Before signing with an Antigua property manager, ask who sets prices and how often, which booking sites they use, the full fee and every extra, who is on the island, how you'll be reported to, the notice period and exit fees, and how they handle the guest levy and ABST. Get the answers in writing.
Choosing a property manager is the biggest decision you'll make about your rental after buying it. The sales pitches all sound similar. The answers to these questions don't.
Pricing and bookings
- Who sets my prices, and how often do they change? You want a named person using dynamic pricing, reviewing rates at least weekly. "We set a winter and summer rate" is a red flag.
- Which booking sites will my villa be on? Airbnb alone misses many guests. Ask about Vrbo, Booking.com and direct bookings.
- Who writes the listing, and who is it aimed at? A good manager has a clear view of who your villa suits.
- What occupancy and income do you expect, and what is that based on? Ask to see how they reached the figure.
Money
- What exactly is the fee, and what is charged on top? Cleaning, laundry, linen, repairs mark-up, consumables, onboarding fees. Ask for one page listing every possible charge.
- What will my monthly statement show? Ask for a sample. You should see each booking, each cost and your payout.
People
- Who is physically on the island, and who do I call when something goes wrong? Names, not a general inbox.
- How fast do you reply to guests? Response time affects search ranking and reviews.
Leaving and compliance
- How much notice do I give to leave, and are there exit fees? Check what happens to future bookings if you go.
- How do you handle the Tourism Guest Levy and ABST records? See our guide to Antigua rental tax rules.
Already have a manager?
Ask your current one the same questions. If the answers are vague, it may be time to switch. A good handover keeps future bookings in place and guests undisturbed, and it starts with reading your existing agreement for the notice period.
The free property review is a simple way to compare: it shows what your villa is earning now against what similar villas nearby are earning.
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