As a hotel or guesthouse owner, you might be tempted to set the same rates for your website and third-party booking platforms. However, setting your lowest rates directly on your website can have some powerful advantages, including:

1.       Encouraging direct bookings

By setting your lowest rates on your website, you're providing an incentive for guests to book directly with you. This can help you build a loyal base of direct bookers, who are more likely to return to your property and recommend it to others.

2.       Avoiding commission fees

When guests book through third-party booking platforms, you typically have to pay commission fees that can eat into your profits. By encouraging direct bookings, you can avoid these fees and keep more of your revenue.

3.       Building a closer relationship with guests

When guests book directly with you, you have the opportunity to build a closer relationship with them. This can lead to higher levels of guest satisfaction, as well as more positive reviews and recommendations.

4.       Gaining more control over your pricing strategy

When you set your lowest rates on your website, you have more control over your pricing strategy. You can adjust your rates based on demand, seasonality, and other factors, and you can also offer exclusive deals and promotions to guests who book directly with you.

5.       Collecting valuable guest data

When guests book directly with you, you have the opportunity to collect valuable guest data that you can use to improve your marketing and service offerings. This data can help you identify trends, preferences, and opportunities for improvement.

6.       Put an uplift in place on your rates to the OTA’s

By putting an uplift in place for third-party booking platforms, you can still maintain a presence on these sites while encouraging guests to book directly with you. This can help you reap the benefits of direct bookings while still reaching a wider audience through third-party platforms.

Overall, setting your lowest rates directly on your website can be a powerful strategy for increasing direct hotel reservations and boosting your bottom line. So don't be afraid to experiment with different pricing strategies, and make sure that your website is optimized to showcase your property in the best possible light. With the right approach, you can build a strong base of direct bookers and grow your business over time.