Tips to Optimize Your Dock Listing
Hundreds of boaters are searching Dockshare for dock space each day. Some of our hosts’ calendars are filling up with bookings quickly, and a few are totally booked for the next 9-12 months!
On the other hand, some of our listings aren’t receiving much action and we want to change that! If your dock doesn’t seem to be getting noticed, here’s a quick checklist to make sure you are optimized for bookings.
DOCK NAME
It might seem insignificant, but the name you gave your listing is important! There’s no need to include the slip specs or the town where it’s located, because all of that information is already in your listing. Don’t be afraid to get a little creative so that it grabs a boater’s attention! Think things like “Peaceful Lakefront Retreat”, “Downtown Dock ‘n Dine”, or “Bob’s Oasis on the Bay.”
DESCRIPTION
While you don’t need to write a whole book about your dock, usually the more information you provide, the better. Let potential renters know what amenities are nearby like a boat ramp, the closest fuel dock and pump out, restaurant, or extra parking. You may want to consider letting them know how far it is to open water and if there are any hazards or fixed bridges they should know about. And it never hurts to include some information about yourself! If the dock is at your primary residence, let them know if you have a dog. Or if the boat you used to have fit nicely on the lift, let them know type of boat it was.
PHOTOS
We can’t emphasize this one enough. Photos are key. Your first photo should be stunning. Something that will catch a boater’s eye as they are scrolling through their search results. Make sure it’s taken on a sunny day, preferably in warmer weather when there are leaves on trees and flowers blooming. The rest of the photos should showcase amenities at your dock. Do you have an power pedestal? Outdoor shower? Fish cleaning station? Don’t leave anything out!
PRICING
This can be a tough one, but it’s SUPER important! Our team is ready and willing to advise you on what rates you should charge based on your location and your dock’s amenities. Reach out to us today – we’re always happy to help and we love any chance we get to connect with our hosts. But if you’d rather figure it out on your own, we highly recommend calling marinas in your area and finding out what they are charging. If they’re totally booked up, consider charging a little more since dock space is clearly in high demand in your area. Or if they still have slips available, consider charging less to increase the chances your dock gets booked.
BE RESPONSIVE
Be sure to respond to all messages and booking requests! When messages and booking requests go unanswered, your listing drops in search results and boaters are less likely to see your dock. Your listing will even be deactivated if you miss too many messages. You should be receiving email AND text alerts when a boater inquires about your dock, so please contact us today if you are not getting those notifications.