The Host Co + Hostaway Integration

HostCo integrates seamlessly with Hostaway to help you create and manage a digital storefront for your listings. This allows you to offer guests convenient add-ons, services, and upgrades while generating additional revenue with minimal effort.

With this integration, you can:

• Automatically create storefronts for your listings
• Offer curated and custom services
• Share store links through automated messages
• Manage requests, approvals, and payments in one place

Below is the step-by-step guide. You can also watch it via video here. 

You can initiate the integration in your Host Co account here.

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How to Connect The Host Co with Hostaway

Step 1: Access the Integration

1. Log into your The Host Co account
2. Go to Partners
3. Select Hostaway

Step 2: Connect Your Account

1. Click Connect to be redirected to The Host Co
2. If you do not have an account, create one first
3. Choose the option to connect with Hostaway

Step 3: Generate Your Credentials

1. Return to Hostaway
2. Click Create to generate your:
   • Authorization Token
   • Secret Key
3. Name your token (this can be anything)
4. Select The Host Co as the partner

Step 4: Add Credentials to The Host Co

1. Copy your Token and Secret Key
2. Paste them into The Host Co
3. Click Submit

Once submitted, your Hostaway properties will begin importing into The Host Co.

Step 5: Select Your Properties

1. Choose the properties you want to connect
2. Click Create Stores

Each property will now have its own The Host Co storefront.

Step 6: Customize Your Store

Your store will come pre-populated with:

• Local services such as massage or private chef
• Automated add-ons like late checkout or pet fees
• On-site offerings such as firewood or hot tub heating

You can:

• Edit any existing item
• Add new services or products
• Duplicate stores to save time

Step 7: Share Your Store with Guests

Each store generates a unique link that can be shared with guests through Hostaway messaging.

We recommend sharing your store:

• At the time of booking
• One week before check-in
• At check-in

Step 8: Add Store Link to Automated Messages

1. Go to Message Templates in Hostaway
2. Edit or create a message
3. Insert the The Host Co listing variable
4. Save and activate the message

Your guests will now automatically receive their store link.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HostCo?

HostCo is a digital storefront platform that allows you to offer guests additional services and products, helping enhance their stay while increasing your revenue.

What can I sell through HostCo?

You can offer:

• Local services such as massages or private chefs
• Guest upgrades like late checkout
• Property add-ons such as firewood or hot tub heating
• Any custom services you choose to include

How does pricing and payment work?

• Guests pay through your HostCo store
• Payments are processed securely
• You receive payouts directly to your bank account
• HostCo keeps a small platform fee depending on your plan

How does the request and approve feature work?

Guests can request services directly through your store.

• Payments are held for up to 7 days
• You can approve or deny each request
• If approved, the payment is processed

Do I need to manage inventory or orders manually?

No. HostCo handles:

• Order management
• Inventory tracking
• Email and SMS notifications
• Payment processing

Can I customize my storefront?

Yes. You can:

• Add or remove services at any time
• Customize offerings per property
• Duplicate stores for faster setup
• Adjust pricing and availability

How do guests access my store?

Guests access your store through a unique link shared via:

• Automated Hostaway messages
• Direct communication from you

Is there support available?

Yes. HostCo provides:

• Onboarding support
• Access to daily demos
• Ongoing help for setup and optimization

 

Troubleshooting

My Hostaway account won’t connect

• Confirm your Token and Secret Key are correct
• Ensure HostCo is selected as the partner
• Try reconnecting the integration

My properties are not importing

• Verify that credentials were submitted successfully
• Wait a few minutes for syncing
• Refresh your account or reconnect if needed

My store link is not showing in messages

• Check that the HostCo variable is added to your message template
• Confirm the template is saved and activated
• Ensure the correct listing variable is used

Guests cannot access the store

• Confirm the store is active
• Verify the correct link is being shared
• Check that messaging templates are properly configured

Orders are not appearing

• Check your HostCo dashboard
• Confirm your integration is still active
• Verify notification and payment settings

I am having issues with authorization tokens

• Regenerate your token and secret key in Hostaway
• Re-enter the new credentials in HostCo
• Ensure you selected the correct partner during setup

For any questions, feel free to email [e-mail] or text 760-821-0022.