Why 64% of Our Bookings Are Direct – The Power of Non-OTA Distribution
In today’s rental market, achieving a consistent flow of bookings can be challenging for landlords. However, Keapr has found that 64% of our bookings come from non-online travel agencies (OTAs). This remarkable statistic highlights the growing power of direct bookings and showcases the benefits that come from leveraging non-OTA distribution channels for short-term rentals, especially for contractors, corporate stays, and insurance relocations.
H2: Understanding Direct Bookings
Direct bookings refer to reservations made without the involvement of third-party platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Instead, these transactions often occur through direct outreach to property managers or landlords. At Keapr, we focus on creating robust channels that foster these direct relationships, enabling landlords to retain a larger portion of their rental income while appealing to a clientele seeking specific accommodation solutions.
H3: The Benefits of Direct Bookings
1. Higher Profit Margins
Landlords can avoid hefty commission fees charged by OTAs, typically ranging from 10% to 15%. By bypassing these fees, you retain more of your rental income, which can significantly boost your bottom line.
2. Loyal Customer Base
Establishing a direct connection with tenants creates a sense of trust and familiarity. This encourages repeat bookings, which can lead to more consistent occupancy rates over time.
3. Tailored Booking Experience
Direct communication allows for a personalised approach, where specific needs can be met more efficiently. Whether it’s unique check-in times, special amenities, or invoicing options for corporate clients, landlords can be more flexible and adaptive to their guests’ requests.
4. Reduced Wear and Tear
Focusing on long-stay corporate tenants, contractors, and insurance bookings often leads to a more stable environment. Guests typically take better care of the property, in contrast to short-term vacationers who might be less concerned about wear and tear.
H2: Strategies to Leverage Non-OTA Distribution
To achieve higher percentages of direct bookings, consider the following strategies:
H3: Build Direct Relationships with Corporations
1. Corporate Contracts
Establish relationships with companies that require short-term accommodation for their employees. Keapr has developed a strong database that connects landlords directly with corporate clients, enhancing the likelihood of consistent bookings.
2. Invoicing Options
Many corporate clients prefer invoicing over upfront payments. Offering this flexibility can set you apart from competitors using OTAs, making your accommodation more attractive.
H3: Harness Insurance Relocation Opportunities
Insurance companies often need to find temporary housing solutions for clients who’ve experienced a property loss. Partnering with insurers can create a steady stream of direct bookings that result in longer stays. Keapr assists landlords in reaching these clients through our established insurer networks.
H3: Optimise Your Online Presence
1. Effective Website
A professional website can serve as a central hub for potential tenants, showcasing your properties, available amenities, and any direct booking offers. Utilising SEO strategies can improve your visibility in search engines, drawing more organic traffic.
2. Social Media Marketing
Social media platforms can be powerful tools for promoting your properties. By sharing success stories, testimonials, and unique features of your rentals, you can attract viewers and convert them into direct bookings.
H2: What Sets Keapr Apart in the Market
With over 92 distribution channels available to landlords under our management, we provide an extensive network that ensures diverse streams of income. Unlike conventional models, we focus on creating long-term partnerships that yield consistent rental income while minimising the hassles often associated with property management.
Our focus on corporate stays and contractor accommodation has resulted in average stays of 30 to 90+ nights, reducing the administrative burdens for landlords while effectively filling void periods.
H3: Nationwide Coverage with Local Expertise
Keapr’s services span the entire UK, offering landlords the peace of mind that their properties are managed by an expert team aware of local market dynamics. Each client benefits from tailored marketing strategies designed to maximise visibility and attract direct bookings.
H2: Conclusion
In the crowded short-term rental market, the benefits of direct bookings cannot be overstated. With 64% of reservations at Keapr arising from these channels, it is clear that a non-OTA approach can significantly enhance your rental business. By utilising corporate contracts, insurance relationships, and building a strong online presence, landlords can tap into this lucrative market.
If you are a landlord looking for higher-quality, longer stays, speak to Keapr today. [Link to: Keapr Services Page]