How Much Do Property Managers Charge for Short-Term Rentals?

Whether you’re looking to turn a vacation home into a lucrative rental or thinking of listing an extra property on Airbnb, one question is bound to come up: How much do property managers charge for short-term rentals? Understanding the costs and the value of a quality property management service can help you make the right decision for your property—and your peace of mind.

Why Hire a Property Manager for Short-Term Rentals?

Running a short-term rental isn’t as easy as listing your property and waiting for bookings to roll in. There’s guest communication, cleaning coordination, and regular maintenance to worry about—not to mention handling guest issues, which can pop up at all hours.

What Do Property Managers Charge?

1. Monthly Management Fees:
   Most property managers charge a percentage of your rental revenue. Generally, this fee falls between 15% and 30% of each booking.
2. Onboarding or Setup Fees:
   Some management companies charge a one-time fee to get everything set up initially. This might include creating listings, professional photography, and even minor staging or repairs to get your property rental-ready.
3. Cleaning and Maintenance Fees:
   Cleaning fees are generally passed along to guests, so owners don’t typically pay them out of pocket. However, managers coordinate these cleanings, and some might add a small markup to the service.
4. Additional Fees:
   Some property managers offer optional services like guest concierge, airport pickups, or special maintenance and upgrades. These extra services may be offered à la carte, which can be useful if you want to add a special touch or need particular services only occasionally.

How Do Short-Term Rental Fees Compare to Long-Term Rental Fees?

If you’ve ever rented a property long-term, you’re likely familiar with typical property management fees in the 8-12% range. Short-term rental fees are generally higher due to the increased level of service and the regular turnover of guests.

Why Pay the Extra for Quality Management?

It’s easy to focus on the numbers and wonder why you’d pay a management company such a high percentage. But good property management can actually help increase your revenue and occupancy rates, ultimately paying for itself over time.

How to Choose a Property Manager You Can Trust

Finding the right property manager can take time, but it’s well worth the effort. Here are a few things to look for:

• Experience and Local Knowledge: Look for managers who know your area’s rental market and understand local laws and regulations.


• Clear Communication: A good manager should be transparent about fees, what they cover, and how they’ll communicate with you.


• Proven Track Record: Reviews and testimonials are your best friend here. Look at their current listings and online reviews from both owners and guests to see if they’re delivering on their promises.


• Flexibility: Some managers offer customized plans, so ask if they can tailor their services to meet your specific needs.


• Transparency with Fees: Be wary of hidden fees and make sure you understand all costs upfront. A reputable manager will be upfront about every fee they charge.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a property manager for your Airbnb or short-term rental is a big decision. And while the cost can be significant, the value of a quality manager often speaks for itself. They take the workload off your plate, offer expertise that maximizes your revenue, and help ensure guests have a great experience, which leads to better reviews and more bookings.