Choosing an Airbnb Property Manager: My Advice After 14 Years 🌴

Why Experience Matters More Than Low Commission Rates 🌵

By Brad Greiner, CEO of Open Air Homes and OpenAiRE Brokerage

April 3, 2025

Over my 14 years at Open Air Homes, I’ve had countless conversations with homeowners looking for the perfect Airbnb property manager. Homeowners often evaluate multiple companies, carefully weighing their options.

One experience stands out clearly:

• A homeowner in Los Angeles chose a national brand offering a very low commission rate of 15%.
• I understood the appeal of the lowest-cost option, but my industry experience made me aware of potential hidden risks.
• I provided this homeowner with a detailed checklist to ensure the new property manager cared fully for their home, and we parted on good terms.

However, the homeowner soon faced issues:

She returned home to find numerous signs of neglect—cleanliness issues, missed maintenance, and declining guest satisfaction.

Reviews suffered, bookings dropped, and the property management company pressured her to lower nightly rates, triggering a downward spiral. The lesson became clear: Choosing an Airbnb property manager based solely on low commission rates can lead to costly long-term issues.

6 Essential Tips for Choosing an Airbnb Property Manager 🌵

Here are practical guidelines based on my extensive experience:

1. Verify Reviews and Track Record

• Always check online reviews and ratings. Aim for 4.8 stars or higher.
• Consistent positive feedback signals strong guest satisfaction.

2. Confirm Airbnb Superhost Status

• Superhost status means reliability, excellent service, and higher bookings.
• This ensures priority visibility and better revenue.

3. Assess Multi-Platform Exposure

• Choose managers who use multiple booking platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, Google Travel, Booking.com).
• Direct booking options and strong marketing significantly boost occupancy.

4. Review Technology and Pricing Tools

• Confirm they utilize dynamic pricing tools (e.g., PriceLabs) and management software (e.g., Hostaway).
• Technology optimizes operations, pricing, and profitability.

5. Evaluate Hospitality Standards

• Managers should provide personalized communication, quality amenities, and responsive service.
• High hospitality standards drive repeat bookings and strong reviews.

6. Ensure Licensing and Compliance

• Always verify brokerage licenses and legal compliance.
• Proper compliance protects your investment and avoids regulatory issues.

Avoid the Pitfalls of the Lowest Commission 🌵

Budget-friendly options can initially seem appealing, but carefully consider potential risks. Lower commission rates typically correlate with scaled-back services, which may negatively impact your property’s condition and guest satisfaction over time. A local Airbnb property manager typically offers:

• Personalized care, ensuring your property receives tailored attention and prompt issue resolution.
• Better maintenance, preventing small problems from turning into costly repairs.
• Higher profitability through consistently strong reviews and occupancy, avoiding the downward spiral of reduced nightly rates.

Additionally, local property management companies often have deeper connections within the community. These connections enhance their ability to respond quickly to unexpected issues, engage quality local service providers, and maintain a high standard of cleanliness and care.

At Open Air Homes, our approach emphasizes transparency, exceptional guest experiences, and long-term success. We regularly inspect properties, proactively maintain homes, and ensure every guest interaction contributes positively to your rental’s reputation. Evaluate your choices thoroughly, ensuring alignment with your goals and values.

Ultimately, choosing an Airbnb property manager is about more than cost—it’s about protecting your investment, enhancing your guests’ experiences, and ensuring sustainable success. 🌴