Vacation Rental Management Services
What a Vacation Rental Management Company Does
(and What Your Commission Should Include)
A vacation rental management company handles the day-to-day work of running your short-term rental so you don’t have to. From marketing and pricing to cleaning, maintenance, guest communication, and compliance, a great manager protects your investment while maximizing your revenue. When done right, it turns your property into a truly hands-off, high-performing asset.
On the right is what investors should expect to be included in a standard management commission:
1. Dynamic Pricing & Revenue Strategy
- Daily rate adjustments based on demand, seasonality, events, and competition
- Revenue monitoring to ensure strong occupancy and maximized profits
- Market reports and performance updates
2. Guest Communication & Support
- Fast, friendly responses to all inquiries (pre-booking, during stay, and post-stay)
- 24/7 emergency handling
- House manual, check-in/out instructions, and local recommendations
3. Cleaning & Turnover Management
- Scheduling and overseeing cleaners after every stay
- Inventory restocking of essentials and guest supplies
- Inventory restocking of essentials and guest supplies
4. Maintenance & Property Care
- Coordinating repairs, vendors, and preventative maintenance
- Handling issues quickly to avoid damage or poor guest experiences
- Seasonal maintenance (snow removal coordination, HVAC checks, landscaping, etc.)
5. Listing Creation & Marketing
- Professional-level listing setup on Airbnb, VRBO, and direct-booking platforms
- Styling recommendations to improve performance
- High-quality photos and detailed descriptions
- Calendar management across all platforms
6. Compliance, Permits & Taxes
- Ensuring your rental meets city/county STR regulations
- Managing licensing, renewals, and occupancy compliance
- Collecting and remitting lodging taxes when required
7. Owner Relations & Financial Reporting
- Monthly payouts and itemized statements
- Expense tracking for maintenance, supplies, and guest charges
- Scheduled owner meetings to review performance
8. Onboarding & Property Setup Guidance
- Design and furnishing recommendations
- Amenity checklists that enhance guest experience and reviews
- Vendor sourcing for hot tubs, linens, landscaping, and safety equipment
The Bottom Line for Investors
Your commission should cover full, turnkey management—you shouldn’t be chasing vendors, managing cleaners, or answering late-night guest messages. A strong vacation rental manager gives you peace of mind, protects your investment, and turns your home into a reliable revenue stream.