How can I add/delete a manual calendar block?

Managing your calendar effectively is essential for maximizing bookings and ensuring smooth property operations. This guide explains how to add and delete manual calendar blocks in the Holidu Host platform.

How to Add a Manual Calendar Block

Follow these simple steps to add a manual calendar block to your property:

1. Log into your Holidu Host account: Enter your credentials and access your dashboard.
2. Navigate to the Calendar: Click on the "Calendar" section located at the top of your dashboard.
3. Add a Block: On the right side in the "Availability" area, click the Block button.
4. Choose Block Type: Select either Manual Booking (for personal stays or maintenance) or Date Block (to simply block the dates without additional details).
5. Select Your Dates: Click to select the start date, then click the end date you want to block.
6. Confirm Dates: On the right side, click Confirm dates.
7. Enter Details: Fill in the required information in the pop-up form that appears. This may include reasons for the block or additional notes.
8. Save: Click Save to apply the changes to your calendar.

Your calendar block is now active, and guests will not be able to book these dates.

How to Delete a Manual Calendar Block

If you need to remove a calendar block and make those dates available again, follow these steps:

1. Access your Holidu Host account: Log in and navigate to the Calendar section.
2. Select Blocked Dates: Find the specific blocked dates you want to remove and click on them.
3. Remove the Block: From the menu that appears, select Remove Block.
4. Confirm Your Action: Confirm the removal if prompted.
5. Save Changes: Ensure you confirm and save so your calendar is updated immediately.

Once deleted, the dates will become available for booking again.

Why Use Manual Calendar Blocks

Manual calendar blocks serve several important purposes for property hosts:

• Personal Use: Block dates when you need to use the property yourself or for family visits.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Reserve time between guest stays for deep cleaning or necessary repairs.
• Property Inspections: Schedule blocks for property inspections or maintenance work.
• Avoid Double Bookings: Prevent accidental overlapping reservations.
• Lead Time Management: Control when guests can book by blocking dates beyond a certain timeframe.

Important Considerations

• Keep Your Calendar Updated: Keeping your calendar updated prevents double bookings and helps maximize your occupancy rate and earning potential.
• No Automated Lead Time Control: There is currently no way to set an automated opening or closing for bookings based on lead time (for example, after 9, 12, or 18 months). To control availability beyond a certain timeframe, you must manually block or unblock the relevant dates.
• Pricing Strategy Option: If you want more control over when you accept bookings, consider opting out of the copy price campaign and setting prices for only the periods you wish to accept reservations.
• Review Regularly: Periodically review and adjust your calendar blocks to capture every possible booking opportunity and maximize your revenue.
• Cleaning Days: If you require at least one day to clean your property before a new guest checks in, manually block that date as soon as possible. Currently, this cannot be done automatically through the system.

Tips for Effective Calendar Management

• Block dates well in advance for known maintenance or personal use.
• Use descriptive notes when creating blocks so you remember why those dates were blocked.
• Check your calendar weekly to ensure it accurately reflects your property's availability.
• Consider blocking buffer days between guest checkouts and new check-ins for cleaning and preparation.
• Be strategic about block placement to optimize your booking calendar while protecting time for property care.

By using manual calendar blocks effectively, you can maintain control over your property's availability while ensuring a positive experience for your guests.