I just returned from Portland, Oregon where I attended the Western Conference for VRMA, Vacation Rental Managers Association.  It was a fantastic event, well worth the time, money, and effort to be there.  I’m very excited with the direction of the association.  Alex Risser, Steve Trover, VRMA Executive Staff, and the other board members have worked incredibly hard over the last eight months to produce results that make a difference.

Alex Risser, Vacation Rental Managers Association President and Steve Trover, VRMA Vice-President and Discover Vacation Homes website and campaign founder

The best news was that of the new branding campaign for the industry.  A recent PhocusWright survey found that only 10% of Americans have stayed in a vacation rental home in the last few years.  We see a huge market to capture.  One of the tools to brand our product is www.DiscoverVacationHomes.Com.  The Discover Vacation Homes website serves to tie in all marketing efforts of the industry.

This and other initiatives produced great energy and enthusiasm for the opportunities that exist for companies and guests alike.  We look forward to helping the public learn who we are and what product we provide.  We believe that families depend on our management to maximize their vacations in a home rather than a hotel.  And we constantly receive feedback that their goals were exceeded.

I count myself priveledged to be part of a business that re-connects friends, families, and other groups.  I strive to manage my business in a way that enables the joy of relationships to flourish.  And I love reading the kind letters sent by our guests detailing the joys, fun, and successes of these groups who have stayed in our vacation homes.  I look forward to working with these leaders to expand the possibilities of families, friends and other groups everywhere.