ToP 5 Red Flags to Watch Out for in Short-Term Rental Management (and how to avoid them!)
Running a short-term rental can feel like the ultimate side hustle - until it suddenly feels like a second (or third!) full-time job.
I’ve been in the world of vacation rental management for years, and I’ve seen it all. The sparkling reviews… and the total chaos behind the scenes.
Whether you’re thinking about hiring a vacation rental manager or managing your short-term rental management on your own, here are five property management red flags that should make you pause - and what to look for instead.
Red Flag #1: Poor Communication
If your property manager takes days to respond to you - or your guests- that’s a problem.
Quick, friendly communication isn’t optional in short-term rental management. Guests expect near-instant responses, especially when something goes wrong. And as an owner, you deserve updates on what’s happening with your property.
What to look for instead:
A manager who answers promptly
Clear, transparent updates
A warm, human tone that puts guests at ease
Red Flag #2: Hidden Fees + Vague Pricing
I’ve heard horror stories from owners who thought they were getting a great deal - until surprise charges started popping up in their STR hosting journey.
Your management fees should be crystal clear. You should know exactly what you’re paying for, whether it’s standard services or add-ons.
What to look for instead:
Transparent commission splits (like my flat 80/20 model)
Clear contracts outlining services included
No surprise charges hiding in the fine print
When thinking about how to choose a property manager, start with transparency. It saves stress - and money - down the road.
Red Flag #3: Cookie-Cutter Guest Experiences
Some big vacation rental management companies churn out listings like a factory line. Guests might get a clean place to stay, but zero personal touch.
In a competitive industry like Chelan vacation rentals (or anywhere else), blending in is one of the fastest ways to lose bookings.
What to look for instead:
Local recommendations tailored to your property
Personalized communication with guests
Thoughtful small touches that make stays unforgettable
Check out some of my favorite small touches that guests rave about.
Red Flag #4: Slow Maintenance or Repairs
Things break. It’s inevitable in short-term rental management. But if your manager is slow to fix issues, it can tank your reviews and cost you more in the long run.
What to look for instead:
Managers with trusted local vendors on speed dial
Proactive inspections to catch small issues early
Fast response times for emergency fixes
Red Flag #5: Lack of Local Knowledge
Your property’s success depends on knowing your market. I’ve seen managers misprice properties, miss seasonal trends, or overlook local regulations simply because they don’t live or work in the area.
This is especially true for Chelan vacation rentals, where understanding the rhythm of tourism seasons can make or break your revenue.
What to look for instead:
Local managers who truly know your area
Advice tailored to your property’s unique location
A true partner invested in the community
Hosting Shouldn’t Feel Like a Gamble
Short-term rental management can be an incredible way to share your home and generate income - but only if you’re working with someone who treats your property like their own.
Whether you’re hiring a vacation rental manager or tackling your STR hosting yourself, remember:
Trust your gut
Ask lots of questions
Don’t settle for mediocre service
Pin this for later so you never forget the biggest red flags to watch for in short-term rental management. Save your business - and your sanity!