Our latest feature to enhance the timeshare rental process enables you to message timeshare owners about their listings. This means that you can message hosts on KOALA to make an offer, learn more about the resort, and more. Here’s how this feature can elevate your KOALA experience and help you take advantage of this wonderful community of timeshare owners!

Here’s where to find the “Message Host” button on the listing page:

Direct Messaging: A Game Changer for Bookings

The new direct messaging feature on KOALA is designed to streamline communication between travelers and timeshare owners. This enhancement brings a host of benefits:

1. Personalize Your Experience

By messaging hosts directly, you can ask specific questions about the property, amenities, and local attractions. This direct line of communication allows for a more personalized experience, ensuring that the accommodation meets your specific needs and expectations. Many timeshare owners have spent years vacationing at these resorts with their families. They just might be able to share some valuable travel tips and favorite spots to visit. Ask away!

2. Make an Offer 

Direct Messaging gives you the ability to offer a lower rate or fewer nights than what is currently listed. Ultimately, the host will have the final say – but this can help you find the perfect getaway while staying within your budget.  

3. Enhance Response Time

Hospitality and customer service is at the core of what KOALA does. That said, depending on the amount of customers we are responding to at any given time, there can occasionally be a small lag in response time. Direct Messaging allows you to contact the host directly. But do not fret – our team is always available to help with any extenuating circumstances or questions.   

4. Build Confidence

KOALA already protects you against many of the issues associated with other vacation rental sites. That said, chatting directly with the host who owns timeshare can give you that extra vote of confidence. 

5. Get Detailed Information

While our team does  include all the amazing amenities these resorts feature – sometimes, listings may not include all the specific details you’re looking for. Direct messaging allows you to clarify any uncertainties, such as restaurants nearby, what type of coffee machines are in the units (what can we say, people love their coffee!), or special requests like early check-in or late check-out.

How to Use the Direct Messaging Feature

Using KOALA’s direct messaging feature is simple and user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Browse Listings

   Start by browsing the extensive listings on KOALA. Use filters to narrow down your search based on location, dates, and amenities.

2. Select a Property

   Once you find a property that interests you, click on the listing to view more details.

3. Message the Host

   Look for the “Message Host” button on the listing page. Click on it to open the messaging interface.

4. Ask Your Questions

   Whether you’re asking about the view from the balcony, the distance to the nearest beach, or the best local restaurants, feel free to ask anything that will help you make your decision. This is also a great time to ask about any flexibility in pricing.

5. Book Now

   If you’re ready to book, you can click “Book Now” on the listing page.

6. Chat with Host

   Hosts typically respond within a few hours. Check your KOALA inbox for their reply, and continue the conversation as needed. If the host is not responsive, let us know!

Tips for Effective Communication

To make the most of the direct messaging feature, keep these tips in mind:

• Be Clear and Concise: Make sure your questions are clear and to the point. This will help the host provide helpful answers.
• Be Kind: The KOALA community is a safe place where travelers and timeshare owners can connect and securely transact. Misconduct or harassment in message threads (including any attempts to persuade a host to transact off platform) will result in account suspension or termination. Keep it friendly and – remember – these are vacations we are arranging here!
• Provide Context: If you have specific needs or preferences, provide context to help the host understand your requirements better.
• Refrain From Making “Low-Ball” Offers: We all love a deal – we get it. The value on KOALA is generally very good already and low balling may offend some hosts. If you see a listing that you want to make an offer on, by all means – message the host. Just remember, they also have their own costs to consider. We recommend looking for comparable pricing on major travel sites like Expedia or Booking.com. This will help you locate some listings that may be overpriced to the market. Rather than “low-balling”, sharing market rates for retail and basing your offer down from there is a great way to provide some insight to the host.

KOALA’s direct messaging feature is a significant step forward in enhancing the travel booking process. It bridges the gap between travelers and timeshare owners, offering a more personalized, efficient, and confident experience. Next time you’re planning a vacation, take advantage of this feature to ensure your accommodation perfectly aligns with your expectations. Happy travels!