When it comes to Property Management Systems (PMS) designed for short-term rental (STR) managers, Hostaway is one of the top contenders. Since its launch in 2015, Hostaway has become a popular choice for vacation rental managers looking to streamline operations, enhance property management across multiple platforms, and increase direct bookings. This review covers everything you need to know about Hostaway, from its pricing and app features to its API capabilities and integrations with other tools.
Hostaway Key Features and Highlights
We’ve compiled the most standout features here, or you can find a full table with every Hostaway feature below.
Channel Management
Hostaway’s channel management feature is among its most powerful. It enables managers to sync properties across top OTAs like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and more—helping avoid double bookings and optimize occupancy.
- Unified Calendar: Manage availability across all OTAs in one synchronized calendar.
- Rate Management: Adjust pricing, apply discounts, and set markups for different OTAs to optimize revenue.
- Multi-Unit Support: Manage multiple units within a property with ease.
Direct Booking Website Builder
For property managers looking to reduce their reliance on OTAs, Hostaway provides tools to create a custom direct booking website.
- Custom Website Creation: Build your own SEO-optimized website without coding skills.
- Coupon Management: Offer custom promotions via email and SMS to encourage direct bookings.
- SEO Capabilities: Optimize your direct booking site using Hostaway’s built-in SEO tools and WordPress plugin for higher search engine rankings.
The Hostaway app is designed for property managers who need to manage their business on the go. From guest communication to task automation, the app covers the essentials, though some advanced features are limited to the desktop version.
- Unified Inbox: Manage all guest communications from OTAs, email, and SMS in one place.
- Mobile Task Management: Automate tasks like housekeeping and check-ins directly from the app.
Automated Guest Communication
Hostaway’s automation tools help streamline guest communication, reducing manual work while enhancing guest satisfaction.
- Multichannel Messaging: Communicate via SMS, WhatsApp, or email, and consolidate all conversations in a single dashboard.
- Customizable Automations: Set automated messages for booking confirmations, check-in instructions, and review requests.
Hostaway Integrations & API
Hostaway supports over 150 integrations with leading tools for vacation rental management. From dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs and Wheelhouse to smart lock integrations with Yale and Nuki, Hostaway’s API allows seamless connectivity with third-party services, enhancing the platform’s flexibility.
- Dynamic Pricing Integrations: Connect tools like PriceLabs to adjust rates based on market demand automatically.
- Smart Lock Integrations: Generate door codes for guests automatically with providers like August and Nuki.
- Marketing Integrations: Top guest marketing software including leading WiFi, email, and SMS marketing providers like StayFi.
Hostaway’s API enables advanced users to build custom solutions or integrate with external software, offering flexibility for growing businesses.
Hostaway follows a custom pricing model based on your portfolio size and required features. Though the Hostaway pricing details aren’t publicly listed, property managers can request a tailored quote based on their specific needs.
- Custom Quotes: Schedule a demo to get a quote based on your portfolio size and features required.
- Onboarding Fee: Hostaway charges a one-time onboarding fee, which includes one-on-one setup and training.
Hostaway PMS : Performance & Scalability
As a robust PMS, Hostaway offers high reliability and performance, ensuring minimal downtime and seamless integration with external tools. This makes it a great choice for both small and large property management teams looking to scale their operations efficiently.
- Reliable Integrations: With direct API connections to major OTAs, Hostaway ensures real-time synchronization of bookings.
- Scalability: Hostaway’s integrations and automation tools grow with your business, allowing you to manage hundreds of properties effortlessly.
Hostaway Pros and Cons
Pros:
- All-in-One Platform: Combines PMS, channel management, and direct booking tools.
- Exceptional Support: 24/7 customer support and personalized onboarding.
- Extensive Integrations: Over 150 integrations with third-party tools, including dynamic pricing and marketing software.
- Automation: Automate guest communication and task management to save time.
Cons:
- Complex Pricing: Requires a custom quote, with no standard pricing listed.
- No Free Trial: The lack of a free trial might be a drawback for smaller hosts.
- Limited Mobile App Features: The Hostaway app lacks some advanced features available on the desktop.
In conclusion, Hostaway is a feature-packed PMS designed for short-term rental managers. Its combination of channel management, integrations, and automation tools makes it one of the most comprehensive solutions available. While the pricing model may not suit smaller hosts, it’s a fantastic investment for property managers looking to scale efficiently. Whether you’re managing a handful of properties or hundreds, Hostaway offers the flexibility, performance, and support you need to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Hostaway does not offer a free trial. However, they provide a paid trial for property managers with 200+ properties.
Yes, Hostaway is built to handle portfolios of all sizes. Whether you manage a few properties or hundreds, Hostaway’s features scale seamlessly to accommodate your needs.
Hostaway integrates with popular OTAs like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, Expedia, and Google Vacation Rentals, among others.
Yes, Hostaway offers a customizable website builder that allows you to create branded direct booking websites, helping you reduce OTA fees.
