Company Owner Information

Every great company begins with a vision and for Ann Shank, that spark ignited early. At just 25 years old, with only $700 to her name, Ann opened a small clothing boutique in Buckhead, Georgia, turning it into a thriving success. But her entrepreneurial spirit had bigger dreams, and the coast was calling.

In the early 1990s, Ann purchased her first condo in Destin, Florida, never imagining it would be the start of something much larger. Managing her own vacation rentals, she quickly discovered a talent for hospitality, marketing, and guest experience. When fellow property owners began sharing frustrations about their rentals, Ann stepped in to help, and Panhandle Getaways was born.

What began as a few homes and a helping hand has grown into one of Northwest Florida’s most respected hospitality companies, with over 900 vacation rentals spanning the Forgotten Coast, Panama City Beach, Scenic 30A, Destin, and Fort Walton Beach. 

Ann’s owner-first perspective, hands-on approach, and dedication to service set a new standard for vacation rental management, earning Panhandle Getaways a place among the Top 30 Property Management Companies in the World.

Today, Ann leads a passionate, close-knit team that includes five of her children, all working full-time in the family business. Together, they carry forward her vision of providing exceptional guest experiences and trusted partnerships with homeowners, a legacy built on heart, hard work, and the beauty of Florida’s Emerald Coast.