Meet Derrick Hunt

Meet Derrick Hunt—entrepreneur, property manager, and the driving force behind Southern Hospitality hosted by Magnolia Vacation Rentals. Derrick’s entrepreneurial path didn't begin in the short term rental (STR) property management—it started with homesteading.  From charging premium prices for eggs and livestock to venturing into sales and law enforcement in 2008, Derrick has never been one to shy away from business. But first and foremost, his #1 priority is being a family man. His most recent venture? Opening up Southern Hospitality hosted by Magnolia Vacation Rentals, Nashville’s newest Property Management company, alongside co-owner Brendan Davis with the goal of infusing honesty and superior service into the short-term rental market.

Derrick's priority in having a successful property management company is experience-based. He recognized a widespread problem in the STR world: misrepresentation. Too many properties were inaccurately represented online, resulting in disappointing guest experiences. Instead of following this as standard, Derrick and Brendan decided to do things differently. Their company focuses on creating an experience for the guests, from the time they book to post trip departure. 

A significant component of this strategy is providing professional photography for listings. Good-quality images ensure properties are presented correctly, and the right expectations are set for guests. Additionally, the company offers thorough analysis of other properties in the region to strategically construct pricing models that optimize owner profitability.

Still in the initial stages of getting Southern Hospitality hosted by Magnolia Vacation Rentals off the ground in Nashville, Derrick is concentrating on laying a solid foundation. "I just thought, hey, let's add some rocket fuel to it, and we'll be off and running," he says. "But here we are three months later, and I see what's building—it's growing at a very healthy rate."

Although expansion has been “slower than expected”, Derrick has learned to appreciate the journey. His wife, Reanna, reassured him, saying, 'You're doing fine. Things take time to build.' Reflecting on that, Derrick shared, “I've learned to slow down, respect the process and understand/ question more what that consumer wants.”

Honesty is the foundation of how Derrick and Brendan operate. "We represent people well—just be honest with them," he emphasizes. When a client considered converting their long-term rental into a short-term rental, Derrick ran the numbers and discovered it wouldn’t be as profitable as the client had hoped. “I could have said yes, but that would have been the wrong thing to do,” he explains. Instead, he advised the client to keep it as a long-term rental, ultimately helping them earn about $300 more per month. Dishonesty within the STR world is something Derrick feels strongly about eradicating. "I find a lot of properties being misrepresented, and it's just not right. Owners should know the truth about their investments, and guests should get exactly what they expect."

Derrick's devotion to integrity carries over to the guest experience. He looks to industry icons for inspiration and emphasizes minor but powerful details. "I heard Bill Faeth speak about doing the little things—such as having refreshments and snacks ready for guests when they arrive. It makes an impression on their stay and leaves them feeling appreciated."

Derrick and Brendan are committed to personalized guest experiences. "I want to form relationships with local businesses—perhaps have a particular wine from a Nashville winery, or a signature welcome tray. It's all about adding those touches that make a stay memorable."

The greatest challenge Derrick has ever faced? The promise of overnight success. "Being an entrepreneur, you're a dreamer. You create expectations and hope that you can hit them. But I've come to realize it takes time to create something that is sustainable."His outlook has changed over time. "I used to be annoyed with the off-season. But now, I view it as a period to review processes, optimize systems, and ensure we're prepared when things get busy." Looking down the road, Derrick hopes to represent short-term rental owners in Nashville. "There needs to be a voice for STR owners—someone to go to city council meetings, ask the tough questions, and fight for fair regulations." He recognizes regulation is needed but would like to see policies that strike a balance between Nashville's thriving tourism economy and the interests of STR operators. "I think Nashville will always have regulations, but I think they'll become more sensible over time as the city gets used to the demand."

While growing the company, Derrick remains in law enforcement—a career he's willing to stick with for now. Juggling both industries has reinforced his values of discipline, service, and integrity, which naturally carry over into his approach to property management. For Derrick, networking has played a very important role in his development. "Being at TENON was a big milestone for me. It was my first true chance to meet people in the industry, and now, sitting here doing this interview—it's another giant leap."

The best way to support Derrick is by spreading the word. Whether you’re an STR owner looking for honest management or know someone who is, he and Brendan, are always here to help.

Follow Derrick on social media or reach out for info on his property management.

Email: derrick@magnolia.vacations
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15ieNXJRjB/?mibextid=wwXIfr