Maximizing Rental Income for Poconos Luxury Properties

How to increase bookings, boost nightly rates, and drive ROI in every season

August marks the tail end of the summer rush in the Poconos—a time when calendars are full, rates are high, and the region is buzzing with travelers. But while the peak season winds down, savvy luxury homeowners are already thinking ahead: How can I continue to maximize income through the rest of the year?

At Wander Home, we manage over 35 high-end vacation homes across the Poconos, and we’ve seen firsthand what strategies consistently drive strong returns. Whether you're new to short-term rentals or a seasoned host, here are some of the most effective ways to increase your property's income without compromising the guest experience.

1. Price Strategically, Not Emotionally

Setting the right nightly rate is one of the biggest levers you have to influence revenue. But relying on gut instinct or sticking with flat seasonal pricing leaves money on the table.

Instead, we recommend using dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs or Wheelhouse to automatically adjust rates based on demand, booking trends, events, and even your competition’s performance. These tools allow you to capture more income on high-demand weekends while still staying competitive during slower periods.

And remember: occupancy alone isn’t the goal—maximize revenue per night, not just how many nights are booked.

2. Invest in High-Impact Amenities

Not all upgrades are created equal. Luxury guests are looking for specific features that deliver comfort, entertainment, and a memorable stay. Here in the Poconos, the amenities that consistently move the needle include:

• Hot tubs and saunas
• Fire pits and outdoor seating areas
• Game rooms or media rooms
• Fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces
• EV chargers and family-friendly touches

Before heading into the slower fall and winter seasons, consider investing in updates that will help your home stand out—and command higher nightly rates.

3. Extend Your Peak Season with Off-Peak Appeal

Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean bookings have to slow. The Poconos shines in the fall, and with the right marketing approach, you can keep your calendar full well into the holiday season.

Here’s how to keep momentum going:

• Promote fall foliage escapes, winery weekends, and scenic hikes.
• Offer incentives like early check-in, late checkout, or a “stay 3, get 1 free” package.
• Highlight nearby events such as festivals, Oktoberfest, and Halloween attractions.
• Appeal to remote workers and mid-week travelers looking for a change of scenery.

With thoughtful positioning, your home can become a go-to destination long after Labor Day.

4. Optimize Your Listing to Attract the Right Guests

In a competitive market, your listing is your first impression—and it needs to tell the right story.

• Invest in professional photography that showcases your home in the best light.
• Update your description to speak directly to your ideal guest: families, couples, remote workers, or wellness seekers.
• Highlight what makes your home unique: panoramic views, designer interiors, proximity to trails or lakes, or your incredible outdoor entertaining space.

If you’re relying solely on Airbnb, consider expanding to Vrbo, Booking.com, or a direct booking website to increase your reach.

5. Partner with a Local Expert to Maximize ROI

Managing a luxury short-term rental takes more than just cleaning and check-ins. From pricing strategy and guest communication to seasonal prep and emergency response, it’s a full-time job.

That’s where we come in.

At Wander Home, we’re more than a property management company—we’re partners in your success. We handle the day-to-day operations while helping you make smart, data-driven decisions to increase profitability and protect your investment.

Ready to Take Your Rental Income to the Next Level?

As we close out summer, now is the perfect time to assess what’s working—and where there’s opportunity to grow. Whether it’s adding high-demand amenities, adjusting your pricing strategy, or simply getting more eyes on your listing, small changes can make a big difference.

Interested in a complimentary income analysis or management consultation? We’d love to help you unlock your property’s full potential.