Should You Hire a Short-Term Rental Manager: Self-Managing vs. Hiring a Cohost

People always ask us if they should just self manage or if they should hire a cohost.

“Is it worth it?”

Honestly, it depends on your goals. There’s been a lot of talk about self-managing so we thing it’s important to clarify what Excelsior Stays can do for you and your real estate goals.

1. Maximize Revenue per Listing

In today’s crowded short-term rental market, standing out is essential. Guests increasingly prioritize high-quality accommodations, cleanliness, and functionality. To maximize your property’s revenue, a strong marketing strategy, thoughtful follow-up after each stay, and encouraging repeat bookings are critical.

Many hosts miss opportunities that can significantly boost earnings—like dynamic pricing, which adjusts nightly rates based on market demand (similar to airlines), or hiring a professional photographer to highlight your property’s best features.

Every successful STR manager should have a toolkit to drive revenue. Our favorites include:

• Hospitable – Property Management System for streamlined operations

• StayFi – Helps market to repeat guests

• Schlage – WiFi-enabled locks for convenience and security

With the right strategy and tools, your listing won’t just compete—it will thrive.

2. Make Sure Your Investment is Treated With Respect 

From property damage and stolen items to being a considerate neighbor, the challenges of short-term rentals can add up quickly. STR Managers ensure proper guest screening and security systems are in place to minimize risk.

At Excelsior Stays, we connect you with insurance providers who truly understand what it means to be a short-term rental owner—so if anything happens, you’re fully covered. We also install the right cameras and sensors to keep your property safe. Our preferred security tools include Minute, Schlage, and Ring. 

With these measures, you can protect your property, maintain great guest experiences, and avoid headaches before they happen.

3. Eliminate the Headaches of Operating an STR

Rescheduling drama, guest complaints, late-night calls—the challenges of short-term rentals can pile up fast. An STR manager handles all the thorns so you can enjoy the roses. Much of it is automated and closely monitored to ensure rapid, accurate communication. 

When something urgent comes up, it’s far better to have a dedicated team pick up the phone than to wait on hold listening to elevator music with a national company.