Managing a vacation rental remotely has never been easier. That’s not to say it goes without work. Taking care of the guests and the property is still as challenging as always, but rather, you no longer need to be present at the location. Even if you have a lot of customers staying for a short while, you can still work through the high turnover rate remotely. All it takes is the right software and some careful planning.
Automate as much as Possible
Remote rental management means relying on a good piece of short term rental software. That way you’re never too far from your property, so even in the busiest months, you’ll still have full control over your property. That way you’ll be always on top of your bookings, maintenance appointments, cleaning schedule, and anything else that might pop up when managing the property. You’ll even be able to operate the home security system remotely, and sometimes, even when using a phone. You probably won’t even need a computer.
Tidy up your Online Presence
This one works as a general tip, but it’s double important when working remotely. Your online presence can really make or break the property. Sometimes it’s not enough to simply have booking availability on the largest platforms, so try to find the best vacation rental website template and create the ultimate website for your property. That way you can point all of your social media towards the website, which should be as beefed up as possible. Post great pictures, information about the property, contact information, as well as information on points of interest around the property. You typically want to include as much information as possible, just try not to go overboard.
Install Smart Locks
Smart locks are some of the best modern inventions for remote management of rentals. With them, you can issue a specific code to your guests that lasts only for the duration of their stay so that they can check in without someone physically handing in the keys. That way they’ll have autonomy over their check-in and check-out process, and you’ll be free to continue managing your property remotely.
Set up a Supply Chain
Since you won’t be physically present, you need to make sure your housekeeping staff will always be properly supplied. Consider either automating or at least scheduling supply drops for the property. Things like detergent, linens, or even extra pillows should always be on the property. That way your housekeeping can keep them locked in the closet and always have some when needed.
Find Good Housekeeping
You’ll be relying a lot on housekeeping if you’re working remotely. It might be a good idea to invest in a service that will cover all needs the property and the guests might have, so try not to skip out on something that might seem expensive at first. Remember, housekeeping tends to act as problem solvers if the guests need something or there’s an issue at the property, so try to find a service that you can trust.
Luckily, it’s very doable to remotely manage a rental property. If you plan for things ahead of time and have a good piece of software at your side you shouldn’t have any big issues.
