Best management platform

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Best management platform

Greg Strunak
Member since 2024 · 23 posts · 10 votes

BP friends,

I have just purchased my first STR property and close in March! I was wondering what some of the better management tools to use for a single STR. Ive been doing some research seems like guesty, hostfully, ownerez, hospitable seem to be the most popular. Has anyone used the platforms or have any insite. Also does pricelabs integrate into any of these management platforms?

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Andrew SteffensBusiness Member
Tampa, FL · Member since 2022 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
2y

We just used the apps until approaching somewhere between 5-10.  The Airbnb/VRBO apps have some useful little tricks like saved responses.  The rest you can make copy and pastes in excel or something.  Just make sure your calendars are synced!

[email protected]813-563-0877
Vacation Rentals of Florida53 Reviews
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  • John UnderwoodPro Member
    Investor · Greer, SC · Member since 2014 · 13k+ posts · 17k+ votes
    2y

    One property, just use the Vrbo and Airbnb apps. Synchronize the calendars.

    0Reply
  • Trent Reeve
    Atlanta · Member since 2022 · 716 posts · 645 votes
    2y

    i started with 1 property. I use OwnerRez. it is nice to set up email triggers, templates, create a direct booking website. it does integrate with Pricelabs and also has integration with other platforms besides VRBO and Airbnb. 

    1Reply
  • Michael BaumPro Member
    Olympia, WA · Member since 2016 · 8k+ posts · 7k+ votes
    2y

    Just the apps.

    I would do a search as this is a very common question with a lot of posts to peruse.

    0Reply
  • Andrew SteffensBusiness Member
    Tampa, FL · Member since 2022 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    2y

    We just used the apps until approaching somewhere between 5-10.  The Airbnb/VRBO apps have some useful little tricks like saved responses.  The rest you can make copy and pastes in excel or something.  Just make sure your calendars are synced!

    [email protected]813-563-0877
    Vacation Rentals of Florida53 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    1Reply
  • Jason Tarabokija
    Real Estate Agent · NJ · Member since 2015 · 24 posts · 15 votes
    2y

    Congrats on the purchase Greg! 
    I manage multiple units so I use Hospitable. The automated guest messages as well as the smart lock integration is worth its monthly price, which is much cheaper than other PM software. It also integrates with price labs seamlessly. When I had a single unit, I stated with just using Airbnb and VRBO with synced calendars, which works fine, but it’s just a bit more time consuming. Hope this helps and good luck on your journey! 

    0Reply
  • Sarah KensingerPro Member
    Real Estate Consultant · OH · Member since 2023 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    2y

    We use Jurny and love how many different softwares are built right into the PMS. I've heard Hospitable is the easiest to use, and these days Guesty has the most problems. But you'll need to decide what fits your needs and budget right now as a host.

    [email protected]330-557-3021
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  • Brooklyn McCarty
    Investor · Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 754 votes
    2y

    Most PMS are very similar, it really comes down to personal preference. Most also have a free 14 day trial. Test drive a couple to see what you like the most. 

    PL does integrate with most all major PMS. 

    I used IGMS for almost four years, it was simple, did what I needed it to do. Just switched to hospitable and so far loving it. Don't overthink it. If you pick one that doesn't work you can always switch. 

    1Reply
  • Theresa Holl
    Investor · Minneapolis · Member since 2023 · 265 posts · 162 votes
    2y

    Definitely get completely optimized on the first couple OTAs and maybe a channel mgr before investing a lot in software.  Optimized doesn't just mean your digital environment, but all the basics like making sure the rooms look photogenic and have an Instagrammable moment, having backups off all bedding and replaceable items so your property always looks like the pictures, setting up strategic partnerships with local businesses, tour guides, etc...

    As far as management - make sure to have a handful of cleaners and contractors on good terms. Also, this could be a good time to start getting to know VAs and experimenting with outsourced talent from around the world. I'm currently working with an outstanding VA from the Philippines and throwing a few small practice projects at her to see how she performs. I've also heard great things about South Africa and Nigeria for VAs. Don't start looking for these folks once you need them. Get comfortable with building a team so that once you grow, it's a network ready for you. Happy to connect you with some folks if you want to start learning. :)


    Prepare for growth. :)  Good luck!

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