Why 64% of Our Bookings Are Direct – The Power of Non-OTA Distribution
The landscape of short-term rentals in the UK is changing, and a growing number of landlords are discovering the advantages of direct bookings. At Keapr, we have seen that 64% of our bookings come from sources outside of popular online travel agencies (OTAs) like Airbnb and Booking.com. In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind this trend and how non-OTA distribution can benefit landlords looking for higher-quality, longer stays.
H2: Understanding Direct Bookings
Direct bookings refer to reservations made through a property’s website or through personal inquiries rather than through OTAs. While OTAs are popular for attracting smaller, leisure-driven bookings, they often come with hefty fees and a lack of control over guest interactions. As landlords seek to maximise their profits and minimise their dependence on these platforms, direct bookings have emerged as a compelling alternative.
H3: Benefits of Direct Bookings
– **Reduced Fees**: OTAs typically charge commissions between 10% and 20%. By securing direct bookings, landlords can retain more of their rental income.
– **Enhanced Guest Relationships**: Direct interaction with guests allows for better communication, helping landlords establish a rapport and cater to specific needs.
– **Tailored Experience**: Landlords can offer customized packages and pricing, creating a unique experience that may not be available through OTAs.
– **Repeat Business**: Establishing a direct relationship with guests encourages repeat bookings, significantly increasing occupancy rates.
– **Flexibility in Terms**: Direct bookings enable more flexible terms, such as customised payment schedules and invoicing options.
H2: Leveraging Diverse Distribution Channels
Keapr’s extensive network boasts over 92 distribution channels, enabling landlords to tap into a variety of markets. This multifaceted approach helps reduce reliance on any one source while creating a steady stream of bookings.
H3: Contractor and Insurance Database Distribution
Our partnerships with contractors and insurance companies help us to fill properties with high-quality guests who are looking for longer stays. These guests often require accommodations for 30 to 90 nights or more, reducing turnover and providing landlords with stable income.
– **Contractor Accommodation**: This segment includes workers involved in long-term projects, providing landlords with guaranteed occupancy over extended periods.
– **Insurance Relocation**: When tenants find themselves displaced due to unforeseen circumstances, such as damage to their homes, insurance companies often look to Keapr for suitable housing solutions. This relationship guarantees bookings from reputable sources, mitigating risks for landlords.
H2: Quality Over Quantity: The Corporate Stay Advantage
Landlords should also consider the benefits of corporate stays compared to standard Airbnb guests. The latter often include tourists or weekenders whose plans may lead to more wear and tear on your property due to parties or late-night activities.
H3: Why Quality Matters
– **Lower Wear and Tear**: Corporate guests, including contractors and business professionals, typically have a more respectful approach to rental properties. This reduces the potential for damage and keeps maintenance costs lower.
– **Invoicing Options**: Many corporate clients prefer the option of invoiced stays, offering landlords the opportunity to secure payment in advance.
– **Stable Income Streams**: Longer stays from corporate clients mean less frequent tenant turnover, which can result in fewer periods of vacancy.
H2: The Future of Direct Booking in the UK Short-Term Rental Market
As the short-term rental landscape evolves, the importance of direct bookings will only grow. Landlords who adapt to these changes will reap the financial rewards while fostering better relationships with their guests.
H3: Building a Direct Booking Strategy
To optimise for direct bookings, landlords can implement several key strategies:
– **Develop a Professional Website**: A dedicated site enables landlords to showcase their properties effectively and accept bookings directly.
– **Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)**: Implementing SEO strategies ensures your website appears in search results when potential guests look for rental properties.
– **Leverage Social Media**: Active engagement on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn can attract potential guests and direct traffic to your website.
– **Networking**: Establish connections within the corporate sector, contractors, and local insurance agencies to help secure a steady stream of direct bookings.
– **Offer Incentives**: Providing discounts for direct bookings or added features, like complimentary cleaning services, can encourage guests to bypass OTAs.
H2: Conclusion
The benefits of non-OTA distribution in the short-term rental market cannot be overstated. By focusing on direct bookings, landlords can enjoy reduced costs, improved guest relationships, and the potential for longer, more stable stays. With our extensive database and relationships with corporate clients, Keapr is well-positioned to help landlords make this transition seamlessly.
If you are a landlord looking for higher-quality, longer stays, speak to Keapr today.