The short term rental industry has seen significant growth in recent years. With so many companies offering their services, it's easy for property owners, developers and investors to be lured by Property Management Companies that promise the world: low fees, robust operations and smaller portfolios. But as I like to tell many of our soon-to-be clients, "anyone can be a brain surgeon for a year". Maybe it's an exaggeration (I sure HOPE it is!) but managing a property for the first year is EASY.
In the first year, there are of course things that can go wrong, but the likelihood of a fresh property needing the kind of maintenance and attention of a property that's had a successful 5+ year track record as an STR is extremely low.
Additionally, the STR market has, and will continue to shift with every global event: pandemics, weather patterns, election cycles, economic conditions and more, and having a PMC partner who is not only prepared for that, but accustomed to it, is of the utmost importance.

STRs are fueling hospitality industry growth.
STRs are a growing market and have become an important part of the travel industry, especially since they're not just for business travelers anymore: many people are now using STRs as their primary source of international travel. In fact, STRs have grown so much that they've become a major influence on tourism in many countries around the world; we estimate that about 10% of all tourism happens through STRs, which isn't bad considering how young this industry is!
In addition to their impact on the tourism industry, STRs have also begun to affect real estate markets—and this trend is expected to continue into the future. As more investors purchase properties with STR potential in mind (for example), it becomes easier for homeowners and landlords alike to transition from traditional long-term rentals into short-term ones over time.

Growing competition across the STR space.
In the STR space, competition is rapidly growing. Ten years ago, you wouldn't have been able to rent out your home for more than a few nights per year if you wanted to earn extra cash. Nowadays, it's common for homeowners to rent their homes hundreds of nights per year—in some cases even thousands of nights.
The STR industry has grown from zero competition into a booming marketplace in just under two decades; and with more properties being added into this new market every day and more people wanting to get involved than ever before, there are real opportunities available for those who want them.

The problem with self-managing.
When you look at a home owner and ask, "Can you be a property manager?", the answer is almost always yes. But when you look at the actual work of managing a property, it's clear that this isn't something that all home owners are prepared to do—and there are good reasons for that.

• Home owners lack training in property management. Most people don't grow up learning how to manage a multi-unit building (or even own one). We're taught how to pay our bills on time, but not how to maintain an entire complex full of units while also keeping up with your own house.
• Home owners don’t have 24/7 access to their properties or staff members who can help them manage issues when they arise outside normal business hours or weekends. A PMC will still be responsible for maintaining not only security, but also maintaining HOSPITALITY, within their STRs, around the clock. Property owners keen to save money often will attempt to manage their properties to not have to part with 15-40% of their profit, but in exchange for a percentage of their revenue, they dedicate 24/7/365 of their time to being an on call everything for their guests.

Choosing a PMC for your STR and why length of service matters.
Your STR is already a complex and risky business, so you may be wondering why you should care about the length of service of your PMC. After all, it only affects the price they charge. But there are several reasons why this information can be important to you.
First, it’s a measure of how long a PMC has been in the industry and whether they have experience navigating its changing landscape. As we’ve seen above, PMCs have to continually adapt their business models as jurisdictions change laws or new technologies emerge. The longer they’ve been around and able to do this successfully, the better chance they will have continued success moving forward.
Additionally, more established firms tend to have bigger teams with more diverse skillsets than newer companies who don’t yet need such breadth because their focus is narrower. This means that if one person drops out for some reason—whether due to illness or family leave—there would be others on hand who could step up instead of leaving everything unfinished until someone returned from vacation.

Investing in a PMC with a long track record of success can help you achieve your goals.
The truth is, not all PMCs are created equal. Some have more experience in the STR space than others; some may have more expertise in certain types of properties than others; and some might even be committed to the STR space longer than others. These differences can really matter when it comes to your goals and objectives as an investor who wants to maximize returns on investment (ROI).

The STR space is rapidly evolving and changing. The best PMC is one who is constantly looking forward and finding ways to redefine and refine the industry, but who has the experience to back up their vision with SOPs, policies and track records. 

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals upon us there is no better time to make some impactful upgrades in your short term rental. From big ticket items to small, thoughtful additions, we’ve created a curated list of our favorite steals right now.​

​Another high impact necessity that is often overlooked is coffee. Go the extra mile for your guest and leave a few coffee pods and coffee grounds out for them to make the mornings that much easier.

Outdoor space is such a valuable selling point of any home and extending patio season is always appreciated by guests. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy your outdoor space when nights turn chilly. 

These days, a Smart TV is the standard across short term rentals, and we love outfitting all bedrooms with TVs so guests can escape to their own spaces. While you can definitely choose to splurge in this area, there are definitely excellent affordable options that your guests will love.​

Happy shopping this weekend! 

Outfitting a new investment property or vacation rental home can be an overwhelming task. How do you outfit a kitchen from scratch? What items will make your guest's stay go from good to great? How do you balance a great guest experience with maximizing your bottom line? ​

Still overwhelmed with the idea of outfitting your own home or simply don't have enjoy hours in the day to manage it all? We'd love to help! Click here to get started! 

Not ready to jump in with us yet, but want to learn more about investment property management or investing in your own Airbnb? Follow us on our social media channels linked below! 

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. 
Book Now 

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. 
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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