Hotels vs. Apartments: Who’s Winning — and How You Can Profit?
Over the past five years, the hospitality industry has undergone a significant transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic, rise of remote work, booking platform evolution, and changing traveler preferences have led to a sharp increase in demand for short-term rentals. Apartments are no longer a niche product — they’re a full-fledged alternative to traditional hotels. 🛋️🗺️💼
Meanwhile, the hotel sector hasn't stood still. To maintain market share, hotels have embarked on aggressive transformation. They’re adapting services, accommodation formats, and guest communication to fit the new reality. Today’s best hotels resemble smart serviced apartments more than classic lodgings. This means apartment owners should closely observe these hotel strategies — and implement those that can work at an individual property level. 👁️🗨️💡📊
According to HospitalityNet, in 2024 Europe saw a 3.9% increase in occupancy for serviced apartments. This not only signals strong demand for alternative accommodation, but also intensifying competition. Understanding hotel sector tactics is key to staying competitive and boosting profitability. 🚀📈📉
What Hotels Are Doing to Stay Competitive 🏢💬🧠
Let’s look at the main directions of hotel innovation — and how you can adapt them for your apartment rental business. 🧳🔍🏘️
1. Digital Check-In & Contactless Technology 📱🧾🔓
Hotels are embracing contactless check-in systems that eliminate front desk lines. QR codes, mobile keys, and automated instructions are becoming the norm.
Try this: Install smart locks, connect to a PMS, automate guest communications. Simple chat tools and message templates save time and build trust.
2. Flexible Stay Options 🕐🧳🔁
Hotels are no longer afraid to be flexible. Early check-in, late checkout, luggage storage, and no-penalty changes help align with modern travel habits.
Adopt it: Offer flexibility — free or paid — depending on occupancy. Present it clearly and kindly.
3. Work & Rest-Friendly Spaces 💼🪑🧘♂️
Workation and bleisure are booming. Hotels are redesigning rooms to include workspaces and ergonomic furniture.
Highlight this: Show guests that your place has a comfortable work area. It’s a key decision factor for many digital professionals.
4. Personalized Guest Experience 🤝💌🥐
Data is the new hospitality currency. Guests receive a pre-arrival survey and a personalized welcome gift — boosting emotional engagement.
Try this: Ask 2–3 questions before arrival. Add a personal touch: a handwritten note, local coffee, city guide, or dining tip.
5. Loyalty Programs & Repeat Bookings 🎁💳📆
Hotel chains push repeat business with perks. Apartments can do this too — even in simplified ways.
Pro tip: Create a return guest discount — even 5% encourages loyalty.
6. Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Practices 🍃🌱🚿
Eco-consciousness is no longer optional. Hotels promote towel reuse, waste sorting, local products, and green cleaning supplies.
Try this: Install a water filter, switch to eco-cleaners, reduce disposable packaging, and highlight this in your listing.
7. Emotional Branding & Visual Identity 🎨📸🌟
Top hotels act like media brands. They craft cohesive visuals, atmosphere, and style — through photos, interiors, and guest communication.
Level up: Create a simple brand identity — color scheme, logo, message templates, unified photos. It builds trust and sets you apart.
How Individual Hosts Can Apply These Insights 🛠️🧩👤
You’re not a hotel chain — and you don’t need to be. But you can apply these ideas gradually:
- Create a digital guest guide (PDF or Telegram bot)
- Review guest feedback monthly and adjust accordingly
- Add 1–2 new amenities based on guest segment needs
- Refresh photos and listing text to reflect your value
What matters most is showing you care. Today’s traveler isn’t seeking perfection — they want thoughtfulness and ease. ❤️🧠🌍
Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? 💼🧘♀️📊
The MIRO Rooms Rentals team can help you with:
✔ Full-service property management
✔ Booking and guest communication automation
✔ Visual content creation
✔ Flexible pricing and revenue analytics
You get maximum returns from your apartment — without the hassle. 🛎️🏠💬
Hotels and apartments will keep competing. But it’s not a war — it’s an opportunity to learn from each other. If you want to grow your rental business, observe the best and tailor their strategies to your scale. 🤝🧠💼