Why We Cap Growth at 100 Properties with Michael Steinkirchner of Uncharted Vacations - Vacation Rental Show

Michael Steinkirchener, founder of Uncharted Vacations, joins Lynell Gordon on The Vacation Rental Show to share his unconventional approach to building a vacation rental management company. Unlike competitors chasing unlimited growth, Michael deliberately caps his portfolio at 100 properties to maintain personal relationships with every owner and guest. He reveals his innovative "Redesign on Our Dime" program that finances property updates for cash-strapped owners while boosting retention and revenue. Michael discusses critical startup advice including choosing the right tech stack from day one, the importance of negotiating with vendors, and why cleaners deserve far more recognition than they receive. He shares insights on ancillary revenue streams, the surprising low uptake of travel insurance (currently 10-15% when it should be 30-40%), and how showing owners the monetary value of included services strengthens partnerships. This episode is sponsored by Streamline.