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Summer R&R: What Pandemic-Weary Vacationers Crave After months of self-isolation and concern about coronavirus spikes, vacationers seek safe summer rentals. Learn how to help clients get away and enjoy healthful relaxation. By Barbara Ballinger When news about the pandemic started to spread earlier this year, one hard-hit segment was the vacation rental market. Bookings were canceled and vacation property managers returned deposits. Imaginative homeowners envisioned their backyards as “staycation” resorts with outdoor activities for those quarantining together. But as cities come out of lockdown and reopen, a surprising phenomenon is happening: Almost overnight, those same real estate professionals in choice summer destinations are now being inundated with requests to rent their listings. After being isolated indoors for weeks, many people couldn’t wait to escape
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to bucolic places with uncrowded sidewalks, playgrounds, and parks. “All of a sudden, everyone wanted to get away. Bookings skyrocketed, including for mid-week, which used to be a slow time. We didn’t have enough inventory to accommodate everyone or for the time period desired,” said Tripti Kasal, senior vice president at Baird & Warner’s Chicago office and owner of Stop43 Vacation Rentals in Michiana, Mich. Jason Milovich, a broker and owner of Blue Fish Vacation Rentals in Southwest Michigan, experienced similar reactions from his main clientele coming from Chicago and Indianapolis. “We’re busier than we were (last year) and are even booking for fall,” he said.
