7 Best Channel Managers for STRs 2025

Managing short-term rentals (STRs) across multiple platforms can be time-consuming. That's why channel managers are essential - they centralize operations, prevent double bookings, and save hours of manual updates. Here’s a quick rundown of the seven best channel managers for 2025:

• Guesty: Connects to 60+ platforms, automates 80% of tasks, and offers dynamic pricing. Plans start at $27/month per listing.
• Hostaway: Real-time syncing across major OTAs with AI-powered automation. Pricing starts at $20–$40 per listing.
• Sympl: Focuses on syncing and pricing automation with integrations for cleaning and guest services.
• Hospitable: Simplifies guest communication and calendar management. Plans start at $29/month for one property.
• Hostfully: Direct API integrations with 20+ OTAs and advanced automation tools. Pricing starts at $129/month for up to four listings.
• IGMS: Offers flexible pricing with automation for messaging, tasks, and pricing. Starts at $1 per booked night or $18/month per property.
• OwnerRez: Modular pricing with real-time updates and extensive integrations. Starts at $40/month for one property.

These tools help property managers save time, reduce errors, and increase occupancy rates. Below is a quick comparison to help you choose the right one.

Quick Comparison

Choose a channel manager based on your portfolio size, budget, and automation needs. Each platform offers unique features to improve STR management.

How to CHOOSE the RIGHT CHANNEL MANAGER for SHORT-TERM RENTALS!

1. Guesty

Guesty is a platform designed to simplify short-term rental management by connecting property owners to over 60 booking platforms - all from one centralized dashboard. Its Channel Manager keeps rates and reservations in sync across platforms in real time, eliminating double bookings and ensuring property details remain consistent. You can also customize rates, markups, and promotions for each channel. With instant onboarding, bookings are centralized for smoother management across top international platforms. This streamlined multi-channel approach has been linked to a potential 28.5% increase in occupancy.

Automation Features

Guesty’s automation tools are designed to save time and effort, cutting workloads by as much as 80%. The platform simplifies guest messaging, task management, and payment collection. A unified inbox consolidates communication from platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com, ensuring nothing gets overlooked. On top of that, Guesty’s PriceOptimizer dynamically adjusts rates based on market trends, local events, and property details to help boost revenue. These automation features work hand-in-hand with flexible pricing plans that suit a range of portfolio sizes.

Pricing Structure

Guesty offers three pricing tiers, making it adaptable for businesses of all sizes:

• Lite Plan: Starts at $27 per listing per month (billed annually) or $39 per month if billed monthly. It includes essentials like task automation, a unified inbox, and payment processing.
• Pro Plan: Designed for businesses managing between 4 and 199 listings, this tier adds advanced CRM tools, multi-unit management, and broader channel integrations.
• Enterprise Plan: Tailored for operations with 200+ listings, this option includes enterprise-grade security, custom onboarding, and detailed analytics. Pricing is available upon request.

Opting for annual billing can save users up to 30% compared to monthly payments.

Integration Options

Guesty integrates seamlessly with major platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, while also connecting to Rentals United to access a variety of OTAs and niche channels. Its open API adds even more flexibility by enabling synchronization with additional platforms. For property managers, tools for cleaning, maintenance, and guest services can also be integrated, making it easier to manage operations from one interface. For example, Walker Property Management, which oversees more than 80 units, uses Guesty to handle their entire portfolio efficiently.

2. Hostaway

Hostaway stands out as a comprehensive solution for managing short-term rentals (STRs). By centralizing operations, it helps streamline workflows and ensures a smooth experience for both property managers and guests. Its channel management system connects directly to major booking platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com through API integrations, enabling real-time synchronization of availability, rates, and bookings. This eliminates double bookings and consolidates all data into one dashboard, with updates reflecting within seconds depending on the integration.

The platform also caters to hotel-style multi-unit businesses, allowing multiple room types to be linked to a single property and enabling the combination of listings to accommodate larger groups. These features have driven impressive outcomes, such as a 642% growth for Toronto's largest STR manager and a 180% increase for another property management company within six months of using Hostaway. Along with its connectivity, Hostaway automates key processes to minimize manual tasks.

Automation Features

Hostaway leverages AI-powered automation to handle 93% of messaging with guests and staff, significantly reducing workload. For vacation rental managers who typically send around 2,500 messages a month, this automation saves roughly 60 hours of work. Automated messages are triggered by events like reservations, arrivals, departures, and payment confirmations.

The platform’s Dynamic Pricing feature uses vast amounts of data to adjust rates daily, helping users achieve an average of 22.3% more revenue per listing. Rates are updated every 24 hours based on market trends, ensuring optimal pricing and seamless distribution across channels.

Other automated tools include task management, which generates cleaning and maintenance schedules based on reservations, and customizable messaging flows for personalized guest communication at scale.

Pricing Structure

Hostaway’s pricing model is designed to scale with portfolio size, making it suitable for property managers of all levels. Monthly fees start at $40 per listing but can go as low as $20 per unit for larger portfolios. Initial setup fees range from $100 to $500.

While the base price includes all core features, some add-ons, like smart locks and dynamic pricing, come with additional monthly fees. The cost for Dynamic Pricing depends on the number of listings and their locations. For managers overseeing more than 200 properties, custom plans with pay-per-booking options are available. Although a traditional free trial isn't offered, paid trials are available, and prospective users are encouraged to schedule a demo for customized pricing details.

Integration Options

Hostaway’s open architecture allows seamless integration with various operational tools for cleaning, maintenance, and guest services. Its direct API integrations ensure reliable, real-time syncing with major online travel agencies (OTAs), while automated calendar updates and pricing adjustments eliminate manual efforts.

For added convenience, property managers can integrate smart lock systems and other IoT devices, though these come with separate fees. With this unified system, platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and VRBO automatically maintain consistent availability and pricing, simplifying STR management.

3. Sympl

Sympl simplifies channel management by seamlessly connecting with major booking platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia through its API integrations. The system automatically syncs availability across all connected channels within seconds of a booking, effectively eliminating the risk of overbookings. Additionally, it extends its reach to platforms like Agoda, HomeAway, Flipkey, HolidayLettings, and more vacation rental channels, ensuring comprehensive coverage for property managers.

What sets Sympl apart is its ability to provide real-time visibility into channel updates. Property managers can monitor exactly when updates occur and what information is shared. This level of transparency is crucial, especially when relying on Airbnb alone can limit access to just 25% of potential guests using OTA channels. These integrations pave the way for advanced automation tools that streamline everyday operations.

Automation Features

Sympl takes automation to the next level by handling routine tasks like sending emails, contracts, and essential guest information automatically. It also supports pre-approved inquiries and direct messaging, all managed from a single, intuitive dashboard.

Its Advanced Rate Management system gives property managers precise control over pricing, while the Dynamic Rates feature automatically adjusts prices across channels as occupancy increases. For those seeking even more refined pricing strategies, Sympl integrates with Rategenie, which it describes as "the newest and most advanced dynamic pricing tool available".

Integration Options

Sympl brings together various short-term rental processes under one roof, ensuring smooth and efficient property management. Its integrations cover every facet of operations:

• Cleaning and Maintenance: Links with leading industry tools to streamline upkeep.
• Guest Services and Automation: Includes tools for smart pricing, property monitoring, and workflow management.
• Business Operations: Offers integrations for reporting, bookkeeping, and guest screening.
• Additional Tools: Supports website creation, smart home automation, analytics platforms, and team collaboration through Slack.

4. Hospitable

Hospitable brings together channel management and automation in one streamlined platform. It connects directly with major booking platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com while also accommodating niche sites such as Furnished Finder and Glamping Hub through iCal imports.

Channel Management Capabilities

Hospitable's channel manager simplifies operations by centralizing reservations from all connected platforms into a single calendar. It updates bookings, pricing, availability, and minimum-night stays in real time, helping to prevent double bookings [37,38]. The parent–child property connection feature ensures that when one unit is booked, the related units are automatically blocked on the calendar. Pricing updates are also synchronized across all channels instantly, and managers can directly modify availability and pricing for Booking.com listings through the interface. These features lay the groundwork for the platform's automation tools, which are covered next.

Automation Features

Hospitable takes automation to the next level, handling 90% of guest communication through a unified inbox:

Its task management system streamlines operations by automatically creating, assigning, and notifying cleaning and maintenance teams based on booking calendar events. The dynamic pricing tool adjusts rates in real time, using market data and host preferences, saving users an average of 25 hours per month. CEO Pierre‑Camille Hamana highlights the ongoing struggle with pricing in the industry:

Pricing Structure

Hospitable offers three tiered plans to grow with your portfolio. Charges apply only to properties with recent check-ins or those using Hospitable Dynamic Pricing:

Every plan includes a 14-day free trial, with no setup fees or annual contracts. Dynamic pricing comes standard across all plans at no extra cost [40,44,45].

Integration Options

Hospitable integrates seamlessly with Stripe for payment processing. It also connects with dynamic pricing tools to automatically apply smart pricing across channels. Additionally, the system centralizes control over reservations and guest communications, ensuring a smooth and efficient workflow.

5. Hostfully

Hostfully is designed to handle channel management and API integration with top booking platforms, enabling access to over 200 million visitors monthly.

Channel Management Capabilities

Hostfully's Channel Manager keeps property details up-to-date across multiple booking platforms in real time, thanks to its direct API connections. It integrates seamlessly with leading OTAs like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. Additionally, partnerships with Rentals United and NextPax expand its reach even further. The platform ensures calendars are synced across all channels to avoid double bookings. From a single dashboard, users can manage essential listing details such as descriptions, house rules, photos, amenities, and locations.

This robust system lays the groundwork for extensive automation within the platform.

Automation Features

Hostfully automates up to 70% of guest communication by offering customizable templates and triggers for various stages of the booking process. Guests can receive check-in instructions and unique PIN codes for door locks automatically. Beyond messaging, the platform handles payments, pricing adjustments, check-in processes, reviews, and reporting. It integrates with dynamic pricing tools that modify rates based on market conditions, seasonal trends, and events. Automated task scheduling also keeps cleaning teams informed of new bookings or changes, ensuring services are delivered on time.

Pricing Structure

Hostfully offers tiered pricing plans to suit different needs:

There is a one-time implementation fee, and users who opt for annual plans receive a 50% discount. Payment processing through Stripe or PayPal incurs additional charges.

Integration Options

Hostfully enhances its functionality by integrating with top-tier tools for cleaning, pricing, and insurance, creating a well-rounded automation ecosystem. Partnerships with Rentals United and NextPax allow users to reach over 180 listing sites. The platform stands out with its 95% average customer service rating and is frequently praised for its integration capabilities and support quality. SoftwareAdvice.com gives Hostfully's Property Management Platform an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5, with high scores for customer support (4.3) and ease of use (4.1).

6. IGMS

IGMS is a property management system designed to simplify vacation rental operations across multiple platforms. With its advanced channel management and automation features, the platform streamlines tasks and eliminates much of the manual effort involved in daily property management. Impressively, it automates 73% of daily messages.

Channel Management Capabilities

IGMS connects directly to major booking platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, HomeAway, and Booking.com through API integrations. It also supports additional channels such as TripAdvisor, Agoda, and Expedia using iCal. These integrations ensure real-time updates, reducing the risk of double bookings. From a single dashboard, users can manage availability, pricing, and even direct bookings from their own websites, alongside listings on major OTAs.

Automation Features

IGMS takes automation to the next level by handling routine tasks seamlessly. Features include AI-powered replies, pre-set confirmation emails, check-in instructions, and even auto-translation for international guests on its Pro Plan [66,67]. A unified inbox consolidates guest communications from all channels, making it easier to stay organized. The platform also automates task management, assigning cleaning duties and sending SMS reminders for upcoming bookings and check-outs [66,67].

In August 2024, IGMS introduced a Pricing Management Module. This tool includes automated last-minute discounts, minimum stay adjustments, and a Price Fluctuation feature that updates nightly rates every 15 minutes to improve listing rankings. Other automated tools include review management, custom triggers, and an Airbnb ranking booster.

Pricing Structure

IGMS offers flexible pricing plans tailored to different needs and portfolio sizes:

The FLEX plan is ideal for seasonal hosts or those with fluctuating booking patterns, as charges apply only for booked nights. IGMS has no hidden fees or setup costs, and users managing 10 or more properties receive a free setup session. A free trial is also available.

Integration Options

Beyond its core features, IGMS integrates with tools for cleaning, maintenance, and financial tracking, further expanding its functionality. The platform boasts strong user reviews, with ratings of 4.6/5 on Capterra and G2 and 4.0/5 on Trustpilot. While users generally praise its ease of use and performance, some have reported minor syncing issues and noted that dynamic pricing tools require separate subscriptions.

7. OwnerRez

OwnerRez has carved out a niche as a vacation rental management platform designed to cater to the unique needs of property managers. What sets it apart is its modular pricing model, allowing managers to adjust costs based on their specific portfolio requirements. By combining channel management tools, direct booking capabilities, and a wide range of integrations, OwnerRez creates a well-rounded property management solution. Let’s dive into its channel management features, pricing, and integration options.

Channel Management Capabilities

OwnerRez provides a robust channel manager that ensures seamless synchronization of pricing and availability between your system and connected OTA channels. Thanks to direct API partnerships, updates happen automatically and quickly, reducing manual work and minimizing the risk of errors.

This automated system keeps all platforms in sync, ensuring consistency across channels. The platform’s modular approach and customizable features add another layer of flexibility, making it stand out in a competitive market.

Pricing Structure

OwnerRez employs a per-property pricing model that scales with your portfolio size. The base cost begins at $40/month for one property, with the second property priced at $15/month. As you add more properties, the cost per property decreases, offering volume discounts.

The modular pricing system allows users to pay only for the features they need, avoiding unnecessary expenses. Standard features - such as unlimited bookings, emails, payments, and widgets - are included, with no mandatory booking fees or long-term contracts. Premium add-ons are available for those who want to further customize their setup.

While many users appreciate the cost-effectiveness and comprehensive features, some reviewers have noted that the pricing model might be less appealing for those on tight budgets. Still, the scalable structure and flexibility make it a strong option for growing businesses.

Integration Options

OwnerRez integrates with a wide array of tools to streamline property management tasks. For direct booking websites, it provides its own website builder, customizable widgets, a WordPress plugin, and partnerships with web design experts.

Here’s a snapshot of its integration categories and examples:

For those needing custom solutions, OwnerRez offers an API and supports additional automation through Zapier. With a 5.0 rating from 329 reviews, users frequently highlight its intuitive design, powerful management tools, and excellent customer service.

Recognized globally for its channel management and website capabilities, OwnerRez provides a flexible and scalable solution for property managers, blending competitive pricing with extensive customization options to support business growth.

Feature and Pricing Comparison

This section breaks down pricing, integrations, and automation features to help you find the right channel manager for your needs. Compare platforms based on their costs, connectivity, and efficiency to make an informed decision.

For instance, Hostaway’s percentage-based fee works well for hosts with lower booking volumes, but as revenue grows, costs may surpass fixed-fee options. On the other hand, OwnerRez offers volume discounts, reducing per-property costs to around $12.70 for 10 units. Meanwhile, IGMS maintains a flat $20 per property, and Hostfully’s fixed monthly fee suits single-property managers or smaller portfolios.

Automation is another key differentiator. Platforms like Guesty and Hostfully include advanced tools like dynamic pricing and comprehensive automation, which can save time by reducing manual updates. In contrast, Hospitable focuses more on guest messaging, which may require manual updates for pricing.

Integration capabilities also vary. OwnerRez provides strong third-party API connections, while Hostaway connects to over 100 channels. Guesty, however, emphasizes deep integration within its ecosystem, ensuring consistent updates for rates, availability, and guest communications across platforms.

When choosing a channel manager, think about your specific needs. Do you prioritize real-time synchronization for seamless rate updates? Or is automated guest messaging more important for your operations? Selecting a scalable system can also save you the hassle of migrating to a new platform as your portfolio grows.

Conclusion

Picking the right channel manager for your short-term rental business is a decision that can significantly influence your efficiency and revenue. The cost varies widely - single-property solutions typically range from $10–$20/month, while larger enterprise systems can cost $100–$500 or more each month. It's essential to align your choice with the size of your portfolio and your budget.

Look for a platform that integrates smoothly with your Property Management System (PMS) and major booking channels. Reliable API connections and real-time synchronization are key to reducing errors and avoiding double bookings, which can save you both time and money.

Consider the automation tools offered. Whether you need advanced guest communication features or dynamic pricing to increase your revenue per available room (RevPAR) by 15–20%, ensure the platform supports your business goals. Keep in mind that mismanaged bookings can lead to a loss of up to 20% in potential revenue. Opt for a system that can scale with your business, offering volume discounts or modular pricing to prevent costly transitions down the line.

Take advantage of free trials to test compatibility with your existing tools and evaluate the platform's interface and usability. Make sure the mobile interface allows you to manage operations from anywhere, and verify that the system complies with industry standards like PCI and GDPR. Responsive customer support is another factor that can make or break your experience with a channel manager.

Ultimately, the channel manager you choose will be the backbone of your distribution strategy. Invest the time to define your business needs and future goals before committing to a platform. The right solution will not only streamline your operations but also help you maximize revenue and position your business for long-term success in the competitive short-term rental market.

FAQs

How can I choose the best channel manager for my short-term rental business based on my portfolio size and budget?

Selecting a channel manager for your short-term rental (STR) business boils down to understanding your property portfolio and budget. If you're an individual host or have a smaller portfolio, look for affordable, easy-to-use tools that cover the basics without stretching your finances. But if you’re managing a larger portfolio or running a property management company, you’ll likely need a solution that supports advanced integrations, automation, and scalability to handle the added complexity.

When making your choice, focus on a few critical aspects: pricing, ease of use, and compatibility with the tools you already depend on - like booking platforms, dynamic pricing software, or other key systems. Start by outlining your specific needs, and then ensure the channel manager you choose aligns with your plans for growth and streamlining operations.

What is the difference between dynamic pricing and other automation tools used by channel managers?

Dynamic pricing is all about automatically adjusting rental rates to reflect factors like market demand, local events, competitor prices, and seasonal patterns. The goal? To help property owners get the most out of their rentals by offering the .

But that's just one piece of the puzzle. Channel managers also offer other automation tools, including real-time booking synchronization, unified calendar management, and multi-platform listing updates. These features simplify daily operations, cut down on the chances of double bookings, and keep everything consistent across all rental platforms.

While dynamic pricing focuses on boosting revenue, these additional tools are all about making operations smoother. Together, they provide a streamlined and profitable way to manage short-term rentals.

Why are API integrations and real-time updates essential for managing short-term rental bookings efficiently?

The Role of API Integrations and Real-Time Updates in STR Management

In the world of short-term rental (STR) management, API integrations and real-time updates are game-changers. These tools ensure your property’s availability is updated instantly across all booking platforms, cutting down the chances of dreaded double bookings. With everything synchronized, your calendars stay accurate, and the risk of manual errors drops significantly.

Automating these tasks doesn’t just save you time - it also elevates the guest experience. When bookings are seamless and free of errors, it builds trust with your guests. Plus, with less time spent on tedious updates, you can shift your focus to scaling and improving your rental business.

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