Vacation rental concierge service: why do fees vary?
September 2025 - Article written with ❤️ by Juliette, our concierge expert
Renting out your property as a vacation rental is a great opportunity, whether in Bormes-les-Mimosas, Le Lavandou, or elsewhere in France. But when it comes to choosing a concierge service, many owners are surprised: some agencies charge 20% commission, others much more. So, who’s right?
Services that make the difference
The answer mostly lies in the level of service. A “basic” concierge service will handle the essentials: keys, cleaning, check-ins and check-outs. A more comprehensive concierge service prepares beds before arrival, inspects the property after each stay, offers 24/7 assistance, adjusts prices based on season, optimizes listings, and manages online reputation. In a competitive market like the Var, these details can turn a half-empty calendar into a fully booked season.
It all depends on your expectations
Not all property owners have the same needs. Some simply want to delegate logistics and earn occasional income. They often live nearby and mainly want to free themselves from constraints. Others aim for maximum profitability: they expect constant monitoring, a true pricing strategy, and effective communication. In this case, a higher percentage is not an issue if the property is better booked and generates more annual income.
Flexibility, a real lever
Another decisive factor: the length of stays. The rigid Saturday-to-Saturday model can work in peak summer, but it limits many bookings outside of the high season. Offering more flexibility, such as allowing stays from just two nights in the off-season, attracts more guests and ensures regular occupancy.
Reviews, a direct impact
Finally, the weight of reviews should not be underestimated. They reassure owners, but also guests. A property may be a real gem, but if the concierge service managing it has a bad reputation, bookings will drop. On the other hand, positive reviews build trust and support profitability.
In conclusion
Comparing fees alone is not enough. The real question is: what do you want for your property? If you just want to simplify management, a basic offer may suffice. But if your goal is to maximize revenue, it’s better to invest in a full service, even if the percentage is higher. Because ultimately, what really matters is not the commission… but the occupancy of your property.