Wisconsin Vacation Rentals

Explore different vacation rentals throughout Wisconsin. We highlight a few properties in different regions of Wisconsin to help assist vacationers as they plan their next getaway.

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Joe Mogensen’s Journey: Revolutionizing Vacation Rentals One State at a Time

Meet Joe Mogensen, the visionary entrepreneur behind a game-changing approach to vacation rentals. Frustrated with the dominance of big travel sites like VRBO and Airbnb, Joe set out on a mission to create a more customer-centric platform. Today, his business boasts 12 state-specific vacation rental websites, each offering an escape from booking fees and impersonal service. Join us as we explore Joe’s journey and the impact of his regional rollout on travelers and property owners alike.

Joe’s Story: For Joe Mogensen, the inspiration to disrupt the vacation rental industry came from personal experience. As someone who grew up at a Wisconsin B&B lodge with a cabin rental, he saw a need for a book direct alternative in the marketplace. Joe poured his passion and expertise into building a network of state-specific websites designed to empower both guests and property owners/local managers.

Launching his first site, RentWisconsinCabins.com in 2009, was just the beginning of Joe’s entrepreneurial journey. With each new website—from RentMinnesotaCabins.com to RentNorthCarolinaCabins.com—Joe sought to carve out a niche in the market, offering targeted exposure for properties in popular vacation destinations. His vision was clear: to provide a platform where travelers could discover unique rentals and property owners/managers could showcase their property without the burden of commissions and guest fees.

Challenges and Triumphs: Building a business from the ground up is never easy, and Joe faced his fair share of challenges along the way. From navigating the complexities of website development to competing against industry giants, he encountered obstacles at every turn. However, Joe’s unwavering determination and commitment to his mission propelled him forward, fueling the growth of his business and solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in the vacation rental space.

One of Joe’s proudest moments came when he witnessed the impact of his regional rollout on both guests and property owners. New members flocked to his websites, eager to escape the grip of booking fees and embrace a more personalized booking experience. Property owners/managers, too, continue to embraced Joe’s platform, appreciating the opportunity to connect directly with travelers and retain full control over their listings. These websites are also growing fast: RentMichiganCabins.com, and RentTennesseeCabins.com. These websites are new but already seeing signups: RentAlabamaCabins.com, and RentTexasCabins.com.

Looking Ahead: As Joe Mogensen reflects on his journey thus far, he remains committed to his vision of revolutionizing the vacation rental industry. With plans to expand his network of websites and reach even more travelers and property owners, Joe and his team at JM Creative Group, LLC are poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. He just secured RentGeorgiaCabins.com, so that website is coming soon. Through innovation, perseverance, and a steadfast dedication to his values, Joe Mogensen is reshaping the way we think about booking vacation rentals—one state at a time.

Conclusion: In a world dominated by corporate giants, Joe Mogensen stands as a beacon of hope for travelers and property owners seeking a better way to book vacation rentals. His story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the potential for positive change in even the most entrenched industries. As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from Joe’s journey and embrace the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment that defines his business.

What ChatGPT has to say about the advantages of booking vacation rentals directly with owners or local managers.
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What ChatGPT has to say about the advantages of booking vacation rentals directly with owners or local managers.

Vacation Rental Owners and Property Managers: Ever wonder what to tell your guests when they say they are “afraid” to book direct?

Big booking websites can’t bamboozle Millennial & Gen Z travelers forever. We posed as a cabin owner and asked ChatGPT this question:
“Hi ChatGPT, I’ve been told by some younger guests that they fear booking cabins directly with vacation rental owners because websites like vrbo and airbnb tell them it is not “safe”. However, guests have been booking vacation rentals directly with the owners for decades, well before the internet even existed. How can I tell my guests that it is actually safer to book directly with me? Plus, I’m a professional when it comes to promoting the things to do in my area – Vrbo and airbnb don’t live here, but I do.

HERE’S THE REPLY FROM CHATGPT:

Absolutely, it’s completely understandable that guests might have concerns, but there are many solid reasons why booking directly with you is a safe and beneficial choice. Here’s how you can communicate that:

1. Personal Touch and Local Expertise:

  • Remind them that you are the local expert. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO might not have the insider knowledge about your area that you do.
  • Highlight your ability to provide personalized recommendations tailored to their interests, ensuring they make the most of their stay.

2. Direct Communication:

  • Emphasize the direct line of communication. Booking directly means they can reach out to you easily with any questions or concerns.
  • Mention your prompt responses and willingness to assist before, during, and after their stay.

3. Cost Savings:

  • Let them know that booking directly often means avoiding additional fees charged by third-party platforms. It’s a win-win—they get the same great experience without the extra cost.

4. Flexibility and Special Requests:

  • Point out the flexibility you can offer. Direct bookings may allow more room for negotiation on check-in/out times and special requests, creating a more personalized experience.

5. Trustworthy Reviews:

  • Share positive reviews from previous guests who booked directly. Genuine testimonials can build trust and showcase the positive experiences others have had.

6. Secure Payment Processes:

  • Assure them of the security of your payment processes. If you have a secure and reliable payment method in place, let them know that their financial information is handled safely.

7. Local Ownership:

  • Emphasize the fact that they are supporting local business. As a cabin owner living in the area, their booking directly contributes to the local economy.

8. Exclusive Offers:

  • Consider offering exclusive perks for direct bookings, such as discounts, additional amenities, or special packages. Make them feel like they’re getting a unique and valuable deal.

9. Build Personal Connections:

  • Showcase the human side. Let them know you’re not just a faceless entity but a fellow traveler and enthusiast who understands their needs.

10. Showcase Your Professionalism:

  • Highlight your professionalism in managing bookings and providing a seamless experience. Share any relevant credentials or certifications you have.

Remember, building trust is crucial. Provide clear information, showcase your professionalism, and assure them that booking directly with you is a decision that enhances their overall experience.

Then we followed up with this second question to ChatGPT (we’re referencing our WI site, but we have 12 regional sites):
“As a Wisconsin cabin owner, I know I can list on websites like vrbo and airbnb, but my goal is to maximize direct bookings so I can maximize my rental revenue. Does it make sense to list on these big booking websites and ALSO list on websites like RentWisconsinCabins.com that encourages booking directly with owners and local managers?

HERE’S THE REPLY FROM CHATGPT:

Yes, it makes sense to list your cabin on both big booking websites like VRBO and Airbnb, as well as on niche platforms like RentWisconsinCabins.com that encourage direct bookings. Here’s why:

1. Maximize Visibility:

  • Listing on major platforms like VRBO and Airbnb gives you exposure to a large audience actively searching for vacation rentals. This can significantly increase your visibility and attract potential guests.

2. Tap into Different Markets:

  • Each platform caters to a diverse audience. By listing on various platforms, you have the opportunity to tap into different markets and reach a broader range of potential guests.

3. Establish Credibility:

  • Presence on well-known platforms can add credibility to your rental. Guests often trust booking through recognized platforms due to their established reputation.

4. Leverage Direct Booking Platforms:

  • Listing on platforms like RentWisconsinCabins.com allows you to tap into a market that specifically encourages direct bookings. This can help you build a loyal customer base and maximize revenue by avoiding third-party fees.

5. Diversify Revenue Streams:

  • Having your cabin listed on multiple platforms diversifies your revenue streams. In case of fluctuations or changes in the industry, you have different sources contributing to your income.

6. Optimize Marketing Strategy:

  • Utilize different platforms to complement your marketing strategy. Major platforms may attract guests looking for convenience, while niche platforms appeal to those seeking a more personalized and local experience.

7. Capture Local Audience:

  • Platforms like RentWisconsinCabins.com may attract a local audience who prefers to book directly with owners. This allows you to establish a connection with guests who value the local touch and may become repeat visitors.

8. Strategic Pricing:

  • Implement strategic pricing to balance the fees associated with major platforms. You can adjust your rates accordingly to account for the fees on those platforms while offering competitive rates for direct bookings.

9. Build Direct Booking Incentives:

  • On your own website or through direct booking platforms like RentWisconsinCabins.com, you can offer exclusive incentives to guests, such as discounts, special packages, or additional amenities. This encourages guests to book directly with you.

10. Adapt to Market Trends:

  • Stay adaptable to changing market trends. Monitor the performance of your listings on different platforms and adjust your strategy based on where you see the most success in terms of bookings and revenue.

Remember to effectively manage your listings and respond promptly to inquiries on all platforms to provide a positive experience for potential guests, regardless of where they discover your cabin.

OUR TAKEAWAY: We will proceed full steam ahead with growing our regional websites that help vacation rental owners, resort owners, and property managers boost their direct bookings. Owners/managers of all sizes should consider a diversified marketing approach that includes supporting regional websites that promote: #bookdirect.

We hope you found inspiration, insights, and a touch of joy within these words. Your thoughts matter, so share them with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more adventures and musings. Connect with us on [Facebook] for weekly doses of Cabin Time vibes.

Cheers to growth, learning, and the beauty of the journey!

The Team at ItsCabinTime.com!

#itscabintime #bookdirect #nobookingfees

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ItsCabinTime.com Regional Websites Encourages Guests to Book Direct for Better Prices, More Options, and Hassle-Free Vacations

With so many ways to book vacation rentals, it can be tough to know which is the best option. Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb and Vrbo are often at the top of the list, but there are several reasons why guests should book direct with a local rental agency instead. Try ItsCabinTime.com now.

Booking Direct Provides Better Pricing

Direct booking websites provide the best pricing with exclusive deals, accurate, up-to-date pricing, and last-minute savings. When you reserve a vacation rental through an OTA, you’ll have to pay extra fees and charges that can reach as high as 20% of your total reservation cost. By booking directly on a property manager’s website, you can avoid these added costs and get access to the best properties and the best rates.

Save Money on Fees

OTAs make money by charging both the property owner and the guest a fee. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you’re booking a weekly stay. When you book direct, you won’t have to pay these fees, which can save you hundreds of dollars on your vacation rental.

A Better Vacation Experience when Booking Directly

Local rental agencies have a better understanding of the local area and can provide guests with recommendations for restaurants, activities, and attractions. They can also help guests with anything that goes wrong during their stay, such as a broken appliance or a lost key. OTAs often have customer service representatives who are not familiar with the local area, so they may not be able to provide the same level of service.

Direct Contact with Management Team

When you book direct, you will have direct contact with the management team from the moment you start considering one of their vacation rentals. This means that you can get answers to your questions quickly and easily, and you can be sure that your reservation will be handled properly. OTAs often have a long wait time for customer service, and it can be difficult to get in touch with the right person.

More Rental Options

Property managers often only list a certain selection of their vacation rentals on OTAs. This is because OTAs charge high fees, and property managers want to save money. When you book direct, you will have access to the full inventory of vacation rentals, including the newest and most popular properties.

Consistent Guest Experience

Local rental agencies are committed to providing guests with a consistent and high-quality experience. They have a team of experienced staff who are dedicated to making sure that guests have a memorable vacation. OTAs often have a high turnover rate of staff, which can lead to inconsistent service.

Book Direct Day

Every year on the first Wednesday in February, property managers around the country celebrate Book Direct Day. This day is designed to educate guests on the benefits of booking directly with property management companies vs the OTAs. Often, property managers run Book Direct Day Specials to promote booking direct.

Looking for Affordable Vacation Rentals?

If you’re looking for the affordable vacation rentals, look no further than ItsCabinTime.com’s collection of regional websites. We have a unique variety of US vacation rentals to choose from, including cabins, cottages, lodges, condos, campers, and houses. We also offer a variety of amenities, such as pools, hot tubs, private docks, and game rooms. Our websites are ready to help you plan your next vacation. Book direct today and save!

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#BookDirect Guest Education Day 2021: 10 Reasons to Book Direct

This Wednesday, February 3, 2021, book-direct advocates in the vacation rental industry are taking the opportunity to celebrate the fourth annual #BookDirect Guest Education Day by sharing the many ways in which making the switch to a direct booking model has enriched both their customer relations and their bottom line. ItsCabinTime.com has been gathering feedback for years from cabin owners, local short-term rental property managers and vacationers alike — Here are their top 10 reasons to embrace direct booking in 2021:

  1. Book at the lowest rate

When you book directly with the local owner or manager of a vacation rental, you are paying the person whose right it is to decide the rate. Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) may have leeway to mark up those prices, but they NEVER charge you less than the owner’s rate.

  1. Avoid fees and commissions

When you book directly with the local owner or manager, you cut out the go-between. This means no paying for the privilege to send messages or view an availability calendar, and no traveler’s fees tacked on at the end of the transaction for using the booking service.

  1. Learn about special offers

Owners and managers who use a book-direct business model often have repeat customers that they keep in contact with to inform previous visitors about upcoming specials. Owners/managers can also share these specials on their website, social media or listing sites like www.itscabintime.com.

  1. Choose from more options

Many owners and managers dislike the way OTAs (such as Vrbo, FlipKey, TripAdvisor, AirBnb, Booking.com or HomeAway) take control of their booking calendars and messaging. This means some of the most experienced hosts aren’t even available through large travel sites.

  1. Communicate openly

When you book directly with the owner or manager of the home where you will be staying, you can enjoy complete transparency in regard to house rules, cleaning policies and rates. Many homeowners love to get to know those who will be staying at their rental cabins and homes!

  1. Get personal attention

When you have the chance to communicate with someone who knows the home you are renting inside and out, it’s easier to accommodate specific needs. You’ll also have access to a real person who takes responsibility for your experience and sees it through from start to finish.

  1. Benefit from local insight

Above and beyond chamber websites or tourist brochures, a local owner or manager who knows the area can help you plan a personalized vacation you’ll remember. They can also give information on favorite hunting and fishing spots — you won’t find that in the guidebook!

  1. Find last-minute availability

Speaking directly with the person in charge of a vacation rental’s booking calendar means you’ll have access to the most up-to-date information on availability. This includes any last-minute cancellations that the rental owner/manager may be eager to fill — sometimes at a discount.

  1. Minimize risk of fraud

Transparency between the vacation rental owner/manager and the vacationer minimizes the risk of accidentally booking a fraudulent property by allowing each party to perform standard security checks. See tips and tricks to protect your vacation rental reservation deposit here: http://www.rentwisconsincabins.com/payment-protection.php

  1. Support small businesses

Many vacation rental homeowners, resort owners and small property managers are family-run businesses with a long history in the industry. Help protect their right to keep control of their business and keep doing the work they love by cutting out middle-man OTAs!

About Guest Education Day

Guest Education Day is a non-branded, annual event that began in February 2018. On this day, vacation rental owners and managers — as well as commission-free listing sites and other invested industry leaders — come together to support each other and promote the #BookDirect movement by educating future guests about the benefits of direct booking.

In 2020, participants using the hashtag #BookDirect shared more than 78,500 posts on Guest Education Day, and made more than 166 MILLION impressions on Instagram and Twitter alone (Source: vrmintel.com). In 2021, supporters are hoping to build on that engagement, bringing word about the benefits of book direct to even more potential vacation home renters.

Looking for a cabin to BOOK DIRECT?

You can see all of our listings brought together on one map at www.ItsCabinTime.com. Happy direct booking! #ItsCabinTime

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Fall Into Big Savings on Vacation This Autumn

Summer is coming to an end, but the fun doesn’t need to end with it. Autumn’s cooler temperatures and bright colors make it the perfect time to embrace the outdoors and finally plan that cabin getaway. 

Following are just some of the perks that fall travelers enjoy. 

Fall fun

Autumn is one of the best seasons to enjoy nature’s simple pleasures. In many vacation spots, it’s easy to combine a relaxing cabin stay with trips to farmers’ markets, apple orchards and pumpkin patches, plus seasonal treats like hot apple cider and freshly baked pies. 

Lower rates

On top of autumn’s scenic incentives, travelers get the added perk of lower rental rates when they travel in the fall. If you’re looking for good values and package deals that will give you the best bang for buck, a fall vacation is for you. 

Flexible stays

Another perk of fall travel is more flexible stays. During the fall season, It’s Cabin Time’s weekly-only policy switches to a two or three night minimum. Whether you’re planning an extended trip or a weekend getaway, your dream destination is available.

A change of scenery

With both school and work being remote for many families, why not ditch your work from home routine and “work from cabin” instead? Most It’s Cabin Time vacation rentals have WiFi, so you can get a change of scenery and still keep up with your responsibilities. 

With most travelers taking beach vacations during the summer and mountain trips in the winter, it pays off to go against the grain. Whatever type of autumn getaway you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.

Begin your search for the perfect rental at www.itscabintime.com, or choose your state below:

Wisconsin | Michigan | Minnesota | Montana | New York | Tennessee | Kentucky

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Plan an Accessible Guided Fishing Trip This Summer

Rod ’n’ reel: base lakes open to fishingSummer is finally here, and with it comes a slew of outdoor activities best enjoyed in the sunshine. Fishing is one of our favorite summer pastimes because it’s accessible to people young and old, expert and novice, and those with disabilities.

The following is a list of places you can book an accessible guided fishing trip near one of ItsCabinTime.com vacation properties.

Healing Waters Fly Fishing – Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Tennessee, Wisconsin

Project Healing Waters provides free, full-spectrum fly fishing programs and services to wounded, ill and injured veterans and military service members. The organization plans to host virtual meetings throughout summer 2020 to ensure vulnerable veterans have a continuum of care and supportive community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fishing Has No Boundaries, Inc. – Wisconsin, Minnesota

In partnership with Access Ability Wisconsin, Fishing Has No Boundaries proudly provides recreational fishing opportunities for all anglers with disabilities, as well as acting as a resource for information on adaptive fishing equipment and accessibility. As their website says, “A Fishing Has No Boundaries event is truly an unforgettable way to spend a weekend on or near the lakeshore with a new friend, relative, neighbor, co-worker, or a much anticipated comrade in the thrill of catching that “big one”—no matter the size.”

Western New York Adoptive Water Sports – New York

With pontoons and power boats that have flexible seating and a Hoyer lift especially for wheelchairs, Western New York Adaptive Water Sports caters to vacationers with disabilities and youth that would otherwise not have the chance to experience a guided fishing trip. 

Jeff Evans Fishing – Wisconsin

Jeff Evans is a U.S. Coast Guard Charter Captain and credentialed Wisconsin Fishing Guide on the Great Lakes, Hayward Area Lakes, Chequamegon Bay and the St. Louis River. His fishing trips are catered to the individual needs of his customers and are designed to provide an educational, interactive and fun experience while exploring the endless fishing opportunities available in Northern Wisconsin.

Contact the organizations above to schedule your accessible guided fishing trip this summer. No matter your level of ability, there are organizations and people out there who can help you have a great day of fishing. Have fun!

Thank you for supporting our growing number of regional vacation rental listing websites that allow renters to connect and book directly with owners and local property managers.

Begin your search for the perfect rental at www.itscabintime.com, or choose your state below: Wisconsin | Michigan | Minnesota | Montana | New York | Tennessee | Kentucky
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Websites offers free listings for vacation rental property owners amid uncertain 2020 summer rental season

April 28, 2020 – Middleton, WI – Knowing that social-distancing will be at the forefront of vacationers’ minds this summer, JM Creative Group LLC is offering free rental property listings on three of their book-direct websites: 1 year free at RentKentuckyCabins.com and RentMontanaCabins.com; 6 months free at RentTennesseeCabins.com. 

Now more than ever, vacationers will be looking for getaways that are outdoors, isolated and within driving distance from their homes. In exchange for a free 6- or 12-month listing, property owners set up their own listing details and photos in a provided template. ”We know many rental property owners and managers are scrambling this year to fill cancellations and vacancies caused by coronavirus,“  said Joe Mogensen, the company’s founder. “This is our chance to give something back to the rental property market while also helping vacation rental owners get through this difficult time.”

An added bonus is peace of mind for vacationers. By booking directly with vacation rental owners or local property managers, renters speak directly to the person in charge and not a call center. “Rather than discouraging the connection between owners and potential renters, our group of websites take a more friendly and relaxed approach to renting cabins, cottages, lodges, or homes by offering direct booking,” explains Mogensen. Vacationers can have all of their questions answered by the owners — who are often locals themselves. They can get a real sense of what to expect in the community when they arrive and be assured firsthand that they will be able to enjoy a clean, safe and worry-free retreat.

Joe started his free-to-use internet service in his home state of Wisconsin, where he and his family have experienced many enjoyable vacations in lakeside cabins. More than seven and a half million site views later, renter traffic is up 18% compared to the year before across all of his websites.After launching RentWisconsinCabins.com, Mogensen expanded his vision with similar sites in Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Montana, Tennessee and Kentucky. He has plans to create websites for several more states. 

JMCG has proven that bringing vacation rental owners together onto state-specific websites bolsters their property’s online exposure. The peaceful, timeless feeling of a comfortable cabin is captured in his trademarked theme line, “It’s cabin time®.”

For more information or a direct interview, give Joe a call at (608) 721-6238 or email him at jmogensen@jmcreativegroup.com.