When it comes to choosing a holiday property manager, bigger isn’t always better. While large corporate agencies might boast flashy marketing or big promises, many owners and guests find that smaller, locally owned managers deliver a far better experience, and better results.
At Lakeshores Accommodation, we’ve been managing short-term rentals in Lake Macquarie since 1996, and over the years we’ve welcomed countless owners who’ve made the switch from larger operators. Here’s why more and more people are choosing boutique, independent property managers over the big-name corporations.
1. Personalised Service, Every Time
Small managers know your name—and your property. You’re not just another number in the system. With a boutique agency like Lakeshores, your property gets individual attention, regular inspections, and tailored recommendations to help it perform at its best. We build relationships, not databases.
Larger corporations often rely on call centres or rotating account managers, leaving owners feeling disconnected and guests unsupported.
2. Better Guest Experiences = Better Reviews
Guests don’t want to deal with a faceless platform or a slow response team—they want quick, local support from someone who knows the area and the property. Smaller managers usually have on-the-ground teams who can respond fast, deliver personal touches, and resolve issues before they escalate.
This results in higher guest satisfaction, better reviews, and more repeat bookings.
3. Local Knowledge & Community Focus
A small manager lives and works in the community. They know the best tradespeople, local regulations, seasonal trends, and what type of guest your property will attract. Larger corporations may outsource to contractors unfamiliar with the region, leading to inconsistent service and missed opportunities.
Supporting a small, local business also means your investment is managed by people who care about the area’s reputation and community impact, not just the bottom line.
4. Transparency & Accountability
Smaller property managers often offer clearer communication, real trust accounting, and transparent fee structures. You’ll usually deal with the same contact person, who’s accountable and invested in your property’s success.
In contrast, corporate operators may use layered teams making it difficult to get real answers, or results.
5. No Push to Scale, Just a Focus on Quality
Large corporations often operate on a model of rapid growth and eventual sell-off, which can lead to overworked staff, neglected properties, and declining service. Boutique agencies, however, typically cap their portfolio to ensure they can maintain high standards and meaningful relationships.
We’re not trying to be the biggest, we’re committed to being the best.
While large agencies may promise more exposure or automated systems, the reality is that smaller property managers offer more care, more consistency, and better outcomes, for both owners and guests, and we all use the similar methods or marketing!
If you want a manager who knows your property, understands your goals, and treats your investment like their own, a smaller, independent agency like Lakeshores Accommodation might just be the better choice.