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Deep Dive into Ocean City's Short-Term Rental Market: Key Data for Vacation Rental Hosts

February 13, 2024

Ocean City's short-term rental market is an ever-evolving landscape. As a vacation rental host, knowing the intricacies of market trends is key to maximizing your property's returns and staying ahead of the competition.

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In the next edition of our MarketMinute series, we've compiled the latest data on the Ocean City market to help you understand occupancy rates, revenue per available night, booking lead times, and more. This actionable analysis will empower vacation rental hosts like you to refine strategies and capture the essence of what today's travelers seek.

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Looking for actionable data about your market? We've got you covered!

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Average Occupancy Rates: Keeping Up With the National Average

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It's heartening to see that Ocean City is keeping up with the national average when it comes to occupancy rates. At 57%, Ocean City properties are as filled as those across the United States. But what does this near-parity mean for local hosts? It shows that the appeal of Ocean City as a prime vacation spot is consistent with general trends, indicating a steady demand.

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Revenue Per Available Night (RevPAN): Your Revenue Compass

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With an average RevPAN of $124, it's time to ask yourself: Is your property's revenue riding this wave effectively? RevPAN is your compass in the vast sea of revenue management, pinpointing how well you're utilizing available nights. Adjust your strategies to the ebb and flow of the market to ensure that your property is not just another drop in the ocean.

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Booking Lead Time: Predicting the Tide

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Ocean City's booking lead time stands at a noteworthy 120 days – more than double the national average. Guests are indeed forward-thinkers in this coastal locale. This longer lead time is a significant indicator for hosts; a proactive approach to pricing can ensure you harness the full potential of this advanced planning mindset.

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Top Distribution Channel: Direct Bookings Make a Splash

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While Airbnb dominates the national scene, direct bookings in Ocean City are making a substantial splash at 20%. This is a testament to the strength and uniqueness of the local market. Building direct relationships with your guests can result in a stronger brand and client loyalty, so it's important to ensure that your direct booking website is built for fast, easy conversions.

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Number of Reviews per Listing: A Community of Reviewers

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Ocean City guests tend to leave more reviews, averaging 30 per listing. This is a great insight for hosts looking to amplify their properties' online presence. With more feedback comes the opportunity to showcase excellence and fine-tune guest experiences.

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Average Length of Stay: Maximizing Moments Matters

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The average stay in Ocean City is 4.8 days, marginally longer than the US average. In a world where time is a cherished commodity, Ocean City guests are looking for a quick escape. For hosts, creating memorable experiences in a short timeframe is crucial. It's about quality over quantity, ensuring that every stay is picture-perfect.

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Charting Your Course in Ocean City's Rental Seascape

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Navigating Ocean City's short-term rental market requires a firm grasp on trends and a keen eye on guests' preferences. The data paints a picture of a vibrant, proactive vacationing community. Every number tells a story of planning, experience-seeking, and interaction.

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Your mission as a host is to interpret these numbers and infuse them into your service delivery, from pricing strategy to guest communications. Tailor your approach for turnkey solutions that resonate with travelers and align with Ocean City's distinct market pattern

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Keep your finger on the pulse of the market's heartbeat, leverage these insights to steer your rental towards prosperous shores, and let each guest's review echo the success of your endeavors.

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