Finding the right software solution can be tough, especially when you’re looking for vacation rental software.
With a variety of options promising an endless palette of features, how do you know which one is the right one for you?
Whether you’re new to the vacation rental software industry, trying to get a grasp of the big players, or even just looking for an alternative solution, reviews can be the key to finding out what translates into the real world.
Customer reviews build trust, and they also increase conversion rates. Negative reviews even improve this conversion by 67%. In other words, reviews take what’s advertised and prove if the product does what’s promised.
So in the world of vacation rental software, what are some of the most-reviewed solutions?
Below, I’ve gathered the top five most reviewed vacation rental software solutions at Capterra, listing their pros, cons, and cost (if available) to help you get to know the industry or even choose a solution yourself.
Bookerville by Bookerville (62 reviews)
Founded in 2010, BookingSync hosts a reservation system, channel manager, and a website builder.
Pros
In addition to its contract management system, automatic reviews collection, and online payment acceptance, BookingSync allows users to market their properties across popular channels like HomeAway, Booking.com, and FlipKey. Users can also access a website builder, where you can customize your own vacation rental website in more than 25 different languages with a variety of template to choose from. Your site will also be mobile-friendly and search engine optimized, with the ability to create and customize as many pages on your site as needed. BookingSync additionally hosts a variety of applications, including Fetch My Guest, CurbAppeal, and Airbnb.
Cons
While still showcasing a five-star rating, one Capterra reviewer writes that BookingSync doesn't have a complete system. They note that BookingSync is “missing a complete CRM capability, accounting and financial system,” in addition to sales and support tools.
Cost
BookingSync can be as little as $32/month for one property and reach $786/month for 499 rentals, with 500+ prompting buyers to request a customized quote. Those interested can also opt for a free trial.
Kigo by Kigo (62 reviews)
Tying with Bookerville is Kigo, a comprehensive software solution with a reservation and calendar system, a website component, channel management, and security systems.
Pros
One of Kigo’s standout features is its security component that hosts data protection in a secure server environment, automatic data backup, and the ability to import or export your data at any time. Kigo also enables users to see detailed past guest history through their guest database, unify calendars across your channels and websites, provide instant bookings through credit card payment, and expand your marketing reach through sites like Booking.com, TripAdvisor, HomeAway, and Airbnb. Kigo’s reservation system is also available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and German.
Cons
For Capterra reviewers, this software was more hit or miss with some praising the software and others finding it problematic. Some noted an initial learning curve while others noted lacking customer service as their chief complaint.
Cost
Kigo can be as little as $109/month for up to nine units and rise as high as $599/month for up to 499 units. All editions receive email and phone support services, but only the higher plans come with data import services for properties and bookings. The length of your contract is 12 months from the signing date. A demo and free trial are also available.
BookingSync by BookingSync (39 reviews)
Founded in 2010, BookingSync hosts a reservation system, channel manager, and a website builder.
Pros
In addition to its contract management system, automatic reviews collection, and online payment acceptance, BookingSync allows users to market their properties across popular channels like HomeAway, Booking.com, and FlipKey. Users can also access a website builder, where you can customize your own vacation rental website in more than 25 different languages with a variety of template to choose from. Your site will also be mobile-friendly and search engine optimized, with the ability to create and customize as many pages on your site as needed. BookingSync additionally hosts a variety of applications, including Fetch My Guest, CurbAppeal, and Airbnb.
Cons
While still showcasing a five-star rating, one Capterra reviewer writes that BookingSync doesn't have a complete system. They note that BookingSync is “missing a complete CRM capability, accounting and financial system,” in addition to sales and support tools.
Cost
BookingSync can be as little as $32/month for one property and reach $786/month for 499 rentals, with 500+ prompting buyers to request a customized quote. Those interested can also opt for a free trial.
LiveRez by LiveRez (39 reviews)
LiveRez is another one-stop solution for vacation rental professionals and hosts a variety of features, including cloud computing, back office, customer relationship management, and a reviews system.
Pros
Through LiveRez’s cloud-computing software, you can access your vacation rental software from anywhere with an internet connection through the safety of the company’s high-security data centers. LiveRez additionally features tools to help you craft your very own booking website so you can control your web content in real time. A back office system as well as guest review and survey system assist in the managing and posting of reviews, and can help you contact past guests to survey how to improve their next stay. A CRM system and QuickBooks integration is also available.
Cons
Out of their 39 reviews, LiveRez holds up to its five-star status. Some Capterra reviews note an initial learning curve and that their owner statements system lacks the ability to set up annual expenses, though you can still post monthly expenses.
Cost
Pricing isn’t listed publicly, but you can request a free, personalized quote through their website.
Lodgix.com by Lodgix.com (37 reviews)
Rounding out the top five is Lodgix, which promises automated communications, document creation, credit card processing, and data security.
Pros
This web-based solution enables access from your computer, tablet, or mobile phone and provides automated alerts for arrival dates or departure dates as well as invoice payments at the beginning or end of the month. Lodgix also hosts a document creation component to help users craft rental agreements, maps, or waivers, in addition to credit card processing through a secure payment gateway with secure servers to protect and backup your data. A free WordPress plugin is also available.
Cons
Some reviewers noted that Lodgix has an initial learning curve that may take time for acclimation.
Cost
Lodgix can run as little as $29.99/month and be as high as $179.99/month. Additional modules are available with each package. Those interested can also opt for a 30-day free trial.
Thoughts?
Think there are better vacation rental software solutions than these top five? Let me know in the comments below, and don't forget to leave a review for your favorite solution!
