Lodgify review : Is this the best vacation rental management software : Buying guide - TEST, PRICES and alternatives
Do you own several properties – or are you in property management – and are you involved in seasonal rental? Would you like to increase your income with a minimum of time commitment? Find out in this article what we think of Lodgify, the software that’s revolutionizing short-term furnished rental.
BENEFITS :
- Website
- Full OTAS integration
- Guest application & Task management
- Integrated accounting and analysis report
- Price & check-in automation possible
DISADVANTAGES :
- 7-day trial period
- Less suitable for concierge services + 50 properties
Note from our lodgify TEST
Lodgify review: the opinion of channel-manager-experts.US :
If you no longer want to be dependent on the dictatorship of Airbnb or Booking, Lodgify is THE software for you! With a professional website included, it will enable you to emancipate yourself partially or even totally from the OTAS.
Of course, you’ll be able to connect to booking platforms thanks to its fully integrated channel manager (price, length of stay, content) will be updated from Lodgify instantly across all your distribution channels. A guaranteed time-saver! 😊
Lodgify PMS, allows you to manage your customers, housekeeping staff and accounting. Included dynamic pricing allows you to automate your pricing and get your profitability off the ground 🚀
Lodgify estimates that it saves its users 20h/week in task management.
Automate as much as possible and track the profitability of your investments with customized financial reports! We have no doubt that this software is a must-have for vacation rental operators.
Subscribing to Lodgify will save you time and money! 💶
Introducing and using LODGIFY
Lodgify is an all-in-one software package that simplifies the marketing of your vacation rentals. It enables owners to create their own mobile-friendly website, efficiently manage bookings and calendars, and synchronize property information from their listings on the major OTAS (AirBnb, Booking… etc) – a guaranteed time-saver!
Lodgify lets you collect directly from customers , thanks to Stripe integrated into its website booking engine. This is a real advantage when it comes to limiting the amount of commission charged by online platforms.
You can compare Lodgify with Smoobu, Hostaway or Amenitiz
Why is Lodgify the best channel manager with site included?
Lodgify is one of the most comprehensive software packages on the market, allowing you to
- Manage your assets through a single interface
- Communicate with your customers and teams;
- Create your own website;
- Analyze your performance ;
LODGIFY: THE BENEFITS
- Channel manager ;
- Website with booking engine
- Integration of external tools ;
- Centralized messaging ;
You’ll find more details in the feature descriptions below.
LODGIFY CHANNEL MANAGER :
Like all Lodgify vacation rental software, Lodgify offers a channel manager, enabling you to manage a large number of distribution channels.
For the best-known platforms, the API connection is used. Others use the Ical connection. Price, availability, length of stay – all managed via a single interface!
LODGIFY: WEBSITE WITH RESERVATION ENGINE :
Lodgify offers websites with a range of templates, making it easy to showcase your homes in just a few simple steps. This site is modular: create your design by selecting from different templates in an instant. What’s more, it’s multilingual.
Here you can present your properties in a variety of media 🏠 📷 🎥 (photos, videos)
Finally, it integrates a booking engine to accept payments – secured with SSL encryption – by credit card, Paypal or bank transfer. All in all, you gain in visibility while removing obstacles to booking. Your sales can only increase!
INTEGRATION EXTERNAL TOOLS :
Lodgify enables the integration of numerous external software applications. Its aim is to guarantee the best all-in-one service to their customers by adding additional automations.
For example:
- Dynamic pricing with Pricelabs;
- Automatic online check-in;
- Connected lock ;
CENTRALIZED MESSAGING :
Having a centralized messaging system is a major asset for owners and managers of short-term rentals looking to optimize their management and improve the traveler experience. Lodgify centralizes your Airbnb, Booking and Vrbo messages.
⭐⭐ Little Plus: Numerous filters are available to save you time!
DISADVANTAGES OF LODGIFY
We don’t see any major drawbacks in using Lodgify channel manager. The automation and delegation enabled by this type of software make it indispensable to the success of your business:
- If you are a manager of one or more properties, the tool will be tailored to your needs.
- If you’re a vacation rental manager, you’ll be able to manage up to 30 properties.
Airbnb property management software
Data processing capacity :
When using management software such as Lodgify, one of the most important criteria is data processing. The tool must be able to open quickly without latency. Lodgify will lose a little speed.
That’s why concierge operators with 50 or more properties will have to turn to stronger, faster channel managers.
If you’re an Airbnb concierge with the ambition to manage more than 50 accommodations, Hostaway, Superhote will be more suited to your needs.
What are Lodgify's features?
- Channel manager ;
- Multilingual site & Booking engine
- Mobile applications :
- Centralized messaging ;
- Task management ;
- Analysis and management report ;
- Lodgify : Dynamic pricing ;
- Integration of external tools ;
A POWERFUL CHANNEL MANAGER :
RESERVATION SYNCHRONIZATION :
An essential feature for worry-free rental management. You know that. Every unbooked night represents a definitive loss of sales. So you publish the same advert on the most popular distribution channels (Airbnb, Booking, Expedia, Abritel…). One platform, one calendar.
Lodgify, synchronizes reservations instantly. The tool offers an API connection for :
- Airbnb
- Booking
- Expédia – Abritel – Vrbo
For example: you obtain a reservation on Airbnb from December 1st to 3rd. These dates automatically become inaccessible for users of Booking, Abritel, Expedia…
Of course, the channel manager also automatically synchronizes all external bookings from your website or those taken manually over the phone.
UPDATE YOUR ADS :
The full Lodgify connection lets you update your ads and photos from within Lodgify! Few channel managers offer this option.
PRICE UPDATE :
Lodgify software lets you change your rates often 💰to boost your occupancy rate. Change them on the Lodgify calendar. Updates are automatic on all connected platforms!
⭐⭐ Quick tip:
Lodgify lets you apply coefficients by platform. For example, you can display prices 20% higher on Airbnb than on your website. This allows you to neutralize commissions and encourages travelers to book directly on your site!
UPDATED LENGTH OF STAY :
Modify the length of stay in just a few clicks :
- High demand period 1 week ;
- Average demand 4 days ;
- A low 2-day request, or even 1 night if your organization allows it.
The software updates all your distribution channels.
WEBSITE WITH BOOKING ENGINE :
Why an online site? Airbnb, 15% commission. Booking, 17% service fee.
The operating costs imposed by vacation rental websites eat away at your margins (and therefore the profitability of your business!).
Applied to each reservation, they accumulate throughout the year. Lodgify offers you a concrete solution. And you’ll even be able to get away from short-term rental platforms.
The software simply lets you create your own holiday rental website with an integrated booking system, and a great design!
This means you get direct bookings WITHOUT paying any commission.
In fact, our teams offer you “turnkey” website templates. Just a few clicks are all it takes to customize them (with the colors of your graphic charter, your logo, your photos…).
These sites have been designed to promote search engine optimization. Responsive, they facilitate the act of booking for mobile users, and are adaptable and available in several languages.
Booking engine integrated into your site:
This feature enables travelers to make a reservation in just a few simple steps. The interface is designed to facilitate the payment process, maximizing the chances of conversion.
Several payment processes are available, including credit card with Stripe or Paypal.
With your website, you can add additional offers, such as electric bike rentals. These offers will be accompanied by dedicated payment links for simplified management.
Finally, as already mentioned, don’t forget to create a news and article blog to boost your visibility on Google.
3 LODGIFY MOBILE APPLICATIONS:
From your smartphone, you can :
- Responding to your travelers ;
- Consult your schedule ;
- Change prices and availability
- Add a reservation ;
FREE 7-day trial and personalized setup of your homes!
Task management application
You’ll be able to assign tasks to your teams. and have a global view of tasks in progress – completed. Give limited access. Communication will be easy with dedicated chat.
Easily connect with your maintenance staff to assign tasks and track their progress with the Lodgify PM application. You can easily share information such as arrival and departure times.
Downloadable in just a few seconds, it allows you to add all the elements and information you need for your stay to run smoothly.
This feature promotes trust on both sides, and is an efficient way of exchanging documents and information such as Wi-Fi passwords and door access codes.
Exceptional customer experience guaranteed!
CENTRALIZATION AND AUTOMATION OF PASSENGER MESSAGES
Message centralization :
Lodgify provides you with a centralized messaging system, offering you greater convenience with a single interface. Indispensable when you are present on several platforms. This option is available with Airbnb, Booking and Vbro. Reply directly with Whatsapp too
Automating messages to travelers:
Another time-consuming aspect of holiday rental is communicating with your guests: from booking confirmation to check-out, you need to accompany them step by step.
You can set up messages throughout your stay. This will enhance the customer experience.
Using Lodgify means smooth communication. You’ll reassure your travelers (an essential feeling for a successful travel experience). And, happy with their stay, they won’t hesitate to leave a glowing customer review.
How does it work?
Lodgify lets you automatically send personalized messages using “short codes”. And your guests receive them by e-mail.
It’s as simple as 2 steps:
- You write standard messages, including variables.
- You can schedule their dispatch according to events (e.g. a reservation request, the day of arrival…).
This way, you stay in constant contact with your customers. Better still, you can maintain a special relationship thanks to this messaging system.
Lodgify synchronizes messages across all platforms.
With this automation, you offer them a unique experience with a minimum of effort – everything is automated in just a few clicks!
⭐⭐ Lodgify bonus:
The tool gives you access to several messages already set up in different languages!
ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT REPORT :
One of Lodgify’s strengths is the creation of customizable reports. They enable you to analyze your performance.
- Sales by apartment ;
- Booking platforms ;
- Amount of tourist tax to be paid ;
- Direct sales ;
- Occupancy rate ;
- Graphics to illustrate your business.
You can easily edit invoices – for travelers and employees – and identify the most profitable properties (occupancy rate, sales…).
TASK MANAGEMENT :
RESTRICTED ACCESS :
You can create teams and give people limited access. For example, only planning and messages. The financial part remains hidden.
COMMUNICATION AND ASSIGNMENT :
Communication will be possible via chat. You’ll be able to automate task assignment.
For example, when a reservation is made, a task is created. A notification is sent to the person in charge of your apartment. They can either accept or reject it.
Monitoring and control is easy thanks to photos sent by the service provider.
DYNAMIC PRICING :
Lodgify is constantly evolving and offers integrated dynamic pricing. The algorithm will calculate the best rate for your rental day by day. Suggestions to increase your profitability!
INTEGRATION OF EXTERNAL TOOLS
CONNECTED LOCK :
You’ll be able to connect the channel manager to the connected locks, making the arrival of customers who now require this service autonomous.
NOISE - TEMPERATURE - PRESENCE DETECTION :
Connect your channel manager to monitor your apartment remotely.
ZAPIER:
This application will connect you to over 1,000 solutions to automate your vacation rental.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT :
Customer support is in French. You can contact them by e-mail or chat if you subscribe to the Ultimate plan.
How much does LODGIFY cost?
3 price plans are available:
- Starter fare at €13 with 1.9% booking fee ;
- Professional rate at €33 ;
- Ultimate rate €49 ;
If you’re the only person managing your holiday rental, the“Professional” offer may be just what you’re looking for.
On the other hand, if there are several of you, or if you want to offer a “top-of-the-range” welcome, opt for the “Ultimate” rate with 2 additional applications (your team, Guest Book). You’ll also get priority access to assistance and support in French.
Finally, we don’t recommend the “Starter” subscription, the first price. In fact, it’s subject to change and is linked to the amount of your bookings. During the high season, the price of your channel manager will skyrocket!
Naturally, the rate will increase with the number of rentals, and the cost per unit will decrease. In addition, a discount of up to 25%, i.e. 6 months FREE, will be granted for a two-year subscription.
For example, the Professional rate will be €31 per month with this discount. can
To discover your price list, click on the “Prices” tab:
Conclusion:
Do I need to subscribe to LODGify?
YES! Without any hesitation! Lodgify is a powerful software package for seasonal renters. It’s one of the best channel managers on the market.
If you don’t yet have a website and would like to develop your online presence so that you can increase your direct income without using an external solution, Lodgify will be perfect!
Its many functions will automate your short-term rental:
– Automatic check-in ;
– Dynamic pricing with Pricelabs ;
– Billing ;
Lodgify is ideal for :
- a rental company wanting to automate your management process if this is not your core business
- a professional owner with 5 to 30 rental properties
- a medium-sized manager
- a rental company no longer wishing to depend solely on platforms, and to increase its profitability by saving on OTAS commissions.
However, if you have ambitions for a larger concierge service, you’d be better off with faster tools like Hostaway or french channel manager Superhote.
Comparison and test with HOSTAWAY :
When looking for information on channel managers, these two tools are often compared. In reality, they’re much more than just channel managers: they’re genuine management software with their own websites. But are they really identical?
Read our article to discover their strengths, weaknesses and differences.
Alternatives to LODGIFY
LODGIFY VS SUPERHOTE
When comparing the two software packages, one of the main differences is in the website.
The former integrates the website into the offer, while Superhote links it to its channel manager.
HOSTAWAY REVIEW
When comparing the two software packages, one of the main differences is their management capacity. One is designed for large structures, the other for small and medium-sized managers.
Smoobu is a low-cost channel manager, so some features are missing, which may disappoint some users.
However, if you’re interested in this tool, have a look at our team’s Smoobu review.
LODGIFY VS BEDS 24
When you compare the two tools, they’re both all-in-one vacation rental solutions.
However, Lodgify offers a better user experience. Only Beds24’s low price may make you hesitate, but Lodgify remains our first choice.
Other seasonal rental tools
As mentioned, Lodgify can be connected to a number of tools. You can also use Lodgify’s dynamic pricing , or if you want to manage your pricing using Airdna forecast data, for example, it’s ideal for calculating the future profitability of your investments.
A connected key box to facilitate travelers’ entry, all connected to Lodgify.
FAQ : Questions asked by our users :
After a free 7-day trial period. Lodgify costs €42. An annual discount allows a fee of €33 for the Professional subscription.
Yes, Lodgify is suitable for medium-sized concierge services with up to 40 properties.
Yes, the API connection between the 3 main platforms enables synchronization of SMS, Whatsapp and OTAS inboxes.