If you’re comparing vacation rental managers, you’ll quickly notice that they’re not all created equal. Here are a few practical signs that separate the truly exceptional managers from the rest. Here’s what to look for—and why it matters for your bottom line.
1. Property Performance That Actually Delivers
At the end of the day, your vacation rental is an investment—and a good manager should help you grow it. The best managers can point to real results: case studies, past performance, and clear examples of how they’ve increased revenue for other homeowners.
One of the simplest proxies for performance? Guest ratings and reviews. We’ve run the numbers and found that a small difference in rating makes a big difference in income. Properties rated 5.0 can earn up to 20% more than those rated just 4.8 (see chart below). That’s a meaningful gap—one that comes down to how well your guests are treated and how carefully the property is managed.
It’s also worth noting: large national managers often underperform in this area. Reviews for big firms frequently highlight cleanliness issues, poor communication, or generic service. These seemingly small gaps can drag down your ratings—and your revenue along with them.
2. A Commission Structure That Aligns with You
A manager’s fee model can tell you a lot about where their incentives really lie. Some companies pad their profits by marking up cleaning or maintenance services. The problem? This creates a misalignment—where they make money whether or not your home performs well.
Look for managers who profit only when you do. The best ones tie their success directly to yours, so every decision they make—from pricing to guest screening—is about maximizing your returns, not sneaking in extra fees.
3. Reviews that Speak for Themselves
Guest reviews don’t just boost your ego—they’re critical for pricing power, repeat bookings, and long-term success. When vetting a manager, go beyond their pitch deck. Look up the reviews for properties they already manage in your area.
Don’t stop at the star rating—dig into what guests are actually saying. Are they consistently mentioning spotless cleaning, responsive communication, and smooth check-ins? Or are there repeated complaints about dirty linens and unanswered calls? The details in those reviews will tell you exactly how your home will be treated under their care.
4. Personalized Attention (Backed by Operational Excellence)
Finally, ask how many homes they oversee—and what level of attention each one gets. Big, national managers often chase growth at all costs, adding as many properties as possible to keep investors happy. The result? Individual homes get lost in the shuffle.
Smaller, boutique firms tend to take a more hands-on approach, which can mean better care and more customized service. But be sure they also have the systems and tech to back it up. Personalized service is only valuable if it’s paired with operational rigor—dynamic pricing, proactive marketing, and streamlined guest support.
The Bottom Line
The best vacation rental managers aren’t just trying to stack their portfolio—they’re selective about the homes they take on and committed to helping each one reach its full potential.
So as you compare your options, look for the ones who blend high-touch service with high-performance execution—and who treat your home like it’s their own. Because that’s how you protect your asset, delight your guests, and maximize your income, year after year.
Written by Anish Patel, Head of Owner Relations at Vinifera Homes (anish@viniferahomes.com)
