Louis Andrews on How He Manages STR Listings in the French Alps

Today’s expert guest is our new friend, Louis Andrews, President and Director of OVO Network, a company specializing in the short-term rental of high-end mountain chalets in authentic destinations, primarily in the French Alps. We met Louis on our castle STR retreat, and knew he’d provide great insight for our listeners.

Under his leadership, OVO Network manages 218 properties, focusing on blending technological solutions with dedicated support to maximize rental revenue and enhance guest experiences. We learn all about his innovative lead-generation strategies, his focus on ongoing owner education, and how he – get this – runs his company without cleaners and maintenance. 

This one is another great example of creative problem solving in our industry, accomplished on a scale that all of us can aspire to and dream of. Hosting in the French Alps? Yes, please; and he does it on his own terms. Louis proves there’s more than one way to manage your property, have it fit your lifestyle, and have it fit your way of getting things done.

(00:01:23) #STRShareSunday: @magnoliaholidayhouse

• Appreciating an elevated beach theme 
• Color’s surprising impact on digital experience 
• Master class in tasteful amenity staging 
• Be mindful of the amenity list display in Airbnb

(00:05:19) Introducing Louis Andrews, European STR Expert

• Check out OVO Network France
• We Stayed in a Castle! European Short-Term Rental Industry Review #367
• Basics on his business model and operations 
• The surprising way he manages 218 high end properties
• OVO’s connection to the inventor of bungee jumping

(00:13:23) Running the Numbers on French Chalet Airbnb Listings

• How much does it cost for a week?
• Pitfalls in the european destination rental market 
• His number one priority – occupancy rate
• Flexible seasonal pricing strategies 
• How OVO landed on using “high-end” vs. “luxury” 
• Legislation challenges cropping up in France
• Focusing on community impact 

(00:24:17) Managing Vacation Rentals Without Cleaning & Maintenance?

• How OVO collects and qualifies leads 
• Homeowners contract w/ chalet managers – not OVO
• Positioning value in strategy, distribution, marketing, and data
• How this arrangement leads to high-value referrals 
• You can’t polish a turd – style of property matters
• OVO’s killer guest survey strategy 
• Dual fee structure and what they cover 
• Their biggest current challenge in retaining owners 

(00:39:12) Louis Shares His Predictions for Near & Distant STR Futures 

• Focusing on education in the market 
• Shifting from reactive to proactive
• Utilizing flexible pricing strategies 
• Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion
• 2023 as a long-awaited good data reference year
• Understanding the power of one

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Website: ovonetwork.com/en/home
• Instagram: @ovonetwork.chalets 
• Linkedin: Louis Andrews
• Video: 5 Cheap ways to wow your guest that no other host is doing
• Airbnb Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.com

#STRShareSunday

@magnoliaholidayhouse

The Magnolia Holiday House is nestled in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, This cozy home welcomes guests with its charming blue exterior and inviting atmosphere. With beach time and boating right around the corner, this location guarantees endless outdoor adventures. Perfect for a retreat with loved ones or a solo getaway, this small yet vibrant home offers comfort and convenience.

• Instagram: @magnoliaholidayhouse

We would love to feature YOU, so don’t forget to use #STRShareSunday to get your chance!