Thoughts on Host Tools

[Patricia Andriolo-Bull]

Hi.  Tried to search specifically for this but wasn't having any luck though I think I've ready it in here before.  Does anyone use Host Tools?  I started a free demo yesterday.  It seems like it "should be" good with some good features for the price (specifically I'm looking for an easy way to sync pricing across platforms including my website).  But it feels a bit wonky, specifically with Booking.com.  Had some issues connecting VRBO at first, too.  Not sure if I have to pay for the more advanced features for it to work better but want to get other thoughts before I start syncing data and have to turn back.

Thanks!

[Dado Vucak]

Quote from @Patricia Andriolo-Bull:

Quote from @Dado Vucak:

@Patricia Andriolo-Bull late response here but I've been using HostTools for around 6 months now - I love it! 

I have the Pro plan so it integrates with my August smart lock. This was critical for me since I wanted the code generation for the guests to be fully automated. I've also leveraged their webhooks to automate additional things on my end like setting the thermostat to the appropriate temperature an hour before the guest check-in and turning it off after they check out. I didn't want to have to remember to do that myself every time. I've also leveraged that capability to build some pretty cool dashboard on my end to occupancy, revenue, and cancellation rates across all platforms. 

It's worked out great for me so far and I'm very happy with it, especially at the price point ($10/month). 

My only critique is the VRBO integration. It seems to me that whenever I get a message or booking from a VRBO guest, it takes it a little while to show up in HostTools whereas airbnb bookings seem to be instant. 

 Are you still using HostTools? How are you liking it?

 Hi.  I very much like HostTools.  VRBO is having a bit of a glitch right now and loses connection at times.  It forces me to call VRBO to reset the account but luckily they are easy to get a hold of and fix.  I'd love to learn more about how to use Webhooks.  Is it easy to set up with Nest thermostats?

It’s not the most simple task unfortunately - definitely requires some technical skill.

It requires using a home automation platform (I use hubitat), creating an API, and creating some rules within the automation platform. 

I’ve been meaning to write a blog post on how to do it - I’ll eventually get around to doing it. @Patricia Andriolo-Bull