Discover the 5 signs it's time to replace your Emerald Coast vacation rental property manager and see how RealJoy Vacations delivers better results.
Hiring a property manager should make owning a vacation rental stress free. After all, you brought someone in to handle the day-to-day so you could focus on enjoying the rewards.
But if your calendar is full and the profits are thin, or you are constantly chasing down answers and repairs, it might be time to admit the problem: your current property manager is not doing their job.
In a hurry? Here is a quick look at the five signs it might be time for a change:
- You're Always Booked, Yet Not Profitable
- You Can't Find Your Property Online
- You're Being Nickel-and-Dimed for Maintenance
- You Keep Finding Missing Items or Damage
- You Can Never Reach Your Property Manager
At RealJoy Vacations, we have built a program designed to fix these problems, combining local expertise, proactive care, and a touch of humor to make even the toughest property headaches manageable.
In this guide, we will walk through each sign so you can decide if it is time to make the switch (and we will tell you what we do differently).
1. You're Always Booked, Yet Not Profitable
It's like hosting a sold-out dinner party and being told you still owe for the groceries.
Many owners find that despite full calendars, profits are lacking. This often happens because property managers charge multiple guest fees, three or four in many cases, without sharing that revenue with the owner. At RealJoy Vacations, we're known for having the lowest guest fees in the market. This allows for higher rates while ensuring the owner's share stays strong.
Key Takeaways:
- Low guest fees mean higher rates without scaring guests away
- Owners keep more of the revenue
- Profits rise without compromising bookings
What We Do Different: We keep guest fees low and competitive, so you earn more per booking without sacrificing occupancy.
2. You Can't Find Your Property Online
Like throwing the best party in town but forgetting to send the invitations.
Some vacation rental software doesn't connect to all major marketing channels, making visibility a challenge. We solve this by listing our owners' properties on RealJoy.com, Airbnb, Booking.com, Priceline, VRBO/HomeAway, and more at no cost to the owner. This extensive reach helps generate 20%–30% more revenue than other managers.
Key Takeaways:
- Properties appear on top booking platforms
- No marketing costs for owners
- Increased visibility brings in 20%–30% more revenue
What We Do Different: We market your home on every major booking site for free, reaching more travelers and boosting your income.
3. You're Being Nickel-and-Dimed for Maintenance
Death by a thousand lightbulbs.
Many property managers see maintenance as a profit source. We don't. At RealJoy, our $45/hour maintenance fee is near break-even after covering wages, insurance, and vehicles, and we only seek approval if costs exceed $150. Our inspectors also perform light maintenance during checkouts, like tightening door handles, replacing bulbs, or clearing A/C drain lines, at no extra charge.
Key Takeaways:
- Low, transparent maintenance fees
- Approval required for costs over $150
- Light maintenance is included at no extra cost
What We Do Different: We focus on preventive, affordable fixes, saving you money while keeping your property in top condition.
4. You Keep Finding Missing Items or Damage
It's like a magic trick, but your stuff never comes back.
We know how frustrating it is to arrive and find your property not as you left it. Our proprietary operational software, launched in 2016, ensures every unit is documented with photos and detailed expectations. Housekeepers and inspectors must complete all checklists before leaving, reducing losses and maintaining property condition.
Key Takeaways:
- Proprietary software ensures accountability
- Photo documentation protects your property
- Thorough checklists reduce loss and damage
What We Do Different: We use custom-built software with photo verification to ensure your property stays exactly how you expect.
5. You Can Never Reach Your Property Manager
The disappearing act, now with extra hold music.
Consistent communication is key. In an industry where employee turnover is high, we're proud of our 94% retention rate and a team of over 50 local staff. Our motto, "Because You Matter," reflects our commitment to homeowners, guests, employees, vendors, HOAs, and every person we interact with daily.
Key Takeaways:
- High staff retention means consistent communication
- A dedicated local team of over 50 employees
- Strong company values focused on relationships
What We Do Different: We assign you a dedicated Owner Relations Manager who knows your property and answers your calls every time.
FAQ: Emerald Coast Vacation Rental Property Managers
What does a vacation rental property manager actually do?
A property manager handles guest communication, bookings, cleaning, maintenance, marketing, and revenue management, so owners can enjoy passive income without daily involvement.
How do I know if my property manager is underperforming?
If your profits are low despite steady bookings, communication is poor, or maintenance issues keep recurring, these are red flags your manager may not be meeting industry standards.
What makes RealJoy Vacations different from other companies?
We combine low guest fees, extensive marketing reach, and dedicated owner support to maximize revenue and property care, with transparent pricing and no hidden costs.
Can a property manager really increase my earnings?
Yes. A skilled property manager uses dynamic pricing, broad marketing exposure, and proactive maintenance to drive bookings and secure repeat guests.
Why choose a local company over a national chain?
Local companies like RealJoy understand the Emerald Coast market intimately, tailoring pricing, marketing, and guest experiences to fit the region's unique demand patterns.
Emerald Coast: A Beachfront Haven Like No Other
With so much to explore, and endless natural beauty to experience the best Florida has to offer, the Emerald Coast will definitely fulfill your craving for a fun-filled vacation.
At RealJoy Vacations, we go the extra mile to make your Emerald Coast getaway truly extraordinary. Your accommodation should match the beauty and magic of this Florida treasure, and our goal is to provide a 5-star coastal living experience during your stay.