Tony Kinney - Village Properties at Sunriver

Pros, Cons of Hosting Your Property On Airbnb or VRBO

Posted on February 28, 2023February 28, 2023 by Tony Kinney

If you have an outstanding property you want to rent out for vacations, you have plenty of options. Property owners have more options, such as considering popular services like Airbnb, VRBO, etc. If you are in the Central Oregon area, Village Properties at Sunriver can aid you. Check out our vacation rentals and property management services to get a better idea and understand the pros and cons of Airbnb, VRBO, and more. Here are some pros and cons of hosting your vacation property on these platforms.

VRBO vs. Airbnb

For starters, Airbnb is a home rental service and application to connect customers to short-term vacation property renters. On the other hand, VRBO is short for Vacation Rental By Owner, offering potential guests houses, apartments, condos, villas, and more. Both offer similar services for people looking for vacation rentals or unique vacation homes.

Pros of Hosting on Airbnb or VRBO

Ease of use: Both platforms allow users to list a property quickly and easily, as well as upload photos, rates, descriptions, and more.
Exposure: Due to the popularity of Airbnb and VRBO, a large pool of people use these apps to find vacation rental properties.
Flexible pricing: You can adjust your rates on the season, demand, and other factors.

Cons of Hosting on Airbnb or VRBO

Fees: Both Airbnb and VRBO have fees attached to using their services.
Exposure: While exposure is also a pro of using Airbnb and VRBO, the popularity of these services means you will have to work hard to stand out too.
Strict policies: You’ll be at the whim of Airbnb and VRBO policies regarding cancellations, refunds, and other issues.

Reach A Wider Audience

Some of the best advice is to spread the widest net you can. Get as many eyes on your property as possible, so consider working with professional property managers. For those in Central Oregon, this is where Village Properties at Sunriver can help you the most. We will provide you with full-service property management. This means we handle all the hassles, and you can relax and reap the rewards. Some of the things that we can help manage to include the following:

Staying Updated with User-Friendly Technology
Home Care from Local Professionals
Maximize Bookings and Revenue
We’ll distribute and manage your listing across the top booking sites
Take advantage of a multi-faceted marketing strategy effectively utilizing search engine optimization, organic and paid digital and social media marketing, promotions, and email marketing

Find The Best Fit For Your Property

Since you know the pros and cons of Airbnb, VRBO, and more, you can decide about your vacation rental property. Visit Village Properties at Sunriver for more information about our Crossover Program, see other vacation rentals, the Homeowner Portal, and more. To hear more about our Sunriver and Caldera Springs property management services, contact our Vacations Property Manager, Nicole McClure, at nicole@village-properties.com or call directly at 541-749-1268.

Can’t Miss Festivals this February in Sunriver & Central Oregon

Posted on February 16, 2023February 16, 2023 by Tony Kinney

Sunriver, Oregon, and Central Oregon have plenty of events near the start of the year. This makes February an ideal time to explore Central Oregon. The events throughout the month are unique and exciting. The best place to explore all of the extraordinary events happening in Central Oregon is to book directly with Village Properties At Sunriver. Check out these events happening in February in Sunriver and Central Oregon.

Sunriver Food & Wine Festival

The inaugural Sunriver Resort Food & Wine Festival is a month-long event that highlights the region’s rich farming, heritage, and wine. For a taste of what to expect, you’ll be treated to tasting events, cooking classes, live music, shopping, regional vintners, artisans, farmers, local craft spirits, and beers from around Central Oregon. Sunriver Resort hosts this, but the dining events are not exclusive to guests of Sunriver Resort (accessible to all who visit). Here is a taste of some of the events happening during this month-long festival.

Local brewery flights at The Lodge Kitchen
Saturday Supper Club at The Lodge Kitchen
Live music at The Owl’s Nest

Oregon Winter Fest

Head on over to the most exciting winter festival in Oregon. The Oregon Winter Fest features a weekend full of fun and unique activities. You’ll find events and activities perfect for adults, couples, and families of any size. For example, take your family to explore The Wonderland Marketplace. More than 75 local vendors and exhibitors will be present, offering jewelry, home goods, pottery, and other art. Some new attractions this year will include a merry-go-round and a Ferris Wheel. Here are some more attractions that you can expect at The Oregon Winter Fest:

Central Oregon Light Art Exhibit
Ice carvings
Cozy fire pits
Multiple stages with live music
5K adult Hot Cocoa Run

Have A Great Time In Central Oregon

You will have a great time at any of these events in Sunriver and Central Oregon. Make sure you have the best time possible by booking directly with Village Properties At Sunriver. A vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver will make the perfect cozy home base for your Central Oregon winter getaway. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

Best Breakfast Restaurants In And Near Sunriver, OR

Posted on January 19, 2023February 1, 2023 by Tony Kinney

A hearty breakfast is one of the best ways to start your vacation. Sunriver, OR, is known for its incredible views and the best way to get a taste of the scenic view is with a cup of coffee in your hand. Plenty of cozy breakfast spots in Sunriver, OR, are ideal for you and your partner, or you can bring the entire family. The same can be said for the accommodating vacation rentals only found with Village Properties at Sunriver. So when you roll out of bed, start planning to visit one of these breakfast restaurants near Sunriver, OR.

Café Sintra

Cafe Sintra offers an intimate atmosphere and serves Portuguese-inspired Mediterranean dishes. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serve espresso drinks, pastries, cocktails, and wine.

Bellatazza

Bellatazza is a coffee shop serving fresh espresso drinks, sandwiches, and pastries. It’s a beautiful cozy place for a cup of coffee. Bring some of the coffee beans home with you. They make for a perfect pot of coffee in the morning or a great gift.

Owl’s Nest

This is an excellent place for brunch. It’s a cozy little café serving various breakfast options, including omelets, Bloody Marys’ and pancakes.

Hot Lava Baking & Coffee Company

Bakeries are the best place for morning pastries and donuts. Hot Lava Baking & Coffee Company is no exception. Swing by for breakfast or brunch and grab a breakfast sandwich and a Mocha to go.

Wake Up And Breath In That Fresh Oregon Air

Take in the sights early in the morning after a filling breakfast at one of these restaurants in Sunriver, OR. A vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver will make the perfect cozy home base for your Central Oregon winter getaway. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

How To Manage A Rental Property, Make Money in Central Oregon

Posted on January 12, 2023January 24, 2023 by Tony Kinney

The additional income from owning a vacation rental property can significantly benefit you. However, before you take the plunge into the world of vacation rental ownership, there are some essential things to know about how to manage a rental property. Village Properties at Sunriver can help you through the process if you follow these simple rules.

Take some time to research the market. Depending on where you own your rental property, you are going to need to know what your guests are going to want.
This leads to getting a proper understanding of the location too. Reading through the Village Properties at Sunriver blog, you can get started understanding the Sunriver, OR, area. In addition, you can check out Visit Central Oregon for more information on the surrounding attractions.
Take advantage of the seasons. Central Oregon has varied interests and events depending on the season. For example, prepare your vacation rental for winter sports and activities when the weather is cooler. Our full-time maintenance, housekeeping, quality control, laundry, and hot tub technician teams operate out of our centrally located Sunriver office building which can help you get the most out of your vacation rental.
Provide necessary amenities. This would include wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, bedding, and towels. If you are a pet-friendly vacation rental, make sure that waste bags, food and water dishes, and a spare leash are available. Village Properties at Sunriver lists unique properties for people looking for a hot tub, air conditioning, EV chargers, and more.
Take lots of photos. Our Crossover program is a unique opportunity for homeowners to reap the benefits of a vacation rental during the peak tourist season and a long-term rental for the off-season. Every home receives professional photography and a unique property description for online marketability.

Learn Even More About Making The Most Money

This is just a sampling of what Village Properties at Sunriver can provide for your vacation rental property. Visit our website for more information about our Crossover Program, see other vacation rentals, the Homeowner Portal, and more. To hear more about our Sunriver and Caldera Springs property management services, reach out to our Vacations Property Manager, Nicole McClure, at nicole@village-properties.com or call directly at 541-749-1268.

Sunriver Spots for Food & Drinks To Ring In The New Year

Posted on December 30, 2022January 4, 2023 by Tony Kinney

Suppose your eyes are set on ringing in the new year while you are on vacation. In that case, you need to check out the dining options and festive events in Sunriver, OR. Several exciting events occur throughout the year’s final week, and you can easily travel to and from these events from the comfort of your vacation rental through Village Properties at Sunriver. Here are some best events to ring in the new year near Sunriver, OR.

Find A Sunriver, OR, Restaurant

The best way to end the year is with a delicious meal. You’ll find plenty of savory options right here in Sunriver, OR. Here are some standout options for you and your family.

Order A Meal In Caldera Springs

Caldera Spring isn’t far from Sunriver, OR. There are many great restaurants in the city. Here are some of the best places to dine and welcome the new year.

Join A New Years’ Eve Party

Join 10 Barrels at their east side location for The Barrel Drop. It’s a Great Gatsby-style event featuring 1920s speakeasy vibes. The party will include champagne jello shots at the door, live music, dancing, finger food, casino games, and a complimentary champagne toast.

Happy New Year!

Spending time with friends and family in Sunriver, OR, as the clock ticks toward midnight on New Year’s Eve is one of the most exciting events of the year. We know that it will be extra special when you are in Central Oregon with Village Properties at Sunriver. A vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver will make the perfect cozy home base for your Central Oregon winter getaway. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

Christmas in Sunriver, Oregon: Traditions, Sno-Parks and More

Posted on December 19, 2022December 19, 2022 by Tony Kinney

A classic Christmas tradition is heading out into the forest and cutting down your own Christmas tree. For many people, that’s hard to do because of location or the time allowed. However, you can participate in this tradition during your holiday vacation in Central Oregon. Not only is there an abundance of trees for you to cut down, but there is a nearby snow park and more things to do in Sunriver, Oregon, for you to do when you stay at Village Properties At Sunriver. We’ll run through where you can cut down your Christmas tree and more things to do in Sunriver, Oregon.

Find and Cut Down The Best Christmas Tree In Oregon

For years, cutting down your Christmas tree has been a tradition in Deschutes National Forest. After you arrive at your vacation property at Village Properties at Sunriver, call the front office to secure tree permits for Deschutes National Forest. Read more about the Deschutes National Forest tree-cutting service guidelines before heading out.

Types of Trees in Deschutes National Forest

Various trees are available to cut down in Deschutes National Forest, with some growing to more than 120 feet tall. Ideally, you will be looking to cut down a conifer tree in the forest. Here’s a list of the types of Christmas trees in Deschutes National Forest.

Ponderosa Pine (This is the popular choice for most people because it smells like vanilla or root beer)
White Fir
Douglas Fir
Western Larch
Lodgepole Pine

Best Snow Parks in Central Oregon

After you’ve cut down your Christmas tree, have some fun at a nearby snow park. Various activities include Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, sledding, and dog-friendly trails. Here are the best snow parks in Central Oregon.

Wanoga Sno-Park (This is an excellent place for its sledding opportunities. Its open hillside offers easy sledding, and the warming hut provides a cozy respite from winter’s chill.)
Edison Sno-Park
Kapka Butte Sno-Park
Mt. Bachelor

Christmas Promotion – 10% off

As a unique offering to show our guests how honored Village Properties at Sunriver is to host you for Christmas, get 10% off your booking. This promo code can be used for vacation rental reservations with arrival dates between Dec. 21 – 26.

Promo code: HOLIDAY10

Start A New Christmas Tradition In Oregon

Make your next Christmas vacation your best one. Cut down your Christmas tree, celebrate at some of the best snow parks, and do more things to do in Sunriver, Oregon. Top the night off with hot chocolate in your vacation rental from Village Properties at Sunriver. Our vacation properties make for a warm and cozy home base for your Central Oregon Christmas getaway. To hear more about our accommodations or have us walk you through your Oregon getaway, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

Find Lodging Near Mt. Bachelor With Hot Tubs

Posted on November 30, 2022December 1, 2022 by Tony Kinney

Mt. Bachelor, located 22 miles outside of Bend, boasts some of the best skiing and nearby lodging in Oregon. If you weren’t aware, Mt. Bachelor has 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain and is the highest skiable elevation in Oregon and Washington! The ski resort receives an average of 462” of snow each year and offers one of the longest ski seasons in the country – November through May!

Spending the day skiing can take a lot out of you, so relaxing in a hot tub afterward feels excellent. Reward yourself at the end of your ski day with a soak in a private hot tub with accommodations by The Village Properties at Sunriver. We have 60 vacation homes with private hot tubs. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about skiing on Mt. Bachelor, other winter sports, and where to find the best vacation lodging for you and your family.

Vacation Homes With Private Hot Tubs

Village Properties at Sunriver has some fantastic amenities, specifically the selection of vacation homes with private hot tubs. Our hot tubs are kept in top-tier condition by Hot Tubs at Sunriver. Please take your time and find a vacation rental that fits your needs.

Mt. Bachelor Resort

Skiers and snowboarders of all levels will enjoy the features of Mt. Bachelor. Experts will relish the double diamonds with 600-foot elevation gains and terrain parks. While novices can build confidence on gentle downhill slopes. Be sure to check out the conditions on Mt. Bachelor’s live webcams.

Cross-country skiers can take advantage of Mt. Bachelor’s 56 km of groomed Nordic trails that wind their way through the Deschutes National Forest.

Additional Winter Activities at Mt. Bachelor

Looking for a winter adventure besides skiing? There are plenty more winter activities to do on Mt. Bachelor. Starting in December, you and your guests can enjoy sled dog rides. You can choose a one-hour ride or an afternoon trip to Elk Lake and back.

Those that want to take in the sights at their own pace should look at Mt. Bachelor’s snowshoe tours. U.S. Forest Service Naturalists offer free 90-minute interpretive tours. It’s an incredibly informative experience as you will learn about winter ecology at Mt. Bachelor and the Deschutes National Forest watershed.

Sunriver Shuttles to Mt. Bachelor

You will have an awesome time on Mt. Bachelor, finding a great place to ski and a great lodging option as well. You’ll find your Village Properties at Sunriver vacation rental the perfect place to top off an action-packed day. Mountain shuttles leave from the Sunriver Resort Lodge (drop off at Mt. Bachelor West Village Lodge). Reservations are required ($30/person + 4 people minimum). A vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver will make the perfect cozy home base for your Central Oregon winter getaway. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online. +

Winter Attractions in Sunriver For The Holidays

Posted on November 15, 2022November 15, 2022 by Tony Kinney

The holidays are a busy time of the year. So take some of the holiday planning off of your plate and book a Thanksgiving or Christmas family getaway to Central Oregon. There is plenty to do in Sunriver, like ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides and more. Village Properties at Sunriver has you in mind. This Holiday season, Village Properties at Sunriver has an exclusive offer for guests who book with us directly.

Thanksgiving + Christmas Promotion – 10% off

As a special offering to show our guests how honored Village Properties at Sunriver is to host you for Thanksgiving and Christmas, get 10% off your booking. This promo code can be used for vacation rental reservations with arrival dates between Nov. 23 – 26 and Dec. 21 – 26.

Promo code: HOLIDAY10

Grand Illumination

The weekend before Thanksgiving, Sunriver residents and guests gather for an epic tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks show. In addition, you can join in on a visit from Santa, live music, train rides, telescope viewings, hot cocoa, putt-putt, holiday shopping, and more.

Things To Do In Sunriver For Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of the best times to bring the entire family together. During your Thanksgiving vacation with Village Properties at Sunriver, join the local festivities of the area!

Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet at Sunriver Resort
Thanksgiving weekend Brunch at Sunriver Resort, which runs from Fri – Sun Nov. 25-27, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Reservations required. Please call 541-593-3740 to reserve.
Thanksgiving ends with a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Sit with the Claus’ and get some memorable family photos.

Things To Do In Sunriver For Christmas

Sunriver transforms into a Winter Wonderland with a fresh coat of snow that the pine-forested landscape of Central Oregon. In addition to the magical ambiance the winter scenery provides, there are plenty of events and things to do for a family Christmas visit to Sunriver. Here are some of the best attractions to do on your holiday getaway to Central Oregon.

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree: Christmas tree cutting in the Deschutes National Forest has been a Sunriver tradition for years and a cherished holiday ritual for local families. Purchase your Christmas tree permit at Merchant Trader Gift Shop for $5 per tree.
Gingerbread Junction at Sunriver: Groups and individuals in the community build spectacular gingerbread houses to put on display for the month of December. The houses are on display in the Abbot Room of the Sunriver Lodge. It is free and open to the public.
Ice Skating at The Village at Sunriver: The ice arena is a longtime favorite for the holidays. Ice skating is a treat loved by all members of the family. For open hours or more information, call 541-593-5948.

Get into the Holiday Spirit in Sunriver

We understand that the challenges facing Oregon families this year may leave you feeling uninspired. End the year on a high note, and take advantage of the rich holiday spirit of Sunriver this season. Whether you come for the ice skating, winter sleigh rides, or the visit from Santa Claus, a vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver will make the perfect cozy home base for your Central Oregon winter getaway. To hear more about our accommodations or have us walk you through your Oregon getaway, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

Halloween Events in Central Oregon

Posted on October 26, 2022October 26, 2022 by Tony Kinney

If you are in Sunriver or the Central Oregon area around Halloween, don’t fret because there are more than enough events to keep you entertained. There is a plethora of family-friendly fall events and light scares near Sunriver. Enjoy these local favorite Halloween Events during your stay with Village Properties At Sunriver.

Here’s a brief preview of what is in store for you this Halloween season in Central Oregon.

Pumpkin Patch at Smith Rock Ranch

Since 1998, the Lisignoli Family has run a pumpkin patch for locals to come and celebrate the seasons changing. Visiting the Smith Rock Ranch (named after the nearby Smith Rock State Park) has become a tradition for many families. On the ranch, you can take part in traversing a corn maze, pumpkin picking, shooting gallery, pony rides, pumpkin cannons, petting zoo, mini golf, dog park, wagon rides, and more.

Hours and more information for Smith Rock Ranch can be found on our Local Events Calendar.

Bend Ghost Tours

Head over to Bend, Oregon, and participate in a ghost tour! The Ghosts and Legends of Downtown Bend Tour will take you through Historic Downtown Bend, where you will learn a little about the city’s history and the ghosts that allegedly still haunt the area.

Hours and pricing for Bend Ghost Tours can be found on our Local Events Calendar.

Trick or Treat in The Village

Get your trick-or-treat fix right here in Sunriver, Oregon. Join us in The Village at Sunriver Courtyard for free carnival-style games and the annual costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for the top three costumes in the following categories:

Ages 4 and under
Ages 5-8
Ages 9-12
Ages 13-17
Ages 18 and up

Have Fun And Enjoy Halloween In Sunriver

Sunriver and Central Oregon is a beautiful and spooky (but not too spooky) place to enjoy Halloween events away from home. Village Properties At Sunriver can help you find the perfect home away from home this upcoming holiday season.

To hear more about our accommodations or have us walk you through your Oregon getaway, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.