Sanitizing groceries, living in virtual meetings, and practically bathing in alcohol - those are only some of the changes that the pandemic has brought about the world. Every industry has felt the dip that has accompanied these smaller changes and with travel restrictions all over, none has felt this more so than the travel and hospitality industries. In particular, this “new normal” has forced many property management companies to change and adapt their approaches. This includes redesigning and rethinking their products and offerings. It has also provided an ideal time to reimagine the possibilities the future holds for property management. Here, we’ll look at what might lie in store for Airbnb property management in this pandemic era and afterward.
Automation Becomes Priority
In this COVID era, companies have taken most of their business online. The priority, of course, is safety but there is also the thought of implementing new methods to make life a lot easier and more convenient when this crisis is over. That goes for property management as well.
Now, Airbnb property managers have helpdesk platforms, mobile applications, and various IT systems that help them streamline everyday processes related to property management and maintenance. These also make it easier for them to work remotely. Whether it be automatically recording client data, responding to initial inquiries, or logging maintenance requests, smart systems free up plenty of time for property managers to be able to focus more on their guests.
This also goes the same way for guests. Plenty of tools exist to improve their quality of stays such as entry cards or parking access cards. Not only do these ensure contactless transactions, but it also enhances their overall guest's experience.
With these new systems in place, property managers are less likely to go back to the old way of doing things in the post-pandemic world. Instead, they might even look for more ways to fully integrate technology into their business.
Cleanliness Becomes a Top Priority
Even after the pandemic, fear and caution will stick with everyone for some time. With that, both guests and property managers are sure to give more importance to constant cleaning and sterilization. And while these used to be done in the background, the cleanliness of a place will now become part of the business’ marketing campaign.
Virtual Tours are Staying
Much like automation of systems, virtual tours are here to stay both in and after the COVID-19 era. These are especially useful for guests who want to take no second chances in the places they’re staying in. It would also allow them to compare several properties in a short amount of time without spending extra time, energy, and money. They can simply surf from their couches, pack their bags, and off they go. It would also allow property managers to feature several properties at once.
Enhancing the Customer Experience
In the midst of travel restrictions and safety concerns, the bar has inevitably been raised in regards to keeping guests happy and in turn encouraging more stays. Now, a simple welcome mat isn’t enough. Property managers have to put their focus on enhancing the customer experience for guest retention and to avoid any unexpected turnovers. They also have to adjust to the specific services that these times demand.
For instance, instead of offering free food in common areas that run the risk of spreading germs, property managers might offer discounted delivery services or leisure activities that encourage social distancing. It’s not only about making the guests stay in a pretty place anymore since health concerns would be here to stay for a while.
Staycations Will Be a Hit
By now, everyone would be itching for a holiday or any chance to spend some time away from the homes they’ve spent several months cooped up in. With this, property managers can expect a significant surge in the vacation rental market once travel restrictions are eased up and completely lifted.
On the other hand, while city to city or country to country restrictions are still in place, staycations are expected to thrive. This would force property managers to shift their marketing campaigns towards more local guests and would also have them reconsider their services and offerings to enhance these guest’s experiences.
Future of Airbnb Property Management In This COVID-19 Era: Conclusion
No one can deny that the pandemic has had a disastrous effect on business. However, it’s also important to be able to look beyond the present and to reimagine what’s possible for property management in the future. By adapting and making quick decisions, property managers can ride the flow of the times and position themselves for the best possible outcome once this crisis passes.