What does it take to build a vacation rental company that can grow, evolve, and remain successful for nearly seven decades? In this episode, Alex & Annie sit down with Rick Elliott and Brandon Cox of Elliott Realty to explore the people, systems, leadership decisions, and business fundamentals behind the company’s longevity. Elliott Realty has been part of the Myrtle Beach vacation rental industry since 1959. Over those 67 years, the company has navigated new technology, changing traveler behavior, higher homeowner expectations, and an increasingly complex distribution landscape. Rick and Brandon share why long-term success requires a willingness to evolve, strong systems, careful attention to detail, and people who can grow with the organization. They also discuss Elliott Realty’s approach to homeowner relationships, property standards, direct bookings, OTA distribution, brand development, and local tourism advocacy. Episode Chapters:06:42 - How Elliott Realty Has Evolved Since 195907:15 - Why Strong People and Systems Matter More Than Technology Alone12:20 - Hiring Intentionally and Promoting Future Leaders From Within15:59 - Understanding Individual Homeowner Goals and Expectations19:05 - Maintaining Property Quality Across a Large Portfolio27:52 - Balancing Direct Bookings With OTA Distribution35:56 - The Importance of Local Advocacy and Community Involvement48:00 - Why Investing in Your Brand Creates Long-Term Value48:47 - How Founders Can Step Back and Empower Their Leadership Team For vacation rental leaders thinking about the future of their business, this episode offers practical lessons on building a company that can adapt, develop new leaders, and remain strong for generations. Connect with Rick:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-elliott-192aba11/ Connect with Brandon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-cox-87930a56/ Connect with Elliott Realty:Website: https://www.elliottbeachrentals.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliottrealty Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliottbeachrentals?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elliott-beach-rentals/about/ ✨ Exclusive Offer to Alex & Annie Listeners: List your professionally managed properties on VacationFinder.com with no listing fees or booking commissions.Join through the link below for a chance at featured launch placement and a $250 Amazon Gift Card. Drawing August 15, 2026.👉 Get started: https://partners.vacationfinder.com/alexandannieAutomate your short-term rental operations with Hospitable.Start a 14-day free trial and get 25% off your bill for the first 6 months.👉 Get started: https://hospitable.com/partners/alex-annie Thinking about the next chapter for your vacation rental business? Connect with Monarch Collective to explore what growth could look like with the right platform behind you.👉 Learn more: https://gomonarch.com/partnerships/ #vacationrentals #shorttermrentals #directbookingsSend us a message!

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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