Can the Property Manager's job be completely automatised for STRs?

[Dylan Davidson]

I'm researching what it takes to do in-house management for a company with 15 apartments, some short term rentals and some midterm.  With all of the software that is available it seems like the property manager will barely have any work.  Is there a way that I could skip over hiring someone for that position and only use software?  With this mix of software: Guesty, Price Labs, automated locks, guest communication, guest screening, and cleaning scheduling, the whole job seems to be covered.  The only question is what happens if the guest has a maintenance emergency such as electricity going out.  I don't think the 24/7 communication services can adequately respond to something like that.  I am researching this as if no one who is currently in our company can take on any additional work (not even a maintenance emergency that happens rarely).  

[Jamie Banks]

Hi Dylan, there are definitely ways for you to automize the STR side but you'd have to hire a VA team and/or answering service to be available to deal with emergencies. However, on the MTR side that would be a lot more difficult. Much of the MTR process is manual if you're Furnished Finder and/or require a application, lease, etc. that requires someone to correspond with the guest. Also, with MTRs it's best to be proactive in reaching out to companies that need furnished rentals to secure direct contracts or join their housing directory vs. just throwing the rental on the different OTAs.