Are you wondering why your listings on Houfy aren't getting any traction? Don't worry, you're not alone, many members struggle with the same issue. Below we will explain why and what could help.

For those who just joined and haven’t yet had a chance to learn about Houfy, it’s important to understand it’s not intended to be the instant solution to your OTA woes (although some of us are receiving bookings). Rather, Houfy is a community of like-minded individuals educating travelers/owners about book direct, and the benefits of using Houfy. And like most movements, change doesn’t happen overnight. Meanwhile, here are a few simple practices to bring inquiries in more quickly.

Houfy is a grass roots movement which requires hosts to promote their Houfy listings themselves to get direct bookings without "service" fees/commissions.

Check your pricing. Is this updated? Review your pricing strategy. Ensure that your rates are competitive compared to similar listings in your area. Consider adjusting your prices based on market demand, seasons, and local events. Consider using a price optimization company like pricelabs.

Listing accuracy: Review your listing name & description. Make sure your listing is completed and accurately reflects what guests can expect during their stay. Be transparent about any limitations or unique aspects of your property. Write a detailed and enticing description, highlighting the unique aspects of your property and its amenities. Accuracy builds trust and helps attract guests who are looking for the specific experience you offer.

Listing quality & enhancement: Take a critical look at your listing. Make sure your photos are high-quality, well-lit, and showcase the best features of your space. Evaluate if there are any improvements you can make to enhance the appeal of your property. Consider guest feedback and make necessary updates or additions that can improve the overall guest experience.

Availability and responsiveness: Keep your calendar updated and ensure that your listing is available for the desired dates. Make sure you properly synced with Airbnb, VRBO or others. Respond to guest inquiries and booking requests promptly, as quick response times can positively impact your booking rate.

Promotion and visibility: Take advantage of Houfy's promotional tools. Consider participating in special offers, discounts, or becoming a Wonderful Host.

Guest reviews & feedback: Positive guest reviews are crucial for building trust and attracting future guests. Encourage your guests to leave reviews after their stay, and promptly respond to any guest feedback or concerns. After each guest's stay, kindly request feedback on their experience and any suggestions for improvement. This can help you identify areas to enhance and make your listing more appealing to future guests. To update your Airbnb or VRBO reviews go here.

Inform Departing Guests: The majority of members aren’t telling departing guests about Houfy, and continue to promote the OTAs, it’s going to take that much longer for travelers to learn about Houfy. Consider informing your guests how they can save on Houfy when they leave.

Connect to stripe or square and start accepting direct payments online through Houfy. Guests love to pay by credit card in an easy way.

Local events and attractions: Highlight any unique local events or attractions in your area that may attract potential guests. Emphasize nearby amenities, tourist spots, or activities to capture the interest of travelers looking for specific experiences. Research Houfy collections and blog posts. Start writing and sharing local information with your family, friends and or previous guests.

MARKET YOUR HOUFY LISTING(S) on social media in Facebook Groups and others. Utilize social media platforms to promote your listing. Share high-quality photos, engage with potential guests, and leverage your network to spread the word about your property.

Connect your Houfy listing on Facebook & Google maps

Linking to Houfy from you website, Facebook and Google If you’re directing travelers to book you on Houfy in stead of Airbnb or VRBO, then your chances of receiving bookings will significantly increase.

Why am I not getting many booking requests or inquiries on Houfy?

Use the Houfy widgets for your own website

Study the hosts who get bookings! These hosts spend at least 15-30 minutes a week on Houfy and promoting their listing(s). A great way to find out is by asking in our Facebook Group.

Why do some members get bookings and others not? Here some examples:

  1. Updated price/pictures/text ----------> Outdated pictures/pricing/text
  2. Updated Calendar -------------> Outdated calendar
  3. Connected to Stripe/Square --------------> Did not connect a payment method
  4. Use the Houfy booking/messaging system -----------> Forward inquiries to their own website
  5. Market their Houfy listing ---------------> Do not market/share their Houfy listing(s)
  6. Spend 15-30 minutes a week on Houfy --------------> Do nothing and hope something will happen
Houfy is a grass roots movement which requires hosts to promote their Houfy listings themselves to get direct bookings without "service" fees/commissions.

Houfy is work in progress and is still very much being designed. Houfy has been free for anyone to use with a basic listing and does not charge guests service fees or commissions. Houfy does not have the 100s of Millions needed to market listings worldwide as our mission is to disrupt the current systems in place.

Remember, it's important to continuously evaluate and adapt your approach based on guest feedback, market demand, and trends in your area. By refining your listing, offering competitive pricing, and providing a positive guest experience and by sharing your listing on social networks you can increase your chances of receiving more booking requests on Houfy.

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