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Short Term vs Long Term Rental Property Managers - Understanding the Differences


Long-term rental property managers and short-term rental property managers have distinct roles and responsibilities when it comes to managing a property. Understanding the differences between the two can help homeowners decide which option is best for their investment property.


Long-term rental property managers are responsible for finding and vetting tenants, managing lease agreements, collecting rent, and handling repairs and maintenance. They typically have a set fee or percentage of the monthly rent as their compensation.


On the other hand, short-term rental property managers are responsible for managing short-term rentals and ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. They handle everything from listing the property online to cleaning it after guests check out. Short-term rental property managers also handle guest communication, including responding to inquiries and addressing any issues that arise during the stay.


One of the key differences between long-term rental property managers and vacation rental property managers is the level of communication required with the homeowner.


Long-term rental property managers may only need to contact the homeowner if there is a major issue with the property or if a tenant has not paid their rent. Short-term rental property managers, on the other hand, need to be in constant communication with the homeowner to ensure that the property is maintained and that the guests' needs are met.


Another key difference between the two is the level of involvement required from the homeowner. Long-term rental property managers typically take care of everything related to the property, leaving the homeowner with little involvement beyond collecting their monthly rental income. Short-term rental property managers, on the other hand, require a higher level of involvement from the homeowner, particularly when it comes to setting rental rates, deciding on the availability of the property, major property maintenance, and more.

Here are some key differences between Short Term & Vacation Rental Property Managers and Long-Term Rental Property Managers as it pertains to maintenance:


  1. Landscaping and outdoor maintenance: Long-term rental property managers are often responsible for maintaining the outdoor space of a rental property, including landscaping, lawn care, and snow removal. Short-term rental property managers may not provide these services, as guests typically do not stay for long enough periods to require extensive outdoor maintenance.

  2. Pest control: While both long-term rental and short-term rental property managers may handle pest control issues that arise during a guest's stay, long-term rental property managers are often responsible for ongoing pest control measures to prevent infestations from occurring.

  3. HVAC maintenance: Long-term rental property managers typically handle routine maintenance and repairs for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in a rental property. Airbnb property managers may not provide these services, as guests typically only stay for short periods and are not as likely to cause significant wear and tear on the HVAC system.

  4. Cleaning and turnover services: While both long-term rental and short-term property managers may handle cleaning and turnover services between guests, long-term rental property managers are often responsible for routine cleaning and maintenance tasks even when the property is not occupied.

  5. Security and safety measures: Long-term rental property managers are often responsible for ensuring that a rental property is secure and safe for tenants. This may include installing and maintaining smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as securing doors and windows. Short-term rental property managers may not provide these services, as guests typically only stay for short periods and are not as invested in the overall security of the property.

  6. Major Repairs/Maintenance: Long-term rental property managers may handle larger-scale maintenance and repairs, such as roof repairs or replacement, major plumbing issues, and HVAC maintenance and replacement. In contrast, vacation rental property managers typically only coordinate remediation of minor maintenance and repairs that are necessary to keep the home in good condition for short-term guests.

Overall, both long-term rental property managers and vacation rental property managers can provide valuable services to homeowners. The decision of which type of property management to choose ultimately depends on the homeowner's needs and goals for their investment property.


If you're considering hiring a short term rental property manager, be sure to choose one with experience in short-term rentals and a strong track record of guest satisfaction, like Worldwide Property Pros. With the right property manager in place, you can maximize your rental income and minimize your stress as a homeowner.

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