News
Stay updated with the latest STR industry news and regulations
Mortgage Rates Fall to a Three-Year Low—Will They Keep Dropping?
Mortgage rates have fallen to levels not seen since late 2022, and are expected to soften further in 2026. This could potentially increase investment in real estate, which may impact the STR market. Hosts should monitor interest rates and adjust their investment strategies accordingly.
The “Lazy” Person’s Guide to Retiring with Rentals (in a Decade!)
This BiggerPockets blog post highlights unconventional real estate investing strategies from Dion McNeely, who achieved financial freedom with only 18 rental units. The article encourages hosts to consider long-term tenant relationships and focus on cash flow over aggressive portfolio expansion. Hosts can learn from these 'Dionisms' to potentially achieve financial goals with a smaller, more manageable portfolio.
Why Everyone Is Selling Their Short Term Rentals (And Why Savvy Investors Are Still Buying)
This article discusses why some STR owners are selling, primarily due to unrealistic expectations stemming from the 2021 boom. It argues that now is a good time to buy STRs, highlighting opportunities for those who treat it like a business and leverage automation and tax benefits.
Key Airbnb Metrics Every Host Should Track
This article details key Airbnb metrics, such as occupancy rate, ADR, and booking conversion, that hosts should track to understand and improve their business performance. It also recommends using tools like Hostfully and dynamic pricing tools to optimize pricing and gain deeper insights, which can lead to better strategic decisions.
This Could “Break” the Housing System as We Know It
This article discusses the concept of "portable mortgages" and how they might impact the US housing market and the existing 30-year fixed-rate mortgage system. While potentially helping with affordability and transaction volume, hosts should be aware that the US system differs from places like Canada, which have shorter terms and prepayment penalties.
Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac Boldly Remove Minimum FICO Requirements—Here’s Why That’s a Big Deal
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have removed minimum FICO score requirements for loan approvals, potentially opening up access to financing for investors. This change could create opportunities for those previously denied or on the credit score fence and influence the real estate market. Hosts should check in with their lenders regarding prequalification.
Office Loan Defaults Rise Amid Renewed Stress in Downtown Areas
The commercial real estate market is facing rising loan defaults, particularly in office spaces, due to factors like high interest rates and expiring leases. This shift indicates a potential downturn that could impact the value and stability of investment properties. Hosts should be aware of broader market trends and the risks involved with traditional real estate investments.
The Divide of the Housing Market and Why an Even Wider Gap is Coming Next Year
The U.S. housing market is bifurcating, with strong demand expected in second home and short-term rental hubs, while other areas may see flat or declining prices. Hosts should focus on hyper-local market conditions and financing options to make successful investment decisions in 2026 and beyond.
How to Invest in an Expensive Market ($500K+ Home Prices)
This BiggerPockets article discusses strategies for real estate investing in expensive markets, specifically focusing on how to make money with value-add projects and cashflow superchargers like short-term rentals. Hosts should consider value-add strategies such as flipping or the BRRRR method to increase potential profits and diversify income streams.
We’re in a “Buyer’s Market”…But Where Are the Real Estate Deals? (Rookie Reply)
This article from BiggerPockets discusses strategies for finding real estate deals in a buyer's market, specifically off-market deals. It touches on evaluating negative cash flow properties and provides insights into networking and MLS opportunities. Hosts can apply these strategies to finding properties suitable for short-term rentals and analyze market conditions.
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Airbnb Smart Pricing Pros and Cons [+Best Alternatives for Hosts]
This article explores Airbnb Smart Pricing, highlighting its pros and cons for hosts. It suggests that Smart Pricing may prioritize bookings over host earnings and recommends considering third-party dynamic pricing tools for better control over revenue. The article also presents various pricing strategies for hosts to consider.
Keep Your 3% Rate Forever? “Portable” Mortgages Could Be Coming
This BiggerPockets article discusses potential changes in the housing market, including the idea of portable mortgages and the increasing number of inherited homes. Hosts should be aware of broader economic trends, as changes in the real estate market can impact the demand and value of STR properties.
Why and Where the STR Depreciation “Loophole” Will Create Booming Housing Markets Next Year
According to this article, the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" tax code changes will likely cause STR markets to boom in 2026 and 2027 by allowing owners to write off 100% of the purchase price of eligible assets. Hosts should begin planning for depreciation before closing on properties and consult with their CPAs to maximize potential tax savings.
Sonder Shutdown: A Sudden End to a High-Profile Hospitality Experiment
Sonder, a major tech-enabled hospitality startup, abruptly shut down operations, impacting guests and employees. The collapse highlights the risks of master-lease models and over-reliance on venture capital in the STR space. Hosts should understand the financial fragility of such models and consider the potential impact on their businesses.

Winter Is Coming: What Ski-Town Short-Term Rental Managers Should Know Before the Snow Hits
This article discusses the upcoming winter ski season and its impact on short-term rentals in ski towns. Hosts in these markets should prepare for shorter booking windows, weather-driven demand, and consider how the La Niña weather pattern will impact bookings. It's crucial to be flexible with pricing and minimum stays to optimize for revenue.

Boost Bookings by 15%: 5 Smart Tips for STR Operators
This article highlights five strategies to boost STR bookings, focusing on AI-powered pricing to adapt to demand shifts, optimizing minimum stay policies, and leveraging data-driven decisions. Hosts should embrace dynamic pricing, analyze market trends, and tailor their strategies to maximize occupancy and revenue throughout the year.
Flat Home Prices “Mirror” 1990s: Small Multifamily Bound for Major Upswing
This article discusses the current state of the real estate market in 2025, with a focus on opportunities for investors. While the multifamily market is facing challenges, the article suggests small multifamily properties may offer a good investment opportunity for individual investors. Hosts should consider the potential for long-term wealth building through small multifamily purchases.
Orlando’s largest vacation home is off the rental market after record-breaking sale - Orlando Sentinel
This article reports the sale of Orlando's largest vacation home, removing it from the rental market. While this specific event doesn't require immediate action, it reflects shifts in the luxury STR market, possibly impacting supply and demand.
These Four States Have Been Earning the Most Profit For Investors
This article highlights four states (Texas, Florida, Indiana, and Georgia) as strong performers for STR investors due to population growth, landlord-friendly laws, and healthy rent levels. Hosts should consider these locations if they're looking to expand their portfolio, focusing on areas with steady cash flow and long-term growth.
New Year, Same Question: Should You Invest For Cash Flow or Appreciation in 2026?
This article discusses the benefits of both cash flow and appreciation in real estate investing, particularly for 2026. Hosts are encouraged to consider a hybrid approach by investing in markets that offer both steady income and long-term equity growth, such as the Midwest and Sunbelt areas.