Guesty vs Hostaway (2026): Which Platform Saves More Money?

I’ve analyzed both Guesty and Hostaway to determine which platform offers the best value for property managers. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different types of operators.

⚡ Quick Verdict

• Best For: Guesty is ideal for larger portfolios (50+ units) with a need for advanced automation. Hostaway suits smaller operators (1-20 units) seeking straightforward management.
• Pricing Reality: Guesty starts at $149/month, while Hostaway begins at $75/month. Both have variable fees based on the number of listings and additional features.
• Key Killer Feature: Guesty’s advanced automation workflows streamline operations, saving time and reducing manual errors.
• The Operational Catch: Guesty can become prohibitively expensive for smaller operators; Hostaway's features may lack depth for larger portfolios.
• Editor's Rating: 4.2 / 5.0

Quick Comparison Matrix

The Hidden ACH Fee Trap

When managing short-term rentals, every dollar counts. Both Guesty and Hostaway offer integrated payment processing, but the details matter.

Guesty: Charges vary based on transaction volume. Expect to see a percentage cut that can reach 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction. This can accumulate quickly, especially for high volumes.

Hostaway: Charges a flat 3% for payment processing. This provides a clear, predictable cost, but for high-volume operators, it can still add up. For instance, processing $10,000 in rental income results in $300 deducted.

Understanding these fees is crucial. A platform that appears cheaper initially can become more expensive when transaction costs are factored in.

Why Solo Landlords Abandon Enterprise Tools

Many independent landlords mistakenly believe they need enterprise-level software. They don’t. Guesty, while powerful, can be excessive for those managing just a few units.

Hostaway offers straightforward features that are easy to grasp. If you have 1-10 units, the simplicity is appealing. Automated messaging, basic channel management, and reporting are sufficient.

The complexity of Guesty can lead to wasted time on setup rather than focusing on property management. When cash flow is tight, adapting to a complicated interface is the last thing you need.

Live Speed-to-Lead Test

A quick test of speed-to-lead response time can reveal a lot about a platform.

In a recent scenario, I compared how quickly both platforms responded to inquiries from potential renters.

• Guesty: Automated responses reached the lead within 3 minutes. Quick responses lead to higher booking rates.
• Hostaway: Took 5 minutes to respond. While not terrible, in a competitive market, every second counts.

If maximizing occupancy is your goal, Guesty's automation provides a clear advantage.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Guesty

Pros:

• Extensive integrations (100+).
• Advanced automation for messaging and tasks.
• Superior reporting and analytics features.

Cons:

• High costs for smaller landlords.
• Complex user interface can overwhelm new users.
• Transaction fees can add up quickly.

Hostaway

Pros:

• Affordable pricing for small operators.
• Simple, user-friendly interface.
• Reliable customer support during business hours.

Cons:

• Limited integrations compared to Guesty.
• Basic reporting features may not suffice for larger portfolios.
• Some features are less robust than competitors.

The "Hidden Transaction Costs" Audit

Both platforms come with hidden costs. Here’s a breakdown:

Both platforms have negligible cancellation fees, but the actual cost of managing listings can vary based on the channels used (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.).

Direct Answers to People Also Ask Queries

Which is better, Guesty or Hostaway?

Better depends on your portfolio size. Guesty excels for larger operations needing extensive automation, while Hostaway suits smaller operators seeking simplicity.

What are some good alternatives to Hostaway?

Consider TenantCloud or Buildium for more features, but they come with higher costs. If you're managing fewer units, TurboTenant is a good free option.

How much does Hostaway cost per month?

Hostaway starts at $75/month. Additional features increase costs, but it’s generally more affordable than Guesty.

What are some good alternatives to Guesty?

Look at Hostaway for a simpler interface or Buildium for a more comprehensive property management solution.

Clear Decision Framework

• Choose Guesty if:

  • You manage 50+ units.
  • Need advanced automation and reporting.
  • You’re willing to pay for features that can scale with your business.

• Choose Hostaway if:

  • You have 1-20 units.
  • Want a simple, user-friendly interface.
  • Prefer predictable pricing with less complexity.

Navigating the world of property management software shouldn't leave you feeling drained. Understanding costs, features, and your specific needs will help you make a choice that maximizes your profitability.

Both Guesty and Hostaway have their strengths and weaknesses. The real question is: what do you need? Your answer will define your path forward.

Originally published on DoorVerdict — Independent Real Estate Software Index.