If you’re a homeowner who is considering the benefits of having a successful vacation rental, there are a few things to consider before welcoming your first guest. Although you may think self-managing your vacation rental will save you money, the reality is often quite different. Working with a professional property management company can save you significant money to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Not to mention your most precious resource of all — your time.

By choosing to self-manage, you take on more responsibility. You must manage the day-to-day operations and keep an eye on the costs of doing it yourself. Although you may think self-managing your vacation rental will save you money, the reality is often quite different. Working with a professional property management company can save you significant money in the long run. 

Understanding the difference between self-management and using a professional property manager can help you make the best decision for your rental property. Ultimately, you want to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

Benefits of Short-Term Rentals for Homeowners

Short-term rentals can be attractive for homeowners looking to increase their income and additional perks such as:

• A short-term rental allows you to rent out your home daily, weekly, or monthly, which can be profitable if done correctly. Your earning potential depends on where you live, what kind of rental you have, and how in-demand rentals are in your area.
• Short-term rentals also provide homeowners with a certain amount of freedom. Owners can set their rates and decide who they want to rent to by renting on a short-term basis. As such, you can choose tenants who are likely a better fit for your rental and charge more for desirable times of the year.
• Short-term rentals also provide an opportunity to get to know your guests better, as patrons tend to stay for a short period. Homeowners can use this time to build relationships with their guests, which can lead to more positive reviews and increased bookings in the future. 
• Short-term rentals can be a great way to diversify your income and offset any unexpected costs that may arise. 
• Short-term rentals can be more profitable than traditional rental agreements. You can make more money from a higher turnover rate. In sum, short-term rentals also have the potential to generate more revenue than long-term rentals, as you can charge higher rates for shorter stays.  

With all these benefits, it’s obvious why short-term rentals are becoming increasingly popular. With the right approach, short-term rentals can be an excellent way for investors to create passive income and benefit from the ever-growing sharing economy.

Self-Manage or Work with a Professional

For a short-term vacation rental, you have the choice to either self-manage the property or use the services of a professional property management company. While the latter option may cost more than taking matters into your own hands, there are many benefits. 

1. While you might believe that self-managing your vacation rental would be cheaper, the truth is often quite different. Working with a professional property management company can save you significant money in the long term. A professional property management company can provide an array of services, such as pre-screening potential guests, managing inquiries, and ensuring the home is clean – all of which will save you time and money.
2. Professional property managers will also take care of the day-to-day running of the property, from pricing to marketing and bookings to responding to guest feedback. As such, you can focus on other aspects of your business and free up your time. 
3. A professional property management company will also follow your area’s rental laws and regulations. This is a critical aspect of running a vacation rental, thus minimizing the risk of any legal action against you and your business. 
4. Professional property managers have the expertise and experience to see that your property conforms to existing code and is compliant with local regulations.

While self-managing can save you money in the short term, the benefits of working with a professional property management company often outweigh these cost savings. In addition, a professional property management company is a great way to ensure your short-term vacation rental is profitable.

Local Property Manager or National Brand?

When you’re looking to manage a short-term vacation rental, you’ll have to decide between local property managers or national brands. Each option has advantages, so it’s essential to research and consider your needs before deciding. Local property managers are typically knowledgeable about the local market and are well-connected to the community. 

Another thing, local property managers are more affordable than national brands. They can provide more personalized service as they are more familiar with the area and can respond more quickly to any issues that arise. On the other hand, national brands may offer more comprehensive services and access to more extensive networks of customers.

National brands are also more likely to have better-developed marketing strategies and sophisticated technology to help you manage your rental property. In addition, these firms have a global reach and can take advantage of the latest technology and trends. National brands also typically have more resources, like a broader network of vendors and a more comprehensive dynamic pricing strategy. 

Ultimately, the decision between a local property manager and a national brand depends on your needs, budget, and goals. For example, a local property manager might be the better option if you want a personalized approach. However, a national brand might be the right choice if you need more resources. Whichever option you choose, make sure it’s the one that best meets your needs and will help you achieve your goals.

Meet Elite Pacific by Gather

Elite Pacific by Gather is a professional vacation rental management company that manages hundreds of rental properties. We provide the expertise and resources that help our clients maximize their rental income while providing the best customer service. Elite Pacific’s experienced team provides you with the best service possible, from marketing and advertising your property to handling guest inquiries and bookings. 

Our team of experts knows all aspects of vacation rental property management. They have the necessary experience to ensure that our clients’ properties are well-maintained, safe, and profitable. In addition, we have extensive knowledge of local markets, trends in the vacation rental industry, and the latest marketing and advertising strategies. 

At Elite Pacific by Gather, we offer comprehensive services that include marketing and guest relations to maximize your rental income and provide an exceptional guest experience. Our solutions take into account your financial and lifestyle goals. As a result, you can rest assured that your property is in good hands. We also have relationships with real estate agents and local vendors who can help make your property even more successful.

Sit Back and Relax with Elite Pacific

Vacation rental owners often face a difficult decision – should they manage their rental or work with a professional property management company? Unfortunately, the answer is sometimes unclear-cut and often depends on the individual’s goals, resources, and budget.. 

Elite Pacific by Gather has the skills and resources to manage your property to the highest possible standards. Connect with your local Elite Pacific property manager today and learn more about making the most of your vacation rental property.