News

Boom, an AI-driven PMS (Property Management System) for short-term rentals, has launched. This technology may offer hosts improved operational efficiency. No immediate action is required, but hosts may want to investigate AI-driven PMS options.

This article from PriceLabs discusses VRBO's shift toward prioritizing guest refunds, suggesting a change in platform strategy. The key reversal impacts host refund policies, potentially reducing host control and increasing guest-friendliness. This shift could impact host profitability and management, requiring hosts to adapt strategies for bookings and guest communication.

Guesty has launched a new AI-driven messaging tool designed to streamline guest communications for short-term rental hosts. This update aims to improve response times and guest satisfaction. Consider exploring this new tool if you use Guesty.

Proptech company Hometime has hired a former Airbnb executive to join its C-suite. This strategic move suggests a focus on strengthening its position in the short-term rental market. The addition of experienced leadership could signify growth opportunities for Hometime and highlight the evolving landscape of STR property management technology.

This article reports on a violent incident at a mall in Newport Beach, CA, where a tourist was killed during a robbery. While not directly related to STRs, it highlights the importance of safety and security for both guests and property, especially in high-traffic tourist areas.

This interview with Shark Tank winner Jayla Siciliano discusses her pivot from a wine business to managing 20 luxury short-term rental properties. She emphasizes the importance of focus, team building, and avoiding burnout, offering valuable lessons for STR hosts on growth and operational strategies.

This podcast episode focuses on revenue management and guest experience in short-term rentals, with a case study of the FreeWild brand. The episode emphasizes the importance of brand identity, customer service, and using revenue management to optimize profitability. Hosts should consider how to make a connection with their brand and enhance the guest experience.

This article discusses the democratization of short-term rental technology through access to Online Travel Agency (OTA) data. Hosts should understand how this access is changing the landscape of STR tech and consider utilizing these tools to improve their operations.

Airbnb is implementing anti-party technology to curb disruptive gatherings during holiday weekends. Hosts should be aware of this technology and its potential impact on their listings, especially concerning house rules and guest communication.

This podcast episode discusses safety and risk mitigation in short-term rentals, highlighting the importance of guest screening and proactive property management. Hosts should be aware of potential risks like destructive guests and implement measures like thorough guest vetting and security protocols to protect their properties. The episode references a book on STR safety, providing practical advice for hosts.

This article from Get Paid For Your Pad highlights safety and risk mitigation for STR hosts. It emphasizes the importance of guest screening, proper amenity maintenance, and fire safety to protect guests and properties. Hosts should proactively assess and address potential hazards to ensure a safe and compliant environment.

An Airbnb management platform secured an additional $10 million in funding, signaling ambitions for strategic acquisitions. This financial boost reflects the growing demand for STR management solutions and the platform's plans to expand its service offerings. This development points towards continued consolidation and innovation within the STR tech landscape, impacting how hosts manage their listings.

This episode of Get Paid For Your Pad features Nick Libertin's experience of his short-term rental property burning down, highlighting the importance of having the right insurance coverage and understanding policy details. Hosts should ensure they have the right short-term rental insurance and review their policy to understand coverage and limitations. Also includes Revenue Management insights.

Guesty, a property management software, has acquired Rentals United, a channel manager. This acquisition could streamline distribution and management for hosts using either platform or considering them. No immediate action is required, but hosts using either service should stay informed of potential changes.

RedAwning, a property management platform, has acquired Awning, an STR property management startup. This acquisition may indicate shifts in the property management technology landscape, potentially impacting how hosts manage their listings and operations.

This article from Get Paid For Your Pad discusses mid-term rental (MTR) strategies, covering platforms to use and potential partnerships. Hosts can learn about the tax benefits and regulations to consider when investing in MTRs.

Guesty, a property management software company, has raised $130 million to expand globally. This investment suggests growing confidence in the STR market and could mean new features and integrations for hosts using Guesty or similar tools.

An Airbnb host allegedly sent a guest's photo with another woman to his wife. This incident underscores potential privacy violations and reputational risks for hosts and guests. It highlights the importance of host conduct and the potential consequences of inappropriate behavior within the context of short-term rentals.

An Airbnb host is alleged to have sent a video of a guest with another woman to the guest's wife after a complaint. Hosts should be aware of the potential legal and reputational risks associated with privacy violations and retaliatory actions. Review your security practices to ensure guest privacy.