Below follows are some steps vacation-home owners have taken to make the rental season last well beyond the peaks, increasing their income and lightening their mortgage loads.

If business is slow, owners might also consider calling or emailing repeat guests with discounted "VIP" off-season stays. These could be customized as celebratory weekend specials if an owner knows the regulars have a birthday or anniversary coming up.

Below follows are some steps vacation-home owners have taken to make the rental season last well beyond the peaks, increasing their income and lightening their mortgage loads.

If business is slow, owners might also consider calling or emailing repeat guests with discounted "VIP" off-season stays. These could be customized as celebratory weekend specials if an owner knows the regulars have a birthday or anniversary coming up.