1. What is your commission structure, and are there any additional costs a homeowner might incur?
At Emerald Coast Vacation Rentals, we’re committed to delivering exceptional value with complete transparency. That’s why our pricing is always clear and itemized. No hidden fees, no surprises.
We work on a commission basis, meaning no startup costs for you, and we offer a duvet program at no extra charge. Sheets and towels are provided free for the first year. After that, there’s a replenishment fee per sleeping area starting in June.
Our hourly rate for services is $40, with a $20 minimum charge. However, if an inspector can resolve a minor issue, we only charge for the cost of materials. Any additional costs from outside vendors will be passed along at cost.
2. How do you market properties to guests?
We boost your rental income with top-tier, locally-informed marketing strategies. Our team ensures your property gets maximum exposure across leading platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, Hopper, Booking.com, and Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy, as well as our own website.
This strategic effort drives higher rental rates and maximizes your revenue. To make your property truly shine, we also offer free professional photography, capturing its best angles to attract more bookings.
3. How do you handle cleaning and maintenance for the properties you manage?
Meticulous care is at the heart of everything we do. Our team of inspectors, separate from the cleaning team, ensures your rental is always in top shape. They use a detailed inspection checklist and perform same-day readiness checks to keep everything running smoothly. We go the extra mile with inspections after every guest, annual property evaluations, and a proactive hurricane protection protocol.
With Emerald Coast Vacation Rentals, we know well-maintained property earns more and we’ll keep your rental in excellent condition for 5-star reviews.
4. How do you communicate with homeowners?
With us, communication is easy and reliable. Every owner is paired with a dedicated relations manager and gets 24/7 access to an online portal for bookings, finances, and monthly statements. You can reach our team by text, phone, or email—and during business hours, we aim to respond the same day. After-hours support is also available when needed.
Whenever you’re in town, we’re always happy to grab a coffee and review your property’s performance to make sure we’re aligned with your goals.
5. How do you handle financial management for the properties you manage?
We prioritize transparency in all our practices, including financial management. We follow trust accounting principles to ensure all funds are managed properly and in compliance with industry standards. Rental income and expenses are tracked separately for each property, with detailed financial reports provided to property owners regularly. Our team ensures that all funds are handled securely and that every transaction is fully documented.
6. What kind of technology do you employ, and how does it benefit homeowners?
We use advanced software that provides owners and guests with 24/7 online access to their personal portals. This platform offers valuable information, giving real-time tracking. We also apply technology to our revenue management with dynamic pricing. At no extra cost.
7. What unique aspects set your company apart from other property management companies?
What sets us apart? We’re a full-service management company. Unlike others, we handle everything, from marketing to guest communication, offering comprehensive, stress-free management.
As a locally owned and operated business, we understand your unique needs and are also pretty flexible. Our agreement is ongoing with a straightforward 30-day exit clause, so there’s no long-term commitment. On top of that, there are no out-of-pocket startup costs, no cash reserve, and no monthly minimum maintenance fees.
8. What is your approach to managing damages caused by guests?
We have a clear structure in place to protect your property and handle issues with care, clarity, and accountability. Incidents are categorized into three types:
- Guest Negligence or Misuse: When damage is due to negligence or intentional misuse, we hold guests responsible and take prompt action to recover costs. Our team carefully screens renters and manages the claims process from start to finish.
- Accidental Damage: Covered by a built-in damage waiver included with every reservation. Mishaps like broken lamps or stained rugs are handled without added stress or surprise costs.
- Normal Wear and Tear: Minor scuffs, aging appliances, and faded furnishings are considered routine upkeep. We work with you to maintain your property’s long-term value.
9. How do you manage revenue for properties? Do you use dynamic pricing?
Yes! We have a dedicated revenue management team that utilizes dynamic pricing technology. Our local Revenue Manager and team implement pricing strategies based on market-driven data to maximize your earnings.
10. Are you involved in the local community, and do you support local initiatives?
As a locally operated company, most of our team is deeply rooted in the area, building strong ties with local businesses and promoting our community’s culture. We believe that sustainable tourism is key to thriving in places like the Emerald Coast. That’s why we strive to attract the highest quality of guests, ensuring a positive impact on both the community and the environment.
11. Can I get a revenue projection before signing up?
Absolutely! Reach out to John Butler today for your free revenue projection and see how much more you could be earning with Emerald Coast Vacation Rentals. Our team is happy to walk you through the process and show you the potential of your property.