Casago Unwind Takes the Helm: Managing 50 Idaho Properties Under New Franchise Partnership
New Local Leadership for Former Vacasa Properties in Coeur d’Alene
Vacation rental management company Casago has appointed a new franchise partner to oversee more than 50 properties in the picturesque region of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Operating under the name Casago Unwind, the franchise will manage a portfolio previously handled by Vacasa.
At the helm of this new venture are Edward and Michele Johnson, residents with strong ties to the area. Edward was raised in Coeur d’Alene, while Michele hails from neighboring Montana, giving them an authentic connection to the region that resonates with both property owners and visitors exploring the stunning Idaho landscapes.
Combining Local Expertise with National Systems
The transition follows Casago’s acquisition of Vacasa earlier in 2025, representing a strategic move to strengthen the company’s presence in the competitive Idaho vacation rental market. What distinguishes this approach is how Casago Unwind will integrate deep local knowledge with Casago’s proven national systems and infrastructure.
This arrangement exemplifies Casago’s franchise-first model, which prioritizes local management supported by centralized resources. The Johnsons will handle daily operations while leveraging Casago’s established technologies and protocols.
To ensure continuity of service, the transition may incorporate existing Vacasa team members, helping maintain relationships with property owners and preserving institutional knowledge of the properties.
Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership
Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “Edward and Michele are exactly the kind of local leaders we want representing Casago. They know this market, they care about this community, and they have a vision for raising the bar on vacation rental management in Coeur d’Alene. By giving them the tools and support of our national platform, we’re ensuring homeowners and guests get the best of both worlds: local expertise and global standards.”
Michele Johnson, who co-owns Casago Unwind with her husband Edward, shared their perspective: “We’re excited to bring a fresh start to vacation rentals in Coeur d’Alene. Our focus is on creating stays that guests remember and giving homeowners confidence that their properties are well cared for. Casago gives us the backing to grow while keeping things personal and local.”
Strategic Significance in the Vacation Rental Landscape
The appointment of Casago Unwind highlights several key developments in the vacation rental industry:
- The franchise model continues to gain traction as an effective approach for balancing local expertise with standardized systems
- Major players like Casago are expanding their geographical footprint through strategic acquisitions and partnerships
- The importance of local knowledge and community connections remains paramount, even as the industry consolidates
For property owners in the Coeur d’Alene region, this transition promises a management approach that combines the accountability of local operators with the resources and systems of an established national brand.
The move also represents a significant step in Casago’s integration of the Vacasa portfolio following their acquisition, demonstrating how they’re implementing their vision of locally-led management supported by centralized resources and technology.
What This Means for Idaho’s Vacation Rental Market
The Idaho short-term rental landscape, particularly around desirable destinations like Coeur d’Alene, continues to attract significant investment and strategic interest from major management companies. The region’s natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and growing tourism appeal make it an increasingly valuable market.
As the Johnsons apply their local expertise with Casago’s support, property owners and guests alike will be watching to see how this new franchise enhances service quality and operational efficiency in this vibrant vacation destination.
The appointment highlights the ongoing evolution in vacation rental management, where successful companies increasingly blend sophisticated systems and technology with authentic local presence—creating a model that benefits property owners, guests, and communities alike.