Directory vs Marketplace: Why Pet Sitters Are Choosing Directories
The pet sitting industry is experiencing a shift. More professional pet sitters are moving away from traditional commission-based marketplace platforms and choosing directory-based services instead. Here's why.
Understanding the Difference
📊 Marketplace Model
Platforms like Rover and Wag take a commission (typically 15-25%) from every booking. They handle payments, provide some insurance, and facilitate the booking process.
Example: $100 booking = $20-25 goes to the platform
📋 Directory Model
Platforms like HostMy.Pet charge a flat monthly or annual listing fee. Pet sitters are listed in a searchable directory, but handle their own bookings and payments.
Example: $100 booking = You keep $100
The Real Cost of Commissions
Let's break down what commission-based platforms actually cost you over time:
Scenario: Moderate Activity Level
- Monthly bookings: 25 visits at $40 each
- Gross earnings: $1,000/month
- Marketplace commission (20%): -$200/month
- Your actual earnings: $800/month
Annual commission cost: $2,400
Same Scenario with Directory Listing
- Monthly bookings: 25 visits at $40 each
- Gross earnings: $1,000/month
- Monthly listing fee: ~$30-50/month
- Your actual earnings: $950-970/month
Annual savings: $1,800-2,040
5 Key Benefits of Directory Listings
1. Keep 100% of Your Earnings
No commissions means every dollar goes straight to you. Price your services based on value, not platform fees.
2. Full Control Over Pricing
Set your rates without worrying about platform commissions eating into your profits. Offer discounts and packages on your terms.
3. Direct Client Relationships
Build lasting relationships with clients without platform intermediaries. Exchange contact information freely and communicate directly.
4. Payment Flexibility
Accept payments however you choose - cash, Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, or traditional credit cards. No forced payment processing fees.
5. Predictable Monthly Costs
Know exactly what you'll pay each month. No surprises, no variable fees based on your success.
When Might Marketplaces Make Sense?
To be fair, marketplace platforms can be beneficial for:
- Brand new sitters who need to build their first few reviews
- Part-time sitters with very low booking volume
- Those who value platform-managed payments and insurance
💡 Pro Strategy
Many successful pet sitters start on marketplaces to build reviews, then transition to directories to maximize earnings once established. Best of both worlds!
The Future is Directory-Based
The trend toward directory models mirrors what happened in other industries:
- 🏠 Real estate: Agents moved from high-commission brokerages to flat-fee models
- 💇 Beauty services: Professionals now rent chairs/spaces instead of splitting revenue
- 🚗 Rideshare: Drivers increasingly seek platforms with lower commissions
- 🐾 Pet sitting: The same shift is happening now
As professionals gain experience and build reputation, they naturally seek more control and better economics. Directory models provide exactly that.
Join the Directory Revolution
HostMy.Pet launches Spring 2025. Simple monthly listing. Zero commissions. 100% of your earnings.
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