Communications in PMS and booking platforms vs virtual number

[Holly Polf]

I was looking into a virtual number such as from RingCentral so that I wouldn't have to use my personal cell in any guest communications, but I also noted that many of the PMS such as OwnerRez and Lodgify offer SMS messaging. Do any of you have virtual numbers or do you find that your PMS software or messaging through Airbnb and other booking platforms are able to fulfill you communication needs while keeping your personal cell information private? 

[Andrew Steffens]

Hey Holly

We use Streamline PMS which does integrate with RingCentral.  We urge guests to use the platform messaging to keep a written record or request, complaints, etc.  Most people just communicate that way - maybe 80%.  With our integration (and virtual #) we can also SMS, as well as receive and dial out.  We offer all 3 options (4 if you include email which go to a unified inbox).  People like to communicate how they choose, so we offer all options.

Personally, I use Google Voice to separate my business and personal calls which works well.  If you only have 1-3 properties I think you could get by fine with Google Voice.