Lowering your rates isn’t a strategy—here’s what to do instead.

As a short-term rental host, it can feel tempting to hit the panic button when bookings slow down and drop your nightly rate. But here’s the truth: lowering your price doesn’t create demand. If travelers aren’t searching in your market, a cheaper rate won’t suddenly make them pack a suitcase.

In this episode of Thanks for Visiting, Sarah and Annette dive into the myth of rate-cutting and explain why it’s hurting more hosts than helping. Demand is driven by guest search behavior—not how badly you need bookings. Instead of discounting, the duo shares practical strategies you can put into place today to make your listing stronger, stand out from competitors, and maximize profitability.

From auditing your listing and amenities to improving your messaging and tightening up your calendar settings, Sarah and Annette give you a blueprint for truly “trying everything.” They’ll also walk you through how to take control of your business by building direct booking strategies, leveraging referrals, and creating your own demand outside of the Airbnb ecosystem.

If you want to run a sustainable hosting business, it’s time to stop the race to the bottom and start pricing—and marketing—like a pro.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Booked & Profitable Bootcamp – Five days of live training with Sarah and Annette to help you increase revenue and improve your hosting business.
• PriceLabs – A dynamic pricing tool that helps you understand occupancy forecasts and market demand so you can price smarter. Learn more
• #STRShareSunday: @thecedarshaliburton
• Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.com

#STRShareSunday

@thecedarshaliburton

Welcome to The Cedars Haliburton – a luxury, lakefront chalet where modern amenities meet serene Canadian wilderness. With five bedrooms and a stunning mix of shared gathering spaces and cozy nooks, this home was built to help groups connect, relax, and unwind at their own pace.

We love the soaring ceilings, the indoor-outdoor dual-sided fireplace, and the way this home creates space for both celebration and solitude. Whether you’re catching up with friends on the sprawling lakeview deck, enjoying a quiet moment in the cedar sauna, or gathered around the chef’s kitchen, every inch of this property feels intentional and inviting.

Equipped with premium linens, spa-inspired bathrooms, a walkout basement, and even wellness services upon request (like yoga, chef dinners, or sound baths!), this home has everything you need for a restorative and elevated retreat—just 15 minutes from Haliburton.