How to Get Direct Bookings for Your Airbnb (And Keep More Profit)

Airbnb is great—but those 15–20% fees? Not so much. More hosts are turning to direct bookings to cut costs, build guest relationships, and take control of their business. Whether you manage one unit or ten, direct bookings can be a game-changer—if you set it up right. Here’s how to start getting direct bookings safely, legally, and profitably.

1. Why Direct Bookings Matter
✅ You keep more profit – No Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com fees
✅ You build guest loyalty – Stay in touch, offer deals, and create repeat bookings
✅ You gain control – Customize policies, cancellation terms, and payment methods
It’s not about ditching Airbnb—it’s about not relying on it.

2. Start With Your First Guests
Your best future guests are the ones who already stayed.
✅ Send a “thank you” message after checkout
✅ Let them know: “You can always book directly with us next time and save on fees!”
✅ Offer perks like early check-in, lower prices, or small loyalty bonuses
Repeat guests = easier bookings, higher trust, better behavior

3. Set Up a Simple Direct Booking Site
You don’t need to build a full Expedia clone.
Tools like:
✅ Lodgify
✅ Hostaway
✅ Zeevou
✅ Uplisting
These sites let you:

• Accept payments securely
• Sync calendars with Airbnb/VRBO
• Automate guest messages and confirmations
  You’ll look professional—and protect yourself legally.

4. Promote on Social Media (Without Being Pushy)
Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are powerful for visibility.
✅ Post your best photos, behind-the-scenes videos, and guest reviews
✅ Add your direct booking link in your bio
✅ Use hashtags like #torontoairbnb or #petfriendlyrental
✅ Mention last-minute availability or seasonal discounts
Focus on storytelling and lifestyle—not just “Book now!”

5. Collect Emails (Legally) and Build a List
Every guest = an opportunity to stay in touch
✅ Ask guests (after checkout) if they want to join your VIP guest list
✅ Send occasional emails:

• “We’ve added a firepit!”
• “15% off for returning guests this winter”
  ✅ Tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit can automate this
  Email is gold. Don’t ignore it.

6. Offer Something Airbnb Can’t
Why should someone book with you directly?
✅ Lower rates (pass on some of the savings)
✅ Flexible cancellation policies
✅ Free early check-in or pet perks
✅ Special touches: “Book direct and we’ll include a local snack basket”
Make your offer feel exclusive—like a VIP club.

7. Create a Google Business Profile
Guests search Airbnb… but they also Google your address or name.
✅ Set up your free Google My Business listing
✅ Add photos, a booking link, and contact info
✅ Ask happy guests to leave a Google review after their stay
This builds trust and helps you show up in local search results.

8. List on Niche Direct Booking Platforms
Outside of Airbnb and VRBO, try:
✅ Furnished Finder – For mid-term travel nurses
✅ CorporateHousing.com – For business travelers
✅ Facebook Groups – Especially local rental groups or expat forums
These platforms bring high-intent, high-quality guests.

9. Set Clear Policies and Protect Yourself
When Airbnb isn’t the middleman, you need to handle:
✅ Rental agreement (signed before arrival)
✅ ID verification (ask for ID via secure upload or use platforms with built-in checks)
✅ Security deposit (Stripe, Square, or Hostfully can collect this)
✅ Guest messaging and cancellation terms
The goal is to stay professional—not casual.

10. Combine Direct + Airbnb for Maximum Profit
You don’t have to choose one or the other.
✅ Use Airbnb to fill in last-minute dates
✅ Use direct bookings for repeat guests, longer stays, or peak seasons
✅ Block off certain dates on Airbnb to reserve for private guests
Smart hosts use both to maximize income and flexibility.

Own Your Bookings—Own Your Business
Airbnb is a platform. Your brand is the business. When you create a system for direct bookings, you gain control, keep more income, and build something sustainable.

Need help setting up your direct booking website, guest email system, or safe policies? BookedHosts offers full-service and virtual co-hosting to help you keep more and stress less. Email info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down to submit your property today.

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