It is a steep learning curve. I definitely could not evaluate the value after the two week trial, there is just a lot to set up. But I love it now. I am going on two years and perpetually learning more about what it offered.
I say break it down into stages and master each one. For example, I began with calendar sync, I worked my way though all the syncing on the assorted sites I use for three listings. Once that was done, I then began to tackle correspondence, first the initial set up, then tinkering with the details until I got things just right for me. I absolutely love not having to send all my notes right when a booking happens and instead having missives timed to go out at the right times for guests so they are not inundated.
AirBnB just went to not allowing guest details so now I have to go to the personal step of logging in and manually setting up reservation contact info and manually sending my first couple of emails. I am so spoiled by having it be automatic the last couple of years that I am now jumping into API, I want it to run automatically. I want the guest from China who books at 3AM my time to get professional sounding correspondence immediately.
I've added e-locks with door codes and love that, too.
Each step, just one at a time, step by step, get it properly set up and only then do I move on to the next one.
The other change to my technique is that I set aside a time to work on my OR stuff (I have a real job), I open an email and as I go through my project I type up all my questions and when I am done for the evening, I send the email and know I will likely have my answers within 24 hours. Adjust your expectations to how it works with C/S and you will no longer feel impatient, but just change your routine and be less stressed.
