As a short-term rental owner, I’ve learned that there are a lot of surprises that come with the territory. Here are five surprising difficulties that I’ve encountered while operating my short-term rental:
1. Dealing with unexpected guests.
One of the most difficult things about running a short-term rental is dealing with unexpected guests. Sometimes guests will arrive early or stay late without letting you know, which can disrupt your plans and make it difficult to prepare for their arrival.
2. Management cleaning and mantainance.
Keeping the property clean and in good working order is a constant challenge. It can be difficult to find reliable cleaners and handymen to take care of the property, and it can be hard to keep up with the constant wear and tear that comes with having guests in and out all the time.
3. Navigating local regulations.
Every city and state has different regulations regarding short-term rentals, and it can be difficult to stay on top of all the rules and requirements. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and understanding the local regulations to make sure my business is compliant.
4. Handling complaints and negative reviews.
It’s not uncommon to receive negative feedback from guests, and it can be difficult to handle these complaints in a way that is both professional and gracious. I’ve learned to take all feedback into consideration and to use it as an opportunity to improve my service.
5. Balancing privacy and security.
One of the most difficult things about running a short-term rental is balancing the privacy and security of your guests with the need to monitor the property. It can be hard to find the right balance between being available to guests and respecting their privacy.
Overall, running a short-term rental can be a lot of work and it can come with a lot of unexpected challenges. However, with a bit of preparation and a lot of dedication, it can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It’s important to be aware of these difficulties and have a plan in place to manage them. This can help you mitigate the risks and enjoy the benefits of being a short-term rental owner.
Eitherway if you decide to keep you life easy, you can always count on us to manage, clean and optimize your vacation home.
Want to learn more about running your vacation rental business like a pro? Visit our Vacation Rental Management page and discover how we can help turning your home into income.
