I started an Airbnb business with my friends with 4 cabins. Now we manage more than 500 properties.

Samuel Sévigny and four friends initiated a short-term rental management firm called Chaletô in 2022. Based in Quebec, Canada, the company now oversees more than 500 properties. When asked about the differences between managing a single property and a portfolio of properties, Sévigny highlighted the benefits of scaling up. He explained that professional hosts can take advantage of optimized tools and systems that streamline operations, such as dynamic pricing and AI automation.

Sévigny, who had experience in advertising and Airbnb hosting, understood firsthand the challenges faced by individual hosts who juggle their day jobs with guest management. As Chaletô grew from a team of six to over 500 units, the company's gains increased proportionately. Sévigny emphasized that professional management offers advantages like negotiating better contracts with cleaners and attracting specialized talent.

However, the founders cautioned against getting distracted by new trends, such as AI implementation, and suggested prioritizing human resources and customer service expertise. The company opted to hire local employees who speak French and English, ensuring they could address customer service issues effectively. Sévigny concluded that Chaletô preferred to invest in human capital and maintain a strong focus on hospitality services rather than hastily adopting AI solutions.