Benchmark Property Management, a leading vacation rental company along Florida’s scenic Emerald Coast, has consistently delivered exceptional guest experiences since 2014. Managing over 500 properties across 30A, Destin, and Panama City Beach, the Benchmark team faced several operational challenges, until they partnered with PointCentral.
In this blog, we explore how PointCentral’s suite of smart property technologies, including access management, smart HVAC, and smart thermostats, has revolutionized Benchmark’s operations.
Overcoming Operational Roadblocks
Before integrating PointCentral’s solutions, Benchmark was constrained by an outdated access management system. The inability to remotely manage entry, lack of visibility into vendor activity, and costly manual interventions such as locksmith visits led to significant inefficiencies. HVAC disruptions and limited monitoring capabilities further risked guest satisfaction during peak vacation seasons.
Smart Access Management for Seamless Control
One of the first solutions Benchmark implemented was PointCentral’s smart access technology. By replacing traditional locks with smart locks, they gained the ability to remotely unlock doors, assign temporary vendor codes, and monitor real-time activity. This upgrade eliminated the need for physical keys and significantly reduced time and costs associated with access management.
The system also improves security and accountability, with every access event logged and visible to the management team, which is crucial for tracking vendor performance and ensures a streamlined check-in/check-out process.
Smart HVAC and Thermostat Optimization
Heating and cooling inefficiencies are a common pain point for vacation rental operators. Benchmark Management tackled this with PointCentral’s smart HVAC system and thermostats. These tools empower property managers to remotely manage temperatures and schedule proactive maintenance, reducing both guest complaints and emergency call-outs.
The predictive analytics built into the system detect performance anomalies early, preventing breakdowns and ensuring consistent comfort for guests. During storms or power outages, real-time alerts allow rapid responses, minimizing disruptions and safeguarding guest satisfaction.
Real-Time Data and Operational Efficiency
With real-time insights into property performance and guest turnover, Benchmark has optimized its cleaning schedules and improved vendor coordination. The data-driven visibility has also enhanced transparency for homeowners, who now enjoy greater confidence in Benchmark’s property management.
Since implementing PointCentral’s vacation rental technology, Benchmark has reported a noticeable drop in operational costs, a decrease in guest complaints, and faster turnover times. These improvements translate into higher guest satisfaction and more efficient, scalable operations.
With the support of PointCentral’s smart property technology, Benchmark Property Management has continued to grow while setting a new standard in guest experience and operational efficiency along the Emerald Coast.
Want to find out more on our work with short-term rentals? Check out Molly Reardon’s recent appearance on the VRMA Arrival Podcast for a deep dive into how technology can enhance the human side of hospitality.