Over the 6 years Beckon Homes has been up and running, our team has been given the distinct privilege of helping real estate investors from all over the country (and beyond!) grow their portfolio of Short Term Rentals, Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals. Our focus has always been on serving clients who have a vision of owning and operating high-end, luxury level properties around Nashville, The Smoky Mountains, Cape Cod, California, Florida and beyond. While we've been lucky to be their partner to create nearly-passive income streams with and for them, sometimes our clients have proven to be our best teachers. Here are some of the pieces of advice we've either learned, or taught, as an all-inclusive Airbnb/Short Term Rental Property Management Company:

The traditional real estate motto is, and has been for decades: "Location, location, location!!" 
And while Short Term Rentals and Airbnbs don't follow all the traditional real estate rules (more on this in another bullet point!), picking the perfect location is the one tried and true advice we dole out on a regular basis. 
Of course, the location "rules" for an Airbnb or Vacation Rental are different than residential real estate. Residential real estate might look at the best school systems, or huge, rolling green spaces. It might favor an HOA community, and shy away from city streets. But with Airbnbs, the goal is to be IN THE ACTION as much as possible, and as much as is popular for that city. 
In Nashville, for example, besides the typical Honky Tonks and neon lights tourists flock to bike by on their pedal taverns, there are numerous universities that host thousands of students (and their visiting parents!) every year. There are trade shows and events. There are weddings and concerts. To be nestled in one of Nashville's sweet suburbs just wouldn't make sense for most travelers. Instead, we look for locations that will allow our guests to unwind after a long day in the city, but make it easy for groups to split off if half of our guests want to keep exploring and the other half is ready for some R and R. 
Our best advice to find the perfect location? Work with an awesome Realtor (who knows the area AND the legislation behind short term rentals, which can be intense and expensive if not paid attention to), and ask around! Ask Property Managers, universities and locals where they love to hang out and where they'd want their family to stay if they were visiting! 

When you go to buy a home, some things might be a definite perk: A giant walk-in closet, for instance, or a HUGE, fenced backyard. Maybe an HOA that oversees lush green space or a community pool. 
In Airbnbs or Short Term Rentals, amenities need to be different, and sometimes, things we'd really value in a forever-home, we'd steer our clients away from in an Airbnb. 
For example: While we have a handful of rentals with amazing master closets, the majority of the time, our guests would have preferred to have functional space- more room to sleep, perhaps a lit vanity to get ready, or extra space in the master to add a pack and play more easily. A giant backyard is similar, in that, most of the time, our guests would prefer a rooftop deck over a fenced in yard that we'd have to ensure was pristinely (and expensively) maintained. 
When our clients ask us what will "sell" an Airbnb to guests, here are the amenities we help them search for:

• LOTS of space to sleep. This isn't to invite a party house by any means, but rather is meant to accommodate the frequent trend of multiple families traveling together or intergenerational travel. By ensuring groups will have room to spread out, it gives our Airbnbs and Short Term rentals a distinct advantage over a hotel, where everyone has to share a room (or a bed!) and rarely has any privacy. 
• Lovely, but manageable, outdoor space (preferably with a view). Guests want a place to get a breath of fresh air, to grill out with friends and to sip on coffee or cocktails. However, it's important for our owners that this space is low maintenance to ensure we can keep the outside as perfectly luxurious as we do the inside. 
• Open spaces that invite gathering. While there are certainly beautiful properties that are treasure troves of hidden spaces and cute corners, when guests are traveling together, wide open spaces sell! Finding a place that has a kitchen that can centrally interact with the living areas is key and will make the group feel connected, enjoying their stay that much more!

No, we're not (just) trying to sell our services. But, we do work hard with property owners and investors to dispel the myth that owning investment properties is 100% passive. 
Of course, it can be passive, but only if you have a management partner. More on that below. But first, consider:

• How much time can I commit to managing my rental myself each day? (Yes, it requires DAILY attention)
• What's my plan if there's an emergency or something goes wrong in the middle of the night? On the weekend? When I'm out of town? (Assuming you live in the same town as your rental to begin with.)

While we are HUGE believers in DIY owners and can work with them to get them started in being successful Airbnb/Short Term Rental Investors, the roles and goals of management goes way beyond "booking guests for a fee". Some of the often-forgotten things we provide our owners include (but are DEFINITELY not limited to):

1. Ensuring air filters are changed on a regular basis
2. Testing smoke detectors and changing batteries on those, TV remotes, electronic locks and any other battery-operated appliances
3. Regularly auditing the property and replacing/repairing things as necessary
4. Vetting all future and incoming guests to ensure we understand their purpose for travel, and reduce (if not eliminate) the possibility of a raging party
5. Contract, communicate with, manage and pay all vendors that service our properties like lawn professionals, HVAC/heating/cooling/plumbing companies, painters, trash disposal/removal and so many others
6. Trade discounts to replace things like furniture, sheets, plates, glasses or other household goods
7. After-hours escalation and contact on ANY and everything- from guest lockouts to leaking water heaters, we get the middle of the night call, and our owners rest easy
8. Scheduling all cleanings, turnovers, guest request fulfillment, concierge services and anything related to being onsite at a property
9. MUCH MUCH more

Most investors we've met are either juggling multiple properties, or multiple streams of income through employment or entrepreneurship and they are pros at leveraging the help, skills, resources and man power of others. Of course most of them could manage their own properties, but they know that our services are worth the cost for it to be off their plate so they can focus on building their empires, rather than worrying about dead batteries. 

Whether you just purchased your dream home in music city or decided to work here  remotely for a change of scenery, you want to feel the comfort of home. Beckon Homes can offer furnished mid and long term rentals to fit within your budget and needs.

These homes are designed for comfort and located in the neighborhoods you want to get to know. Our responsive, easy to work with staff will walk you through the easy booking process and beyond. We are here to provide the best service to make your work and life transitions seamless.

If you know that this is where you want to be for now or forever Call us at 833-4BECKON or book HERE 

It's hard to believe that fall is around the corner, especially since it's a crisp 90 with 100% humidity. Getting your home winter ready this fall will be the Christmas present you will be glad you bought early. These tips will save you time, money and make your home more efficient. ​Contact us at Beckon Homes if you would like to pass these chores off to someone else. We offer monthly a la carte maintenance packages that fit your specific needs.

Gutter Cleaning - These bad boys drain thousands of gallons of water away from your home every year. Cleaning them will not only give them a longer shelf life, but save you thousands in roof repair if the get clogged. We use local, insured  companies for all our homes.
Soil Samples - Instead of panic gardening next spring, I will learn from my Covid mistakes and send in soil samples to The University of TN to prepare early. For $15, you can learn what your garden needs to thrive. ​

 HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Inspection - Don't get caught with your pants down. At Beckon, we highly recommend a maintenance plan for our homes that offer free systems checks. Having a bi-annual inspection for these is essential to catching problems before they occur
​Have Your Flue Cleaned - A few years ago, I turned my whole Christmas tree into a Yule Log. Standing in my yard like Cousin Eddie, watching the flames come out of the chimney was NOT the way to clean our flue.

Change Your Batteries and Air Filters- Once a year, replace all your homes batteries. Never in the history of the world has a smoke detector battery beeped in warning in the middle of the day. It only happens at 2am after you finally got the baby to sleep. Just like everyone else, I like the convenience of Amazon but don't go cheap. Find a good battery and you can't go wrong. Quarterly change out those air filters or breathe in all the allergens and dust the city has to offer. 
Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets - ​Living in the South often leaves us feeling safe from the effects of cold weather. Those random 20 degree days can be catastrophic to your pipes. Disconnect and drain your hose and check for any potential leaks. Seriously.

Our team at Beckon Homes LOVE our pups and we know you do too! This guide will direct you to our favorite pet care providers, companies and activities around Nashville for you and your pet to enjoy.  We also look for sustainable ways to give back to the community by donating our unusable linens to the Nashville Humane Association and East C.A.N. These wonderful companies work tirelessly to improve the safety, health and happiness of their pet guests just as we do for ours. ​

Contact us HERE to stay in some of our pet friendly BnB's. Are the In-Laws looking for a place nearby to stay for the holidays, but are having trouble finding a place for their pooch? We have many properties available. Inquire on the link above or click the links below and get started early on your holiday plans. 

Nashville is a wonderfully pet friendly city. Find the hours and operations of dog parks around town HERE or mask up and bring your best friend for a coffee at Fido. 
Follow us @BeckonHomes and feature your best buddy relaxing at a Beckon home. 

When new to town or just passing through, having a quick guide for vetting and pet supplies on hand saves time and stress. These highly recommended providers are just a click away.
​“Whoever said you can’t buy happiness forgot about puppies.” - Author Unknown

• Belle Meade Animal Hospital
• Mobley Veterinarian Clinic
• Murphy Road Animal Hospital
• Blue Pearl Emergency Vet 
• Wags and Whiskers Pet Store 
• Pet Supermarket​

No need to travel to see murals here! These sparkling clean properties have Instagrammable moments in the dining rooms! Walk to Hillsboro Village for shopping, dining and coffee.  With multiple booking options, you can stay to get away. 
Book Now 

Just minutes from 5 Points capturing the heart of Nashville. These professionally sanitized properties will take you back, without going far. Gorgeous rooftops and  amenities for the whole family, relax with a glass and star gaze.
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Do you need to add to your record collection? Grimey's is steps away. Stay with us in this sanitized home in the heart of Inglewood. With such an accessible location, it's a no- brainer. You don't want to miss out on this in-town treasure! 
Book Here 

Have you been needing a break? Escape to The Nations to write a  song, or finish that book in peace. Our cleaning team provides a worry free environment to create, to get lost in a new adventure or to gain inspiration. 
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No one and nothing can bother you here. This spotless designer paradise is elegant and relaxing. Treat yourself to a sprawling floor plan and quiet evenings on the back patio. Embrace and opportunity for a little bit of 'me time'.
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Whether you are staying with Beckon Homes in Nashville for the weekend, here with family, or on an extended business trip; getting out and exploring is right at your finger tips. Once the thrill of the city wears off, soak up all the outdoors has to offer. Bike, run or dip your toes in, it’s a beautiful day to be outside! Tag us on your grand adventures on IG @Beckonhomes.

A Photographer's Dream

Radnor Lake has many dirt or paved trail options. Quietly embrace nature and keep an eye out for the wildlife. Great for meditation and restoration.

Maps and info here

Explore Historic Belle Meade

Put on a pair of headphones and get lost in this hilly, wooded in-town oasis. Have a hike and a picnic on the Percy Warner Trails backed up to historic Belle Meade. 

Maps and info here

Pet Friendly, Kid Approved

Leashed pets are welcome on this adventure! Bike, hike or stroll your way in. Enjoy the nature center and long winding trails. The wilderness in East Nashville awaits.

Maps and info here

Cool Off In A Hurry

Bring your speakers and your flamingo floats and cool off in nearby Percy Priest Lake. Who needs a coastline when you have a beach just a short drive from home?

Maps and info here

Take a Sunday 

Just a little further out than the other trails, this hike offers a day to be with your family, your thoughts or your playlist. Beautiful photo ops and fresh air are ready when you are.

Maps and info here

Game Night!
This beautiful East Nashville home has an amazing layout with fun for the whole family. A few short steps away from Mas Taco and Pharmacy, pick up dinner and settle in for a foosball tournament or connect 4. This property offers a variety of booking options and can be booked in addition to other on-site homes. This is a perfect option for large groups who want to stay together, yet have a little privacy
Book Here

Nature Lover's Escape:
This property has space to roam on TWO acres. Overlook the lush rolling hills while drinking your morning coffee or have a scavenger hunt in the sprawling back yard. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and bunnies! Less than a mile from walking trails or tee off at Shelby Golf Course. This house has staycation written all over it!
Book Here​

Pet and Family Friendly:
This private, quiet charmer is great for the whole family, including your pooch! Enjoy roasting s'mores around the fire pit surrounded by mature trees and a full privacy fence with room to run. The home is so cozy, you'll want to sink in and relax no matter the season! 
Book Here

Just Minutes From Downtown!
Though many of us are staying in, enjoy close proximity to all the walking that downtown has to offer or stay in and root for your favorite team from the comfort of the living room. With the beautiful open floor plan on ONE level you can enjoy the space with everyone in your group. 
Book Here

Minutes To Vanderbilt!
Do you have students at Vanderbilt? This is the perfect option for an extended visit! Close to bustling 12 South and delicious dining options. You can make use of the fully stocked kitchen and worry-free accommodations.
Book Here

Here in Nashville, some think the competition for property managers is FIERCE. While we will always welcome a new client that is a great fit for us, and vice versa, we also understand property management is NOT one size fits all, and often, if a client isn't right for us, or we're not right for them, we'll happily refer them out to other managers we know are killing the game. But how do you choose which manager is right for you? Some may "follow their gut". Others may be numbers-folks who want hard data and decide based on spreadsheets. Whatever your style, there are some not-to-be-missed questions to ask ANY management company you're interviewing. Here they are (along with our answers!):

It's the beginning of a New Year, and so many of us are committing to improvement- personally AND professionally. Airbnb hosts are no different! Whether you'd like our help to fully manage and market your vacation rental, or you want to do it yourself, here are 3 quick tips to help make 2017 your most profitable year yet!:

1. Streamline your communication!  In our experience, regardless of what amenities your home may offer, perhaps the MOST important step in being an Airbnb champ is communication. We've found that guests can be forgiving of ALMOST any shortcoming your property may present if they're given fair warning. So many hosts we've seen try to downplay the negatives of their property by NOT talking about them, but ultimately, this just makes for a disappointing experience for guests with too-high expectations. Develop a great strategy to communicate with your potential guests from message #1 all the way through AFTER your stay. Every guest we've ever hosted (and we've hosted about 40,000 guests so far) has REALLY appreciated knowing exactly what to expect at each turn of their travels. When in doubt: OVER communicate! 
2. Ask for reviews...strategically! Reviews are KING and without them, your listing will get lost in a sea of Airbnb properties. Start asking for reviews before the guest even books their trip, and impress upon them just how impactful a good (or bad!) review can be for your business. Make sure guests feel like they have the ability to communicate NEGATIVE experiences to you DIRECTLY and PRIVATELY, so when it's time for them to post something about their experience PUBLICLY, they, at bare minimum, feel as if their concerns have been heard, and hopefully addressed. When guests know how important their feedback is to you, they'll be much more upfront and honest with you about their experience, giving you the opportunity to make things right when things go wrong, and celebrate when things go right!
3. Update and Upgrade! Just like ANY business, your Airbnb should be evaluated at LEAST yearly, if not weekly, monthly or quarterly. Look around at decor that might be outdated, furniture that may be falling apart, area rugs that might be stains, dishes that might be cracked and commit to investing some percentage of your earnings into consistently tending to your property. Pro Tip: When you make big, impactful changes, make sure to take new pictures to upload to your listing and allow viewers to see you're an involved host. 

Hosting is half art, and half science, and we're always here and happy to help find, furnish, market or manage your Airbnb vacation rental. Whether it's full service management, or a la carte consulting, we can help make your Airbnb the best it can be!