Sop for STR Self management

[Andrew Haney]

I’m to the point of needing to transition from y current PM and I think it’s time to try self management. Does anyone have some SOPs they’re willing to share?

[Melissa Bovee]

I have a "cleaning and inventory checklist" that goes room by room describing what needs to be cleaned and restocked (how many towels, where, how many extra rolls of TP, dish soap, paper towels etc etc). I also have automation set up as described above. I use IGMS for my PMS, pricelabs for pricing. My smartlock integrates with my bookings to give each guest a unique code that is active just for their stay. You will need some way to keep the housekeeper(s) up to date on all the check out dates. (could be a shared calendar in google) I also keep a document with all the access and account details associated with each property. Each property should have a locked area for your extra linen and all the supplies to restock. I keep a lockbox inside for the key to that so I don't have to manage who has what key - just the code to the lockbox. I also have a lockbox that I would give guest access to in case the battery goes out in the smartlock or if they find a creative way to lock themselves out of the house with the deadbolt locked. Other than that, the main thing to have in place is your list of vendors, especially a maintenance / handyperson that could be somewhat on call to come out to look at things if there is an issue. These things allow me to manage remotely. 

The good thing about this is that it’s not rocket science :) But I do appreciate thinking through your process and documenting it. This way you can give away pieces easily as needed or desired. I think you will find that self managing is not difficult and not worth the fees for a property manager.

Best of luck!