Running Airbnb properties can be a challenging task, but utilising the right software will make it much simpler for hosts. There are various Airbnb software options available that can help you manage your properties, reservations, and guests, making it easier to run your business efficiently. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best types of software available.
PMS (Property Management System) for short term lets
This is arguably the most important software for the smooth operation of your Airbnb properties. Your PMS will allow you to sync your booking calendar across multiple platforms and help you manage all other aspects of your business from one place.
A good PMS tool will help you especially on these fronts:
Channel management - this allows hosts to list their properties on all major short term rental OTA websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO and other direct booking websites. And you can manage it from one central location
Automated messaging - this can be set up to send guests messages before, during or after their stay. It is useful for example to send out check-in instructions and requests for reviews.
Reservation management – this allows you to view and manage reservations as well as set custom pricing and availability.
A great example PMS is Guesty but there are many other alternatives which can work well.
Dynamic pricing tools for short term rentals
The tool uses data and algorithms to set prices for listings based on demand, competition and seasonality. Here's some of the benefits in more detail:
Competitor analysis - hosts can get data on how their prices compare to those of similar listings in the same area and so allows you to customise the prices accordingly.
Revenue maximisation - you can receive suggestions on pricing to help fill up your calendar whilst maximising revenue.
Integrations - good pricing tools integrate with other tools such as your main PMS or OTA, allowing hosts to set prices across multiple platforms
A popular dynamic pricing tool you can check out is Price Labs.
Deposit & ID Collection
This is important to ensure that you are adequately protected in case your guest causes damage to your property. Collecting deposit payments and checking IDs can be a time-consuming task so it is advisable to use software to automate this process. Whilst many PMS tools will have deposit and ID collection built into them, you may want to explore stand alone technology for this purpose.
Airbnb software for maintenance & task management
Good organisation and scheduling of maintenance tasks is important to ensure that your business is operating efficiently. As you scale up your business, handling maintenance can quickly become problematic if you don’t have a robust system in place. Again, a strong PMS tool will have this functionality built into it, but there are excellent independent options too.
These areas in your Airbnb business are rife for efficiency gains from great software and technology - so take the time to integrate them into your operations. It will make a difference in the long run!
And if you want to learn more about running Airbnbs and growing your portfolio, check out more from our blog for property investors:
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