Today, I had to drive to a real estate company who does alot of vacation rentals to pick up a key. While I was sitting in the office, a client came in requesting a copy of his rental schedule for the rest of the summer. He expressed his displeasure openly that rents had not been as strong as they had been for the past few years. He stated that he would return later to discuss how the company was going to improve his rentals. He couldn't wait because he had family waiting for him in the car. After he left, I asked the front desk agent why his rentals were down when everywhere I have been, offices have been very pleased with rentals.
He pulled out a stack of survey forms which most companies ask renters to complete and the companies forward them on to the homeowners. The agent shared a few and the comments went like this...great views, wonderful location, shabby carpet, carpet needs cleaning, worn places in carpet, holes in couch, furniture needs updating, formica counter tops have scorched marks and stains, blinds have broken slats, two ceiling fans don't work, and appliances are old, etc.
From listening to our own rental agent, I have learned that during peak season, tourists will rent what they can get but once that eight weeks are over...they have lots of choices and they are going to choose a property that is in good condition. I asked the agent how he was going to handle that session and he said...very tactfully he would share the survey with him. Either he updates or he will continue to see his rents at current level.
It is even harder to explain to a homeseller that money may be tight but they need to buy a can of paint and a big bottle of cleaner plus some cleaning cloths. The ones who listen tend to be better clients; the ones who don't, usually blame the agent for not getting an offer. They promise you that they will do what you have suggested but you soon get reports of dirty dishes, overflowing ash trays, and dirty bathrooms. I'm not a real tactful person.
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