's data on drive-to markets like Red River. People decide the dog is coming first, then they figure out where they're staying.

Pet-Friendly Ranks Above Location

Think about what that means for your listing. If your Red River rental says no pets, you're getting filtered out before a guest ever sees the view, the hot tub, or the walk to Main Street. The location you're so proud of never even gets a look.

The "No Pets" Fear Is Probably Overblown

I know exactly why owners hang the no-pets sign. You're picturing chewed furniture and stained carpet. Here's the truth after more than a decade of managing properties in the Enchanted Circle: yes, I've had a few pet issues, and not one was a big deal. Every one got fixed with little trouble.

Their Dog Is Family

To a lot of travelers, the dog isn't a pet. It's family. And families book where everyone can stay together. Say no to the dog and you're saying no to the whole reservation.

What That Sign Is Costing You

Higher occupancy and more revenue are sitting on the other side of that no-pets sign. If you own a rental in Red River or Angel Fire and you've been turning pet owners away, it's worth reconsidering. According to the data, that one policy change will increase your revenue. 

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Rob Swan | Qualifying Broker | Swan Realty Inc.