Marketing
Direct Booking
A booking received directly by the owner or manager, without the intermediation of OTA portals.
What is a Direct Booking?
Direct Booking occurs when a guest books through your proprietary channels:
- Your website.
- Phone or WhatsApp.
- Email.
- Social Media (Instagram/Facebook).
- Word of mouth or returning customers.
The Holy Grail of Property Management
Direct bookings are often considered the ultimate goal of every professional manager for one simple reason: Margin. By eliminating OTA commissions (which range from 15% to 20%+), the net profit increases drastically.
How to Encourage Them?
Guests are used to the convenience of Airbnb or Booking. To convince them to book direct, you must offer a clear advantage:
- Best Rate Guarantee: The price on your site must always be lower than on OTAs (at least by 5-10%).
- Exclusive Benefits: Free early check-in, complimentary bottle of wine, or more flexible cancellation.
- Trust: A professional website and visible reviews.