Live Beyond the Downtown Core but Still Interested in Short Term Rentals? 5 Steps to Success

Thinking about diving into the world of short-term rentals but your property isn’t nestled in the heart of the city? Don’t worry! Hosting a successful short-term rental doesn’t require you to be located in downtown Toronto or another major metropolitan hub. In fact, properties outside city limits can offer unique advantages and attract a specific kind of guest who may prefer the quieter charm of suburban or rural settings. Here’s how to make the most of your location and maximize your rental potential.

1. Highlight the Benefits of Your Location

When you’re outside the hustle and bustle of the city, your location becomes your selling point. Highlight the things city properties can’t offer—peace, privacy, and proximity to nature. Are you near a lake, hiking trails, or scenic spots? Maybe your area offers activities like skiing in the winter or winery tours in the summer. Even if you’re a bit off the beaten path, there are travelers who crave a quieter, more relaxed experience. In fact, during busy travel seasons, many tourists prefer to stay outside of crowded cities, especially families or solo travelers looking to unwind.

2. Appeal to Remote Workers

With remote work on the rise, more people are looking for short-term stays in quiet, comfortable places where they can work remotely. If your property offers reliable high-speed internet, a peaceful workspace, and the necessary amenities, you can market your rental as a remote work-friendly getaway. This audience may stay longer than traditional vacationers, offering you the chance for increased occupancy and consistent income.

3. Price Competitively

Properties outside city centers are often more affordable than those downtown, both for the owner and the guest. Use this to your advantage. You can offer lower nightly rates while still maintaining a healthy profit margin. Travelers often compare city prices with suburban or rural options, and if they see a well-priced, attractive alternative, they may opt for your listing over something more expensive in the city.

Make sure to use dynamic pricing tools that adjust rates based on demand and local events. For instance, when a nearby city holds a big event like a festival or sports match, you can attract visitors who are willing to stay outside the city for lower prices or a more comfortable stay.

4. Boost Convenience with Transportation Options

If your property is a bit far from major city attractions, make transportation easy for guests. Highlight any nearby public transport options in your listing, or go the extra mile by offering a shuttle service to key locations. Alternatively, provide information about local car rental services or share maps showing how easy it is to drive into the city or reach other regional attractions.

5. Offer Unique Experiences

City properties may have proximity to landmarks, but you can offer something just as valuable: unique, local experiences. Whether it’s farm-to-table dining, outdoor adventure, or a retreat-like atmosphere, you can curate experiences that cater to the specific preferences of guests seeking a break from urban life. Think about offering guided tours, local craft workshops, or even a fully-stocked kitchen with local produce. These thoughtful touches can make your property stand out and attract guests who are looking for a getaway with a difference.

6. Market to Event Attendees

Many guests staying outside the city are there for events such as weddings, festivals, or sports tournaments. If your property is close to a popular event venue, you can cater your listing directly to attendees by offering group-friendly accommodations or services like early check-in or late check-out for those attending events. These guests may be more interested in staying outside of a hectic city center but still need easy access to the event.

7. Leverage Online Platforms for Visibility

Since your property is not in the city center, visibility is key. Use platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com to their fullest by ensuring your listing is optimized with keywords like “cozy getaway,” “nature retreat,” or “family-friendly escape.” High-quality images, detailed descriptions, and consistently great reviews will boost your listing’s performance in search results, even if you're outside of major cities.

Additionally, use social media to your advantage. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are powerful tools for reaching guests who may not be looking in traditional city rental markets. You can showcase your property’s unique charm through engaging posts and stories, creating a narrative around the experience your rental offers.

Conclusion: Play to Your Strengths

If your short-term rental is located outside the city, you’re not at a disadvantage—you just need to play to your strengths. Whether it’s targeting remote workers, offering lower rates, or promoting unique local experiences, there’s a vast market of guests who prefer the charm of a quieter, more relaxed environment. With the right marketing, pricing strategy, and guest experience, your property can become a sought-after destination for those looking to escape the city while still enjoying all the benefits of a comfortable, well-appointed stay.