5 Ways to Get More Direct Bookings (Without Paying OTAs)

Struggling to fill your calendar without giving 15%–20% of your revenue to the likes of Airbnb and Booking.com?
You’re not alone. Most serviced accommodation hosts (especially beginners) overlook one fundamental truth:

OTAs are convenient but they’re designed to keep you dependent—on their rules, their audience, and their fees.

If you want more control, more profit, and fewer surprises, you need a strategy that builds your own brand and a system that books guests directly into your calendar.

Let’s get into 5 practical ways to do exactly that.

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1️⃣ Build a Website That Actually Converts

A website isn’t just a digital business card. It’s your booking engine, credibility builder, and sales rep—working 24/7 while you sleep.
Problem is, most hosts just throw up a Wix site with a couple of photos and a contact form. That’s not enough.

Here’s what you really need:

• Clear messaging that tells visitors why they should book with you (not just a list of amenities).
• Mobile-first design (because 60%+ of users browse on phones).
• Direct booking functionality—integrate a booking system like Tokeet, Lodgify, or my personal favourite Uplisting. You can sign-up using this link Try Uplisting Today
• Trust signals—real guest testimonials, professional photos, and a transparent cancellation policy.

Want a shortcut? Check out my Boost Your Bookings Toolkit for pre-built templates and scripts that make this easy.

✅ As we covered in Scaling Strategies for Modern Entrepreneurs, it’s all about systems—don’t just work harder, work smarter.

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2️⃣ Use Email Marketing (Even if Your List is Small)

Yeah, yeah—everyone says “build a list.” But what’s the point if it just sits there?

Here’s the thing: email is where the real relationship happens. While OTAs control the customer data, your email list is yours.

Most hosts don’t nurture past guests. That’s leaving money on the table.

Here’s what to do:

• Send a welcome sequence to new guests post-booking (e.g., “Thanks for choosing us—here’s what to expect”).
• Offer seasonal discounts or loyalty perks to repeat guests.
• Share local tips and events that encourage guests to rebook.
• Use segmentation—VIP list for top guests, last-minute deals list for impulsive bookers.

Pro tip: Start small. Even a list of 50 engaged past guests can turn into £5K–£10K extra per year.

According to Harvard Business Review, customer retention is cheaper than acquisition—up to 25% cheaper. So why not focus there?

✅ Need a client communication system? My Client Onboarding Toolkit helps you keep guests in the loop (and on your list).

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3️⃣ Make Booking Direct the Obvious Choice

Frustrated when guests say, “Can I just book on Airbnb?” That’s because you haven’t trained them otherwise.

Your job is to make booking directly so much better than going through an OTA that it’s a no-brainer.

Here’s how to do it:

• Incentivise direct bookings: Offer perks like early check-in, a welcome basket, or a small discount (10% max—don’t undercut yourself too much).
• Educate your audience: Use your website, social media, and email to explain why direct is better—no hidden fees, better service, exclusive offers.
• Add a simple booking link to all your marketing—Instagram bio, WhatsApp status, email signature.

✅ More on guest experience and conversion in The Power of Dua in Business—because barakah matters too.

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4️⃣ Optimise Your Google Presence

You are on Google, right? Not just Google Maps—Google Business Profile is free, and it’s a goldmine for direct bookings.

Here’s what to do:

• Claim and optimise your listing at Google Business Profile.
• Add professional photos and a compelling description.
• Collect real reviews—ask every guest after their stay (send a direct link).
• Include your direct booking website in the profile link—this is key.
• Post weekly updates: share a new photo, promote a discount, or post a guest story.

Stats show that businesses with a complete Google profile get 7x more clicks than those that don’t. Don’t leave it half-finished.

✅ Not sure how to phrase your listing? My Boost Your Bookings Toolkit includes templates to make this a breeze.

Alternatively you can get the Google My Business Workbook

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5️⃣ Leverage WhatsApp and Local Networks

Most hosts think social media is the only way to connect. But if you’re running a local accommodation business, WhatsApp groups and local partnerships can drive serious bookings.

Here’s what’s working for other hosts I know:

• Join local WhatsApp groups for relocation agents, contractors, and event planners. Share your availability regularly.
• Partner with local businesses (cafes, wedding venues, hospitals) to offer exclusive rates for their clients.
• Build a referral network—give a small commission or gift to locals who send you guests.

It’s old-school, but it works. People trust recommendations.

✅ Harvard’s study on social proof confirms this: 92% of consumers trust recommendations over ads. Build your network, and you’ll get more than just bookings—you’ll get trust.

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Final Thoughts

Look, direct bookings won’t magically appear overnight. It takes strategy, consistency, and a bit of hustle. But the freedom you gain—owning your guest list, setting your own terms, and keeping 100% of your profit—is worth it.

Don’t let OTAs hold your business hostage. Build your own system. Your calendar, your rules.

✅ For practical templates, scripts, and systems that get guests into your calendar (not Airbnb’s), check out the Boost Your Bookings Toolkit.
✅ Want to grow beyond bookings? As we covered in Scaling Strategies for Modern Entrepreneurs, it’s about working smarter, not harder.