Let's face it — it takes a village. Whether you live near your rental home or far away, you probably rely on professionals to help both before and during the rental season. It’s a good idea to get those services lined up for the upcoming season as soon as possible. Here are three helpful tips for building your support team:
1. Select reputable service providers
If you’re looking for trustworthy businesses in your area, take a look at our Home Services Directory. This directory provides access to local business websites and contact information, and allows you to search by town or region.
Which services should be top of mind?
The most important service to arrange is your professional house cleaner. (See our post about hiring and managing housecleaners.) If you’re not present during turnovers, cleaners can be your best witness to your home’s condition after vacationers leave. Clearly communicate your expectations and ask them to report any unusual findings.
Other regular services to consider include:
- Trash and recycling pick-up
- Lawn maintenance
- Emergency contacts for repairs or unexpected events
2. Line up these services before the season begins
- House cleaner
- Landscaper or lawn mowing service
- Trash/recycling pick-up (notify guests of the schedule)
- Linen delivery (if you don’t provide linens)
- Spring clean-ups (interior and exterior)
- Appliance repair
- Pest control
- Tree service
- Carpet cleaning
- Window cleaning
- Property management
3. Have a list of services that may interest your tenants
- Equipment rentals (baby furniture, medical supplies, etc.)
- Bike rentals and recreational equipment (boats, kayaks, canoes, etc.)
- Caterers and chefs
- Drivers and transportation
- Fitness and beauty services
You can refer your guests to our Vacation Planner, which, like our Home Services Directory, provides access to location-specific businesses. It also includes activities, events, restaurants, shopping, transportation, a guide to local beaches, and articles about the Cape and Islands.
If you know of a business not listed in our Home Services Directory or Vacation Planner, feel free to recommend them to us or submit a review about any business you know.
Do you have any helpful tips regarding vacation rental service providers?