Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynette Guy.
Hi Lynette, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2018, I received an involuntary job reassignment that wasn’t someplace I saw myself long term. That was when I decided to purchase my first vacation rental cabin in Helen, Georgia.
When I moved to Atlanta, Georgia in 2014, I quickly discovered that area in north Georgia and fell in love with it. I found myself frequenting the are often to hike and explore waterfalls.
I’ve always had a passion for real estate and hospitality and purchasing a vacation rental cabin seemed like the perfect combination for me to engage in both passions and start a business that would allow me to leave a job that wasn’t a great fit. I have loved hosting from the moment I started.
Since then, I have co-hosted a property in Atlanta, and have purchased my second cabin in the Helen area. I resigned from my job and now devote myself full time to hosting and managing my cabins. I have also just become a certified short-term stager to assist others in onboarding their properties and helping them to optimize their bookings and revenue.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always obstacles and challenges. Just like the house where you live, unexpected things happen. The difference is sometimes you can put off repairs or upgrades in the house where you live. When unexpected things happen at a vacation rental, it has to be addressed immediately. I’ve had a water pipe to burst, my crawl space flooded, low water pressure, hot tub failure.
Fortunately, I have a great team that is always there when I need them. I was able to form this great network through connecting with another local business owner that I met.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Freedom Finder Vacation Rentals currently has 2 cabins in the Helen, Georgia area. They each sleep 6 people and are 5 miles from each other, making it convenient for larger groups to split up and reconvene.
I am known for outstanding customer service, special touches, and attention to detail. Each property has things that set them apart from other rentals in the area. Freedom Finder cabin has a 2-person hammock bed and egg chairs on the wraparound porch. The kitchen is well-stocked with everything you need to cook or grill.
The second cabin, Memory Maker, was a blank slate when I purchased it in October, 2021. I was able to customize both the exterior and the interior to set it apart from other rentals. The outside has a custom, flagstone area for the firepit and a stone pathway leading to a “secret garden”. The interior has a custom light fixture made from mountain laurel and wall games in the loft bedroom.
I am most proud of the level of personalized service that I am able to provide each and every guest. My goal is for my guests to create lasting memories that will last a lifetime.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
No matter how long you’ve been doing something, it’s always evolving. Keep learning and keep evolving in your industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.airbnb.com/rooms/23281806
- Instagram: @myfreedomfinder
- Facebook: facebook.com/myfreedomfinder
- Other: www.airbnb.com/h/memory-maker
Image Credits
Kurt Miller
