Setup Guide

Set up in minutes.
Smart devices optional.

Our guided onboarding walks you through everything. Start with just your property details and a booking calendar — add smart devices whenever you're ready.

Common Concern

Is this too technical for me?

Not at all. Our guided onboarding walks you through each step — add a property, choose how access works, import your bookings, and share your first guest link. Skip anything you're not ready for.

The reality: Most hosts are up and running in under 5 minutes without any smart hardware. The guided wizard handles everything.

  • Step-by-step guided onboarding wizard
  • Skip steps you're not ready for — come back anytime
  • Works without any smart devices or technical knowledge

Three ways to manage access

Choose what works for you during setup

Smart Access

Automated codes via Home Assistant. Codes generate and expire with each booking.

Static Codes

Enter your own door codes. Staykey shares them with guests automatically. No hardware needed.

Portal Only

Just the guest portal — property info, Wi-Fi, local guide. Zero hardware required.

Actual setup timeline

1 min
Create account & organization
1 min
Choose plan & start trial
2 min
Add property & access mode
1 min
Import booking calendar
1 min
Share first guest link
Total (without smart devices)~5 min

Add smart devices later for automated access codes

Time Concern

I don't have hours to spend on setup

We know your time is valuable. That's why we've streamlined setup to take less time than making a cup of coffee. Most hosts complete everything in one sitting during their morning routine.

The reality: Under 5 minutes from signup to your first guest link. Smart device setup takes a bit longer, but you can add it anytime.

  • Each step takes 1-4 minutes max
  • Pause anytime and pick up where you left off
  • ROI after your very first booking
Cost Concern

Do I need to buy hardware?

No. Staykey works without any smart devices. Use static codes or just the guest portal to get started. When you're ready for automated access codes and device control, add a Home Assistant hub and smart lock.

The reality: Start with zero hardware investment. Add a smart lock and hub later if you want automated codes — our hardware planner helps you choose.

  • Works with static codes — no hardware required
  • Add smart devices anytime for automated access
  • Hardware planner finds budget-friendly options when you're ready

Getting started options

Static Codes / Portal Only

No hardware needed

$0

Guest portals, booking sync, manual codes, local guide, and more — with zero upfront cost.

When you're ready
Smart Lock

Yale Assure Lock 2

~$179
Home Assistant Hub

Home Assistant Green

~$99

Add smart devices for automated access codes and device control. Our hardware planner helps you choose.

Self-service resources

Step-by-Step Guides

Every step has screenshots and clear instructions. Start here.

24/7 Help Center

Searchable articles, videos, and troubleshooting tips.

1-on-1 Support (if needed)

Email or schedule a call if you need extra help.

Support Concern

What if I get stuck?

Our guides are built for self-service success. Every step includes screenshots, explanations, and troubleshooting tips. Most hosts complete setup independently using just the documentation.

The reality: 95% of hosts complete setup using only our guides and help center. Support is available if needed, but most never need it.

  • Comprehensive guides with screenshots
  • Searchable help center available 24/7
  • Video tutorials for visual learners

The guided onboarding flow

Our in-app wizard walks you through each step. Skip anything you're not ready for.

1

Create your account

Sign up with your name, phone, and email. Takes about a minute.

Learn more
2

Set up your organization

Name your organization and add billing details. Choose Host or ProHost.

Learn more
3

Add a property

Enter your property details and choose your access mode — Smart, Static, or None.

Learn more
4

Import bookings

Add your Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com iCal feed. Stays sync automatically.

Learn more
5

Invite your cleaner

ProHost users can invite a cleaning company during onboarding. Host users can skip.

Learn more
6

Share your guest link

Each stay gets a unique link built from the reservation ID. Automate delivery with Airbnb's Scheduled Messages — or just copy and send.

Learn more

Ready to automate your guest access?

Join hosts who set up Staykey in under 5 minutes and save 20+ minutes on every single booking.

30-day free trial • Comprehensive guides • Cancel anytime