OperationsLast updated: February 23, 2026
Inquiry
Also known as:booking inquiryreservation inquirypre-booking inquiry
An inquiry is a message sent by a prospective guest to a property manager or host asking questions about a listing before making a reservation. Inquiries may cover availability, pricing, property features, house rules, or suitability for specific needs. Unlike instant bookings, inquiries require a host response before any reservation is made, giving managers the opportunity to screen guests, provide custom quotes, or clarify expectations. Fast inquiry response times are critical — most OTAs factor response rate and speed into search ranking algorithms. A PMS like Hostaway centralizes inquiries from all channels into a unified inbox, enabling quick replies and automated follow-ups that convert more inquiries into confirmed bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an inquiry and an instant booking?
An inquiry is a pre-booking message where a guest asks questions before committing, requiring the host to respond and potentially approve the booking. An instant booking allows guests to reserve immediately without host approval. Inquiries give managers more control over guest screening but require fast response times, while instant bookings reduce friction and are favored by OTA algorithms.
How quickly should I respond to vacation rental inquiries?
You should respond to inquiries within one hour or less. Most OTAs track response time and rate, factoring them into search rankings. Airbnb recommends responding within 24 hours but rewards faster responses with better visibility. Using a PMS with a unified inbox and automated pre-responses helps ensure no inquiry goes unanswered, even outside business hours.
How can I convert more inquiries into bookings?
Respond quickly with personalized, helpful answers that address the guest's specific questions. Provide a clear call to action, such as a pre-approval or special offer for booking within a timeframe. Follow up if the guest does not book within 24 hours. Using automated yet personalized response templates in your PMS ensures consistent, professional communication that increases conversion rates.
Should I use instant book or require inquiries for my vacation rentals?
Most OTAs reward Instant Book listings with better search visibility and higher conversion rates. However, requiring inquiries gives you more control over guest screening, which some managers prefer for luxury or sensitive properties. A balanced approach is to enable Instant Book with guest requirements (verified ID, positive reviews) and use pre-arrival screening questions to vet guests after booking.
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