Why picking the right vacation property management team matters

Robert R., a seasoned sales expert, understands the importance of working with a team that always has his back, particularly during the earliest touchpoints of developing a professional relationship.

Unfortunately, the first company he attempted to hire to manage his Sandestin condo lacked the communication and attention to detail required to successfully run an investment property, so he pivoted.

"I'm in sales, so I know what good support looks like. I walked into their office and said, 'Let's dance,' and, for whatever reason, they forgot about me."

After sharing his experience with his real estate agent, they discussed how essential it is to have dependable, communicative people manage a property, instead of approaching it with a “business by numbers” attitude. Robert's agent then recommended he meet with Vacasa to explore a potential partnership. After connecting with Vacasa’s local Sales Executive Amanda F., he knew he made the right decision.

A people-first approach

Finding the right property management company can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth onboarding experience for any homeowner, but it requires initiative, high levels of communication, and trust.

"This is a people business, so it came down to that, quite frankly. I care about working with people I trust, like Amanda and Jacqueline, my local property manager. Vacasa always follows up, emails, checks in, or texts me. I'm a big fan of being able to speak with someone whenever I want."

Robert emphasized Vacasa's communication style, and his local team's natural ability to offer compassionate support, wasn't available at the first company he contacted. When asked to build on that thought, he explained that Vacasa’s commitment to his property and willingness to assist with even the most obscure requests solidified that he made the right choice.

"You can't pay people to care. When I have a problem, I text Jacqueline. Three seconds later, she solves it. It's beautiful to see that alignment and have someone take care of your home personally," Robert says.

"For example, I bought a new induction oven—I didn't know what that meant. In fact, [Jacqueline] took it upon herself to purchase induction-type pots and pans to ensure our guests had the appropriate cookware. That isn't a one-off experience. She's helped us with so many other obscure requests beyond the scope of her everyday job that make this relationship so valuable."

Vacasa's mobile app: an owner's best friend

Another perk that Robert highly values is Vacasa's mobile app. This user-friendly app provides homeowners a convenient platform to manage their properties by providing real-time access to essential information like their booking calendar, home information and earnings reports.

"The app is amazing. I love using it to make reservations, place holds, and see how much money I made. I already have $10,000 from next year's reservations in the bank—and I have yet to reach bookings for the summer months," says Robert.

Having a team that knows your market matters

Another advantage that captured Robert's attention was Vacasa's ability to maximize homeowner revenue while staying competitive in a rental market like Miramar Beach.

"You've got to have somebody that knows how to interpret trends and then import that into a pricing model that works. I'm sold on it, I love it, and this place is rented every second," explains Robert.

Nevertheless, for Robert, a vacation rental's actual value lies in the experiences it provides. He shared heartwarming stories of guests choosing his property for significant life events, such as honeymoons, family vacations, and other memorable occasions. Creating those memories adds a specialness to his property that extends beyond the financial benefit.

In turn, his story inspires homeowners looking to enter the vacation rental market, emphasizing the importance of working with a team that delivers a personal touch while achieving exceptional results.