we are looking to get away from airbnb does anyone have any knowledge of how to get dorect bookings?

We are located in Des Moines Iowa, so I understand your “non-vacation” area situation. We use Airbnb as a tool: If they bring the guest to me, then I don't mind paying the 15.5%...but, if the guest books a 2nd time on Airbnb, that's my fault. We focus on guest retention and booking the next time direct. I have QR codes and custom signs on the welcome table and fridge, showing guests that they can “save on their next visit by booking direct” and a QR code leading them to my website (with Hospitable widget) to book. 

I also focus heavy on branding. They need to know its a DSM Stays property...not an Airbnb. My branding is in the property name, and I have logos everywhere in the house. They can search on Google and find my houses as well, as I have them on Google Business listings. 

Hi  ​@Ushman  — I’d be more than happy to share some of my experience and a few practical options for increasing direct bookings and reducing your dependence on Airbnb.

There are several different approaches depending on your current setup, website, guest communication, and how much of the booking journey you want to control directly.

Feel free to email me directly at lana.u@polydom.ai and I’ll be happy to share a few tips that may fit your situation.

I also really like ​@Matt Krueger’s idea with the QR code — I think that’s a very practical way to keep the relationship with the guest and encourage repeat direct bookings.

​@Matt Krueger, once a guest scans the QR code and starts that journey, do you have any automation behind it to handle questions, follow-up, or help move the guest toward booking, or is that still handled manually?

Are you seeing RETURN guests or are they all net new? The strategy can be different, but what you’re talking about ultimately is marketing to an audience. When using Airbnb (or another OTA like VRBO or Bookingdotcom) you’re paying them for that marketing in aggregate essentially + the other things they offer. 

It’s definitely wise to diversify and we have found that having Stayfi in our properties is key to establishing those 1:1 relationships that you are gated from doing when using Airbnb’s platform. 

Sign up and get 50% off the 1st 3 months via my affiliate link. 

QR codes, business cards, postcards or other branded items can also help. It’s not an immediate fix, but starting now will allow you to be successful in the future. 

Don’t build your home on someone else’s land.

There’s a great workshop happening tomorrow! You can find more information and register here.