Why You Should Consider Booking Directly with Property Owners
The quest for the perfect family vacation rental often leads travelers to a crossroads: book through a large property management company or directly with the owner? In areas like Arnold and Dorrington, CA, where vacation rental cabins tend to be a mix between owner-managed and property management companies, there’s a growing appreciation for the personalized experience that only direct booking with experienced owners can offer.
How can you tell if you are booking with a large company or a mom and pop? Check out these two examples from Airbnb listings.
Can you tell which one is the corporate property management company?? Hint: It’s not me, Chelsea!
Some of the biggest property management companies in our area are Vacasa and Evolve.
Let’s be clear: property management companies are definitely not all bad, and not all owner-operators are ready for prime time. In our experience, though, you have a better chance of having a personalized experience and you might be better looked after when you book directly with experienced owners. This blog post outlines why savvy travelers might do well to consider connecting directly with property owners for their mountain getaways.
Personalized Service
When you book directly with “mom and pop” property owners you’re not just another customer in a vast database; you become a guest with a name, preferences, and unique needs. Experienced owners have a vested interest in your happiness and often provide a level of personalized service that can make your stay more enjoyable. Ever find yourself in a vacation rental where something comes up and you don’t really know who to call, or can’t get a hold of someone who actually knows the house? You were likely in the hands of a property management company and fell through the cracks!
Small owner-operated cabins can also sometimes offer more flexibility in terms of check-in and check-out times, specific amenities, and local recommendations that large companies can’t match.
Expert Property Knowledge
Experienced owner-operators have intimate knowledge of their properties and the local area. They can share the quirks and perks of their homes, the best local eateries, the closest sledding hills, or the trails that offer the most stunning views. This firsthand information can enhance your travel experience and help you feel more like a local than a tourist.
Save Some Money
Booking directly with experienced owners can be more cost-effective as it cuts out the middleman. Many property management companies add service fees to both the traveler and the owner. It makes perfect sense that property management companies might charge more – they have a business to run! By booking direct, you’re likely to avoid these extra charges, and owner-operators might even offer discounts for longer stays or last-minute bookings.
Conclusion
The next time you’re planning a getaway, consider the benefits of booking directly with property owners. You’ll likely discover that this approach not only enriches your travel experience but also connects you with people who are eager to share their homes and their hearts. Whether it’s a cozy retreat in Dorrington or another hidden gem elsewhere, direct booking is your ticket to a more personal and memorable vacation.
