Sheila Dickinson’s vacation rental journey began with a single home in Bremerton, Washington, and quickly expanded to include properties in Panama City Beach, Vancouver, and Whitefish. With a focus on thoughtful design and guest connection, she now manages a growing portfolio of short-term rentals through her business Escapes By Sheila, all powered by OwnerRez at the "heart" of her operations.

Can you tell us a little bit about your history?

My first short-term rental was in Bremerton, Washington, and it was because I moved to Vancouver to marry my husband, Scott. I loved my house and didn't want to sell it, and I also wanted to use it occasionally. My second was in Panama City Beach in 2017, because I knew and loved the area, and believed that my son would settle there; so it was a snowbird/close to family investment. It did so well that we kept buying there. We also own in Whitefish, Montana, and even owned in Puerto Rico for a while. Panama City Beach is where we spend winters and rent out our Vancouver, WA, house while we are gone.

What is your background?

I am an accountant, and had a career in federal civil service in Panama City Beach, FL, Bremerton, WA, and Vancouver, WA. I retired in 2021. I started my first STR in 2016, and grew that to four by my retirement, and then added 5 more since then. I also co-host for a few clients and have a wallpaper installation business!

Are you from the geographical area where your properties are located, or did you move there later?

I lived in Panama City Beach from 1989-2013, moved to Bremerton in 2013 (for a promotion and to be near my parents) and Vancouver WA in 2016 (that's where I graduated from high school so it wasn't new to me).

What do you love the most about the vacation rental business?

I love connecting with guests, learning why they chose my properties, and creating memorable experiences through thoughtful decor and amenities that make their vacations special with family and friends.

What do you dislike the most about it?

I dislike the bookkeeping (and I'm an accountant!) and other admin paperwork (LLC renewals, city/state licensing, insurance policies, etc).

How do you use OwnerRez to manage your business?

I use lots of software, but OwnerRez is the heart. I couldn't live without it! I use it constantly, to check daily bookings, to block out time when needed, check rates and payments, damage protection, reports for my KPIs and taxes, and more!

What is the most useful feature OwnerRez offers?

Being able to see all of my bookings at a glance, and the reports.

Sheila’s journey from a single home to a multi-market portfolio is a testament to her eye for detail and commitment to hospitality. We’re excited to see Escapes by Sheila continue to grow while creating thoughtful, memorable stays for guests across every destination.