Operating a PadSplit is more than just listing a room for rent—it’s about optimizing your home’s bookability. This term encapsulates all the factors that influence whether a member will choose your PadSplit over another. Bookability is one of the main factors that impact member tenure.
By paying close attention to pricing, presentation, and member experience, you can attract the right members and maintain high occupancy. Here are five key insights to help you do just that.
Set the right price for your PadSplit in your zip code
Pricing can make or break the bookability of your PadSplit. If your rates are too high, potential members may pass by your listing. If they’re too low, you could be undervaluing your home and missing out on revenue. So, how do you find that sweet spot?
Start by reviewing other PadSplits or rentals in your zip code. Pay attention to homes similar in size, quality, and amenities. Platforms like PadSplit often provide data on neighborhood occupancy rates and pricing trends, including a market data map with occupancy and pricing data by zip code, allowing you to adjust your rates based on local demand. The goal is to set a competitive price that reflects the market while offering excellent value for the quality you provide.
Use the “Rooms” tab on the host dashboard to see the “x% of metro area avg” figure.
Tip: Adjust your pricing based on seasonality and vacancy trends. Offering limited-time promos during slow periods can boost occupancy.
Our data indicates that listings priced above the metro average tend to have lower booking rates. The percentage of the metro average reflects current bookings within the zip code, considering similar bathroom types, and is updated in real time.
Use high-quality photos and descriptions
First impressions are everything! Members can’t visit your property in person before booking, so high-quality photos are essential to showcasing your PadSplit.
Here’s what you should focus on:
- Use bright, well-lit photos of each room, showing the entire space.
- Highlight key amenities such as furnished rooms, laundry facilities, or nearby transportation.
- Include multiple angles and avoid clutter to give a spacious and inviting feel.
Not a professional photographer? You can enhance your photos with Oda Portal and obtain special pricing with PadSplit. PadSplit hosts can access Oda Portal’s services at a discounted rate:
- Image enhancement: $2 per photo
- Virtual staging: $14 per photo (with enhancement included)
This means you’ll get expertly edited photos that highlight your property’s best features, making them look bright, sharp, and inviting without misrepresenting what you’re offering.
Getting started with Oda Portal is simple and straightforward. To begin, sign up at the Oda Portal and create your account. Be sure to select “PadSplit Host/Investor” as your account type to access the exclusive discount. Once registered, you can follow this video tutorial to create your first project.
Along with great photos, a detailed and accurate description is equally important. Be transparent about house rules, shared spaces, and other relevant details so there are no surprises. Clarity up front makes members more comfortable with their decisions.
Learn more about how to improve the quality of your listing photos: https://www.padsplit.com/host-resources/optimization/how-to-improve-real-estate-listing-photos
Learn how to improve your listing: https://www.padsplit.com/host-resources/optimization/maximizing-your-padsplit-listing-11-proven-strategies-for-increased-bookings
Allow weekend and evening move-ins
Flexibility is key to enhancing bookability. Many members work during the day and find it hard to move during standard business hours. By accommodating weekend and evening move-ins, you can tap into a larger pool of potential members with more restricted schedules.
Clear communication about move-in availability, as well as any extra processes for after-hours moves, can make your property more attractive.
Pro Tip: Consider enabling the automated move-in messager for added convenience and efficiency.
Provide clear move-in instructions
Setting the right expectations is critical for a smooth move-in process, which can significantly impact member satisfaction and tenure. Clear and concise move-in instructions will ensure new members feel comfortable and welcome right away.
Make sure to provide:
- Detailed instructions on how to access the home and their room.
- Information on house rules, communal spaces, and any required actions (such as setting up utilities).
- A friendly welcome message or guide with local recommendations.
A great move-in experience leads to longer tenure—which means less turnover for you and a stable, happy community for your members.
Promote your PadSplit on social media
Social media is a powerful tool to promote your PadSplit property and attract new members. One of the easiest ways to get started is by joining local Facebook groups and offering a promo code to prospective renters for discounts on their first month’s rent. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you leverage Facebook for your PadSplit promotions.
How to generate a promo code in your admin dashboard:
Join local Facebook groups to find prospective members
To connect with potential members, start by searching for Facebook groups in your target market using the following keywords:
- “{City name} rooms for rent”
- “{City name} room shares”
- “{City name} housing wanted”
- “{City name} job board”
- “{City name} work wanted”
- Simply “{City name}”
Replace {City name} with the actual name of the city where your PadSplit is located. These groups often have individuals looking for affordable housing or temporary accommodations. Join these groups and actively engage by commenting on posts where users are seeking a room within your price range.
Pro Tip: On your mobile device, create a text replacement for your promo messages to save time. For iPhone users, go to Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement, and load your pre-written content, including your promo code and PadSplit benefits.
Sample comment for Facebook groups
When you see a post from someone looking for housing, use this comment template:
“Check out PadSplit! PadSplit offers affordable rooms for rent starting at around $XXX a month, including utilities and WiFi. We conduct background checks on all applicants. Use the promo code XYZ for $XXX off your booking!”
If anyone sends you a direct message (DM) in response to your post, direct them to PadSplit’s website (padsplit.com) or contact PadSplit’s support at (770) 373-7863. You’ll be notified via email whenever your promo code is used.
How to post your PadSplit on Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is another excellent avenue to promote your PadSplit. Follow these steps to create an effective listing:
- Room Details: Gather essential information about the room, such as square footage, amenities, and unique features.
- PadSplit Property Link: Find your property’s listing on the PadSplit Rooms page for easy sharing.
- High-Quality Photos: Upload at least two photos of the bedroom, two of each common area (bathroom, kitchen, living room), and two exterior shots.
- Host Promo Code: Include your promo code to attract renters with a discount on their first month’s rent.
Step-by-step guide to listing on Marketplace
- Log into Facebook: Open the Marketplace section from your profile.
- Create a Listing: Select “Home for Sale or Rent” under “Create New Listing.”
- Enter Details: Include all room information and specify that it’s a private room in a shared, furnished property. Avoid including any links or directly referencing PadSplit in your listing. Promotional codes should also not be included.
- Submit: Once all details are added, submit the listing for review. Facebook typically approves listings within 2-4 hours.
Sample response for Marketplace inquiries
Here’s an easy-to-use template for responding to inquiries about your listing:
“This room is available on PadSplit.com. You can view the property details and photos by visiting [Insert your property link]. To apply, click on ‘Apply Now’ and follow the background check and income verification steps. Don’t forget to use promo code XYZ for $XX off your first booking!”
Typically the initial message to booking conversion rate is <1%
Maximize your PadSplit’s appeal and occupancy! Implement these proven strategies to attract more members: Optimize your pricing, enhance property presentation, and leverage social media. Start today and watch your bookings increase. For more tips and support, check our Host Resources page.
