Why Vacation Rental Owners Should Never Engage in Deceptive Marketing or Puffery
An article by David Batstone in USA Weekend Magazine examines some ethical questions involved in renting a vacation property. One of the questions examined involves a renter whose experience did not match what was advertised. The question is whether the renter was entitled to a partial refund. From the renter’s description, it does appear that the property owner exaggerated the property’s attractions and some of the advertised amenities were not in working order. Whether or not the renter got his refund, you can bet he will never rent this property again, and will advise his friends not to do so.
One of the requirements for being listed in VacationRental.org is that the owners never in engage in false advertising. In fact we always urge property owners to under promise and over deliver. In our experience with our own vacation rentals, we have found that the best advertising is to have satisfied customers. We have found that our need to advertise decreases each year and our occupancy rate increases as we provide customers with a good vacation experience, We are most delighted when guests reserve a place for the next year as they check out.
