At ChattaStays, we believe that with the right approach, any property can reach its full potential. Today, we’re excited to share a success story that exemplifies this belief—a tale of transformation, strategic enhancements, and remarkable results.

Discovering the Hidden Gem in Helen, Georgia

In December 2023, we acquired a charming property nestled in the picturesque town of Helen, Georgia. Previously managed by a local property manager for owners based in California, the property generated a gross revenue of $33,430 in 2022—a figure that stood out, especially considering the booming vacation rental market that year. We saw an opportunity to elevate this property’s performance and set out to do just that.

Identifying Areas for Improvement

During our due diligence, several aspects caught our attention:

• Monochromatic Aesthetics: The entire upper level was painted a uniform canary yellow—walls, ceilings, kitchen, bedrooms, closets—every space. While vibrant, this color choice lacked the universal appeal that guests on Airbnb and VRBO often seek.
• Missing Key Amenities: In the North Georgia mountains, a hot tub is basically a must-have amenity. This property didn’t have one.
• Underutilized Space: The property featured a lockout apartment on the lower level, connected by an internal staircase. However, it wasn’t being offered as a single rental to attract high-value, larger group bookings.
• Limited Accommodation: The lower unit originally offered only one bed, which restricted booking options.
• Operational Challenges: Without a washer and dryer in the lower unit, turnovers became complicated, especially when the upper unit was occupied.
• Static Pricing: The property manager had static pricing in place.
• Lackluster Reviews: Guest feedback reflected impersonal communication and mediocre cleanliness scores, which were hurting its reputation.

Executing the Turnaround Plan

After closing, we immediately implemented dynamic pricing while allowing the property to operate through the Christmas and New Year’s seasons. During gaps between bookings, we gathered quotes for improvements, prepared orders for supplies, and tweaked the property’s listings on Airbnb and VRBO.

Once the slow season arrived in January and February, we got to work:

• Repainted the entire upper level, replacing the overwhelming yellow with neutral whites and blue-grey accent colors.
• Hired an electrician and plumber to wire the lower patio for a hot tub and prep a closet in the lower unit for a washer and dryer.
• Installed a brand-new hot tub.
• Purchased and installed a washer and dryer in the lower unit to improve turnover efficiency and add to the amenities of the lower unit.
• Added futon chairs to the lower unit, allowing it to accommodate four guests—a game-changer for attracting families with small children.
• Added grills on both the upper and lower unit’s porches.
• Updated household essentials to enhance the guest experience.
• Added family friendly items like pack and plays, highchair, coloring books, and outlet covers.
• Switched to a higher-performing cleaning team to improve cleanliness and guest satisfaction.

Reintroducing the Property to the Market

Once all upgrades were complete, we had the property professionally photographed, including twilight photos to make the listing more eye-catching. We also:

• Renamed the listing to create a fresh identity.
• Designed a logo and a photo collage for the cover image.
• Optimized the listing descriptions to highlight the property’s best features.
• Re-launched the improved property on Airbnb and VRBO.

Of course, Meg worked her magic with guest communication and interactions, ensuring a guest-friendly experience from inquiry to review.

The Results: 139% Revenue Growth!

With the revamped property and listing, our first three guests in February gave us all 5-star reviews, setting the tone for success. From there, bookings surged for Spring Break and beyond.

Fast forward 12 months, and the results speak for themselves:

• Total revenue: $79,942
• Increase of 139% from the original $33,430
• 2.4x revenue growth!

What This Means for Other STR Owners

Not every property can 2.4x its revenue, but this case study proves that with the right property management, strategy, and upgrades, significant growth is achievable.

At ChattaStays, we specialize in maximizing revenue and property performance through expert management, smart pricing, and guest-centric improvements. If you’re looking to take your short-term rental to the next level, we’d love to help!

Thinking about how you can boost your STR income? Let’s talk!