One of the best perks of owning a vacation rental is having a go-to spot for your own getaways. But if you’re renting it out on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, you might wonder: can I block off my property for personal use?
The short answer is yes, you absolutely can. Owners have the right to reserve their property for themselves, whether for a family vacation, a holiday celebration, or just a quiet weekend away.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about owner stays, from how to block your calendar to what it means for your business.
Your Guide to Personal Stays in Your Rental
Blocking off dates for personal use is a standard practice for vacation rental owners. Here’s a breakdown of the key questions hosts often have.
How do I block dates for personal use?
The process is straightforward on most booking platforms.
- On Airbnb and VRBO: You can manually block dates directly on your hosting calendar. Simply select the dates you want to reserve and mark them as unavailable. This prevents guests from booking those times.
- With a Property Manager: If you work with a company like FunStay, the process is even easier. You can use an owner portal to select and block your desired dates. A great property manager will then handle all the scheduling logistics for you.
Will blocking dates affect my Airbnb ranking?
This is a common concern, but the impact is generally minimal. Booking platforms like Airbnb and VRBO want to show listings that are available and frequently booked. Regularly blocking off long periods, especially during peak season, could theoretically lower your visibility since your property will have less availability.
However, occasional owner stays are normal and unlikely to significantly harm your ranking. The key is to strike a balance between personal enjoyment and maintaining a consistent booking schedule for guests.
Are there limits on how often I can stay?
While platforms like Airbnb don’t impose limits, restrictions might come from other sources:
- HOA Rules: Some homeowners’ associations have rules about how often a property can be used by the owner versus rented out.
- Local Laws: Certain cities or counties might have regulations regarding short-term rentals that could affect personal usage.
- Management Agreements: If you use a property management company, your contract might specify a process or limit for owner stays, so it’s important to review your agreement.
Do I need to inform my property manager?
Yes, clear communication is essential. Always inform your property manager well in advance of your planned stay. This allows them to:
- Block the calendar across all booking platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, etc.).
- Schedule cleaning services before your arrival and after your departure.
- Coordinate any necessary maintenance or guest turnover tasks around your visit.
What about management fees during my stay?
Management fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the rental income generated from guests. Since you are not paying to stay in your own home, there is no rental income.
With FunStay Florida, you are not charged management fees during your personal stays. You would only be responsible for direct costs associated with your visit, such as cleaning fees to prepare the home for the next guest.
How is property care handled for owner stays?
When you visit your property, you should expect the same high standards as your guests. A professional property manager will ensure the home is cleaned and stocked before your arrival.
After you leave, they will manage the turnover cleaning to get it ready for the next booking. This ensures a seamless, hotel-grade experience for everyone, including you.
Block Your Airbnb Calendar for Personal Use the Easy Way
Managing personal use of your vacation rental shouldn’t be a hassle. At FunStay Florida, we make it easy for owners to enjoy their properties whenever they want. Our owner portal allows you to block dates with a few clicks, and our team handles the rest, from coordinating cleanings to ensuring your home is perfect for your arrival.
We believe you should enjoy the fruits of your investment. With transparent policies and dedicated support, we ensure your personal stays are as stress-free as your guests’.
Call (321) 430-8681 today if you have questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will blocking dates hurt my Airbnb search ranking?
Generally, occasional owner stays won’t significantly damage your Airbnb SEO or ranking. However, frequently blocking off peak season dates reduces availability, which can slightly lower visibility. The key is finding a healthy balance between personal enjoyment and maintaining a consistent booking schedule for paying guests.
How do I block dates for my personal stay?
If you self-manage, simply select the dates on your Airbnb or VRBO calendar and mark them unavailable. If you partner with a property management company like FunStay Florida, use your owner portal to reserve dates instantly. We handle the rest, ensuring no double bookings occur.
Are there limits on how often owners can stay?
Airbnb doesn’t limit personal use, but check your local laws and HOA rules, as some associations restrict owner occupancy. Additionally, review your management agreement. While we offer flexible contracts, some agencies impose caps on owner stays. Always verify these details to ensure full compliance.
Do I pay management fees for my own stays?
Typically, no. Management fees are a percentage of rental income, so you don’t pay when you aren’t generating revenue. At FunStay Florida, owners stay for free. You only cover direct costs associated with your visit, such as the departure cleaning fee to prepare for the next guest.
Who cleans the property after I stay there?
Expect the same 5-star standard as your guests! Your property manager should coordinate a professional turnover cleaning after you leave. This ensures the home is pristine, stocked with amenities, and guest-ready for the next arrival. It’s part of seamless vacation rental management.
Should I tell my property manager about my plans?
Yes, clear communication is vital. Inform your property manager early so they can block dates across all platforms (like Booking.com and Expedia) to avoid conflicts. This also allows them to schedule necessary maintenance or deep cleans around your visit, ensuring a stress-free experience.
