Since RedAwning's 2024 acquisition, Awning advertises management starting at 10%. The honest comparison isn't 10% vs. 12.5% — it's about what's actually included at each price. Here's how HostStarter compares.
| Feature | Awning | HostStarter ✓ |
|---|---|---|
| Management Fee | 10–18% | 12.5% |
| Contract Required | 12-month minimum | Month-to-month, cancel anytime |
| Service Level | Software-driven, limited local presence | Full-service: cleaning, maintenance, guest comms, pricing |
| Setup / Onboarding Fee | Common | $0 — included in 12.5% |
| Photography Included | Often extra charge | Yes, always included |
| Cleaning Coordination | Varies by market | Yes — fully managed |
| Maintenance Coordination | Limited | Yes — local vendor network |
| Dynamic Pricing | Yes | Yes — daily optimization |
| Listed On | Airbnb + VRBO | Airbnb + VRBO |
| BBB Complaints | Limited on-ground management; owners handle many issues themselves | Zero complaints |
Awning advertises 10% management, but at that tier you're still sourcing your own cleaners, coordinating your own maintenance, and handling guest issues yourself. Apples-to-apples full-service is Awning's 18% tier vs. HostStarter's 12.5% flat — a 44% premium for the same scope of work.
Awning's tiered plans run on annual commitments. If your property underperforms or your situation changes, you're locked in. HostStarter operates month-to-month with 30 days notice to cancel.
RedAwning is the largest vacation rental distribution platform in the US — Awning is the management arm of that distribution network. HostStarter is operator-first with local teams on the ground in every market we serve.
Many Awning clients report having to coordinate their own cleaners and vendors. HostStarter handles all of this under the flat 12.5% — no surprise bills or coordination headaches.
Three reasons owners switch from Awning to HostStarter — and don't look back.
At Awning's apples-to-apples 18% full-service tier, HostStarter saves owners roughly $220/month on a $4,000/month property — about $2,640/year. The 10% headline stops being relevant once you add back everything that isn't included.
Month-to-month means we prove our value every single month. You can cancel with 30 days notice, zero penalties, no drama. We win your business through performance.
One 12.5% fee covers everything: listing, photography, dynamic pricing, guest communication, cleaning coordination, maintenance, and a local team who treats your property like their own.
"D and his team were very kind, responsive & helpful. They checked in on our group daily and had all the needed essentials ready. All our questions were answered promptly. He and his property are 5 stars in our book!"
"Jonathan & David were great hosts during our stay. We were first-time group Airbnb users, and they were always responsive, understanding and willing to help when needed. I would highly recommend!"
"Very clean and comfortable house. The property was exactly as described and the host was quick to respond whenever we had questions. Would absolutely book again."
We make it easy. One call, we handle the transition. You start earning more from day one.
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