The Vacation Rental Management Association’s (VRMAs) Annual International Conference is arguably the premiere vacation rental industry event. As this year’s conference approaches (October 14-17, 2024, in Phoenix, AZ), we’re sharing all that you need to know about the annual conference — and hopefully whet your appetite!
VRMAs: the vacation rental industry’s annual event
With 2,500+ vacation rental professional attendees, the VRMA International Conference is the flagship event organized by the Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA). The four day annual conference serves as a platform for vacation rental professionals — from property managers to property owners to industry leaders — to gather and collaborate, fostering growth and innovation in the industry.
The conference features a diverse range of educational hubs, breakout sessions, hosted events, networking events, and an expo hall showcasing the latest products and services. The VRMAs offer a valuable opportunity to gain insights, stay updated on STR industry trends, OTA regulations (hello Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com!), and connect with peers and experts.
Top reasons STR professionals attend the VRMAs
Anyone in the short term rental industry should consider attending the VRMAs. But here’s a look at some key reasons for making the trip to vacation rental industry’s leading annual conference.
Education
The VRMA Conference is packed full of informative panel discussions and keynotes featuring industry experts, and fellow managers. From CEOs of leading vacation rental companies to renowned marketing gurus, the lineup of speakers at the VRMAs is truly impressive. Whether you’re looking to learn more about property management best practices, marketing strategies, technology advancements, regulatory updates, direct booking know-how, sustainability tips, guest experience enhancement, or how to streamline your operations, there’s no lack of educational value to be found.
- VRMA session highlight! At this year’s annual conference, come join lead speaker Nick Scarci, Director of Government Affairs, VRMA HQ, along with Hostfully’s own Brise Carpenter and others for the “Advocacy Bootcamp (Part 2): Building Political Power in Your Local Community.” (Monday October 14, 1pm-4pm.)
Networking
The VRMA International Conference is a perfect networking hub, as it provides a unique opportunity for vacation rental professionals to connect with peers, exchange ideas, swap success (and failure!) stories, and build meaningful relationships.
From casual coffee break meetups to VRMA connect events and other structured networking sessions, attendees can engage in conversations with industry experts and like-minded individuals who share their passion for the vacation rental industry. These connections often lead to collaborations and partnerships.
Tools for property managers
In addition to the educational sessions, roundtables, and networking opportunities, the VRMA Conference also features an expansive expo hall, filled with exhibitors representing a wide range of products and services that cater to the needs of vacation rental professionals. From property management software and channel managers to cleaning services and interior design solutions, attendees can explore and discover innovative tools and resources to enhance their vacation rental businesses.
STR travel
The VRMA Conference, which changes locations annually, is the perfect opportunity for attendees to experience the host city’s local culture and attractions.
Social events
It should be noted, the VRMAs aren’t just about business. The annual conference also offers social events and activities that allow attendees to unwind and have fun. From cocktail receptions to themed parties, these social gatherings provide a casual and enjoyable atmosphere for networking and building relationships outside of the conference sessions.
Arrival magazine and VRMA certification
Another highlight of the conference is VRMA’s Arrival magazine. This industry-leading publication provides valuable rental market insights, expert advice, and in-depth articles on vacation rental management. The magazine offers practical tips and actionable advice on various aspects of vacation rental management, such as marketing, guest experience, revenue management, and operational efficiency. Attendees will receive a copy of the latest issue.
Those looking to leverage the VRMA name should consider gaining certification as the designation is a reputable title to hold and a key driver in leveraging your short term rental marketing.
5 tips when planning for the VRMA International Conference
If you’re considering attending the VRMAs, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Plan ahead: Start planning for the conference well in advance. Book before 9/23/24 to save on rates and book your accommodations and flights as early as possible to secure the best deals.
- Review the agenda: Take the time to carefully review the conference agenda and mark the sessions and events that align with your interests and goals. Prioritize the sessions that will provide the most value to you and your profitability.
- Network strategically: Use the conference app or website to research and identify professionals you would like to connect with. Many of them offer conference meetings so reach out to them prior to the event to secure a chat and ensure those meaningful interactions.
- Come prepared: Bring plenty of business cards, along with any marketing materials or samples of your products or services. Be ready to showcase your expertise and make a lasting impression on potential clients or partners.
- Follow up after the conference: After the VRMAs, reach out to the contacts you made and follow up with personalized messages or emails. Building and maintaining relationships is key to leveraging the conference’s impact long after it concludes.
The 2024 VRMA International Conference
With the 2024 VRMAs swiftly approaching, short-term rental professionals should familiarize themselves with all the details.
Location
This year’s conference takes place in Phoenix, Arizona. Below you can find the details:
Phoenix Convention Center
100 North 3rd Street
Phoenix, AZ, 85004
USA
Schedule
The annual conference will take place this year from October 14-17, 2024 and the schedule is packed full of educational sessions, exhibits, and parties. Keynote speakers include Ben Nemtin and Brittany Hodak. A complete guide to this year’s exhibitors is available.
Sessions are categorized into the following tracks:
- Advocacy: Legal, Advocacy, Regulations and Government Affairs
- Business Strategy: Starting a Property Management Company, New to Vacation Rentals, Software Platforms/Options, Revenue Management
- Finance and Legal Operations: Accounting for non-Accountants, ADA, OSHA, Budgeting
Guest Journey: Marketing, Revenue Management, Inside Sales (Closing Leads), Arrival Experience, Issue Recovery/Guest Relations - HR/Personnel: Organization Structure, Job Descriptions, Recruiting, Culture/Employee Engagement, Hiring, Onboarding, Training, Employee Handbook, Succession Planning/Personnel Development, Annual Reviews / Goal Setting and Alignment (Reviews, Surveys, etc.), Rebook Process
- Operations/VRHP: Laundry, Housekeeping, Maintenance, Pool / Spas / Hot tubs, Seasonal Staffing: Contract vs Employees
- Owner Journey: Acquisition, Owner On-Boarding, Owner Experience (Rates/rentals, Finances, Rev/Rates Management etc.), Property Management (Safety, Security, Habitability, Design for VR Functionality), Owner Retention
Pricing
The VRMA International Conference offers flexible registration options. Single day registration prices range from $400-$600. Full conference packages for rental property managers are as follows:
Regular registration pricing
For registrants who sign up before 9/23/24, prices are:
- $1,050 (VRMA member)
- $1,400 (non-member)
- $900 (per additional property manager, VRMA member)
- $1,250 (per additional property manager, non-member)
Late registration pricing
For registrants who sign up after 9/23/24. prices are:
- $1,150 (VRMA member)
- $1,500 (non-member)
- $1,000 (per additional property manager, VRMA member)
- $1,350 (per additional property manager, non-member)
Further exhibitor and supplier rates can be found here. Additional pre-conference bootcamp sessions are priced at $125 and can be found here.
Conclusion
The annual Vacation Rental Management Association Conference is a must-attend event for vacation rental professionals looking to stay ahead of industry trends, expand their knowledge, and connect with peers. It serves as a catalyst for growth and innovation in the vacation rental management and real estate industries, providing a platform for collaboration and learning.
Whether you’re a short-term rental manager, homeowner, or service provider, the VRMA Conference offers a wealth of opportunities to enhance your skills, network with industry leaders, and discover the latest advancements in the vacation rental industry. Of course, our team at Hostfully hopes to see you there in the expo hall (booth 404!).
- Learn more about industry conferences in our Comprehensive Guide to Short-Term Rental Conferences.
- And come check out our 4 Key Takeaways from the 2023 VRMAs in Orlando, Florida.
