Straight Answers.
No Fine Print.
Everything you need to know about pricing, management, and performance — explained clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Hostly — experts in short-term rental hosting.
Built on smart systems. Focused on better returns.
Getting Started with Hostly
Yes. Hostly works with many first-time hosts across New Zealand. We guide you through setup, pricing, listings, operations, and guest experience — removing the guesswork while keeping you fully in control of your property.
Once we’ve received all required details, most properties are live and accepting bookings within 5–7 days.
Get in touch for an initial conversation and property assessment. We’ll discuss your goals, run the numbers, and outline the best setup for your property — no pressure and no obligation.
Listings, Platforms & Optimisation
We list properties on the major short-term rental platforms, including Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO (Bookabach). We can also build direct booking websites so guests can book fee-free, giving you better margins and more control.
Yes. Availability, pricing, and bookings are managed through real-time integrations, ensuring everything stays perfectly in sync and eliminating double bookings.
Yes. We create high-performing listings using marketing-led copy, platform best practices, and professional photography guidance. We also optimise listing sections many hosts overlook to improve visibility and conversions.
We don’t supply photographers directly, but we guide you on what to shoot, how to stage the property, and what performs best. Professional photography is one of the highest-ROI upgrades for a short-term rental.
Pricing, Strategy & Owner Control
We use dynamic pricing that adjusts based on seasonality, local events, demand, and comparable listings. Smart pricing technology does the heavy lifting, with human oversight to fine-tune performance.
That depends on your property and goals. In many cases, we avoid one-night weekend stays due to higher risk. Minimum stay rules are always discussed and tailored to your strategy.
Absolutely. You retain full calendar control and can block out dates whenever you like for personal use, maintenance, or family stays.
Guest Management & Risk
While no system is foolproof, we use layered risk-reduction strategies including pricing controls, minimum stay rules, platform verification, smart lock access, and fast post check-out inspections.
Hostly manages all guest communication before, during, and after the stay for Manage and Maximise plans. This includes enquiries, check-in instructions, and in-stay support. The Launch plan has standard booking communications, but if there are any specific guests, you will be required to reply with AI drafted answers.
If an issue arises, we manage communication and assist with claims through the booking platforms. You’re supported through the entire process. We understand it is a stressful time. The first focus is collecting evidence then getting the property ready for the next guest. The claims process follows that. Taking a business mindset where unfortunatley this is a rare, but real part of doing business.
Check-In, Access & Security
Smart locks provide each guest with a unique access code that expires at check-out based on their phone number. They improve security, remove key handovers, and create a smoother guest experience. We recommend keeping a manual backup on-site in case of an emergency. Smartlocks don't get more bookings, but they are a huge contributor to Five Star stays, and that generates more bookings.
Yes. Smart locks provide access logs so you can see exactly when guests enter and exit, adding peace of mind and accountability.
Guests use a self check-in system via smart locks, lockboxes, or agreed access methods. Clear instructions are sent automatically before arrival and guests get a portal with all the key information they can access anytime.
Housekeeping, Linen & Supplies
We work with trusted local cleaning teams who follow clear standard operating procedures. Cleaners restock essentials, report issues, and help maintain consistent quality. These cleaners are your most important team member (yes way more important than us).
We help hosts choose the best linen solution, whether that’s professional linen hire or purchasing hotel-grade linen. We also advise on essential toiletries and thoughtful extras.
Yes, if you already have a cleaner and you are happy with them, we would be glad to keep them working for you!
Payments, Reporting & Admin
Guest payments are processed through the booking platforms and paid directly to you. Hostly will invoice you at the beginning of each month based on the previous months revenue. Airbnb typically pay on the day the guest checks in. Booking.com pays at the beginning of each month and VRBO (Bookanach | Expedia) has their clients pay you directly based on your payment schedule exactly the same as a direct booking.
Yes. You’ll have access to a real-time owner dashboard showing bookings, income history, and statements — all exportable for accounting or tax purposes.
Insurance & Compliance
Yes. We strongly recommend specialist short-term rental insurance in New Zealand. Platform protections are helpful but not a replacement for proper cover.
We provide guidance on best-practice compliance, including council considerations and body corporate rules. Final responsibility always remains with the property owner.