Lessons from the Nashville Destin Connection Podcast

What makes a vacation rental stand out in 2025?

No, really. What actually makes guests choose your property over the thousands of others available at the click of a button?

I recently sat down with Erik Thornton on the Nashville Destin Connection Podcast to dive into this very question. And let me tell you, we covered some juicy nuggets that every vacation rental host needs to hear:

But before you watch the full episode (and trust me, you’ll want to), let’s break down a few of the most important takeaways.

The Guest Experience IS the Product

Most hosts think they’re selling a stay. A few nights, a comfy bed, maybe a nice view.

But that’s not what today’s travelers are actually buying.

They’re buying an experience.

Think about it. When someone books an Airbnb, they’re not just looking for four walls and a roof. They want something memorable.

Something they can’t get at home.

And that’s why properties that deliver an experience (not just a place to sleep) win more bookings, more 5-star reviews and more repeat guests.

This is why we created QR Clue. Not because vacation rentals needed another random amenity but because guests are actively seeking unique experiences.

The properties that figure this out first? They dominate.

Good Isn’t Good Enough Anymore

There was a time when having a hot tub, high speed internet or even just a well decorated space was enough to stand out.

Not anymore.

In 2025, guests expect those things.

If you’re thinking, But my rental has great reviews!, that’s awesome. But if you’re not constantly evolving and finding new ways to stand out, you’ll eventually blend in.

Competition isn’t just growing, it’s becoming smarter. 

The hosts that win are the ones who are proactive, not reactive.

The “Scroll Effect” is Real And It’s Hurting Your Bookings

Ever scroll through Airbnb looking for a place to stay and feel like every listing looks the same?

Another neutral-toned living room.
Another mid-century modern bedroom with IKEA furniture.
Another “Luxury Getaway” that looks just like the last 12 “Luxury Getaways” you just swiped through.

It’s ALL blending together.

That’s exactly what potential guests are experiencing when they browse listings.

If nothing stops them mid scroll, your property is just another blur in the endless sea of sameness.

And the properties that stand out? The ones that make guests pause for half a second longer? Those are the ones that get booked.

It’s why we’re constantly hammering this point home: different beats better.

You don’t need to be the BEST property. You need to be the one guests notice.

I could go on.

But the truth is, there’s a lot more we covered in this conversation. And if you’re serious about growing your vacation rental business, I highly recommend checking out the full episode.

Watch the full Nashville Destin Connection podcast episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bHzWININNE

And if you’re ready to take the next step in making your rental stand out, let’s talk. QR Clue isn’t the only way to create a unique guest experience but it’s definitely one of the smartest.

Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t just to get bookings.

The goal is to be the reason people book in the first place.

Happy hosting!

Rachel & Jason