Loading...
Loading...
Category: Tech & Automation
By: Anika Sharma
Reply by David Okafor:
I've used StayFi (https://stayfi.com) for 18 months across 4 properties. Here's the real data: **How it works:** 1. You replace your regular WiFi with StayFi's system (or add their router alongside yours) 2. When guests connect to WiFi, they see a branded splash page 3. They enter their email (and optionally phone) to get WiFi access 4. Email is automatically added to your marketing list (Mailchimp, ConvertKit, etc.) **My numbers after 18 months:** - 847 emails collected - 23 direct bookings from email campaigns - Average booking value: $450 - Total direct booking revenue from StayFi leads: $10,350 - StayFi cost over 18 months: $432 ($24/month) - **ROI: ~2,300%** **What I send (quarterly email):** - Subject: "Missing [property name]? Book direct and save 10%" - Contents: seasonal photos, local events, direct booking link with 10% discount code - Open rate: ~45% (very high because they've stayed) - Click rate: ~12% **The real value:** Not just repeat bookings. StayFi also lets you: - Collect reviews (send a review request email post-stay) - Promote other properties to past guests - Build a marketing asset you OWN (not dependent on Airbnb's platform) **Considerations:** - Some guests don't love the WiFi portal (it's a minor friction to get WiFi access) - Quality of emails depends on capture method (some use fake emails) - You need to actually USE the email list — collecting without emailing is pointless **My verdict:** Absolutely worth it if you send at least quarterly emails. If you're not going to email your list, save the $24/month.
Reply by Maria Gonzales:
One thing StayFi taught me: the REAL value isn't email collection—it's the **behavioral data**. You can see how many devices connected (indicates actual guest count vs. booked count) and the branding splash page reinforces your direct booking URL every time someone opens their phone. I've had guests message me months later saying "I remembered your website because it popped up every time I connected to WiFi." That's brand reinforcement you can't get any other way.