Which PMS to choose?

Professionals

Are you a hotelier, B&B manager or the owner of a successful Airbnb, and have you heard of these famous PMS (Property Management Systems)? Or maybe you’ve been trying to juggle Excel, WhatsApp and a ton of e-mails, and you’re thinking it’s time to step up a gear? Well done! You’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we explain what a PMS is, why it will change your life (or at least your Sunday afternoons), and above all which PMS to choose according to your situation. And we promise to avoid long-winded jargon (except when it’s really funny).

What is a PMS?

A PMS (Property Management System) is a software program that enables you to efficiently manage your tourist accommodation: reservations, check-ins, invoices, calendars, etc. It’s like a dashboard, so you don’t have to chase after information scattered all over the place. It’s like a dashboard, so you don’t have to chase after information scattered all over the place.

Basically, it’s like a super personal assistant… but without the coffee breaks.

Why is a PMS essential?

Here are a few good reasons (you’ll recognize them):

  • ⏱️ Save time: less paperwork, more mojitos.
  • 📅 Centralized management: a single calendar for all your platforms (Booking, Airbnb, personal website…).
  • 💬 Automation: automated messages to customers = less stress, more professionalism.
  • 💸 Fewer errors = more revenue: no more double bookings or forgotten invoices.

Which PMS to choose? A Match for your Situation

Every PMS has its own specialty. Here’s a little “You’re more like… so choose…” guide.

🔹 You start with one or two rooms

If you’ve just opened your first B&B or have a nice vacation rental by the sea :

💡 Recommended: Amenitiz

  • Intuitive interface, perfect for beginners.
  • Includes website and integrated booking engine.
  • Affordable rates.

Other options: Eviivo, Beds24 (a little more techy, but very complete).

SEO tip: Look for a PMS with “no-code” if you’re allergic to the technique.

🔹 You manage several accommodations or a small hotel

Here, you need seriousness, automatism and strength:

💡 Recommended: Cloudbeds

  • Multi-channel synchronization (Airbnb, Expedia, Booking.com).
  • Billing, check-in/check-out, automated messages: it’s all there.
  • Clear interface, top-notch customer support.

Other options: Little Hotelier, Mews (a little more expensive, but ultra-designed and powerful).

Bonus: these systems can often be integrated with connected locks to manage remote arrivals (perfect if you’d rather Netflix at 10pm than wait for lost guests).

🔹 You manage a hotel chain or large volumes

We’re entering the heavyweight category. You need a system that’s ultra-customizable, robust, and can handle financial reporting, loyalty, and even personnel.

💡 Recommended: Opera PMS (Oracle Hospitality)

  • Very comprehensive, used by major chains.
  • Highly customizable, cloud or local.
  • Integration with revenue management and CRM systems.

Other options: Protel, Mews Enterprise, RoomRaccoon Pro.

Warning: these PMS require a real budget, good training, and sometimes… a consultant. But for big needs, it’s the Rolls-Royce.

Criteria to consider when choosing a PMS

Here is a small checklist of points not to be overlooked:

  • 💻 Ease of use: your PMS should make your life easier, not harder.
  • 📱 Mobile version available: very practical if you’re often on the move.
  • 🔗 OTA connectivity (Booking, Airbnb, etc.): smooth synchronization = no overbooking.
  • 💬 Responsive customer support: in the event of a problem, it’s vital.
  • 💰 Value for money: some PMSs charge a commission, others a fixed subscription fee. Compare carefully.

Do I need a website with my PMS?

🎯 Yes! A good PMS often offers a booking engine integrated into your website (or even creates the site for you). This allows you to :

  • Avoid OTA commissions (hello 15%).
  • Offer your customers a direct experience.
  • Manage promotions or packs in your own way.

For example, Amenitiz, SiteMinder and Cloudbeds offer site + reservation modules.

Which PMS for Airbnb?

If you’re a superhost or manage multiple Airbnb accommodations:

  • Your.Rentals: special for Airbnb, multi-unit, very simple.
  • Beds24: highly customizable, with advanced automation rules.
  • Tokeet: modern, good value, especially for vacation rentals.

Conclusion: The right PMS is the one that understands you

Choosing a PMS is a bit like choosing a dance partner: it has to follow you, take the pressure off, and make you shine on the dance floor (well, maybe not literally).

👉 Take the time to test the free demos, ask questions, and imagine yourself using this software every day. Because a good PMS is like the magic wand of the perfect hosting manager.