iGMS vs Hostfully vs OwnerRez: Best Short-Term Rental Software for First-Time Hosts
Setting up your first Airbnb or VRBO means more than just listing your property. You'll need systems to manage bookings, communicate with guests, schedule cleanings, and track finances. The right short-term rental software (PMS) can automate these tasks, saving you time and preventing errors. This guide breaks down three popular options: iGMS, Hostfully, and OwnerRez, to help you choose the best fit for your first property.
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The Quick Answer
Choose iGMS if you are a solo host needing powerful automation for one or two properties. Choose Hostfully if you want to streamline guest communication, offer digital guidebooks, and manage tasks easily. Choose OwnerRez if you plan to grow, need robust direct booking tools, and want detailed financial reporting.
Side-by-Side Breakdown
iGMS: Free for 1 property (limited features), paid plans start around $20-30 per property per month. Best for automation, unified inbox for guest messages, and cleaning management. Hostfully: Paid plans often start around $100 per month for up to 3 properties. Key features include digital guidebooks, a centralized calendar, and a strong channel manager. OwnerRez: Usage-based pricing, typically $40-60+ per month for one property with core features. Strongest for direct bookings, advanced reporting, and broad API integrations.
When to Choose iGMS
You manage 1-2 properties and want to automate nearly everything, from check-in messages to cleaning notifications. You need a single inbox for all guest messages across Airbnb, VRBO, and direct bookings. You want integrated cleaning schedules and task management for your team or personal use. This tool helps you focus on efficient daily operations without needing a complex direct booking website right away.
When to Choose Hostfully
You prioritize a great guest experience, especially with features like digital guidebooks that provide all property info. You need a solid channel manager and centralized calendar to avoid double bookings across platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. You need robust task management for cleaners and maintenance staff. You appreciate good customer support and a user-friendly interface for managing your first property.
When to Choose OwnerRez
You plan to scale your short-term rental business to multiple properties and want a system that grows with you. You need a powerful direct booking website and comprehensive reservation management to reduce platform fees. You require detailed financial reporting, tax management, and owner statements. You need advanced integrations with smart home devices (like smart locks) and pricing tools (like Beyond or PriceLabs) for a truly customized setup.
The Verdict
For first-time hosts prioritizing automation and smooth daily operations for a single property, iGMS offers great value. Hostfully is excellent for hosts focused on guest experience and easy channel management, often a step up for slightly larger needs or more hands-on guest communication. OwnerRez is the power user's choice for serious long-term growth, direct bookings, and deep financial control. Most hosts can start with a simpler tool or a free tier and upgrade as their business grows.
How to Get Started
iGMS: Sign up for the free plan at igms.com, connect your Airbnb or VRBO account, and explore the automations. Hostfully: Request a demo at hostfully.com to see their digital guidebook and channel manager in action, then choose a starter plan. OwnerRez: Sign up for a free trial at ownerrez.com, connect your booking channels, and begin customizing your direct booking site.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Zoom's 40-minute free limit?
On Zoom's free plan, group meetings (3+ participants) cut off at 40 minutes. One-on-one calls are unlimited. For small teams with regular longer meetings, the $15/month Pro plan is usually worth it.
Is Google Meet good enough to replace Zoom?
For most internal meetings, yes. For webinars, large events, and advanced features like breakout rooms and waiting rooms, Zoom still has the edge. Google Meet has narrowed the gap but has not fully matched Zoom's feature set for enterprise use cases.
Does Whereby record meetings?
Yes, on paid plans. Whereby Pro and Business include cloud recording. The free plan does not include recording.