STR News.

Vacation rental accounting software is crucial for managing income, expenses, and owner payouts, especially with more than five properties. Hostfully's 2025 survey showed accounting frustrations increased dramatically. The guide evaluates various tools, including Clearing, VRPlatform (Ximplifi), QuickBooks Online, Accountable, and FreshBooks, based on PMS integration, trust accounting support, owner reporting, and expense tracking. Learn how to choose the right software for your business size and needs.

This Newsweek article discusses four smart home devices that can help short-term rental hosts save money. While the specific devices are not detailed in the provided content, it suggests that investing in smart home technology can improve profitability. Implementing these technologies is seen as a way to enhance operational efficiency and control expenses.

A MarketWatch article details a host's experience with a guest requesting and failing to pay for bacon and beer. The article highlights the complexities of guest requests and enforcing payment for incidental expenses. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication and setting boundaries to avoid financial loss and potential negative guest interactions.

A MarketWatch article details a host's experience with a problematic Airbnb guest who requested and consumed bacon and beer, leaving the $30 bill unpaid. This situation highlights the importance of setting clear expectations with guests and enforcing house rules regarding additional expenses, ultimately protecting hosts from financial losses and challenging interactions.

A recent article in The Times reports on a host's experience where VRBO allegedly owes them £2,800 after renting out their house. This highlights the importance of managing payouts and understanding platform payment schedules. Hosts should diligently track income and expenses to ensure accurate accounting.

This article discusses ways for landlords, including STR hosts, to save on insurance costs. It suggests upgrading your property, adjusting your deductible, and bundling coverage to potentially lower premiums. Hosts should review their current coverage, consider property improvements, and explore bundling options to reduce expenses and protect their investment.

This article discusses the trend of short-term rental technology becoming a 'pay-to-play' market, suggesting increased costs for hosts. Hosts should be aware of potential expenses associated with various tech solutions and carefully evaluate their value proposition to maximize profitability.

This podcast episode details how an STR host rebuilt his business after a difficult partnership breakup and financial struggles. The host focused on streamlining operations, cutting unnecessary expenses, and restructuring his team, including renegotiating salaries and implementing a bonus structure. Hosts can learn from these experiences to evaluate their own business operations and team management.