It's great to have friends in the rental business! Last week, one of my good friends, Dianne, stayed at one of my cabins. Dianne is a fellow vacation rental owner, and in truth, she's the person who showed me the ropes of renting by owner in the first place.

Dianne and I always help each other out whenever near each other's properties, because there's always something that needs to be done. This time, I had a ceiling fan that needed to be replaced. I ordered the ceiling fan from the local Lowes, and Dianne – ever the good friend – gladly agreed to oversee the installation.

As if that wasn't already above and beyond, Dianne also took the liberty of cleaning all of my windows while she was there. She even took the screens off and cleaned those too! When she asked me if there was anything else that needed done, I said, half-jokingly, “Well, I do need new living room furniture!” Her reply: “No problem! I'd be happy to go buy it for you!”

Knowing that I wasn't going to be able to get to that cabin for three or four more months, I decided to take advantage of her sincere offer. I directed her to the furniture store where I purchase most of my furnishings, and Dianne picked out a sofa, rocker/recliner and a coffee table and had the sales person call me for my credit card number. Then she scheduled the delivery and oversaw that too. Even better, she scored a really great deal on a liquidation sale. I can't wait to see what she bought!

Now, I know some of you may be thinking: “Are you crazy? You let someone else choose your furniture for you?” My answer: Yes. It's all about trust...and necessity. I trust my friend's taste in furniture — maybe more than I trust my husband's! And more importantly, I know that she knows how to buy furniture for rentals that's aesthetically pleasing, comfortable and durable, without breaking the bank. And, well, I needed new furniture, she was there and I was not going to be there for some time.

At this point, some of you may be thinking: “Wow, that's kinda taking advantage of your friend.” But that's what friends are for. I would do it for her! The vacation rental business does not have to be a one-man/woman gig. It's all about helping each other out. So thanks to my good friend Dianne, my cabin now has new furniture for my next guests.

Thanks Dianne — I owe you big time for this one…and know that I will return the favor for you sometime soon.

Christine

	The Benefits of Networking with Other Vacation Rental Owners The secret weapon of many owners: their friends
	How to Be A Good Vacation Rental Neighbor, Even From Afar The benefits of fostering good relationships with fellow homeowners
	Running a Vacation Rental Business FAQs Most-asked questions, including "How much should I charge friends to stay at my property?"
	Buying a Couch for Your Vacation Rental The pros and cons of futons vs. sleeper sofas

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