Casago is pleased to welcome Michele and Edward Johnson of Casago Unwind, who now oversee more than 40 vacation rental homes throughout Coeur d’Alene. Michele and Edward grew up in this region of northern Idaho and western Montana. Their roots run deep, and their affection for the local landscape gives them a special understanding of what guests hope to experience when they travel here. The lakes, trails, and quiet corners of Coeur d’Alene inspire them, and that sense of ease shapes their approach to hospitality.
In welcoming Michele and Edward Johnson of Casago Unwind to our network of premier destinations, we had a chance to learn more about them and their journey, their philosophy, and the spirit behind the Unwind name. Inspired by lakeside cafés, where locals start their day as light begins to stretch across Lake Coeur d’Alene, Michele and Edward invite us to unwind and enjoy the calm in this year-round outdoor playground.
Meet the Casago Unwind Coeur d’Alene Vacation Rental Family!
Casago: What was your background before deciding to get into the vacation rental industry?
Casago Unwind: Our careers were built in operations, customer experience, and business strategy. Michele brings more than thirty years of leadership in customer service, including fifteen years with Apple Retail, where she developed high-performing teams and championed world-class, transformational guest experiences. Edward’s background spans digital enablement and business transformation, consulting across strategy, technology, finance, and operations.
Together, our journeys shape a deep understanding of how to design systems that empower people and deliver consistent, exceptional outcomes. Stepping into hospitality wasn’t a pivot, it was the natural evolution of our strengths and passion.
Casago: Why did you decide to get into the vacation rental industry?
Casago Unwind: We started as homeowners ourselves. When we built our home in Cannon Beach, Oregon and placed it on the short-term rental market, we got a firsthand look at what vacation rental ownership really requires. We learned quickly that choosing a management partner isn’t just a business decision, it’s an act of trust and alignment.
We also saw the other side of when a guest walks through the door after a long trip and instantly feels welcomed, cared for, and at home, it’s meaningful. Those moments stay with people, especially when the details are unexpected, which is our goal every time someone chooses to stay in our home.
That experience lit a spark. We wanted to create partnerships with homeowners and guests alike, providing both an elevated experience and raise the standard of what vacation rental care could look like. With our combined strengths and backgrounds, stepping into this industry felt like a natural, next chapter.
Casago: What do you like the most about hosting?
Casago Unwind: We love creating moments where guests can settle in, exhale, and truly unwind. There’s something special about knowing we’ve created a space where people can make memories whether it’s a family reconnecting, friends exploring somewhere new, or someone simply needing a quiet reset. What excites us most is going beyond a place to stay. We want guests to feel the comfort of home while discovering the uniqueness of our area and its beauty, the hidden gems, and our local businesses that make our community so special.. When we can surprise and delight someone with a thoughtful touch, a helpful recommendation, or a moment they didn’t expect but won’t forget – our bucket then is full.
Casago: Why did you decide to join forces with Casago?
Casago Unwind: Casago offered a model that supports growth through strong systems and a clear commitment to quality. Their technology partners give us the tools we need to care for guests and owners with accuracy. The wider network provides knowledge that strengthens our local efforts. We saw alignment in values and in vision for what exceptional management can look like in Coeur d’Alene and a shared belief of being localized.
Casago: What is your favorite thing about Coeur d’Alene?
Casago Unwind: For Michele, the charm of Coeur d’Alene comes from the tight-knit community. There is a feeling of connection and comfort, where everyone genuinely cares and is committed to knowing your neighbor. For Edward, the bond is rooted in childhood. The mountains, the lake, and the rhythm of the seasons feel like home.
Outside of our work, we support local organizations and events that bring people together. Our hope is to strengthen the community that has shaped our lives. We manage properties with care, and we also look for ways to contribute to the vitality of North Idaho as a whole.
We are thrilled to welcome Casago Unwind in Coeur d’Alene to our growing network!
Become a Casago Franchise
Why become a Casago Franchise? Competition in the vacation rental industry is fiercely competitive. As a partner of Casago, you will have access to a breadth of technology, resources, and support. Furthermore, we work to ensure your business has all the tools necessary for success. Plus, with 20+ offices worldwide, we are able to leverage our purchasing power for the best prices on products you use daily.
Casago is a team of people who are passionate about the Vacation Rental Industry and love helping each other. If this sounds like something you have been missing, then a Casago franchise may be right for you. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a franchise, contact us.
