Looking for First Short-Term Rentals in Pensacola, FL

[Yoko Hankins]

We are looking for our very first short-term rental property in Pensacola/Gulf Breeze area. I am looking for any tips for short-term/ beach rentals in general,  or any local tips for operating short-term rentals in Pensacola / Gulf Breeze area. 

[Marshall Leipprandt]

@Yoko Hankins

I cover NW FL in its entirety, but have STR experience a little further east in Miramar Beach. My wife and I self-manage two STR homes in that area. A definite tip would be that depending on your career and availability, self-managing is 100% a possibility. By self managing, you can save 20-25% of gross revenue that would otherwise be going to a property manager. If you were already planning to do that, finding something furnished will also save you a lot of setup time and obviously money!

Some other tips: 

-Screen your cleaners thoroughly and try to get honest opinions and feedback from their previous or current customers. Cleaner churn is a real thing and is a huge headache if you have to do it mid-busy season. Speaking from experience here haha

-Look for properties that are made with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear from guests who are likely not going to be as gentle as you would be yourself. This particularly can apply to things like flooring, cupboards, counter-tops, etc.

-Unless you or your other owners plan to do all of the maintenance, find a great handyman and pay them well. Being able to have them address issues quickly will mitigate negative reviews from guests and prevent even further damage to your property.

I'd be happy to share some more insights if you have more specific questions, feel free to DM me!