In the world of vacation rentals, every booking matters — not just for the income it brings, but because a smooth experience from the very first moment builds trust, reputation, and guest loyalty. Below we share some key tips to minimize cancellations and maximize booking acceptance, applicable both before and during the reservation process.
1. Set Clear Policies from the Start
A transparent cancellation policy and well-written house rules help establish expectations right from the beginning. When guests know what to expect, there’s less chance of misunderstandings or regrets.
Consider offering more flexible cancellation policies, especially during mid or low seasons, to increase visibility and conversion. Many properties that do this have seen:
• +30% annual net revenue growth
• +10% increase in conversion rate
• 3× more listing views
• 2× more clicks on the property page
You can also adapt your policy based on the platform or season, choosing the most suitable option for each case.
2. Reasonable Cancellation Deadlines and Penalties
Setting clear penalty periods helps discourage last-minute cancellations and provides a basic level of protection against unforeseen events.
If you know you can’t accept a booking, cancel it as soon as possible — acting quickly can prevent negative reviews and shows courtesy to your guest.
3. Attract the Right Guest Profile from the Listing
Even before receiving requests, you can optimize your listing to attract the most compatible travellers:
• Clearly display your house rules
• Include detailed amenity information
• Specify minimum night stays by season
• Explain rates and cancellation policies upfront
This way, guests book with a clear understanding of what to expect and are less likely to back out later.
4. Handle Difficult Requests with Empathy
When you receive a booking request that doesn’t fully match your criteria:
• Respond politely, explaining your conditions and suggesting alternatives
• Avoid rejecting immediately without clarification — if possible, offer adjustments
• Act quickly to reduce uncertainty
This professional and empathetic approach helps maintain your image and prevents future cancellations.
5. Stay Proactive and Continuously Adjust
The vacation rental market evolves constantly — seasonality, competition, guest trends. Review your policies, rates, and rules at least once per season to make sure they’re aligned with demand.
Make prevention a regular habit, not an exception.
If you manage properties in Altea or nearby areas and would like personalized advice to optimize your bookings and minimize cancellations, contact us.
At Deluca&Co, we’re here to help you make every booking a shared success.