80% of Hosts Choosing Self-Management Over Property Managers: Industry Report
Self-Management on the Rise in Short-Term Rentals
Walking through neighborhoods across Denver and the Front Range, it’s impossible not to notice the subtle shifts happening in local short-term rental hosting. Conversations with property owners echo with stories of newfound control and personal touches guests remember. In 2025, these changes aren’t just isolated to our city—they’re shaping the broader short-term rental landscape across the country.
Recent findings from a leading vacation rental software company reveal that nearly four out of five hosts are actively choosing to handle their short-term rental operations on their own. Instead of partnering with traditional property management companies (PMCs), an impressive 79.7% of hosts surveyed intend to retain full control over their rental properties for at least the next year.
What’s Driving Owners to Go Solo?
For many Denver area homeowners, the decision to take the reins comes down to a mix of practical and personal reasons. Escalating management fees top the list—over 82% of surveyed hosts highlighted cost savings as a main motivator for turning away from outside management. Property owners have learned that holding on to a larger share of their rental income has a real, tangible impact, especially in competitive markets.
But money isn’t the only incentive. A clear majority (58.4%) value having direct oversight over every guest interaction, cleaning schedule, and pricing update. There’s a confidence growing among local owners— the sense that, with good technology, they can match or even outperform what larger PMCs deliver.
“Our research reflects a growing confidence among independent hosts. They’re embracing self-management not out of necessity, but by choice—and they’re finding tools make all the difference.”
— Pierre-Camille Hamana, founder and CEO at Hospitable
Technology Makes Self-Management Achievable
It’s not just a gut feeling—property owners now have access to smart tools that rival what even the largest managers offer. From AI-powered guest communication to automated calendar syncing and dynamic rate optimization, hosts are using technology to bridge the gap. According to the research, an overwhelming 96.8% agree that these tools are absolutely essential to stay competitive.
This goes far beyond basic booking platforms. Today’s hosts can schedule cleaning automatically, monitor real-time performance data, and send immediate responses to guests—often from a single dashboard on their phone. For those managing rentals here in Colorado, where guest expectations are high, staying ahead means tapping into these resources.
Why Do Some Hosts Return to Self-Management After Hiring a PMC?
While experienced property managers can still offer value, more and more property investors share stories of returning to self-management after testing the waters with a professional service. Data from the most recent survey paints a clear picture:
- Improved Adaptability: Just under half (48.8%) of returning hosts cited the ability to quickly respond to changing guest needs or market shifts as a top reason for stepping away from contracted management.
- Higher Earnings: More than half (54.7%) pointed to increased take-home pay as a result of running their rentals themselves.
- Closer Oversight: Nearly two-thirds (63.7%) felt they had a better handle on property maintenance and guest experiences when in direct control.
These experiences line up with what’s happening in the Denver and Foothills area, where agile, detail-oriented self-managers are carving out a niche in the competitive rental market.
The Evolving Role of Property Management Companies
Does this mean there’s no longer a place for PMCs? Not quite. The report acknowledges they’re still relevant for certain owners—especially those looking for a hands-off income stream or managing rentals from a distance. However, there’s a definite shift underway. Property owners across Colorado are seeking more from their partners, leaning toward small-scale, locally focused managers who truly understand the market and aren’t afraid to personalize their service.
The old model—one-size-fits-all management from afar—is giving way to managers who can tailor their approaches to fit each property’s unique vibe and location. In an area as diverse as Denver, with everything from city condos to mountain cabins, property owners value that nuanced, personal touch.
Embracing Change—With Confidence
At its core, this trend is about empowerment. Today’s owners, whether they’re managing a single West Colfax bungalow or several homes throughout the Rockies, have never had more practical resources at their disposal. That’s especially true in Denver, where demand for memorable experiences runs high and guest reviews can make or break a business.
Will every owner want to manage things alone? No. For many, especially those juggling multiple investments or located out of state, there’s still peace of mind in professional support. But for those ready to lean in, embrace technology, and put their own stamp on the guest experience, 2025 looks like the right time to go hands-on.
For local hosts deciding whether to self-manage or look for the right management team, the most important takeaway is simple—there are more options, better tools, and greater flexibility than ever before.