Larana

Looking ahead a bit, I want to find out more about using hotel booking software, or rather, the booking of a villa.

It would aid me greatly if I had a website into which was embedded some software that could handle bookings, take payments etc. However, a quick web search turns up many programs that appear to offer something useful, but I think I would prefer something that came from recommendation.

Anyone here use similar software to control bookings for a property abroad, please?

Thx

Larana

Domino

the simplest way is to not worry about the software unless you have a large number of properties to let - just find yourself a slot on one of the online booking sites and sit back and wait for the bookings to roll in.

a friend of mine in Romania uses holidaylettings.co.uk to advertise his second property - the house next door to his retirement home.

Casa Santo Estevo

I am confused, are you asking for hotel or a whole let property management package?
What do you want it to do and how much are you willing to pay for this?

Larana

Not sure, but Domino's answer looks like it could provide a simple answer.

I wanted something that I could administer from anywhere I logged in.

Just to manage bookings, take payments, send automated messages to staff in order for them to arrange cleaning/takeover duties, make sure keys are in the correct place etc.

Casa Santo Estevo

You seem to have your answer, but I do not think any listing website will do all the things you have in your wish list.

Larana

I think I agree with you.

snikpoh

There are many such companies offering this service. Perhaps the best known (highest on search engines etc.) is http://homeaway.co.uk another is http://www.rentalsystems.com/

Some are free and some have fees - just choose what's best for you.

guirijohn

It might be useful to find a local person you can trust to hold keys, manage changeovers, arrange cleaning and to give you feedback on the state of your property. A young person with initiative, perhaps keen to practice their English, would not cost very much.

With a management company you would be one of many clients and would never know whose interests it is really looking after.