Posted on 1/31/2025 by Melissa

Benefits to Offering a Pet Friendly Property

If you own a short-term rental in Michigan, you may be wondering whether allowing pets is a good idea. While some hosts worry about potential damage or extra cleaning, the benefits of making your rental pet-friendly can far outweigh the drawbacks. From increasing your booking rates to attracting more loyal guests, here’s why welcoming furry companions can be a smart business move.


1. Expand your Guest Pool

Pet-friendly accommodations appeal to a large and growing market. According to Forbes, 66% of U.S. households own a pet. In fact, the National Association of Realtors found there are more American households with pets than children.  Furthermore, a study by TripAdvisor found that 53% of respondents travel with their pets, and 52% will only consider pet friendly accommodations. Many pet owners specifically search for rentals that allow their four-legged family members, meaning your listing will automatically stand out in search filters. 


2. Increase Occupancy Rates and Revenue

By catering to pet owners, you can boost your occupancy rates and even charge higher nightly rates. Many travelers are willing to pay a pet fee or security deposit in exchange for a pet-friendly stay. According to KeyData, pet friendly rentals command higher prices, have higher occupancy rates, and generate more revenue than rentals that don't allow pets. 


3. Gain a Competitive Edge

In popular vacation spots like South Haven, Saugatuck, or Traverse City, competition among short-term rentals can be tough. Offering a pet-friendly home helps differentiate your property from others that don’t allow pets. Guests searching for this specific feature will be more likely to book your rental over non-pet-friendly options.


4. Encourage Repeat Guests and Positive Reviews

Pet-friendly rentals often receive more repeat bookings since pet owners are loyal to places where their animals feel welcome. Guests are also more likely to leave positive reviews, which can improve your rental’s ranking on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.


5. Maximize Off-Season Bookings

Michigan’s peak tourism season is summer, but a pet-friendly policy can help fill gaps in the off-season. Since many travelers prefer road trips with their pets, offering pet accommodations can attract guests even in slower winter months.



How Anchor Point Premier Vacations Can Help

Managing a pet-friendly rental requires the right strategy—and that’s where Anchor Point Premier Vacations comes in. As an experienced property management company, we handle the details so you can enjoy the benefits without the hassle.

Smart Pet Policies: We can assist with clear, enforceable pet rules to protect your property while keeping guests happy.
Pet Fees & Deposits: We set competitive pet fees to cover extra cleaning and potential wear and tear. 
Routine Inspections & Cleaning: Our professional cleaning team ensures your rental remains in top condition after every pet stay.
Optimized Listings & Marketing: We highlight your pet-friendly features to attract more bookings.
24/7 Guest Support: Our team is always available to address guest concerns and enforce pet policies when needed.

Final Thoughts

Welcoming pets at your Michigan short-term rental can be a profitable decision that increases bookings, enhances guest satisfaction, and gives you an edge over the competition. With Anchor Point Premier Vacations managing your property, you can confidently offer a pet-friendly experience while we handle the logistics.

Ready to maximize your rental income with a pet-friendly approach? Let Anchor Point take care of the details—so you can enjoy the rewards. Contact us today to learn more!


Click on https://join.anchorpointvacations.com/ for more information about our property management services.


The Pros and Cons of Managing Your Own Short-Term Rental: Is It Right for You?