13 Invaluable Lessons for New Vacation Rental Owners in Myrtle Beach
Posted by: Editor
In vacation rentals, success takes more than just a great location and beachy charm. From pricing and maintenance to meeting guest expectations, getting it right from the start makes all the difference.
Just launched your rental in Myrtle Beach? You’re entering one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast. Exciting, no doubt, but also competitive.
From the lush landscapes of the Smoky Mountains to the sunny beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast, and right here in sunny South Carolina, running a vacation rental is both a dream and a rewarding challenge. To help you hit the ground running, I’ve pulled together 13 key tips that cover the essentials.
These are the things most owners wish they’d known from day one, so you can turn your place into a guest favorite and a dependable source of income.
Here’s the gist. 👇
Start with Thorough Market Research
Know Your Startup Costs
Invest in Thoughtful, Beach-Inspired Decor
Stand Out with Premium Amenities
Make Cleanliness Non-Negotiable
Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance
Invest in Professional Photography
List Your Rental on Multiple Platforms
Set Smart, Competitive Prices
Build Strong Relationships with Local Vendors
Know the Rules and Stay Compliant
Communicate Clearly and Consistently with Guests
Keep Learning and Adapting
At Luxury Beach Rentals, we’ve spent years managing properties here in Myrtle Beach, so we know what it takes to make them thrive, and we’re happy to share what we’ve learned.
Below, I’m bringing you something invaluable: 13 tips to help you get things right from the very start. Consider it your crash course in managing vacation rentals in Myrtle Beach.
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1. Start with Thorough Market Research
Before launching a vacation rental in Myrtle Beach, it’s crucial to understand what makes the market tick. Different parts of Myrtle Beach offer different advantages for rental owners.
Here's what to focus on:
Location matters, even within Myrtle Beach.
North Myrtle, the Boardwalk area, and quieter stretches like Surfside Beach all draw different types of travelers. Are you close to family-friendly attractions, oceanfront views, golf courses, or nightlife? Your property's proximity to top draws can have a big impact on visibility and bookings.
Know your audience.
Is your rental ideal for snowbird couples, summer vacationing families, or golf buddies in town for a long weekend? Defining your ideal guest helps shape your decor, amenities, and listing description, from bunk beds to beach gear to quiet workspaces.
Why It Matters:
Understanding the Myrtle Beach market allows you to:
Price your rental competitively
Offer the right amenities for your target guests
Create a marketing strategy that speaks to the right audience
Key Takeaways:
Do your homework. The more clearly you define your target guest and understand your local neighborhood, the better you can stand out in Myrtle Beach’s busy rental market.
2. Know Your Startup Costs
Before your rental starts generating income, you’ll need to make some upfront investments. In the rental business, guests expect clean, coastal, and comfortable accommodations, and getting the setup right can make or break your reviews.
Here's what to budget for:
Initial Costs
These cover renovations, furnishings, décor, and setting up a guest-friendly environment. Think quality mattresses, beach-ready gear, coastal décor, and essentials like premium linens and stocked kitchens. A well-furnished space with thoughtful extras often translates to better guest experiences and stronger ratings.
Fixed Costs
These are ongoing, regardless of occupancy. Expect regular bills for:
Electricity and water
High-speed Wi-Fi
Cleaning services (post-checkout or mid-stay)
Lawn care or pool maintenance
Management or staff (if you don’t self-manage)
👍 Pro tip: Plan ahead
You may not turn a profit immediately. The first few months can involve more spending than earning. But solid planning and a property that truly delivers will turn those early investments into long-term gains.
Key Takeaways:
Budget for both upfront setup and monthly recurring costs.
Invest in comfort, functionality, and beach-friendly extras to boost reviews.
Expect slower returns at first, but smart spending now can build guest loyalty and boost future revenue.
3. Invest in Thoughtful, Beach-Inspired Decor
Creating a standout vacation rental in Myrtle Beach takes more than just a comfy bed and good Wi-Fi. Guests are looking for something that feels special, a space that reflects the beach vibe and makes their getaway feel effortless and fun.
Design isn’t just about looks; it's also about revenue. A well-styled property draws more bookings, leads to better guest satisfaction, and increases your chances of five-star reviews and repeat stays.
Here’s how to get it right:
Design with purpose
Use decor that reflects the laid-back, coastal feel of Myrtle Beach. Light colors, natural textures, and subtle nautical touches go a long way. Think rattan furniture, airy curtains, local photography, and relaxed yet stylish finishes.
Create a sense of place
Give guests the feeling that they’re truly in Myrtle Beach. Display local art, beach-themed accents, and maybe a guidebook you’ve created with favorite spots. Even small details like shells in a glass vase or driftwood mirrors can make the space feel intentional.
Key Takeaways:
Great design isn’t a splurge; it’s part of your business strategy.
Use decor to create a coastal atmosphere guests will remember/
Details that reflect Myrtle Beach’s local charm can boost both bookings and reviews.
4. Stand Out with Premium Amenities
Beyond great decor, with so many vacation rentals in Myrtle Beach, offering standout amenities will also set your property apart. Guests expect more than just a place to sleep; they want comfort, convenience, and a few “wow” moments.
Let's make this easy. Here's what to consider based on your property size:
Smaller properties (1–2 bedrooms)
A well-equipped kitchen, comfy outdoor seating, and upgrades like a rainfall shower or luxury bedding can make a big impression. Add in a beach cart, umbrellas, or chairs and you’ve already made life easier for your guests.
Larger properties
These are ideal for families or groups, so consider extra entertainment. Smart TVs in every room, foosball or pool tables, board games, or even an outdoor grill area are great touches. Bonus points for a private pool or hot tub, which are huge draws in Myrtle Beach.
👍 Pro Tip: Add something extra
Whatever the size of your rental, thoughtful upgrades turn a nice stay into an unforgettable one, and guests are more likely to return or recommend you to others. Go beyond expectations with:
Beach cruiser bikes
Fire pits or string-lit patios
Outdoor showers
Kids’ beach toys or games
Key Takeaways:
Amenities can be a major booking driver, especially in a competitive market like Myrtle Beach.
Think comfort, entertainment, and convenience that's tailored to your property size.
Unique touches don’t just enhance the stay, they help justify premium pricing.
5. Make Cleanliness Non-Negotiable
Cleanliness can make or break your rental’s reputation. In Myrtle Beach, where humidity, sand, and high guest turnover are part of the game, keeping your place spotless is essential for happy guests and great reviews.
Two layers of cleaning to stay on top of:
Routine cleaning
This includes changing linens, wiping down all surfaces, sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens, emptying trash, and making sure appliances work. Every guest should walk into a space that feels freshly prepped and cared for.
Deep cleaning
Go beyond the surface at least once a year; more if you have frequent bookings. Think: under beds and sofas, baseboards, ceiling fans, oven interiors, and those tricky tile grout lines. This is your time to reset the property and ensure everything’s in peak condition.
Guests today expect hotel-level cleanliness. If your place feels squeaky clean, they’re more likely to leave five-star reviews and come back next season.
Key Takeaways:
Cleanliness is one of the most mentioned topics in guest reviews.
Prioritize both routine and deep cleaning to keep standards high.
A consistently clean space leads to better visibility, more bookings, and stronger guest loyalty.
6. Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance
With a constant flow of guests, your Myrtle Beach rental goes through a lot more wear and tear than your primary home. Staying on top of maintenance is crucial, not just for guest satisfaction, but to avoid costly surprises down the line. Here's what to keep an eye on:
👍 Pro tips for regular inspections:
a) Do walkthroughs between bookings or at least once a month. Check:
Plumbing for leaks or clogs
HVAC systems (a must in humid, hot months)
Kitchen appliances and laundry machines
Doors, locks, windows, and lighting
b) Fix small issues early
A running toilet or wobbly ceiling fan may seem minor now, but ignoring it can lead to bigger (and pricier) problems.
c) Budget for upkeep
Set aside about 5% of your rental income for ongoing repairs and preventative care. Having a cushion takes the stress out of handling last-minute fixes.
Key Takeaways:
High guest turnover means more maintenance, so plan for it.
Regular checks keep things working and looking fresh.
Budgeting for upkeep saves you from financial strain later.
7. Invest in Professional Photography
In a beach town like Myrtle Beach, where guests scroll through dozens of listings, photos are your first chance to make an impression, and possibly your only one.
Why quality images matter:
Photos sell the experience: Guests don’t just want to see your rental, they want to feel what it’s like to stay there. A professional photographer knows how to capture that beachy charm, natural light, and open-air vibe that travelers crave.
Highlight the best features: Whether it’s an ocean view, an updated kitchen, or a cozy balcony, great photography brings your property’s strengths front and center. Pros know how to stage the space and frame shots to make it all look crisp, inviting, and scroll-stopping.
Stand out from the competition: On busy platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, high-resolution, well-composed images consistently lead to more clicks, more bookings, and even higher nightly rates.
Key Takeaways:
Guests book with their eyes, make that first impression count.
Professional photography helps you stand out in a crowded Myrtle Beach market.
Better photos lead to better bookings.
8. List Your Rental on Multiple Platforms
If you want to keep your Myrtle Beach rental booked, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Different platforms reach different types of travelers, and expanding your presence can lead to more consistent bookings year-round. Here's why it's worth diversifying:
Wider visibility
Airbnb and Vrbo are great starting points, but don’t stop there. Sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and even FlipKey attract guests who may not be browsing the other platforms.
Reach different traveler types
Some sites appeal more to families, others to international visitors or business travelers. Listing across several gives you access to a broader range of guests.
Track and adapt
Monitor where your bookings come from. Over time, you may find that one platform consistently outperforms the rest. Focus your energy there, but keep a presence on others to stay flexible.
Consider a direct booking option
As you grow, offering bookings through your own website can reduce fees and build guest loyalty.
Key Takeaways:
Listing on multiple sites increases your exposure and booking potential.
Not all platforms attract the same audience, so it's a good idea to experiment and track results.
A direct booking option gives you more control and better profit margins.
9. Set Smart, Competitive Prices
Pricing your Myrtle Beach vacation rental correctly is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Charge too much, and you risk empty nights. Charge too little, and you cut into your profits.
Here's how to find your sweet spot:
Know your baseline
Start by calculating all your fixed and variable costs—cleaning, utilities, maintenance, taxes. Your base rate should always cover these with room for profit.
Study the local market
Look at similar rentals in your neighborhood. What are they charging during peak summer months? What about quieter seasons or shoulder weeks?
Adjust for demand
Myrtle Beach pricing fluctuates with seasons, school breaks, and events like bike week or golf tournaments. Use dynamic pricing tools (like PriceLabs or Beyond Pricing) to stay competitive without constantly updating rates manually.
Stay flexible
Offering discounts for last-minute bookings or extended stays can help fill gaps and boost your occupancy.
Key Takeaways:
Build a base rate that covers your costs and delivers consistent profits.
Use local data and seasonal trends to stay competitive.
Dynamic pricing tools help you earn more without constant manual adjustments.
10. Build Strong Relationships with Local Vendors
Running a top-tier Myrtle Beach vacation rental isn’t a solo effort. You’ll need a dependable team behind the scenes: cleaners, handymen, landscapers, and maybe even a pool service if your property includes one. Here's why it matters:
Consistency is key
A cleaner who knows your setup, a handyman who responds quickly, and a lawn care crew that keeps things tidy can make all the difference between glowing reviews and guest complaints.
Keep them in the loop
Share your booking calendar and flag any special requests or quick turnarounds. A well-informed team is more likely to deliver smooth, on-time service.
Respect goes both ways
Pay fair rates, communicate clearly, and show appreciation. Vendors who feel valued tend to stick around and do better work.
Key Takeaways:
Your vendors are your on-the-ground partners. Treat them like part of the team.
Strong relationships mean faster response times, fewer issues, and better guest experiences.
Clear communication and fair compensation go a long way toward building loyalty.
11. Know the Rules and Stay Compliant
Before listing your Myrtle Beach rental, make sure you're following all local regulations. That includes zoning laws, permits, and tax requirements.
What to cover:
Confirm your property is zoned for short-term rentals
Apply for required business or rental licenses
Track and pay applicable state, local, and tourism taxes
🚨 Heads up! Skipping this step can lead to fines or even being delisted from platforms.
Key Takeaways:
Check local rules before hosting guests.
Make sure you’re properly licensed and paying the right taxes.
Staying compliant protects your business long-term.
12. Communicate Clearly and Consistently with Guests
Solid communication can turn a good stay into a great one, and it's one of the easiest ways to earn glowing reviews. In a popular destination like Myrtle Beach, where guests might be unfamiliar with the area, helpful and timely messaging goes a long way. Here’s how to stay guest-ready:
Before arrival
Send detailed check-in instructions, including parking info, key codes, and Wi-Fi details. Keep it concise but thorough—guests want to feel confident before they even walk through the door.
During the stay
Be available to answer questions or handle issues quickly. A quick reply shows you care. You can also offer local tips like favorite restaurants, beach access points, or quiet spots for sunset.
After checkout
A simple thank-you message goes a long way. It's also a great moment to politely ask for a review, it helps boost your visibility and build trust with future guests.
👍 Pro tip:
Include a digital or printed house manual with key details like appliance instructions, trash pickup days, and local emergency contacts.
Key Takeaways:
Good communication builds trust, improves reviews, and reduces misunderstandings.
Start before check-in, stay available during the stay, and follow up after checkout.
Keep messages friendly, helpful, and easy to digest. Don’t overload guests with info.
13. Keep Learning and Adapting
Vacation rental trends shift fast, especially in high-traffic spots like Myrtle Beach. Staying informed helps you stay competitive.
Simple ways to stay sharp:
Follow updates on local regulations and guest preferences
Join STR groups online or attend local meetups
Keep testing pricing strategies and new tools
Key Takeaways:
The more you learn, the better your rental performs
Stay connected with other hosts to share tips and insights
Adapt quickly to stay ahead of the curve
Vacation Rental Management, the Easy Way
Managing a Myrtle Beach vacation rental can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be. With years of hands-on experience, our team at Luxury Beach Rentals has built smart systems that help keep your property booked, well-maintained, and bringing in steady income.
Curious about what your rental could earn? Get a free estimate on our website and discover how working with a local expert can simplify everything.
Posted in Property Management # Property Management Tips
