Choosing the right property manager for your holiday home can make or break your investment. While flashy advertising and promises of “maximum returns” might sound appealing, the real difference lies in who’s actually looking after your home — and how much they care.
Here’s what you should be looking for in a holiday property manager, and why working with a smaller, specialised team often leads to better results.
1. Local Knowledge Matters
A good property manager knows the area — not just the tourist hotspots, but the quiet months, council rules, pricing trends, and what guests are really looking for.
Smaller, local teams live and breathe the community, which means they can offer tailored advice on everything from pricing strategy to local recommendations for your guests.
2. Personalised Service You Can Actually Rely On
Large agencies often assign you to an account manager you’ll rarely hear from.
With our boutique service, you’ll deal directly with the our small, consistent team who knows your property inside out.
This means faster responses, real conversations, and someone who actually cares if a lightbulb’s out — not just your revenue.
3. Fewer Properties = More Attention to Yours
Corporate agencies often manage hundreds of listings, meaning your home is just one of many. Smaller teams carefully curate their portfolio to focus on quality over quantity.
The result? Better guest communication, more thorough cleaning and maintenance, and higher guest satisfaction — all of which drive better reviews and repeat bookings.
4. Flexible Plans That Suit You
Big operators usually offer rigid management packages that don’t always reflect your needs as an owner.
Smaller property managers often provide customisable or tiered service plans, allowing you to stay as hands-on or hands-off as you’d like.
5. Better Guest Experiences = Higher Returns
Guests notice when a property is well-managed. Prompt replies, thoughtful presentation, and genuine local recommendations turn good stays into great ones.
Happy guests leave better reviews — and better reviews lead to more bookings. Smaller managers are more likely to go the extra mile to make each stay feel special.
Why We Do Things Differently at My Holiday Managers (hosted by Lakeshores Accommodation)
At Lakeshores, we’re not here to build a portfolio just to sell it off. Unlike some larger corporations that rapidly expand only to exit or merge with competitors, we’re in this for the long haul. (and have been since 1996!)
Our goal isn’t market domination — it’s genuine service. When short-stay management becomes about scale and resale, the focus often shifts from property care to profit margins, leading to less choice and impersonal service for both owners and guests.
We believe a more sustainable, community-focused approach benefits everyone — especially you, the homeowner. By staying boutique and independent, we remain agile, accountable, and personally invested in your success.
Whether you’re new to holiday letting or looking to switch managers, we’re here to guide you through every step with honesty and experience.