Are you considering venturing into the world of vacation rentals? Starting a vacation rental business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour, and, in some cases, absolute disregard to perfectionism. In this podcast, we’ll explore key insights from a conversation with Heather Fillmore-Brown, a seasoned entrepreneur in the vacation rental industry, to provide you with practical tips on how to start your own vacation rental business.

How to start a vacation rental business amid divorce, remarriage, and flood?

Heather’s journey into the vacation rental industry was unconventional, marked by life-changing events such as divorce, remarriage, and surviving a flood in Louisiana. Despite these challenges, she saw an opportunity to rebuild her life and career in Utah. As Heather puts it, “Life threw me a curveball, but I caught it and turned it into an opportunity.”

Find your passion and let it drive your business

One of the fundamental pillars of Heather’s success in the vacation rental business is her passion for architecture, design, and improving properties. By aligning her work with her interests and talents, she found fulfillment and motivation to excel in her endeavors. “I’ve always had a knack for architecture and design,” Heather shares. “Turning that passion into a business was a natural progression for me.”

What to do when life gives you one too many lemons?

Starting any business comes with its share of setbacks and challenges. Heather emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and using them as opportunities for growth. “Every setback is a lesson in disguise,” Heather reflects. “It’s not about avoiding failures, but rather about how you bounce back from them.”

Create personalised guest experiences in your vacation rental business

Understanding your target audience’s needs and preferences is essential for success in the vacation rental business. Heather highlights the importance of tailored marketing and personalized experiences for guests, especially in seasonal markets like Park City. “Guests want more than just a place to stay,” Heather explains. “They want an experience tailored to their needs and preferences.”

Focus on acquiring niche knowledge and learn from the best

Proper education and training are invaluable resources for aspiring vacation rental entrepreneurs. Heather emphasizes the importance of acquiring specific knowledge and skills relevant to the vacation rental industry. “Education is the foundation of success,” Heather asserts. “Whether it’s learning about property management or marketing strategies, investing in education can give you a competitive edge.”

Add a hint of old-school into your vacation rental business

In the ever-evolving landscape of the vacation rental industry, finding a balance between traditional hospitality practices and modern technology is key. Heather advocates for leveraging both to create a successful vacation rental business. “Innovation is important, but so is maintaining a personal touch,” Heather advises. “It’s about finding the right balance between tradition and innovation.”