Getting Started Tips

A friendly, step-by-step approach to setting up your Lodgify experience for success

Your First Steps with Lodgify

Starting with a new platform can feel overwhelming, but taking a methodical approach ensures you build a solid foundation. This guide breaks down the process into manageable steps, helping you avoid common mistakes while setting up for long-term success.

The Right Mindset

Think of your initial setup as an investment in your future success. Taking time to properly configure Lodgify upfront saves countless hours of troubleshooting and lost revenue later.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1

Property Information Setup

Start by creating comprehensive property profiles. This information forms the foundation for all your listings across different platforms.

Essential Information to Gather:

  • Accurate property descriptions and amenities
  • High-quality photos from multiple angles
  • Precise location details and directions
  • House rules and policies
  • Check-in and check-out procedures
  • Emergency contact information
Pro Tip: Write your property description as if you're talking to a friend. Be honest about both strengths and limitations – this leads to better guest matching and fewer disappointed reviews.
Person organizing property information on laptop
2

Calendar and Pricing Configuration

Calendar application showing booking management

Proper calendar setup is crucial for preventing double bookings and maximizing occupancy. Take time to understand seasonal patterns in your area.

Calendar Setup Checklist:

  • Block out dates for personal use or maintenance
  • Set minimum stay requirements for different seasons
  • Configure buffer times between bookings
  • Research local events that affect demand
  • Set up seasonal pricing variations
  • Test calendar sync with major platforms
Important: Start with conservative pricing and adjust based on booking patterns. It's easier to lower prices than to justify increases to existing bookings.
3

Channel Connections

Start with 2-3 major booking platforms rather than connecting to everything at once. This allows you to monitor performance and troubleshoot issues more effectively.

Recommended Starting Platforms:

  • Airbnb (largest global reach)
  • Booking.com (strong European presence)
  • VRBO (popular in North America)
  • Your Lodgify direct booking website

Channel Strategy

Focus on platforms where your target guests are most likely to search. Urban properties often perform better on Airbnb, while vacation homes may see more success on VRBO.

Multiple platform connections on computer screen
4

Automated Communication Setup

Professional email setup on laptop

Well-crafted automated messages create a professional guest experience while saving you time. Personalize templates to reflect your property's personality.

Essential Automated Messages:

  • Booking confirmation with key details
  • Pre-arrival instructions (sent 24-48 hours before)
  • Check-in details with access codes
  • Welcome message with local recommendations
  • Check-out instructions and reminders
  • Post-stay thank you and review request
Communication Tip: Include your contact information in all messages, but set expectations about response times. Guests appreciate knowing they can reach you if needed.
5

Website Optimization

Your Lodgify-powered website is your opportunity for commission-free bookings. Invest time in making it attractive and user-friendly.

Website Optimization Checklist:

  • Choose a professional design template
  • Add your brand colors and logo
  • Optimize for mobile devices
  • Include local SEO keywords
  • Add guest testimonials and reviews
  • Create clear booking call-to-actions

SEO Basics

Include your city name, property type, and nearby attractions in your content. For example: "Cozy downtown apartment near Central Park" works better than just "Beautiful apartment."

Modern website design on laptop screen

Testing Phase

Before accepting your first real booking, thoroughly test your entire system to ensure everything works smoothly.

🔄 Sync Testing

Create test bookings to verify calendar synchronization works correctly across all connected platforms.

📧 Communication Flow

Send yourself through the entire guest communication sequence to check message timing and content.

💳 Payment Processing

Test the booking and payment process on your website to ensure it's smooth and secure.

📱 Mobile Experience

Check how your listings and website appear on mobile devices, where most bookings originate.

Ready to Launch

Once you've completed setup and testing, you're ready to start accepting bookings. Here are some final tips for a successful launch:

Start with Competitive Pricing

Price slightly below comparable properties for your first few bookings to build reviews and establish credibility.

Monitor Closely

Check your Lodgify dashboard daily during the first few weeks to catch any issues early.

Respond Quickly

Fast response times to inquiries improve your ranking on booking platforms and increase conversion rates.

Gather Feedback

Ask early guests for honest feedback about their experience and use it to improve your processes.

Key Metrics to Track

Occupancy Rate

Aim for 60-70% in your first year

Response Time

Keep under 1 hour for inquiries

Review Score

Maintain above 4.5 stars

Direct Bookings

Work toward 20-30% of total bookings

Ongoing Success Tips

Regular Reviews

Schedule monthly reviews of your performance metrics, pricing strategy, and guest feedback to identify improvement opportunities.

Stay Updated

Lodgify regularly adds new features and integrations. Stay informed about updates that could benefit your business.

Network with Others

Connect with other vacation rental owners in your area to share insights and learn from their experiences.

Continuous Improvement

Always look for ways to enhance the guest experience and streamline your operations for better efficiency.