Lucas started his vacation rental career how many people have, with his own home. He quickly realized that he was able to mix his two passions, helping people and traveling. Graduating from the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities, Lucas began his career working as a counselor with homeless youth. With a previous experience of studying abroad in Venezuela, he set out on a journey to travel in Mexico, Central & South America. He backpacked for almost two years while stopping in Guatemala for nine months to volunteer with the indigenous Mayan community. Fast forward to today. Lucas is now able to help provide 5-star experiences and memories to travelers and families at our beautiful properties. He prides himself in the relationships he builds with the our wonderful owners/investors and has a heart for hospitality for our guests.
Lucas is a leader in the short-term rental industry and loves mentoring and helping others on the path of financial freedom through real estate and vacation rentals.
Ryan Leake recently joined the Five Star VHR team as General Manager, bringing a wealth of experience in short-term rental management and hospitality. After founding and successfully growing Host Del Casa, Ryan and Lucas merged two of Central Texas’ top property management companies under the Five Star brand.
With a strong focus on technology, streamlined systems, and personalized service, Ryan is dedicated to creating an exceptional experience for both guests and property owners—ensuring everyone feels valued, cared for, and confident in their partnership with Five Star VHR. Ryan is passionate about helping real estate investors and second-home owners create truly passive, high-performing investments that allow for greater time freedom.
He is also a coach and consultant for STR Secrets, helping others overcome self-limiting beliefs and build the lives they desire. Additionally, Ryan finds fulfillment in inspiring others through public speaking, podcast appearances, and creative projects.
Gene joined Five Star VHR in 2021 as an administrative assistant and has already grown his role to COO and became a partner. He is our do-it-all man! He specializes in customer relations, bookkeeping and many of our day-to-day operations. Previously he has worked in a number of industries and has managed large teams.
Gene loves researching and studying to help solve problems that our company or guests might encounter. He is always growing and improving his skills which is just some of the reasons we appreciate him so much! When he is out of the office he spends time with his family and friends, playing different sports or online games.
Christian became part of the Five Star VHR team in May 2024, bringing extensive experience in compliance, property management, and quality control. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for excellence, she is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards across the properties she oversees in the Austin area.
Beyond her expertise in property operations, Christian is a devoted mother, songwriter, and musician. Her warm smile and uplifting energy make her a joy to work with, and her commitment to both people and properties shines through in everything she does.
Nica started with Five Star VHR as an administrative assistant contractor in 2022. She officially joined in 2024 and started leading our extraordinary administrative team in 2025. Nica has been highly involved in our day-to-day operations. She specializes in human resources and payroll. She is knowledgeable in customer service and has been in a number of industries.
Outside of work, Nica spends her time with her family and friends. She has been a theater artist and a voice coach. She brings a lot of energy to the team!
Lalaine plays a key role in ensuring smooth operations and exceptional guest experiences. With a keen eye for detail and strong organizational skills, supports the day-to-day administrative tasks, from booking management to guest communication. Passionate about hospitality, efficiency and also dedicated to making every guest's stay seamless and enjoyable.
Outside of work, Lalaine is an avid freediver and loves to travel, exploring new destinations and embracing different cultures along the way.
Dinah joined Five Star VHR as an intern and is now an administrative assistant. She is persistent and has an outstanding work ethic! She helps in our day-to-day operations and has been in charge of various projects such as email marketing and standard operating procedures.
Dinah is highly organized and pays close attention to details, making sure every task is done well. She enjoys finding ways to make work easier and more efficient.
In her free time, she loves watching movies, organizing spaces, and taking pictures and videos. She also enjoys editing them into reels for documentation, combining her creativity with her passion for organizing.
