Why 64% of Our Bookings Are Direct – The Power of Non-OTA Distribution
In the expanding universe of short-term rentals, managing bookings from online travel agencies (OTAs) is often seen as a necessary evil. Many landlords find themselves paying hefty commissions to platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, which can eat away at profits. At Keapr, we’ve flipped the script: 64% of our bookings are direct, thanks to our innovative approach to non-OTA distribution. This blog explores how landlords can harness the power of direct bookings to enhance profitability, security, and guest quality.
H2: Understanding Non-OTA Distribution
Non-OTA distribution refers to securing bookings outside the standard online platforms. These include corporate clients, contractor accommodation, and insurance relocation stays, which are typically facilitated through direct relationships and robust marketing strategies.
H3: The Benefits of Direct Bookings
1. **Higher Profit Margins**
Direct bookings eliminate the commission fees associated with OTAs, allowing landlords to retain more of their rental income. This can often mean the difference between a profitable property and a financial headache.
2. **Improved Guest Quality**
While OTAs often attract a broad spectrum of guests, direct bookings tend to result in higher-quality tenants. Corporates and contractors are generally committed individuals who seek stable accommodations for longer periods, typically averaging 30 to 90+ nights.
3. **Reduced Wear and Tear**
Properties booked through OTAs often cater to party-goers and weekend travellers, contributing to quicker wear and tear. In contrast, corporate clients and contractors tend to treat homes more respectfully, leading to less maintenance in the long run.
4. **Nationwide Coverage**
Keapr has established relationships with a wide range of corporate entities, contractors, and insurance companies across the UK. This nationwide reach allows us to place tenants in multiple locales effectively, maximising booking options.
H2: How Keapr Tap into Diverse Distribution Channels
Keapr operates with over 92 distribution channels, ensuring a comprehensive approach to marketing properties. This not only expands reach but also diversifies the sources of bookings, reducing reliance on a single platform. Here are some of the channels we utilise:
– **Corporate Relationships**
Establish direct lines of communication with businesses looking for contractor accommodation or temporary housing solutions. Companies often prefer reliable and established providers like Keapr, leading to consistent business.
– **Insurance Partnerships**
Collaborate with insurance agencies to provide accommodation for displaced tenants, tapping into a steady flow of bookings that might otherwise go to OTAs.
– **Direct Marketing Initiatives**
Implement targeted marketing campaigns that speak directly to your desired audience—corporate clients, contractors, and insurance firms—highlighting the benefits of choosing landlords who manage their own properties through Keapr.
H3: The Advantage of Invoicing Options
Another compelling aspect of direct bookings is flexible invoicing options. Corporates and insurance companies appreciate the ability to bill their bookings, offering an added layer of financial security for both tenants and landlords. This flexibility not only makes managing finances simpler but also fosters stronger relationships with clients.
H2: Maximising Your Property’s Potential with Keapr
To fully capitalise on the potential of direct bookings, landlords must consider eager strategies that appeal to businesses and contractors. Here are some tips to help enhance your property’s allure in the corporate market:
1. **Professional Presentation**
Ensure that your property is well-furnished and professionally maintained. High-quality images and descriptions on your website will be crucial in attracting the quality of guests that Keapr specializes in managing.
2. **Long-Stay Amenities**
Invest in amenities that appeal to longer stays, such as home-office setups, laundry facilities, and kitchen equipment. These features cater to the specific needs of contractors and corporate tenants.
3. **Flexible Check-In/Check-Out**
By offering flexible check-in and check-out times, you cater to the needs of business travellers who may have varying schedules.
H3: Conclusion
In an increasingly competitive landscape, it’s important for landlords to adapt and leverage innovative approaches like non-OTA distribution. By focusing on securing direct bookings, landlords can enhance profitability, reduce wear and tear, and improve tenant quality. With 64% of our bookings coming from direct channels, Keapr is positioned to guide you through this beneficial transition.
If you are a landlord looking for higher-quality, longer stays, speak to Keapr today.