5 questions to ask when choosing an Airbnb manager

Selecting the right Airbnb manager can transform your short-term rental property management experience from good to exceptional. This decision not only impacts your peace of mind but also the satisfaction and reviews from your guests. 

In this article, we’re diving into key questions that will help you vet potential property managers, ensuring they align with your goals and can effectively enhance your property's success.

What to ask potential Airbnb managers

• ‍"Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your fee structure?":
  A clear breakdown of Airbnb management fees helps you align expectations and avoid any hidden costs and. A seasoned property manager should provide a detailed explanation of services included in the management fees, additional service charges, and cancellation policies. This transparency ensures you know exactly what services you're paying for and helps avoid future misunderstandings and financial surprises.
• "How many properties are you currently managing? What strategies do you employ to manage them effectively?":
  This question assesses their capacity and operational efficiency. The number isn't as critical as their ability to manage it efficiently. They should demonstrate a balance between a robust portfolio and personalised attention to each property. 
  A good manager will detail the number of properties they oversee, their team's size, and how they use technology to streamline management. Look for signs of overextension or lack of focus, as these can affect the quality of management your property receives. You want to make sure your property gets the attention it deserves without being just another number.
• "What experience do you have managing properties in my area?":
  Experience in your property's locale is invaluable. A manager with local expertise can provide insights into market data and trends, pricing strategies, and navigating local Airbnb regulations. They should share success stories or challenges faced in your area, showcasing their adaptability and understanding of your market, which can lead to tailored recommendations that enhance your property's appeal and occupancy rates.
  
  A local Airbnb manager like Hometime can also help you get you the best rates and quality of services for your short-term rental, which includes Airbnb cleaning and short-term rental maintenance, helping you earn more in the long run. To know more about Airbnb management services, schedule an obligation-free chat with us below:

• "What is your process for screening potential guests?":
  ‍Proper guest screening maintains your property’s integrity and ensures a good fit, so it’s essential to learn about their guest screening process. A reputable manager will describe their screening process, highlighting how they evaluate guest reviews, verify identities, and assess suitability.
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  If your property is on Airbnb, your property manager should use Airbnb’s review system to assess potential guests, aligning with your preferences regarding pets, children, or smoking. Understanding their screening criteria helps ensure that only respectful and reliable guests stay at your property. This step is crucial in maintaining the integrity and condition of your home, and helps you avoid any potential problem guests that could lead to damage to your Airbnb property.
• ‍"Who will be directly managing my property?":
  ‍Clarity on who manages your property daily ensures accountability and effective communication. Expect them to explain whether you'll work directly with one point of contact or a team. Knowing the structure helps set expectations for response times and the level of personalised attention your property will receive.

Choosing the right property manager for your short term rental is essential to set up your home for success. Our property management solutions in Australia can transform your Airbnb hosting journey into a seamless, profitable, and stress-free experience with the following services:

• Property onboarding: We’ll help you navigate local Airbnb rules for homeowners so you can list your home on Airbnb and alternative websites as quickly as we can so you can start getting bookings ASAP.
• Listing optimisation: Our team constantly works on improving your listing using Airbnb SEO and Airbnb styling and professional real-estate photography. We also create detailed guides for your guests for a local touch that help you get great Airbnb reviews.
• Airbnb cleaning services: We’ll find the best cleaners for regular cleans and restocking between stays, paid for using the built-in cleaning fee from the booking. No need to pay out of pocket between guest stays.
• Revenue and booking management: Hometime’s pricing analysts and market experts use Airbnb dynamic pricing strategies and customised minimum night settings to help you calculate your Airbnb prices, allowing us to optimise your revenue while increasing short-term rental occupancy at the same time.
• Guest communication and management: We go the extra mile to ensure your guests enjoy every part of their stay, from making the booking, checking in, checking out, and everything in between. This includes taking care of maintenance issues quickly, providing alternatives for late-night arrivals, and even meeting them in person when needed!‍
• Property maintenance: Hometime’s local Airbnb experts will sort out all your maintenance needs to make both you and your guests happy. We’ll also do our best to get you the best rates for services in the area due to our close relationships with local businesses.
• Access to Hometime's all-in-one property management software to manage your Airbnb remotely.