Orlando, Florida, remains a top vacation destination in the US. If you have a second home or a real estate portfolio, you have an opportunity to generate more income. The first step is to find a good management solution.
Even if you're thinking about self-management, you still need a property management company that can provide the necessary tools for rent collection, maintenance, and more.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a vacation rental management company.
1. User-Friendly Tools
You don't have to be a real estate agent to make a good living in the industry. Property owners (or investors) can manage their portfolios through online tools. Leveraging the latest real estate software is just one hallmark of a great property management company.
For example, PMI Orlando Myplace offers a suite of online tools for vacation rental owners.
At the very least, your property management company should have the following tools:
- Rent collection portals
- Multiple forms of payment
- Tenant login portal
- Owner login portals
- Maintenance request forms
- Online application forms
- Guest services tools
Even better, the above tools may be accessed from smartphones to computers. These apps make it easier for landlords to communicate important information to guests, like inspection appointments.
Guests may also leave repair requests at any time.
2. Make Maintenance a Priority
Sanitization has never been more critical for vacation rental guests. Your property manager should have a keen eye for maintenance and cleaning. This includes forging professional relationships with top-rated cleaning companies.
Your management company should clean, repair, and prepare short-term rentals for guests. This is especially necessary if your rental is listed on other sites with star-rating systems. You don't want to risk a 1-star review for poor maintenance.
Include maintenance protocols in your guest welcome packages. An experienced property manager should respond quickly to requests. You can avoid emergencies by upgrading your rentals with new plumbing, HVAC units, and interior treatments.
Window replacements are necessary for preventing heat and cold air loss. It gets pretty sweltering in Orlando, thus, you need a working AC in every unit. Your property manager should get all repairs squared away in Spring to prepare for summer guests.
3. Vacation Rental Management Company Marketing
What comes to mind when you think of "marketing?"
Property managers should handle every aspect of marketing, from listing copy to photography.
Marketing also includes curb appeal and staging.
Property management companies stage rentals for maximum interest. This includes depersonalizing the space so that potential renters can better envision their vacation stay. They may also include fresh flowers, new wall treatments, lighting installations, and more features.
Property managers may also use social media marketing to better promote your rental to Facebook users. Instagram is another powerful image-based social networking site for vacation rental owners.
Property management companies with online dashboards may also integrate booking software into their website for easier planning.
Put Your Rental In Good Hands
There's nothing like summers in Orlando. Provide the ideal vacation spot for guests by following these three essential tips.
These ideas are just the start. Follow our blog for more strategies, browse our services, or contact us today to learn more about our vacation rental management company.
