Listing Isn’t Enough: How NextPax Powers Smarter Vacation Rental Distribution with Lennart Kok

For many short-term rental operators, getting listed on Airbnb or VRBO feels like a win. But in an increasingly competitive landscape, getting listed alone doesn’t guarantee performance. As guest expectations evolve and technology becomes more sophisticated, property managers need to rethink their approach to distribution.

In our recent episode, Lennart Kok, VP of Distribution and Marketing at NextPax, joined the show to share what smarter distribution looks like and why many operators are missing out on tools that could make a major difference in how their properties perform.

From Being Listed to Being Optimized

Lennart explained a key distinction: while being listed on major OTAs is step one, true growth comes from being properly integrated and optimized. Many of the tools that can improve bookings like flexible cancellation policies, guest messaging, promotions, and payments, are often available through the OTAs but go unused due to lack of awareness or limitations in a property manager’s PMS.

This is where NextPax steps in. As a preferred partner with platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, Expedia, and Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, NextPax offers deep integrations that go beyond standard listing sync. These integrations enable features that help listings rank better, convert faster, and meet guest expectations more effectively

Leveraging AI To Improve Listing Quality

One of the standout innovations discussed in the episode is how NextPax is leveraging AI to improve photo quality and listing data. Property photos are often uploaded without tags or in inconsistent formats. Using AI, NextPax automatically tags, resizes, and enhances these photos, turning generic uploads into high-quality, searchable assets that perform better across OTAs.

It’s a simple but impactful feature that aligns with how travelers are now searching. As Lennart points out, OTAs are increasingly using AI to personalize search results. Listings that are better tagged and more complete are more likely to appear in those results.

Underused Features and Untapped Channels

The episode also touches on some of the most underutilized tools in the distribution stack. These include:

• Multiple rate plans with flexible cancellation options
• Geo-targeted promotions
• Reporting tools for guest misconduct
• Payment options that reduce friction for both hosts and travelers

Lennart emphasized that many property managers don’t realize these features exist or they assume it’s too complex to implement. In reality, with the right channel manager and PMS integrations in place, these capabilities can be activated with minimal effort.

Another area of opportunity is GDS Connectivity to Sabre, Amadeus & Travelport. NextPax is launching new capabilities that allow vacation rentals to access demand from business travelers, an area historically dominated by hotels. As more companies embrace remote work and "bleisure" travel, tapping into this segment could be a game-changer for many operators.

Why the Right Tech Partner Matters

A key takeaway from the conversation is that having the right tools isn’t enough. Property managers need a partner that helps use them effectively.

NextPax stands out not just for its OTA integrations, but for how it enables property managers to fully leverage those connections. With preferred partnerships, AI-driven features, and a strong grasp of both regional and global travel trends, it goes beyond basic listing sync. It serves as a strategic distribution engine built to meet the demands of modern property management.

Final Takeaway

If your distribution strategy hasn’t evolved beyond listing on a few major channels, it might be time to reassess. Tools that were once “nice to have” are quickly becoming essential. Whether it’s AI-enhanced photo tagging, access to corporate travel demand, or smarter rate strategies, the operators who embrace more intelligent distribution are the ones who will win.