Vacasa Airbnb Management Review

Sitejabber

On Sitejabber, Vacasa has an average rating of 1.1 out of 5 stars, based on 1,257 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their experiences. 

Common complaints include poor customer service, unexpected cancellations, and issues with property management. For instance, a reviewer from New Mexico reported receiving a final bill with fees exceeding the nightly rental cost, describing the experience as "ridiculous" and "robbery." Similarly, a reviewer from Ohio labeled their experience as "absolutely terrible," criticizing the company's lack of interest in customer service and suggesting to "avoid this company."

While the majority of reviews on Sitejabber are negative, there are a few positive comments  from customers who had satisfactory experiences with Vacasa. These reviewers often mention well-maintained properties and smooth booking processes. 

Yelp

On Yelp, Vacasa has an average rating of 2.3 out of 5 stars, based on 2,182 reviews. 

Common complaints include poor customer service, property maintenance issues, and misrepresentation of rental units. Customers describe the customer service as “rude”, “indifferent and unapologetic”, and “terrible”. Some guests also mentioned that the properties are “disgusting” and “gross”.

However, customer experiences may vary depending on the properties they booked. In fact, there are positive feedbacks highlighting well-maintained properties and enjoyable stays. 

What Vacasa Airbnb Management Offers Hosts

For property owners aiming to enhance their presence on platforms like Airbnb, Vacasa offers a comprehensive suite of management services designed to optimize both visibility and profitability. 

Vacasa offers the following services:

• Comprehensive Listing Management: Vacasa creates and manages your property's listings across major booking platforms, including Airbnb. This includes professional photography, engaging descriptions, and regular updates to attract potential guests.
• Dynamic Pricing Optimization: Utilizing advanced technology, Vacasa adjusts rental rates in real-time based on market demand, local events, and seasonal trends. Dynamic pricing aims to maximize vacation rental property owners’ income-earning potential.
• 24/7 Guest Support: A dedicated team is available around the clock to handle guest inquiries, bookings, and any issues that may arise during a guest's stay.
• Professional Housekeeping and Maintenance: Vacasa offers upkeep services like housekeeping, maintenance and repair, and home inspections to keep the properties well-maintained. It also boasts connections with local vendors, such as plumbers, electricians, pool cleaners, HVAC technicians, pest control service providers, and more.
• Regulatory Compliance Assistance: Vacasa provides guidance and support to ensure your property complies with all necessary legal requirements, including tax collection and permitting.
• Local Market Expertise: Vacasa's local teams possess in-depth knowledge of their respective areas, offering insights into booking behaviors, competitive pricing, and major events that could impact occupancy rates.

Vacasa Property Management Locations

With office locations across the United States and North America, Vacasa’s service areas include 41 U.S states, as well as international destinations in Canada, Mexico, Belize, and Costa Rica.

Vacasa Property Types

Vacasa manages a wide range of vacation rental properties, including short-term and long-term vacation rentals. It also provides condo rental management and community association management services.

Vacasa handles different vacation rental property types, including:

• Beachfront Condos
• Mountain Cabins
• Urban Apartments
• Luxury Villas
• Family Homes

Vacasa Minimum Requirements

To ensure quality and consistency across its portfolio, Vacasa maintains certain minimum requirements for properties under its management:

• Property Eligibility: The property must be located in an area where vacation rentals are allowed.
• Local Compliance: It must adhere to short-term rentals local rules and regulation, including permits and taxes.
• Safety Standards: It must comply with local safety regulations, including functioning smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and secure locks.
• Amenities: A basic set of amenities is expected, such as essential kitchen appliances and comfortable furnishings.

Vacasa Property Management Services

Vacasa offers comprehensive property services to streamline the rental process, including:

• Marketing and Advertising: Utilizing multiple platforms, including its own website and third-party channels like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, to maximize property exposure.
• Booking Management: Handling all aspects of guest reservations, from initial inquiries to confirmations and payment processing. It also offers guest screening, damage coverage, and a 24/7 guest service.
• Business Management: Handling every detail of the property, such as dynamic pricing, professional cleaning, stocking guest amenities, and more.
• Owner Support: Providing dedicated support teams available to address homeowner questions, concerns, and provide updates on property status. It also handles inspections and regular maintenance, as well as helps property owners with taxes and permits.

Vacasa Costs and Fees

Vacasa’s fee structure is tailored to each unique vacation rental property. This personalized approach ensures that homeowners receive services aligned with their property's specific needs and market conditions.

The management fee is determined based on various factors, including the property's location, size, and amenities. This fee is inclusive of a wide range of services, making sure that property owners are not burdened with unexpected charges. To obtain a personalized management fee proposal and an estimate of potential annual earnings, homeowners are encouraged to contact Vacasa directly.

Vacasa Terms and Contract

Before signing up for Vacasa's property management services, homeowners must agree to a management contract. While Vacasa does not publicly disclose all contract terms, reports from property owners indicate key provisions that potential clients should be aware of:

• Contract Length – Vacasa's agreements are flexible, but they typically require a 90-day notice for termination. This means that if a homeowner decides to leave the service, they must continue working with Vacasa for at least three more months.
• Existing Reservations – Even after termination, Vacasa requires homeowners to honor existing guest reservations booked through their platform. This can sometimes extend a homeowner’s relationship with Vacasa beyond their intended end date.
• Restrictions on Personal Home Use – Homeowners can reserve their own properties for their personal use whenever they like, but they should honor prior reservations that are already booked in the calendar.

To ensure transparency and avoid any surprises, homeowners should thoroughly review Vacasa’s terms and discuss concerns with a Vacasa representative before committing.

How to Get Started With Vacasa

To sign up for Vacasa’s property management services, property owners need to:

• Request a Free Revenue Estimate – Homeowners can visit Vacasa’s website and input property details to receive a personalized rental income estimate.
• Consult with a Local Vacasa Expert – A representative will discuss Vacasa’s services, fees, and market conditions in the homeowner’s specific location.
• Sign a Property Management Agreement – Once terms are agreed upon, the homeowner will sign a contract detailing Vacasa’s responsibilities and management fees.
• Property Onboarding & Listing Creation – Vacasa takes care of professional photography, listing optimization, and onboarding the property onto platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and more.
• Go Live & Start Earning – Once the property is listed, Vacasa handles guest bookings, dynamic pricing, and property maintenance, allowing homeowners to earn passive income without direct management.

Vacasa Alternatives and Competitors

The top Vacasa alternatives are:

1. Home Team Luxury Rentals

Home Team Luxury Rentals specializes in luxury vacation rental management, offering comprehensive services designed to maximize homeowner returns while ensuring exceptional guest experiences. 

Key features include:

• Full-Service Management: Home Luxury Rentals handles all aspects of property management, including marketing, booking, guest communication, maintenance, and cleaning.
• Preventive Maintenance: It conducts routine inspections and addresses potential issues proactively to maintain property quality.
• Personalized Service: Home Luxury Rentals offers tailored management plans to meet the unique needs of each property and homeowner.

This approach appeals to homeowners seeking a hands-off experience with a focus on luxury and high standards.

2. Evolve Vacation Rental

Evolve offers a fresh approach to vacation rental management, focusing on flexibility and transparency. 

Key features include:

• Low Management Fees: Evolve charges a competitive 10% booking fee, significantly lower than traditional property management companies. This fee covers core services such as property listing, marketing, and guest support. However, homeowners are responsible for additional expenses like housekeeping, property maintenance, and other operational costs.
• Owner Autonomy: Homeowners retain control over their property calendars and can manage bookings alongside Evolve's services.
• Comprehensive Marketing: Evolve creates professional listings and markets properties across major platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com.

This model suits owners seeking professional marketing and booking support while maintaining hands-on involvement in property management.

3. SkyRun Vacation Rentals

SkyRun operates on a franchise model, offering localized property management services. 

Highlights include:

• Local Expertise: Franchisees possess in-depth knowledge of their specific markets, providing personalized services.
• Full-Service Management: SkyRun provides a range of services to maximize revenue.
• Advanced Technology: Proprietary software aids in booking management, owner reporting, and guest services.
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This structure benefits owners looking for tailored services with local market insights.

Bottom Line

Vacasa, now acquired by Casago, is a vacation rental management company that provides homeowners with an end-to-end rental service that includes marketing, guest services, and property maintenance. Its advanced technology, dynamic pricing, and hands-off approach make it an attractive option for property owners looking to maximize rental income without the hassle of day-to-day management.

However, Vacasa’s high management fees, customer service complaints, and contract restrictions may not appeal to every homeowner. Additionally, with Casago acquiring Vacasa, the company's structure and services could change in the near future.

For those looking for greater control, lower fees, and more flexible contracts, HomeTeamVR is a solid alternative that offers personalized property management while keeping costs more manageable.

When choosing the right property management company, make sure to carefully review contracts, compare alternatives, and consider your long-term rental goals to make the best decision for your investment property.