Saad swapped management consulting for building an Airbnb management company in partnership with Pass the Keys. Four years on, he leads a tightly coordinated team with daily standups, always-on guest coverage, and a trusted network of nearby cleaners and trades.
Here’s his story.
Spotting the opportunity
Before joining Pass the Keys, Saad travelled extensively for work. He could see the profitability of short-letting from friends who were doing well renting out their homes on Airbnb, so he hired a property management company he thought would do the job. The revenue was strong, but the service left room for improvement, and that gap sparked his interest in running things the right way.
What drew him to Pass the Keys as a franchisor wasn’t just the model, it was the people: friendly, supportive, “a smart, creative bunch.” That first impression set the tone for the culture he’s built in his territory – one that is energetic, collaborative, and host-focused.
A typical day
Here’s a peek at Saad’s daily routine:
- Starts work at 9am
- Checks messages and catches up on anything from overnight
- Team meeeting at 10:15am where they discuss cleaning, guest, host, and maintenance issues
- Attend viewings for potential clients
- Joins a meeting with his Franchise Success Manager who helps him track progress towards his goals
- Attends more viewings
- Spot-checks properties to ensure standards are met
Benefits of joining Pass the Keys
Since joining Pass the Keys, Saad has experienced a number of professional and personal benefits. His previous job in consultancy involved frequent travel and long hours, In contrast, his current managerial role allows for a much more balanced lifestyle. Saad can focus on growing a local business, serving hosts, and leading his team, without sacrificing his life outside of work.
A positive work environment
The collaborative atmosphere is a major part of why he enjoys the work. “I have colleagues that I love,” he mentioned. His team includes a Territory Manager who can respond quickly to guest issues, plus two remote team members based in the Philippines and South Africa. Saad also takes pride in helping hosts maximise rental income and in creating great guest experiences. “Overall, it’s a very positive environment.”
Exemplifying success
“All of our cleaners are local. All of our maintenance people are local,” Saad explained. That local presence means issues can be handled straight away.
Saad’s dedication and professionalism haven’t gone unnoticed. He regularly receives glowing reviews from satisfied hosts, like Marie, who praised his care and attention during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It felt really nice to be recognised for that, because that’s exactly true,” he stated, referring to how much he cares about hosts’ properties and contributing to their financial success.
As he looks to the future, Saad is dedicated to growing his business and continuing to provide exceptional service across his territory.
If you’re thinking about building an Airbnb management business, request your free information pack here.
