RESIDENTIAL
4. Technology & AI: The Future Is Automated
Adoption Here at Home
5. Housing Affordability vs STR Profitability: Finding the Balance
RESIDENTIAL
4. Technology & AI: The Future Is Automated
Global Shifts Airbnb, Expedia( Vrbo), and Booking. com are integrating AI tools:
• Dynamic pricing algorithms
• Auto- messaging & guest support bots
• Smart trip planning and upsell systems
• Expedia reports higher guest satisfaction and lower host workload with these tools.
Adoption Here at Home
Most South African hosts still manage manually. This creates opportunity. By automating now, you can outperform:
• Use PriceLabs or Wheelhouse for automated pricing.
• Sync your calendars across multiple platforms with tools like Lodgify or Hospitable.
• Automate guest messaging with templates( arrival info, Wi-Fi, checkout instructions).
Investor Tip: You don’ t need to be tech-savvy- just start with one automation tool. Less time managing = more time scaling.
5. Housing Affordability vs STR Profitability: Finding the Balance
City Pushback Many urban areas are now blaming STRs for housing shortages.
• Lisbon’ s locals were being priced out due to investor- owned Airbnbs
• In Berlin, STRs must have a special permit and can’ t operate more than 90 days per year.
48 REI MAGAZINE APRIL 2025