Managing one or more Airbnb properties can be a time-consuming and stressful business for hosts.
Guests expect hotel-quality amenities, personal yet professional service, and 24-hour support when booking a vacation rental.
For hosts who have daytime jobs or other responsibilities, it can become a struggle to keep up with it all, which is why many are choosing to use an Airbnb management company to help with the day-to-day running of their properties.
What can an Airbnb management services company help with?
Airbnb management services can range from a little bit of assistance with handling bookings, to a full package of support services. Some of the things on offer can include:
- Listing creation
- Professional photography
- 24/7 concierge service
- Guest accommodation and screening
- Personal welcome and key exchange
- Price optimization
- Premium amenities
- Laundry, linen, and cleaning services
- Property maintenance
Using an Airbnb management company can help you with the day-to-day running of your property.
Pricing options
There are two main options for Airbnb management fees. The first is a flat rate per month. This means that no matter how many bookings you get, you pay the same monthly rate to the management company. The second is a commission rate. This means that the company will take a percentage (ranging from between 10-25% depending on what management package you select) of your Airbnb earnings each month.
Some companies will charge set-up fees on top of their monthly management fees. Make sure you find out what is included in the fee and how much extra the company might charge for professional photography or setting up the initial listing.
Deciding between a flat rate and a commission rate is not always easy and you have to take into consideration that depending on what management services you select your bookings could increase dramatically making the fixed option more appealing. Always check whether you can swap between these two options or how long you are tied into a contract.
Caring for your guests
What kind of customer service does the company offer and does that cover you as well as your guests? For example, if your guest has a problem in the middle of the night… will your Airbnb management company be on-call to handle it? Some Airbnb management companies are small operations with only a handful of staff based in a central location. It’s always good to go with a company that has local account managers as they will offer a more tailored, professional service.
Reporting back
As with any management service, it’s important for you as the customer to be able to easily view financial results.
- How much have your earnings improved over the past six months?
- What commission have you paid out to the management company?
- What specific services have been provided for that commission?
