Travelio is a startup that has been billed as Indonesia’s Airbnb. And while that is catchy marketing, there is much more to the company. In fact, short-term rentals are only one aspect of the firm’s business. The goal is to revolutionize property rentals in a country where, quite frankly, a lot of condo units sit empty for various reasons.
Founded in 2015, Travelio estimates that nearly 15,000 properties in 12 Indonesian cities are exclusively listed on its platform. Those looking for a place to stay will find daily, monthly and yearly options available.
Most recently, the proptech startup closed Series C funding and will use the proceeds to expand its rent-to-own vertical. It is an ambitious plan but one they are more than capable of accomplishing. So, while some may have dubbed the company as Indonesia’s Airbnb, that comparison doesn’t seem apt. Here are three things you need to know about Travelio.
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3 things to know about Travelio
1) No surprises
One of the biggest complaints about Airbnb is that there is no consistency from property to property. Some can be great. Others are dumps. And a few are nothing like the photos. Those who book a property using Travelio won’t be in for any surprises.
For starters, the tech startup certifies properties listed on its platform. Each one meets satisfactory cleanliness levels and contains basic amenities, such as air conditioning, to ensure a comfortable stay. What’s more, Travelio operates its own in-house property management which cares for any listing operated under its ‘Apartment By Travelio’ arm.
2) Solving key real estate challenges
Anyone who has followed real estate in Southeast Asia knows one of the biggest challenges for investors is finding a person to rent their property and, in particular, a condominium unit. Travelio is solving that problem in Indonesia.
Those who own an empty unit or brokers can partner with the startup to find tenants. Since Travelio specializes in this, they have an engaged audience looking for rentals. Speaking of that audience, the firm has created a system that makes it easier for people to rent by eliminating some of the key obstacles.
Meanwhile, Travelio’s rent-to-own vertical may fill another gap in the market by making it possible for middle-class millennials to purchase their own home. These types of programs have already been successful in countries like the Philippines and there is reason to think this can also work in Indonesia.
3) User-friendly platform
When I first used Travelio, I was surprised by just how good the platform was. Both the website and app make it very easy to find the type of property you want. Anyone who has looked for a place to stay in Jakarta that wasn’t a hotel will appreciate that.
Functionality is something many similar startups have overlooked. Travelio has been designed with the user in mind. It really is simple to locate an apartment in your desired location at the correct price range.
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Is Travelio really Indonesia’s Airbnb?
Saying Travelio is Indonesia’s Airbnb actually sells the startup short. Whereas the homestays and experiences player has firmly entrenched itself in the hospitality sphere, Travelio has its vision firmly focused on the real estate sector.
With a solid foundation in place, it will be interesting to see how the company grows over the next few years. It feels as if Travelio has a chance to truly innovate the property sector in Indonesia and possibly expand to more countries in Southeast Asia.
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