After 25 years of specializing in apartment and house rentals in Port Grimaud, we’ve expanded our services this year to include concierge services in Port Grimaud, Grimaud, and throughout the entire Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

You now have the option of completely delegating the management of your property to us, or you can choose the level of service you’d like to handle yourself while entrusting the rest to us.

If you’re considering renting out your apartment when you’re not using it, here are a few tips to help you choose the right concierge service.

Essential services

– Creating the listing

A good concierge service should be able to craft a compelling and optimized listing, taking into account relevant keywords to boost your property’s visibility on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com and Abritel. This also involves highlighting the unique features of your property, such as its proximity to the beach, nearby amenities and shops, and the size of your boat mooring, if you offer one.

– Professional photography

Photos are a crucial element in attracting renters. Make sure the concierge service offers professional photography to showcase your property in the best possible light. High-quality photos can significantly boost your booking rate.

– Property preparation and maintenance

This includes preparing the property before each guest’s arrival, such as cleaning, setting up fresh linens, and stocking essential items. Between bookings, it’s important that the cleaning staff or concierge team checks that all appliances are in working order. They need to be responsive in case of any breakages or malfunctions. Airbnb offers a robust insurance program called AirCover, and a good concierge service should know how to leverage it when necessary.

– Personal Touches

A good concierge service doesn’t just prepare the property—it adds personalized touches like local guides, welcome gifts, or recommendations for nearby activities. These extras help create a unique experience for travelers. At So Smart Conciergerie, we offer a variety of services for your guests, including breakfast delivery, fresh flower arrangements, airport transfers, or even booking an in-home massage.

– Managing Check-Ins and Check-Outs

The concierge should provide a warm welcome for every guest, handling key exchanges and offering all necessary information. At the end of the stay, they should inspect the property and collect the keys.

In some cases, if the concierge’s cleaning service is flexible enough, guests may be charged extra for early check-ins or late check-outs. These additional services, known as upsells can generate extra revenue. Be sure to ask the concierge service you’re considering if they can offer these options.

– Guest Communication

A top-notch concierge service should be responsive and capable of managing all communication with guests, whether it’s before, during, or after their stay. This includes promptly answering inquiries, resolving issues in real-time, and handling post-stay reviews.

– Pricing Tools and Calendar Management

To maximize your income, the concierge service should utilize dynamic pricing tools that adjust rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. Additionally, accurate calendar management is crucial to avoid double bookings and to optimize available dates. Be sure to ask if the concierge uses a channel manager (a tool that allows them to manage bookings across multiple platforms) and which platforms they post on (relying solely on Airbnb is often not enough).

Comparing Concierge Services

It’s important not to settle for the first option that comes your way. Take the time to compare the different concierge services available in Port Grimaud to ensure you choose the one that best meets your needs.

• Assessing the Offerings: Some concierge services provide all-inclusive packages, while others offer à la carte options. Compare what’s included in each offer and evaluate whether the services justify the cost.

• Reviewing Pricing: Compare the pricing structures of different concierge services. Some charge a percentage of rental income, typically around 20% to 30%, while others operate on a fixed fee per service. It’s essential to choose an option that is both cost-effective and transparent about pricing.

Evaluating Client Reviews and Concierge Experience

Other property owners’ reviews can provide valuable insights into the reliability and effectiveness of a concierge service.

• Reading Testimonials: Look for online reviews of the concierge services you’re considering. Review sites and forums dedicated to short-term rentals can be helpful resources. Be cautious of services that receive repeated negative comments, especially regarding communication or property maintenance.

• Requesting References: Don’t hesitate to ask the concierge service for references from other property owners who use their services. A direct conversation with another owner can give you valuable insights into the quality of the service.

At So Smart Conciergerie by Boutemy Immobilier, we’ve earned Superhost status, a testament to the quality of our services.

Requesting a Customized Quote

Before making a decision, ask for a detailed quote from several concierge services. This will allow you to compare costs and see exactly what each service includes.

• Clarity and Transparency of Costs: Ensure the quote is clear and that all services are itemized. Watch out for hidden costs or additional fees that aren’t explicitly mentioned in the quote.

• Customization Options: Some concierge services offer the ability to tailor their packages to your specific needs. This might include additional services like sourcing local products or arranging guided tours for guests. Ask if these options are available and what the associated costs would be.

Testing Responsiveness and Customer Service Quality

The responsiveness of a concierge service is crucial for both you and your future guests.

• First Impressions: Reach out to the concierge services via email or phone to assess their responsiveness. A service that replies quickly and professionally is a good indicator that they will be equally effective in handling guest requests.

• Availability: Ensure the concierge service offers 24/7 availability for emergencies, which is essential for handling unexpected issues, such as a plumbing problem.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to choose a concierge service in Port Grimaud that will efficiently manage your property, maximize your rental income, and ensure a positive experience for your guests.