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?