For many owners, the contract is where surprises live. Fee percentages may look clear on a website, but it’s the fine print that determines flexibility, control, and long‑term cost. This guide breaks down common terms, red flags, and the protections you should insist on when evaluating vacation rental management agreements.
The Core Elements of STR Management Contracts
Term Length
Contracts typically range from 6 months to 3 years. Some renew automatically unless notice is given.
Fees & Inclusions
The headline management fee (commission or flat) is stated here, along with what services are included. Anything not listed is usually billed separately.
Services Provided
Should cover marketing, guest communications, cleaning coordination, and owner reporting. Read carefully for what is explicitly excluded.
Owner Use Rights
Rules on when and how often you can use your own property. Some contracts impose blackout dates or limited personal stays.
Red Flags That Hurt Owners
- Multi‑year lock‑ins: Contracts that tie you in for 1–3 years with no clear exit path.
- Early‑termination penalties: $2,500+ fees or forfeiture of future income.
- Opaque inclusions: Key services listed vaguely (“operations support”) instead of spelled out.
- Automatic renewals: Contracts that quietly roll forward unless canceled far in advance.
- Strict personal‑use restrictions: Some operators dictate when you can and cannot use your own home.
Clauses Owners Should Always Ask About
Termination
- What’s the notice period? 30 days is fair; 90+ is restrictive.
- Are there any early‑exit fees? If so, how high?
Service Standards
- Does the manager commit to response times, review targets, or maintenance timelines?
- Are guarantees (like performance or guest satisfaction) included?
Insurance & Liability
- Who is responsible for damage caused by guests?
- Does the manager carry liability insurance or require you to?
Financial Handling
- How and when do owner payouts occur? Weekly vs. monthly.
- Are owner funds co‑mingled with company accounts, or held in a trust?
Why Recreation Stays’ Contract is Different
- Simple 30‑Day Out Clause: No lock‑ins, no long‑term traps.
- Transparent Pricing: Flat 25% management fee. No surprises buried in the fine print.
- Owner‑Friendly Use: We work with you, not against you, on personal stays.
- 5‑Star Guarantee: Unique performance commitment — if a stay doesn’t earn 5 stars, no management fee on that booking.
This structure prioritizes owner trust and flexibility, making us accountable for results.
FAQs
What happens if I want to leave early?
With Recreation Stays, you can leave with 30 days’ notice. No penalties.
Can I still use my property personally?
Yes. We collaborate on your preferred use windows and block them off in advance.
Do managers guarantee bookings or revenue?
No company can guarantee occupancy. What we guarantee is quality — with our 5‑Star Guarantee ensuring we’re accountable for every stay.
Ready to See the Difference?
We’ll provide a free revenue analysis comparing your current performance with projected results under Recreation Stays, plus a step-by-step transition plan.
What you’ll get:
- Transition roadmap with zero downtime
- Market-based revenue projections
- Side-by-side fee comparison with Vacasa
- Transparent cost breakdown
Get Your Free Revenue Analysis →
