Sigh. I don't even know where to begin with this review, as there are so many aspects to list. It's important to note that I am writing from the position of a homeowner, not a renter. I will attempt to keep this review respectful, but want to share my experience; when I tried to find a property management company, there were no online reviews for reference.
On July 11, 2020 we took possession of a townhouse that had been previously operated by Outpost. Even before we toured with the realtor I had commented that this unit had been "grossly mismanaged". Upon our first viewing of the unit, those thoughts were confirmed. There was a mishmash of plates; no one had taken time or effort to provide a full set of the same item. Cheap, flimsy spatulas, flippers, etc. The kitchen housed eight forks IN TOTAL for a unit that sleeps eleven. Basic math suggests, as stated, gross mismanagement. GO. BUY. SOME. FORKS.
I have a few friends who have rented units through Outpost. They reiterated exactly why I did not choose this company. No one took enough time to ensure adequate kitchenware (not expensive, at that) was available. Nickel and diming occurred. No guest welcome gift for a $350 night, one week stay. (Keep in mind that Outpost takes 35% of gross revenue.)
When I finally advised Outpost that we would be working with a different company, Ben became condescending, sarcastic, and rude. He commented on how much time he had put into answering my questions, and that I profited from all his answers yet then chose another company. He refused to block off the move-in date for us. We asked him to book it so we could switch out all the appliances and renovate for a week. This work would have ultimately benefited the clients they claimed are important to them, yet he refused to book this.
Upon move in, we discovered that all the sheets were gone. These were Outpost's sheets, but we had not been advised we would have no sheets on a very busy and stressful move-in date. Further, all soaps were taken. Better were the disappearing toilet paper rolls. Even the remnants of rolls on the holders were off; not even the cardboard was left. Outpost knew we had our kids with us. Fine they play dirty with us adults but this sort of behavior towards my children is beyond low.
The unit was absolutely filthy. Outpost placed the blame on the previous owner who refused to do deep-cleans over the year. Reminder that Outpost takes 35% commission that for them would have been almost 90K if not for Covid. To not deep clean and blame the owner for refusing to buy cutlery, plates, matching mugs, or a basic set of perhaps Ikea plates speaks volumes of this company. It was their most lucrative property.
We tried in three different ways to work with them to transition bookings to the new PM company. Outpost would have none of it. Ultimately, all previously booked guests were, we assume, moved elsewhere. My having had offered some commission for upcoming bookings, and Ben ending up with absolutely zero revenue that could have potentially still meant thousands, is a testament of the inability to see a broader scope of business. I argue this carries over in other aspects of running a property.
The ladies I've spoken to at Outpost were lovely. They are the reason for great reviews. Unfortunately the owner's poor interpersonal and conflict resolution skills lead to this review. If things are going great I'm sure you'll have a lovely experience. If you DO decide to have Outpost manage your company, take continuous note of the lacking details in the unit. If you want guests to receive a welcome gift, you're on your own. As of summer 2020 Outpost offers a logo'd tote shopping bag. I now work with a PM company that gives wine. read more