Houston is a vibrant city that plays host to numerous major events throughout the year, drawing thousands of visitors from across the globe. As a property owner, these events present golden opportunities to maximize your rental bookings and increase your revenue. With the right strategies, such as special promotions and dynamic pricing, you can make the most of Houston’s event-driven tourism. Sunrae Stays, the top Houston Airbnb management company, is here to share expert insights on how to capitalize on the city's biggest events.
Major Events in Houston to Drive Bookings
1. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (February-March)
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is one of the largest rodeos in the world, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. This iconic event features rodeo competitions, concerts, carnivals, and food shows, making it a significant draw for both domestic and international tourists.
How to Capitalize:
- Special Promotions: Offer early booking discounts for guests attending the rodeo or package deals that include tickets to the event.
- Dynamic Pricing: Increase your rates during the three-week event using dynamic pricing tools to account for the surge in demand.
2. Houston Marathon (January)
The Chevron Houston Marathon attracts thousands of runners and even more spectators from around the world. Hotels tend to book up quickly during this time, making it a great opportunity for short-term rental owners to increase occupancy and rates.
How to Capitalize:
- Event-Specific Marketing: Update your listing to mention proximity to the marathon route and promote early check-ins for marathon participants.
- Incentives: Offer incentives such as free breakfast items or early check-in for participants.
3. Houston Art Car Parade (April)
The Houston Art Car Parade is the largest of its kind, drawing over 250,000 spectators annually. Visitors come to see a colorful procession of art cars, creating a peak time for Houston's rental market.
How to Capitalize:
- Themed Listings: Update your listing with fun, art-related décor or include tips about local art galleries and events.
- Dynamic Pricing: Adjust pricing for the increased demand during this artistic celebration.
4. Houston Pride Festival and Parade (June)
Houston's Pride Festival and Parade is one of the largest in the southern U.S., attracting over 700,000 people. The celebration of diversity and inclusion spans an entire weekend, offering property owners an excellent chance to maximize bookings.
How to Capitalize:
- Inclusive Language: Update your listing to use inclusive language and promote amenities that cater to LGBTQ+ travelers.
- Weekend Promotions: Offer special weekend rates or Pride packages that include recommendations for local restaurants and events.
5. NFL and NBA Games
Houston is home to major sports teams, including the Houston Texans (NFL) and the Houston Rockets (NBA). Game days, especially playoff games, draw large crowds, and savvy property owners can tap into this market.
How to Capitalize:
- Game Day Promotions: Offer special rates for game attendees and update your listings to mention proximity to NRG Stadium or the Toyota Center.
- Last-Minute Dynamic Pricing: Increase your rates for last-minute bookings as game day approaches and accommodation demand spikes.
Dynamic Pricing Strategies for Event Seasons
One of the most effective ways to capitalize on Houston’s major events is by employing dynamic pricing strategies. Dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs or Beyond Pricing automatically adjust your rates based on local demand and booking patterns. By raising prices during high-demand periods and offering discounts during slower seasons, you can maximize occupancy and revenue.
- Peak Event Rates: For events like the Houston Rodeo, it’s essential to start with a higher base rate and adjust prices as demand increases.
- Mid-Event Adjustments: Monitor booking patterns as events approach and consider increasing prices as availability dwindles in the area.
Why Choose Sora Stays?
Sora Stays is Houston’s leading property management service, offering comprehensive support to property owners looking to maximize their rental income. Here’s how we help you achieve your goals:
- Expert Event-Driven Pricing: Our team uses advanced dynamic pricing tools to adjust your rates based on demand, ensuring you never leave money on the table.
- Targeted Marketing Strategies: We tailor your listings to attract event-goers and ensure your property stands out during peak seasons.
- Full-Service Management: From guest communication to cleaning and maintenance, we handle everything, allowing you to focus on growing your portfolio.
Houston is a city rich with events that drive tourism and offer immense opportunities for rental property owners. By leveraging special promotions and dynamic pricing, you can capitalize on the increased demand during these major events. With Sora Stays as your property management partner, you’ll have the support you need to ensure your rental is fully optimized for success. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maximize your rental income during Houston’s top events.