Listing on several booking sites: an owner’s guide

Know where the property is listed

Mellow's public service describes marketing across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and its direct booking website, among other channels. Ask which channels are suitable for your property and who maintains each listing. A channel list is a distribution plan, not a guarantee of reservations. Keep account ownership and access permissions clear from the outset.

Review four points with your manager

1. 01

   Availability

   Ask how confirmed stays, owner dates and maintenance closures reach every channel. Clarify who checks exceptions when a change is made.

2. 02

   Prices and restrictions

   Check who sets rates, minimum stays and preparation time. Do not assume a calendar connection carries every pricing rule.

3. 03

   Listing details

   Keep guest capacity, bed arrangements, amenities and arrival information consistent. Notify the manager before replacing or removing a listed feature.

4. 04

   Messages and payments

   Confirm which channel handles guest communication, payment collection, changes and refunds for each reservation.

Understand the limits of calendar sharing

Airbnb's guidance describes importing and exporting calendars, with updates depending on connected systems and settings. Some blocked dates from another calendar may not carry across as expected. Ask the manager what method is used and how it is checked. Avoid changing a separate calendar yourself without following the agreed workflow. A connection is not a substitute for a clear booking process.

Use a change log for the home

When you add a bed, alter access or block dates, record the change, effective date and person who confirmed completion. Ask whether photographs and descriptions also need updating. During a management transfer, compare all future reservations before opening new availability. The owner task is to provide accurate information and confirm responsibilities, while the manager handles the agreed channel operations.