US: Last-minute vacation rental booking site Whimstay has expanded its platform to include independent hosts. Independent hosts can now list their properties by linking their existing Airbnb profiles, simplifying the onboarding process.
Previously, Whimstay worked exclusively with professional property managers via 22 live property management system (PMS) integrations.
This expansion comes as a response to industry-wide vacancy challenges, with more than 50% of vacation rental properties remaining unoccupied on any given night, according to AirDNA. Whimstay aims to address this by enabling independent hosts to fill these vacancies with last-minute bookings.
The platform charges a 5% commission rate and does not require exclusivity agreements. Independent hosts can sync their calendars and import their listings directly from Airbnb, offering an easier way to manage multiple platforms.
The decision to allow independent hosts broadens the range of properties available on Whimstay, increasing options for travelers seeking last-minute accommodations. This development aligns with the company’s strategy to capture a growing demand for last-minute bookings in the vacation rental market.
Highlights:
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Whimstay platform opens to independent hosts, expanding last-minute vacation rental options.
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Independent hosts can now list on Whimstay, integrating existing Airbnb profiles for easier onboarding.
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Whimstay aims to tackle vacancy challenges in the vacation rental market, with 50% of vacation rentals remaining unoccupied on average.
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The platform offers a 5% commission rate and allows for calendar syncing and direct listing imports from Airbnb.
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Whimstay’s expansion targets last-minute bookings, responding to growing demand for flexible vacation rental options.
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No exclusivity agreements required for independent hosts, making it easy to manage listings across multiple platforms.
