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Owning a vacation rental can be an incredible investment, offering both passive income and the joy of sharing your property with travelers. But managing a vacation rental remotely? That’s a different story. Whether your rental is across the state or across the country, staying on top of guest needs, maintenance, marketing, and revenue management can feel overwhelming — unless you have the right systems (and team) in place.
If you’re wondering how to manage your vacation rental from afar, you’re in the right place. We’re breaking down what it takes to successfully operate your short-term rental remotely — and why partnering with an experienced vacation rental property manager could be the best move you make for your investment.
1. Automate What You Can
When you’re managing your vacation rental remotely, automation isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. With the right tools in place, you can streamline day-to-day operations, reduce human error, and deliver a seamless guest experience without being physically present.
Here are a few key areas where automation makes a big impact:
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Guest communications: Use platforms like Enso, Hospitable, or Guesty to automate guest messaging. You can schedule personalized check-in instructions, send FAQs before arrival, and request reviews after checkout. This ensures timely communication (even while you sleep) — and helps you earn 5-star reviews with consistent service.
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Smart home technology: Install smart locks so guests can check in and out on their own with unique, time-bound access codes — no key exchanges or lockboxes needed. Pair that with smart thermostats (like Nest or Honeywell) and security cameras or doorbell cams to monitor energy use and keep your property secure, all from your phone.
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Dynamic pricing: Leverage dynamic pricing tools to automatically adjust your nightly rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. This helps you stay competitive and maximize revenue without having to manually update pricing every week.
With automation handling the day-to-day, your short-term rental can run like a well-oiled machine — boosting profits and reducing the risk of missed messages, late-night calls, or awkward check-in hiccups.
The result? Happy guests, glowing reviews, increased revenue, and more time back in your day to focus on the big picture.
2. Monitor Performance Metrics
To make smart, strategic decisions from a distance, you need more than just a gut feeling — you need real-time visibility into your property’s performance. Tracking key metrics consistently helps you understand what’s driving revenue, what might be falling short, and where to focus your attention next.
Some of the most important metrics to watch include:
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Occupancy rate: How often your property is booked compared to its availability. A high occupancy rate generally signals demand, but too high might indicate underpricing.
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Average daily rate (ADR): The average amount earned per booked night. Keeping this balanced with your occupancy rate helps optimize income.
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Revenue per available night (RevPAR): A performance indicator that blends occupancy and ADR to show how much you’re actually making across all available nights — booked or not.
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Guest satisfaction scores: Reviews and feedback tell you how guests are experiencing your property, which directly impacts your future bookings and brand reputation.
Many remote homeowners use property management software that includes dashboards, alerts, and performance reports. Others choose to work with a vacation rental management company that proactively monitors and optimizes these metrics — freeing them from constant number-crunching and decision fatigue.
Once you understand what’s working (and what’s not), you can adjust your marketing strategy and reputation management accordingly.
3. Stay on Top of Marketing and Reviews
A steady stream of bookings doesn’t happen by accident — it takes consistent marketing, strategic listing management, and a glowing reputation across platforms. When you’re managing from a distance, this part of the job often requires just as much attention as operations on the ground.
To stay competitive and keep your calendar full, make sure you’re:
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Refreshing your listings regularly with seasonal highlights, local event tie-ins, and updated headlines to stay relevant in search results.
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Optimizing your visuals and descriptions — high-quality photos, clear amenities, and compelling language can make the difference between a click and a pass.
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Monitoring and responding to guest reviews promptly and professionally. Thank happy guests, and address any issues with transparency and care to show potential guests you’re attentive and accountable.
But even the best marketing can’t cover for a bad on-the-ground experience — which is where your local team comes in.
4. Build a Trusted Local Team
But even the best marketing can’t cover for a bad on-the-ground experience — which is where your local team comes in. While automation and remote tools are essential, some aspects of managing a short-term rental still require real human presence. From fixing a leaky faucet to responding to a last-minute guest request, having a trusted local team is absolutely critical when managing your vacation rental from afar.
At minimum, you’ll need reliable contacts for:
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Housekeeping and turnovers: Cleanliness is non-negotiable in the short-term rental world. Guests expect hotel-level standards — and fast turnovers between bookings. You’ll want a dependable cleaning team that follows detailed checklists, knows your property well, and can handle back-to-back turnovers with precision.
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Maintenance and emergency repairs: Things break — from appliances and A/C units to door locks and plumbing. A responsive handyman (or network of specialists) makes sure that when something goes wrong, your guests aren’t left waiting and your home isn’t at risk.
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Landscaping and pool care (if applicable): If your property includes a pool, hot tub, or outdoor space, regular upkeep is key. That means scheduled cleanings, chemical balancing, and yard maintenance — especially in warmer climates like Arizona or the Southeast.
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Guest support for urgent issues: Sometimes guests have questions or problems outside of your standard communication flow. Whether it’s a noise complaint from a neighbor or a tech issue with the Wi-Fi, it’s important that someone local can step in to assist when needed.
But here’s the challenge: building that team from scratch — when you don’t live nearby — can take a lot of trial and error. Vetting vendors, coordinating schedules, and managing expectations from a distance can quickly become a full-time job.
That’s why many long-distance property owners choose to partner with a vacation rental management company that already has a fully-vetted, trusted network of local professionals in place. A great management company takes the guesswork (and the late-night calls) off your plate, ensuring your home is cared for and your guests are in good hands — every time.
5. Know When It’s Time to Hire a Property Manager
Managing your vacation rental remotely can work — for a while. But as the market becomes more competitive, guest expectations rise, and your personal life fills up, many homeowners eventually realize that working with a professional property management company is the most profitable, stress-free, and sustainable path forward.
An experienced property manager can handle:
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24/7 guest communication and emergency support: No matter the time of day or night, a property manager prioritizes guests’ needs, from booking questions to emergency issues. This level of responsiveness can dramatically improve guest satisfaction and lead to better reviews.
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Cleaning, inspections, and maintenance: A professional manager coordinates cleaning services, performs regular inspections, and ensures your property stays in top shape. This means fewer last-minute issues and a consistently pristine environment for guests.
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Professional photography and optimized listings: Property managers have access to top-notch photographers and expert copywriters who can create eye-catching listings that convert views into bookings. Plus, they know how to optimize descriptions and images for maximum appeal.
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Pricing strategy and revenue management: Through sophisticated algorithms and market analysis, a property manager can adjust pricing dynamically to guarantee you’re always earning the most competitive rate, no matter the season or demand.
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Marketing across hundreds of booking platforms: A property manager maximizes your property’s exposure by listing it on multiple platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com. Beyond that, they leverage strategic marketing through social media campaigns and digital ads to attract more guests, increase visibility, and keep your property top-of-mind for travelers.
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Financial reporting and tax documentation: Property managers handle the nitty-gritty of finances — from income tracking to tax reporting — making tax season and financial audits much less stressful for you.
Simply put: They treat your investment like it’s their own, managing all the moving parts to oversee that your property is consistently profitable, well-maintained, and able to attract top-notch guests. By leveraging their expertise and resources, you can maximize your revenue and minimize the stress of managing everything yourself.
Work With a Trusted Property Manager Like GoodNight Stay
If you’ve decided it’s time to take your vacation rental management to the next level, partnering with a trusted property manager like GoodNight Stay is the best choice. At GoodNight Stay, we specialize in full-service vacation rental management that takes the hassle out of hosting — especially for homeowners managing their property from afar.
Our expert teams in Arizona and Nashville handle everything from marketing to maintenance, guest experience to revenue optimization — so you can enjoy the income from your rental without the stress of daily management.
Ready to simplify your life (and boost your rental income)? Contact GoodNight Stay today to learn how we can help manage your vacation rental from anywhere!
As the weather cools down and the summer sizzle turns into a crisp fall breeze, there’s no better time to explore Arizona. Whether you’re a family looking for kid-friendly activities or an adult seeking some R&R, this is the season where the desert truly dazzles. Here’s our autumn bucket list of exciting activities you should check out!
Family Fun: Where Autumn Magic Happens
Dora’s Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo @ Phoenix Zoo
Join Dora the Explorer for an adventurous quest at the Phoenix Zoo. Kids will love the interactive hunt, and the grownups get to enjoy the animal antics while they search for clues. It’s educational and entertaining—what more could you ask for? Tickets to Dora’s Scavenger Hunt is included with admission, and guests of GoodNight Stay can get a special discount for Phoenix Zoo tickets!
Salt River Tubing @ Tonto National Forest
Why not check out the outdoors while you are visiting Arizona? For a family-friendly nature outing, float down the Salt River on a tube. Enjoy the scenic beauty and keep an eye out for wildlife. It’s the perfect way to relax and soak in the cooler temperatures. They also have events to spice up the peaceful float, so make sure to check out their calendar of events!
Fall at the Princess @ Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Seasonal events at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a Scottsdale staple enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Enjoy fall activities and events at the Fairmont’s luxurious setting. From mouthwatering fall menus featuring seasonal ingredients at Bourbon Steak, the annual Nightmare on Princess Drive Halloween event, to calming spa treatments, it’s a fantastic place for a fall family outing. What is neat is that the annual event is really for everyone—seasonal cocktails and late-night dancing for the grown-ups, while children can have their fun with s’mores and games!
Arizona State Fair @ Arizona State Fairgrounds
It’s not fall without a visit to a good state fair! Arizona prides in its annual state fair, going strong for 140 years. Dive into classic fair fun with rides, games, gun shows, concerts (psst, The All American Rejects are playing at this year’s fair), petting zoos, art displays, monster truck shows, and of course delicious food. It’s the quintessential fall experience that’s sure to entertain the whole family. Tickets are on sale now, so make sure to secure your spot!
Spooky Safari @ Phoenix Zoo
Get ready for a wild Halloween experience at the Phoenix Zoo with the annual Spooky Safari event. Expect costume fun, creepy crawlies, and plenty of treats (and maybe a few tricks). It’s a great way to enjoy some frightful fun in a family-friendly setting!
The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships @ WestWorld of Scottsdale
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your fall festivities, the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, also known as the Scottsdale Polo Cup, is an event you won’t want to miss. This isn’t just any polo match—it’s the largest and most attended polo event in the country.
The Scottsdale Polo Cup is also known for its vibrant party atmosphere, with multiple events happening throughout the day. From the car shows featuring classic and exotic cars to the Canine Couture dog fashion show, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a polo aficionado or just looking for a unique and stylish day out, the Scottsdale Polo Cup offers a blend of sport, culture, and entertainment that’s hard to beat. What makes the event even better is that admission is free for children 12 and under! This is a fantastic opportunity to spend quality family time in the sun, with horses, dogs, cars, and more, creating a family outing the kids will remember.
Fall Fun at Schnepf Farms Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek
When you think of fall, pumpkins and farms probably come to mind, right? Well, Arizona delivers! If you’re looking for the ultimate pumpkin patch experience, Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek should definitely be on your list. Sure, they’re famous for their peaches, but come October, this 5,000-acre farm transforms into a pumpkin lover’s paradise during their annual Pumpkin & Chili Party. Every weekend, you can dive into some serious fall vibes with vintage rides, corn mazes, and so much more.
Pro tip: Don’t leave without grabbing a pie or some cinnamon rolls from their bakery. They’ve even got a curbside pick-up option for anyone looking to avoid the crowds—how thoughtful is that?
ZooLights @ Phoenix Zoo
As the nights get cooler, the Phoenix Zoo lights up with millions of twinkling lights. A beloved local holiday tradition, ZooLights is a breathtaking display that transforms the zoo into a sparkling wonderland. Tickets go on sale starting in October, so mark your calendars, and get ready for some razzle dazzle, including the return of the tallest floating tree in North America, showcasing a synchronized light show. But wait, there’s more—a s’mores station will be there to sweeten your visit, so bring the whole family and create some magical memories!
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
All aboard for some nostalgic fun! This charming Scottsdale park features train rides, playgrounds, and a carousel. The 30 acre park is located in the heart of Scottsdale and is truly a fantastic place for a family day out. Take a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad—an exact 5:12 replica of a Colorado narrow gauge railroad, complete with with diesel engines and steam locomotives. Or pick one of the 30 beautiful antique horses on the Scottsdale Charros Carousel. Or if rides aren’t your thing, simply enjoy the peace of the park and visit some of the shops and museums located inside the park.
Butterfly Wonderland
Step into a lush indoor rainforest and be surrounded by thousands of butterflies at Butterfly Wonderland, the largest butterfly convertor in the country! Learn about the magnificent creatures, get up close to unique reptiles that inhabit the rainforests with the butterflies, and even try out their selection of edible insects! From painting classes to yoga sessions in nature, Butterfly Wonderland hosts a wide range of family friendly events throughout the autumn months, so make sure to keep an eye out on their website. It’s a fluttery, fabulous experience that’s perfect for all ages!
Comicx Restaurant Bar
All the fun and excitement is bound to leave you hungry for a bite. If you’re looking for a family meal with a side of fun, ComicX at the Desert Ridge Marketplace offers a playful atmosphere with superhero themed decor and tasty food. Under the slogan “this is where your favorite superheroes unite,” ComicX is a hit with kids and adults alike. Get ready to geek out with legendary Marvel heroes, beloved Disney characters, and more!
Hot Air Balloon Rides with Rainbow Ryders
Soar high above the desert in a hot air balloon over the Scottsdale desert. Rainbow Ryders, our proud partner and the largest hot air balloon business in the Southwest, can take you on an unforgettable journey above the Sonoran landscape. With the temperatures in the 80’s, enjoy a hot air balloon ride that isn’t literally hot. Take in stunning aerial views of the fall foliage and the sprawling landscape. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s as uplifting as it is breathtaking. To make things better, GoodNight Stay guests can enjoy sunrise shared basket flights with an exclusive discount!
Day Trip to Sedona
Arizona is known as the Grand Canyon State, but to be honest, the Grand Canyon can be a bit far if you are staying in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area (it’s a 4 hour drive). A closer option for a day trip from Phoenix is Sedona, a location that is just as beautiful, it not more! A little less than a 2 hour drive from Phoenix will lead you to Sedona’s red rocks and breathtaking scenery. Explore the trails, enjoy the views, and experience the serene beauty of this desert gem.
Fun fact: there is a McDonald’s with blue arches in Sedona that is a famed tourist attraction! If you want to enjoy the desertscape, but even a 2 hour drive is too much to pack in to your itinerary, try off-roading with Desert Dog Off-road Adventures, located in Fountain Hills, just 30 minutes from Scottsdale!
Fall Arizona Adult-Only Escapades: For the Grown-Up Adventurers
Fish N Sips @ OdySea Aquarium
Dive into an evening of underwater elegance at the OdySea Aquarium’s Fish N Sips event. This isn’t your average aquarium visit—it’s a sophisticated night out where you can sip on drinks with live music, all the while exploring aquatic exhibits—all in a more intimate adult setting.
Saturday Night Starlight @ Verde Canyon Railroad
For a magical evening that blends adventure with a touch of romance, the Saturday Night Starlight train ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad is a must-experience. Picture this: the sun sets over the Arizona desert, and as twilight deepens, your train journey begins. The train’s outdoor viewing cars are the perfect spot to take in the fresh night air and gaze up at the starlit sky, while the sound of the train’s steady rhythm lulls you into a state of relaxation. If you’re looking to add a little more romance to the evening, consider upgrading to a private caboose or booking the Grape Train Escape, which is a popular wine-tasting event held in the same train runs, on select Saturday evenings.
Float Fridays at Maya @ Maya Day Club
Summer might be winding down, but that doesn’t mean the pool parties are over! Dubbed Scottsdale’s best pool party, Float Fridays at Maya is the perfect adult-fun event to cool off and float your worries away. It’s the ultimate Friday escape with a vibrant party atmosphere, and the fun is long-lasting with doors opening at noon! The club features a massive pool, surrounded by luxurious cabanas and daybeds, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and high-energy fun. But it’s not just about lounging—Maya is known for its electric atmosphere, with live DJ performances that keep the energy levels high all day long. Whether you’re floating around the pool with a cocktail in hand or dancing the day away with friends, a Scottsdale local or just visiting, this is one party that should definitely be on your Arizona fall bucket list.
Ales on Rails @ Verde Canyon Railroad
Ales on Rails is another annual Arizona event that marks the start of autumn. Sip on a glass (or pint) of hoppy beer while enjoying a train ride through the stunning Verde Canyon, providing an incredible backdrop to this one-of-a-kind tasting experience. The vibrant autumn colors of the canyon paired with the flavors of finely crafted beers make this a must-add to your fall bucket list. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and, of course, some of the best beer Arizona has to offer.
Dreamy Draw Music Festival @ Scottsdale Civic Center
Mark your calendars for the Dreamy Draw Music Festival, a two-day celebration of country and Americana music set in the heart of Historic Old Town Scottsdale. Let your creative juices flow, as art installations, local artisans, and musicians all with a unique Western twist surround you. And of course, there’s a tasty line up of food trucks and artisanal drinks waiting for you to take the festival experience to the next level. Tickets are selling fast, so make sure to secure your spot!
Caesars Palace Scottsdale
Newly opened and ready to impress! The iconic Las Vegas hotel’s first Arizona location opened in March 2024, is an impressive 11 floor hotel with two pools, two restaurants from Celebrity chef Giada de Laurentiis, and a rooftop bar and lounge overlooking Camelback Mountain. Synonymous with luxury entertainment, Caesars Palace is already a must-visit Scottsdale attraction. Especially with its extravagant pools and bars, it’s the ultimate spot for a luxurious day of relaxation. Want to take a dip in the pool, but don’t want to stay at the hotel? We got you. Our partner ResortPass offers day passes and cabana passes, starting at just $25. GoodNight Stay guests can receive a special 10% off on top, so don’t miss the opportunity to save!
Talking Stick Resort
Love a good gamble, and a good time? Head on over to Talking Stick Resort & Casino, one of Scottsdale’s hottest attractions. Boasting a 240,000 square foot casino, the state-of-the-art gaming floor offers more than 700 of the latest slot machines as well as classic card games. The resort also hosts a fantastic line up of shows and events, there’s bound to be one that you like. A trip to Arizona doesn’t have to be about the desert—take advantage of this impressive entertainment giant and roll your dice for the game of fun!
Why Fall is the Perfect Time
With summer’s heat in the rearview mirror, Arizona’s fall weather is ideal for exploring everything the state has to offer. The cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more enjoyable, and the state’s natural beauty is even more striking against the backdrop of autumn. Plus, the variety of events and activities available in Arizona from September to November ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with family or planning an adults-only getaway, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So why wait? Plan your Arizona escape with GoodNight Stay now and experience the best of what this stunning state has to offer this fall.
A Scottsdale GoodNight Stay puts you steps away from all the top attractions, vibrant nightlife, and unforgettable dining experiences—including one of Arizona’s crown jewels: incredible Mexican food. From family-owned gems serving up time-honored recipes to modern hotspots known for craft margaritas and Instagram-worthy tacos, we’ve rounded up our favorite places to indulge in the bold, flavorful dishes that make Scottsdale a must-visit for any foodie.
Check out these Scottsdale Mexican restaurants that will not disappoint!
1. The Mission Old Town
First, the Mission in Old Town is a romantic destination for modern Latin cuisine. Enjoy delicious dishes such as tostadas, tacos, salmon, filets, and more. Pair your meal with a house margarita including flavors like spicy hibiscus and the elderflower Paloma. Further, the restaurant’s charming setting complete with flickering candlelight makes it a perfect destination for date night. Don’t miss this staple of Latin cuisine in Old Town, Scottsdale!
2. Barrio Queen
Order burritos, enchiladas, tacos and more at this fun and festive Scottsdale Mexican restaurant! With an expansive menu and lively atmosphere, Barrio Queen will have you returning again and again for delish dishes and good times. Top off the night with a delicious hand-crafted margarita, sangria, or the infamously spicy Death’s Door margarita.
3. Los Olivos Mexican Patio
Los Olivos Mexican Patio is a family-run restaurant that has been open for the past 70 years. Enjoy authentic cuisine with hand crafted tortillas, salsas, and dishes such as chimichangas, tamales, and tacos. Stop in for happy hour to enjoy a deal on margaritas, queso dip, and more. You won’t want to miss this family-owned gem for Mexican cuisine in Scottsdale!
4. Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
Next, we have a hotspot for tacos and tequila at Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila. Choose between sweet and savory margaritas including flavors like mango tango, cerveza-rita, and strawberry-lime! For the main course, order a plate of tacos or fajitas. Save room for a churro sundae or kahula flan to finish off a delicious night out!
5. Diego Pops
Finally, we have Diego Pops. A destination for Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, Diego Pops is a must-visit eatery for those looking for a fun night out on the town. Order a delicious and creative cocktail, street corn queso, and your choice of tacos and burritos. Chill out on the expansive patio and stop in for happy hour! You won’t want to miss this lively Scottsdale favorite!
Explore these restaurants and more when you stay in a Scottsdale vacation rental!
Hungry yet? Book a vacation rental to enjoy dining out at these Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale. Enjoy other activities like hiking, nightlife, and a tee time at one of the stunning Scottsdale golf courses during your stay. Book a private home where you can lounge near a private pool or enjoy mountain views from a backyard oasis. Plan a Scottsdale vacation today or browse all Arizona Vacation Rentals to find the perfect spot for you!