All Forum Posts by: Sarah Kensinger

I believe this is Andrew Street company. Would be nice if about us pages on these sites, were a little more detailed with photos of who is behind the company.

Your management fee is way too low, especially if you're doing everything for the owner. At times and during certain seasons cleaners may make more than the manager, but we also put a lot of time into the property that needs to be compensative for as well. If your market is leaning more towards shorter stays...which does seem to be the current demand nationwide...I would not cut your properties out of that demand! Instead evaluate the services you're providing and if your charge is comparable to other companies in the area.

I'm wondering if you have an opportunity to do a mid-term rental in your slow season. If that's something you're interested in, I would ask about it in the MTR forum. 

Pictures are a life saver if an issue arises at a property! If cleaners don't offer that as part of their service or agree to start, we won't use them. About two weeks ago I was very very thankful we had photos to prove a home was clean! At any time, anything can happen to a host and it's best to be prepared!

Somewhat depends on the property and area. Some properties there's just a Brita water pitcher the cleaners fill, others it could be bottled water cold in the fridge, and others would provide nothing because in all reality guests bring the drinks they want. I think some hosts would account for the cost of purchasing good quality bottled water as well, which is why the Brita water pitcher is popular. 

I would also suggest doing something about a water dispenser on the fridge not working. Either change out the fridge or get a water line installed, I can promise it's going to be endless messages asking, "do you know the water dispenser in the fridge isn't working".  

I know of a host that took a guest to court over a false chargeback on a large booking. He made sure to use the court in the state they were in, and not the guest since it made things harder for the guest. Other than that, I'm not sure what to recommend except maybe team up with Lynnbrook for payments outside Airbnb. They would help walk you through chargebacks.

Here's some STR companies in the area that can possibly help you out...

Go Wander Home 

Desired Stays

The Sosi

I can imagine if you want to purchase something, there's thousands of other areas to choose from where you wouldn't be losing so much money. It's a big country and if you look off the beaten path you can still make money with a STR. But areas with expensive real estate, that everyone knows is a great tourist area, is not the best option right now.

Reach out to @Jeff Chisum and see what options you may have for this property.