How to decide which guest type will maximize your bookings—and your revenue.

Choosing the right guest avatar is one of the most strategic decisions you’ll make as a short-term rental host. And while many hosts want to appeal to everyone, the truth is simple: when you confuse, you lose. Guests need to immediately know who your space is designed for and what type of stay it delivers.

This week on the Hosting Hotline, Emily from Australia brings a thoughtful challenge: her property is naturally aligned with families, but it’s also steps away from one of the region’s top wedding venues. Should she design her listing for the avatar she relates to—or the market that’s most profitable?

Two Strong Avatars. Two Very Different Realities.

A family-friendly stay aligns with Emily’s lifestyle and strengths as a host. These guests typically book earlier, stay longer, and travel with more needs and gear—but often at more budget-conscious price points.

Wedding and event travelers, on the other hand, book closer to arrival and are often willing to pay premium rates for convenience. If your property sits near a major venue, this can dramatically boost your ADR and occupancy.

Define What Success Means for You

Sarah and Annette encourage hosts to clarify what matters most:

• If profitability is your top priority, the wedding guest market may be the strongest path.
• If you want deep alignment with the experience you’re creating, a family-centered stay may be the right choice—even if revenue is lower.

Neither is wrong. What matters is knowing which outcome you’re optimizing for.

Clarity Always Wins

A host who tries to market to families, couples, business travelers, and wedding guests simultaneously creates confusion. Your listing, photos, amenities, and copy must speak clearly to one primary avatar. When guests don’t know whether a space is meant for them, they choose another property.

And Remember: You Can Always Pivot

Your first avatar doesn’t have to be your forever avatar. If demand shifts or bookings underperform, you can reposition your listing, change your messaging, or narrow your focus. Success comes from clarity, not rigidity.

Resources Mentioned:

Lodgify – All-in-one software to manage bookings, sync calendars, and build your direct booking site.

Have More Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your hosting questions to the Hosting Hotline and tune in to the podcast for answers. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more tips: @thanksforvisiting_.

Download a transcript of this episode.

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