Universal’s Epic Universe, the resort’s fourth theme park, will open on May 22, 2025. This is big news for fans of theme parks, as the new property will include five worlds, including Celestial Park, which will have portals to the other themed lands. It will also have 50 attractions, dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The Universal Studios Store is also expanding.
If you’re renting out a property near Universal Studios, this is excellent news for you. Demand is already high, and with new reasons to visit Universal, you’ll likely attract even more tenants who want to stay for a few days or even longer.
We’re talking about vacation rentals in Orlando, specifically those vacation rentals near Universal Studios, and how we can leverage location to maximize your occupancy rates.
Universal Studios Location in Orlando, FL
Universal Studios is located in Orlando. As you probably know, Orlando is pretty big, and the metropolitan area encompasses much more than the Disney theme parks and properties. Universal Studios is on Universal Boulevard, on the west side of Orlando’s city center. It’s close to Interstate 4 and the Florida Turnpike, making access pretty easy from any part of the city.
There are many resorts, hotels, restaurants, shops, and additional attractions surrounding Universal. Residential neighborhoods can also be found in this part of Orlando, and if you’re renting out one of those properties, you’ll want to market your location as a great reason to book your home.
Maximizing Occupancy by Marketing Location
Your listing must celebrate the fact that your Orlando rental property is near Universal Studios. When you’re located this close, it’s also nearby to sites and attractions such as:
- Universal CityWalk
- Islands of Adventure
- Volcano Bay
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Hard Rock Live
It’s not just the theme parks you’re close to. There are also low-key attractions that can enhance and diversify a guest’s Orlando experience. When you’re marketing your rental property, talk about Lake Eola Park, which is great for a nature walk or a picnic. There’s also the largest McDonald’s PlayPlace in the neighborhood, which is a fantastic selling point considering the number of families with children who are traveling to Orlando every year.
Universal Studios is close to I-4, which is helpful if guests are hoping to take a day trip to Tampa. It’s off the Florida Turnpike, which will help visitors get to Gainesville or Miami.
Location is one of the driving factors when short-term renters decide on the place they want to stay in Orlando. It’s a sprawling city, but a large number of tourists come for the theme parks. When you’re close to Universal Studios, you want to broadcast that fact and attract the largest possible pool of potential guests and tenants.
Proven Strategies to Increase Occupancy in Vacation Rentals
You have something pretty impressive going for you: you’re close to Universal Studios.
An optimal location will only get you so far. Do enough people know that your property is available, and located in such a highly desirable area of Orlando? Here’s how to get the word out and make sure people are easy to rent your property.
- Optimize Your Listing for Visibility
Your listing is often a guest’s first impression of your property online. Crafting an optimized listing that highlights your property’s best features is essential. You’ve advertised the location. Make sure you’re also using professional-grade photos that showcase your home’s best assets, whether that’s a sparkling swimming pool to cozy interiors.
Incorporate location keywords like “near Universal Studios” to improve search engine rankings on booking platforms. And, highlight unique amenities such as free parking, extra-large bedrooms, or a fully stocked kitchen for families. Property owners who take the time to polish their listings often report a remarkable increase in inquiries.
- Offer Irresistible Amenities
Orlando travelers planning to spend time at Universal Studios are looking for properties that not only meet their basic needs but also provide a memorable experience. Ensure your property has high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and streaming services. Offer items like strollers, baby gates, or game consoles, which cater to families visiting Universal Studios and theme parks. Consider themed bedrooms inspired by Universal movies. This can give your property an extra splash of charm and make your property stand out among the many generic vacation rentals.
- Leverage Seasonal Pricing Models
Optimizing pricing based on Orlando’s seasonality can help maximize your income. Charge premium rates during holidays, spring break, and Universal Studios events like Halloween Horror Nights or Mardi Gras festivals. Offer discounts or package deals to attract budget-conscious travelers during slower months.
- Prioritize Guest Experience
Providing a great experience in a near-perfect location will create a buzz about your property, which you can use to keep occupancy levels high. Word-of-mouth referrals and positive reviews are pivotal in ensuring future bookings. Focus on delivering a seamless, memorable guest experience by going the extra mile. Provide a personalized welcome letter with tips on exploring Universal Studios and nearby attractions. Partner with local businesses (such as restaurants) to offer discounts exclusive to your guests. Respond quickly to guest inquiries and address any concerns promptly.
Guests who feel cared for are more likely to leave glowing reviews, which greatly improve your ranking on rental platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
Maximize Occupancy by Partnering with an Orlando Property Management Expert
Managing a vacation rental takes time, effort, and expertise. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, partnering with a professional property management company can alleviate operational challenges while improving your bottom line. It’s sure to help you maximize occupancy and avoid long, expensive vacancies.
From marketing and guest communication to maintenance and dynamic pricing, property managers ensure your investment is optimized for success. Many Orlando property owners who turn to vacation rental management professionals report significant increases in occupancy rates within months.
We have a deep understanding of the Universal Studios neighborhood in Orlando, and we can help keep your vacation rental occupied for most of the year. Please contact our team at Park Avenue Property Management. We work in Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, Kissimmee, Celebration, Maitland, Altamonte Springs, West Palm Beach, Tampa Bay, and throughout central Florida.