The Power of Partnerships: Strengthening Vermont’s Vacation Rental Ecosystem
When people think of vacation rentals, they often picture cozy cabins, lakeside cottages, or ski condos nestled along the slopes. But they often overlook the fact that behind every successful short-term rental is an entire ecosystem of businesses working—sometimes quietly, sometimes front and center—to make each guest experience memorable, safe, and seamless.
At VTSTRA, we believe the vacation rental industry isn’t just about homeowners and guests; it’s about community, opportunity, and collaboration. That’s why partnerships matter.
Did you know that 94% of vacation rental owners in Vermont recommend local businesses and activities to their guests?
Who’s part of the vacation rental ecosystem?
1. Property Care & Maintenance Professionals
This includes house cleaners, landscapers, snow removal services, handypeople, and contractors. These are the unsung heroes who ensure that a home is clean, safe, and guest-ready, season after season. Without them, Vermont’s reputation for quality hospitality would crumble.
2. Safety & Compliance Experts
From fire safety inspectors to radon testers, and from STR insurance providers to septic professionals—ensuring a property meets Vermont’s health, safety, and local regulatory standards is essential to protect both guests and hosts.
3. Real Estate & Legal Advisors
Real estate agents, property managers, attorneys, and permit consultants help new and experienced hosts navigate everything from buying STR-friendly properties to staying compliant with local laws and tax obligations.
4. Guest Experience Partners
Restaurants, breweries, boutiques, tour operators, ski resorts, and entertainment venues all benefit when short-term guests are connected to authentic, local experiences.
5. Technology & Marketing Providers
Website designers, photographers, copywriters, digital marketers, and booking platform consultants all contribute to helping hosts market their listings successfully and maintain an engaging online presence.
6. Tourism & Economic Development Allies
Local chambers of commerce and destination marketing organizations (DMOs) play a huge role in supporting vacation rentals by promoting Vermont as a welcoming destination all year long.
7. Emerging & Niche Service Providers
Think mobile massage therapists, in-home chefs, electric bike rental companies, baby gear rental companies, pet sitters, babysitters, or even “vacation butler” services—opportunities to enhance the guest experience are endless and growing.
Why should local businesses care?
1. New Revenue Streams
Vacation rental guests spend directly in the local economy—on food, drink, retail, recreation, events, and experiences. Businesses that partner with hosts, offer guest services, or create host benefit programs gain steady, predictable exposure to new customers. What’s more valuable than a word-of-mouth recommendation from a local?
2. Repeat & Referred Customers
A guest who discovers your business during a Vermont vacation may become a loyal customer, return traveler, or even a property buyer down the line.
3. Strengthened Community Ties
Building relationships with vacation rental operators connects local businesses to an influential network of community-minded entrepreneurs and homeowners.
4. Shared Success
When the vacation rental industry thrives, so does the local economy. Jobs are created, tax revenue increases, and Vermont’s reputation as a world-class destination is reinforced.
How businesses can connect with vacation rental hosts:
Join Forces with VTSTRA: Participate in our networking events, educational programs, and membership initiatives.
Offer special discounts: Offer exclusive deals or services for hosts to share with their guests, so you can track the referral.
Offer Services to Hosts: Think cleaning, repairs, digital support, or photography—every STR owner needs a team they trust.
Promote Guest Packages: Consider how to curate a guest experience that showcases your business.
In Vermont, business is personal
Vermont’s strength lies in its small-town connections and collaborative spirit. Whether you run a maple syrup farm, own a bike shop, or offer home inspection services, there’s a seat for you at the vacation rental table. Together, we can build an ecosystem that supports locals, delights visitors, and keeps Vermont’s visitor economy vibrant and diverse.
Interested in becoming an Allied Business Member?
Explore how your business can grow alongside Vermont’s vacation rental community when you become a member today.