News

Stay updated with the latest STR industry news and regulations

Scaling Up, Scaling Down: A Host’s Odyssey from 0 to 600 and Back to 300 Units (Ep 585)

This podcast episode details an STR host's journey, from rapid scaling to near-collapse during COVID, and then a rebound. The guest host shares valuable lessons learned in navigating market fluctuations, regulations, and financial challenges, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and risk management.

over 2 years ago75
Scaling Up, Scaling Down: A Host's Odyssey from 0 to 600 and Back to 300 Units

This article discusses the journey of an STR host, Syed, who scaled his business from 0 to 600 units and then back to 300. It highlights the importance of partnerships, building a strong team, and understanding market volatility, particularly seasonal fluctuations. It also mentions a series of episodes covering revenue management best practices and how to avoid overwhelm as an STR CEO. Hosts should learn from the successes and challenges highlighted to improve their own business strategies and efficiency.

over 2 years ago82
Best way to work with management clients (Ep583)

This podcast episode discusses how to structure management deals with clients. The guest shares insights on charging structures, specifically discussing the pros and cons of charging on gross versus net revenue, along with strategies for clear client communication. Hosts can learn from the speaker's experience in streamlining their management practices and client communications.

over 2 years ago78
Best way to work with management clients

This article discusses the importance of clear contracts and communication when working with property management clients. It highlights the transition from co-hosting to direct property management and emphasizes the value of building a distinct brand identity. Hosts should prioritize clear agreements, effective communication and a strong brand to improve client relations and overall business success.

over 2 years ago75
Property Management Software Onboarding Tips (Ep582)

This podcast episode discusses Hostfully, a property management software (PMS) that integrates with digital guidebooks. Hosts can use the discount code "Legends" for a discount on Hostfully's PMS and guidebooks. It emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to learn the PMS for the best results, as jumping between PMS systems can be detrimental.

over 2 years ago78
Property Management Software Onboarding Tips

This article discusses onboarding tips for property management software (PMS) using Hostfully. It emphasizes the importance of dedication and time investment to leverage the software effectively, along with a discount code for hosts. Also included are discussions on revenue management routines and CEO responsibilities in STR businesses.

over 2 years ago75
Casai ceases operations, founder shares 4 regrets - PhocusWire

This article discusses the closure of Casai, a short-term rental operator. The founder shares their regrets, offering insights that may help other hosts avoid similar pitfalls and improve their business operations.

over 2 years ago75
From Flipping Houses to starting an Airbnb Fund (Ep580)

This podcast episode features a discussion on how to grow a short-term rental business, from flipping houses to property management to starting a fund. The guests discuss leveraging tech like ChatGPT and Yada.ai, and also emphasize the importance of setting minimum night stays based on how far in advance guests book to maximize revenue.

over 2 years ago85
How to prevent your guests from smoking in your Airbnb’s (Ep578)

This podcast episode discusses how to prevent guests from smoking in your Airbnb and other potential issues like parties and noise complaints. The episode highlights the early days of Airbnb and emphasizes the importance of managing properties remotely and creating a positive relationship with neighbors. Hosts should consider methods for addressing potential problems such as noise and smoking to maintain good relationships with neighbors and avoid negative consequences.

over 2 years ago75
Banking and Finances for Airbnb Hosts (Ep577 )

This podcast episode introduces Baselane, a bank designed specifically for short-term rental hosts, offering features like bookkeeping, virtual accounts, and virtual debit cards. Baselane aims to simplify financial management for hosts. Consider exploring Baselane for streamlined bookkeeping and financial tracking.

over 2 years ago85
AI Insights: Generative AI to manage short-term rentals - PhocusWire

This PhocusWire article discusses the use of generative AI in managing short-term rentals. Hosts should consider exploring AI tools to streamline operations and potentially improve guest experiences.

over 2 years ago75
How to prevent your guests from smoking in your Airbnbs

This article discusses the use of the Wynd Sentry, a device designed to detect and monitor smoke and noise in short-term rental properties. Hosts can use this device to identify smoking violations and address noise complaints, potentially avoiding damage and disputes. A discount code is offered for the device.

over 2 years ago75
How to keep your Airbnb’s safe and avoid guest accidents (Ep 574)

This podcast episode discusses safety protocols for short-term rentals, highlighting potential hazards and the importance of preventative measures. Hosts are encouraged to assess their properties for safety risks and implement solutions like signage and safety devices to prevent accidents and mitigate potential legal issues. The episode also shares extreme examples of host liability.

over 2 years ago82
How to keep your Airbnb's safe and avoid guest accidents

This article discusses safety and maintenance in short-term rentals, emphasizing the importance of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and regular furniture checks. It also introduces Pit Stop Home Services, which offers safety and maintenance inspections for STR properties. Hosts should ensure their properties have necessary safety equipment, perform regular maintenance, and consider professional inspection services.

over 2 years ago80
Four Powerful AI Tools that no-one talks about

This article discusses four AI tools (Monica, Fathom, Cody, Ghost Write, and Tavus) that can potentially improve productivity and the guest experience for short-term rental hosts. It also includes links to related podcast episodes that cover revenue management, CEO strategies, and comparing hotel vs Airbnb revenue management, encouraging hosts to explore AI tools to stay competitive.

over 2 years ago75
Four Powerful AI Tools that no-one talks about (Ep569)

This article discusses four AI tools that can boost productivity for short-term rental hosts, including Monica (an AI assistant for the internet), and Fathom (for Zoom call transcription and summarization), and Codi.ai (AI-powered training for teams). Hosts can save time and improve efficiency by adopting these AI tools, freeing up time to work on their business, not in their business.

over 2 years ago85
Frontdesk acquires short-term rental operator Zencity - PhocusWire

Frontdesk, a short-term rental operator, has acquired Zencity. This could signal shifts in the STR market, and hosts should pay attention to industry consolidation and potential impacts on pricing and competition.

over 2 years ago65
I finally moved to San Diego! (Ep567)

This podcast episode details the host's journey to move to the US, highlighting the O1A visa process, the importance of in-person collaboration, and the challenges faced during the immigration process. The host offers a booking tip, as well as an announcement of a new program. Hosts can learn about the complexities of moving to a new country and the importance of planning for visa and travel requirements.

over 2 years ago75
How tech is helping vacation rentals prevent disturbances - PhocusWire

This article discusses how technology is helping vacation rentals prevent disturbances. Hosts should consider using these technologies to improve guest experiences and protect their properties.

almost 3 years ago75
Vrbo to Switch to Expedia Group Platform in 2023: Challenges and Opportunities - RSU by PriceLabs

Vrbo's 2023 shift to the Expedia Group platform presents opportunities and challenges for hosts. This transition could lead to improved features and visibility. However, potential disruptions and the need to adapt to new systems are key considerations for those utilizing the platform.

almost 3 years ago75