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How To Keep Your Short Term Rental BOOKED Year Round

  • Writer: Jack Baldwin
    Jack Baldwin
  • Jan 14
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 26

In the competitive world of short term cabin rentals, aiming for the bare minimum just won't cut it. Too often, we see people designing and building or even purchasing/flipping cabins that just blend in with the rest. They put out something unoriginal and then they wonder why they're not getting bookings!


The truth is, you can't follow the crowd in the short term rental and vacation market.


You have build something you truly love, make it unique, and if you really put your heart into something, your clientele will notice.


That's why we took some time to talk with our friend Ron Gamboa (AKA "The Cabin Connoisseur"). Ron has been running a successful short term cabin rental listing and booking management site for years now and he has empowered investors all over the Southeast to get top dollar and keep their homes booked year round.


We wanted to get his expert take on the secret to success in the STR market so we recently interviewed Ron for our By Design podcast (watch the full interview here).


Ron's Journey to Cabin Connoisseur


Born and raised in Georgia, Ron embarked on a journey that would redefine the cabin rental industry. After earning his degree in business management from the University of West Georgia, Ron explored various jobs, each one bringing him closer to his true calling.


His moment of clarity came during a cabin rental trip in Helen, Georgia. Recognizing the untapped potential in the market, he purchased the domain for Cabin Connoisseur in 2016. Since then, he has connected with cabin owners and property managers worldwide, tirelessly promoting unique cabin experiences.


Interior view of a living room with leather chairs, large floor to ceiling windows, a view of the mountains in Cherry Log, GA. Hidden Lake Tree House designed by James Knight of Reynard Custom Homes.
HIDDEN LAKE LOOKOUT - designed by James Knight. Photo by Kalyn Kight.

Building a Passion-Driven Business


Ron's success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for cabins and the mountains. He spends much time visiting cabins, meeting new people, and discovering new ways to spur engagement.


His passion for the mountains and the slower pace of life that cabin rentals offer is evident in his work. Ron's dedication has led to significant growth for Cabin Connoisseur, including expanding its marketing reach to about 30 states and even internationally.


A-frame cabin with large windows surrounded by lush green trees in a forest. Sunlight filters through leaves, creating a serene atmosphere. architecture by Reynard Custom Homes.
Hidden Lake Lookout is an award winning design by Reynard and one of the homes you can book through Cabin Connoisseur in Cherry Log, GA

The Importance of Unique Cabin Offerings


What sets Ron apart is his focus on unique and eye-catching cabins. Modern architectural designs, high-end luxury amenities, and the serene mountain environment are key factors that attract bookings.


However, Ron also values the charm of more minor, authentic log cabins, ensuring there's something for everyone.


Cabin in the woods at dusk, softly lit by warm lights. Surrounded by trees, with a wooden path leading to the entrance, creating a tranquil mood. architecture by Reynard Custom Homes.
Hidden Lake Lookout - Photo by Scott Ramsey

Effective Marketing Strategies


Ron's success is not just a stroke of luck, but a result of his mastery of effective marketing strategies. He leverages the power of SEO, social media, and engaging content to drive bookings and build trust with cabin owners.


His posts on Instagram and Facebook are not just random updates, but carefully crafted pieces that generate significant engagement. Ron's approach includes consistent posting, free shoutouts to build confidence, and strategic use of keywords to attract a global audience. This meticulous approach to marketing has been a key driver of his success.


Two men converse in a cozy cabin with large windows overlooking a forest. They're seated by a lit stove in modern armchairs, creating a relaxed mood. architecture by Reynard Custom Homes.
Drew and Jack of Reynard Custom Homes enjoying Hidden Lake in Cherry Log, GA

Success Stories


One of Ron's standout successes is the Boujee Lodge in North Georgia. A single welcome post for Boujee Lodge garnered over 2,000 likes and 11,000 shares and reached over two million people. This post alone significantly boosted both Cabin Connoisseur's and Boujee Lodge's followers, demonstrating the power of effective social media marketing.



Future Goals and Vision


Ron's goal is to market unique cabins across the globe, providing various options for every type of traveler. He aims to maintain quality control by meticulously selecting only the best cabins, ensuring each client feels valued and safe in a sea of competitors.


Cozy living room with plush beige sofas, pillows, and antler chandelier. Open kitchen in background with modern appliances and warm lighting. Architecture by James Knight of Reynard Custom Homes.

How to Get Started with Cabin Connoisseur


If you're a cabin rental owner looking to boost your bookings, Cabin Connoisseur has a range of services tailored to your needs. They offer comprehensive SEO research to improve your online visibility, social media promotion to engage with a wider audience, and engaging content creation to showcase the unique features of your cabin. With Ron and his team's expertise, you can elevate your cabin rental business and start seeing a significant increase in bookings.


Follow The Cabin Connoisseur on Instagram and Facebook.



Wooden cabin in a forest with a metal roof and wrap-around deck. Rustic lanterns and antler decor create a cozy atmosphere. Hidden Lake Lookout by James Knight of Reynard Custom Homes.
Hidden Lake Lookout - Cherry Log, GA designed by James Knight of Reynard Custom Homes. Photo by Scott Ramsey

Hidden Lake Lookout is a pair of award winning tree house style homes in Cherry Log, GA. Designed by James Knight of Reynard Custom Homes, these two homes are available to book year round but you need to plan in advance! They are rarely vacant.




Ron Gamboa in a wide-brimmed hat smiles holding a beer mug. He's wearing a patterned shirt. Autumn leaves and a rustic building in the background. Ron is the Cabin Connoisseur and talks about how to keep your short term rental booked year round.




 
 
 

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