How to Manage Multiple Booking Sites

Question

Hi all! What's the best way to manage listing my property on multiple STR sites such as AirBNB and VRBO? Is there an overarching management platform I can use to ensure I am not double booked and such?

Also, what are your recommendations for the best platform / site to list my property as a STR? Are there other sites to AirBNB and VRBO?

thank you!

John Underwood · Answer

VRBO and Airbnb will synchronize calendars with each other to prevent double bookings.

Lauren Robins · Answer

Hi Christine!

Great question—managing STRs across multiple platforms like Airbnb and VRBO can be tricky if you're doing it manually, especially when it comes to preventing double bookings and keeping calendars synced. Fortunately, there are several channel managers and property management systems (PMS) designed to streamline this process. These platforms allow you to manage bookings, availability, pricing, and even guest communication across multiple listing sites from one central dashboard. Some of the most popular and reliable tools in this space include Guesty (like Josh above recommended), Hostaway, Lodgify, OwnerRez, and Your Porter. Each has slightly different features and pricing models, so the best choice depends on your budget, tech comfort, and how many properties you’re managing.

These platforms sync calendars in real time, so if a guest books your property on Airbnb, the availability is immediately updated on VRBO and other channels you've connected. Most also offer automation tools—like messaging templates, dynamic pricing integration, and automated reviews—which can save you significant time. Many PMS platforms also support direct booking websites, which can help you avoid platform fees and build repeat clientele.

As for where to list your property, Airbnb and VRBO are the biggest players, but you shouldn’t stop there if you want to maximize exposure. Booking.com is another large platform that’s increasingly used for vacation rentals. Marriott Homes & Villas and Plum Guide cater to higher-end properties, while Furnished Finder is a great option if you're open to mid-term stays (especially popular with traveling professionals like nurses). Houfy is a no-fee alternative that supports direct bookings and gives you more control, though its audience is smaller.

Ultimately, Airbnb tends to be best for ease of use and global reach, while VRBO often attracts longer-term or family vacationers. Booking.com may bring in more international traffic, and niche platforms can help you fill in gaps or target specific audiences. Using a centralized management system can help you experiment across platforms without the chaos of managing them all separately.

Note: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. No attorney-client, fiduciary, or professional relationship is established through this communication.

Andrew Street · Answer

Hey Christine - The best way to manage listings across multiple platforms like Airbnb and VRBO is by using a channel manager like Hospitable, Guesty for Hosts, OwnerRez, or Hostaway. These sync calendars, messaging, and bookings to prevent double-booking and save you time.As for listing sites, Airbnb and VRBO are definitely the big ones, but you might also consider Booking.com, Furnished Finder (for mid-term stays), and even direct booking websites if you're ready to build a brand.

Myka Artis · Answer

You can use many platforms to manage all your STRs in one place and have them automatically listed on the OTAs for you. A few PMPs are Guesty, Owner Rez, Hostfully (This is who I use), Hostaway, etc. The best platform is always your website, but OTAs are market-dependent. My urban places do better on Airbnb, and my more rural areas do better on VRBO. I get reservations from both markets, but sometimes it takes a little testing to see what clientele you will get. I'd list everywhere possible, personally, and you can start to find out which works best for you. I have a place in the city where people will pay 50% more at Marriott Homes Villas than they would on Airbnb. Just know that each place you list has a different clientele that may pay more or less just by being listed on a particular OTA.

Patricia Andriolo-Bull · Answer

It is not at all tricky.  If you have only one property, link them using iCal.  It works well and they easily sync.

Andrew Steffens · Answer

All the PMS listed above are viable options, but I really do not think they are needed until you have at least 5+ listings.

Kate Sanchez · Answer

@Christine Brown  Look into platforms like Guesty, Hostaway, or Lodgify - they help sync calendars and avoid double bookings across sites.

Christine Brown · Answer

@John Underwood that is awesome to hear! Thanks so much!

John Underwood · Answer

I find VRBO the easiest to use and I get most of my bookings from VRBO so I use it as the main calendar and Airbnb synchronizes with any direct bookings that I block in VRBO.

Christine Brown · Answer

@Lauren Robins wow this is absolutely incredible information! Thank you so much!

How to Manage Multiple Booking Sites

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