• The Truth About Direct Bookings for Serious Airbnb Hosts | Abby Grous
    2024/12/23
    What if you could reduce your reliance on OTAs, save money, and build a loyal guest base—all while maintaining complete control over your short-term rental business? That’s exactly what we’re exploring in this episode of The SmartStay Show! Rory Gill and I sit down with Abby Grous, the Senior Product Manager of Direct at Hospitable, to unpack the power of direct bookings. From Hospitable’s innovative tools to real-world strategies for maximizing revenue, we cover everything you need to know about making direct bookings work for you. Abby gives us an inside look at Hospitable’s basic and premium offerings, shares tips for boosting guest loyalty, and highlights the game-changing features on their product roadmap. This is your chance to learn how to optimize your direct booking process, enhance the guest experience, and take full ownership of your rental business. Don’t miss the special referral code Abby shares exclusively for our listeners—your next step to hosting success starts here. Things we discussed in this episode: The importance of direct bookings for short-term rental hosts and the benefits of having control over the guest experience. Hospitable's two direct booking product offerings - the basic and premium options - and the differences between them. The integration of Hospitable's direct booking tools, including the direct booking landing pages, widgets, and payment processing. The ability to manage taxes, discounts, and promo codes through Hospitable's direct booking platform. The challenges of integrating guest reviews on direct booking websites and Hospitable's plans to address this. Strategies for increasing direct bookings, such as capturing guest email addresses, utilizing social media, and offering trust-building content. Hospitable's focus on improving the booking flow, including features like express checkout for returning guests and skipping guest verification. Hospitable's partnership with Auto Host for guest vetting and the importance of this process for providing damage protection. Hospitable's plans to expand into the midterm rental market, including offering monthly payment options and alternative payment methods. Hospitable's commitment to building in partnership with their customers and the role of customer feedback in shaping the product roadmap. Get in touch with Abby: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hospitable/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hospitable_com/ Website - https://hospitable.com/contact-us/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #DirectBookings #PropertyManagement #GuestExperience #PaymentProcessing #ReviewManagement #GuestVetting #DamageProtection #HospitableDirectBooking #STRHostTips Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    43 分
  • Remote Hosting Secrets Every Airbnb Host Should Know! | Punith Upadhya
    2024/12/17
    Ready to take your short-term rental business to the next level? In this episode of the Smart Stay Podcast, Rory Gill and I chat with Punith Upadhya, the mastermind CEO of Moon Gaze Stays, who’s figured out how to run a world-class short-term rental operation from hundreds of miles away! Puneet pulls back the curtain on his game-changing strategies, including how he’s built seamless systems, empowered his local team, and mastered the art of delivering unforgettable guest experiences. Plus, he reveals how the "Limitless" program transformed his mindset, helping him tackle challenges and seize unexpected opportunities with confidence. We also get into his personal tips for staying motivated, creating SOPs that keep operations smooth, and adding those wow-factor touches that guests rave about. If you’re serious about scaling your short-term rental business and learning from a true pro, this is the episode you can’t miss. Hit play and get inspired! Things we discussed in this episode: Managing short-term rentals remotely and delivering a world-class guest experience The role of gratitude, strategy, and luck in the short-term rental industry Puneet's "Limitless Mindset" and how it has shaped his approach to business The importance of creating SOPs and systems to ensure consistent service Puneet's use of personalized touches, like welcome gifts and customized guidebooks, to enhance the guest experience The strategy behind Puneet's direct booking efforts and capturing guest information The value of having a business partner with complementary skills and expertise The challenges and benefits of delegating tasks and focusing on high-value activities Puneet's strategies for staying motivated during tough times, including changing environments and reconnecting with goals Puneet's background in engineering and how it has influenced his approach to short-term rental management Get in touch with Punith: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/punith.upadhya Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/punith3upadhya/ Website - https://www.moongazestays.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #RemoteManagement #GuestExperience #LimitlessMindset #SystemsAndProcesses #PersonalizedTouches #DirectBookings #BusinessPartnerships #Motivation #EngineeringApproach Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    48 分
  • Airbnb Guests Are Paying MORE for Vintage + Local Vibes - Here’s Why! | Christina Melander
    2024/12/10
    In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, I sit down with Christina Melander, the founder of Naughty Pine Design and a talented short-term rental host, to discuss how she creates memorable guest experiences with a blend of budget-conscious, authentic design. Christina shares her insights on crafting distinctive, fantasy-driven vibes that stand out on listings and leave a lasting impression. We dive into how to balance sturdy, long-lasting furniture with unique, locally-sourced pieces, and how meaningful items like family heirlooms and artwork can elevate the guest experience. Christina also shares practical advice for new hosts, including sourcing high-quality furnishings through resale channels, gathering guest feedback, and avoiding generic décor. If you're a short-term rental host looking to elevate your space and make a real impact on your guests, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. Tune in for inspiration on creating a home away from home that your guests will never forget! Things we discussed in this episode: Christina's superpower is her ability to create authentic, lived-in spaces through her eclectic, budget-conscious design approach. Incorporating local, vintage, and one-of-a-kind items to create a distinctive guest experience. Displaying meaningful items and furnishings, while trusting guests to respect the care and thought put into the rental. Balancing automated messages with personalized touchpoints to maintain a high level of guest satisfaction. The benefits of sourcing furnishings through resale channels to reduce packaging waste and support the circular economy. Investing in high-quality, long-lasting items that can withstand the wear and tear of short-term rentals. Gathering input from early guests to continuously improve the rental experience. Avoiding cast-off furniture and generic art - Advice for new hosts to create a cohesive, welcoming environment. The importance of providing coasters to prevent water damage in humid environments. Christina's design firm specializes in creating unique, budget-conscious spaces for short-term rentals. Get in touch with Christina: Email - cm@knottypine.design Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/knottypine.design/ Website - https://www.knottypine.design/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHosting #UniqueDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #SustainableHospitality #GuestExperience #VintageFinds #LocalTouchpoints #HostCommunication #InteriorDesignTips Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    38 分
  • How Proper Signage Can SAVE Your Airbnb from Bad Reviews | Jason Muth + Rory Gill
    2024/12/05
    In this episode of The Smart Stay Show, we’re diving into the critical role of signage in short-term rentals. From the must-have Wi-Fi sign to rules about smoking, plumbing, and pets, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you create a seamless guest experience. We’ll discuss how to balance necessary information with tasteful design, avoid the pitfalls of overwhelming guests, and even incorporate humor and creativity to make your signs stand out. Tune in for actionable tips to protect your property, keep guests informed, and enhance their stay! Things discussed in this episode: Importance of signage in short-term rentals to reduce guest questions and enhance the guest experience. Wi-Fi information signs, including network name and password or login instructions. Smoking rules signs, indicating whether smoking is allowed indoors, on the premises, or not at all. Signs reminding guests not to flush anything except toilet paper, to prevent plumbing issues. Signs for pet-friendly properties, requesting guests keep pets off beds and furniture. Thermostat instruction signs to prevent guest confusion and HVAC system damage. QR codes linking to an interactive guest guide for easy access to property information. Incorporating humor and artistic flair into sign design to make them more appealing to guests. Signs for outdoor amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, and fireplaces to ensure proper usage. Signs for specialized features like butcher block countertops, providing care instructions. Get in touch with Jason: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jasonmuth Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmuth/ Website - https://www.smartstayshow.com/ https://www.straightforwardstrs.com/ https://prideawaystays.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbHostTips #ShortTermRentalSignage #GuestExperienceEnhancement #PlumbingProtection #PetFriendlyRules #ThermostatInstructions #QRCodeGuides #CreativeSignDesign #IdiotProofingYourRental #ShortTermRentalHacks Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    17 分
  • The Ultimate Airbnb DESIGN Hacks + Pro PHOTO Tips That Hook Potential Guests | Justin Miller
    2024/12/03
    In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Justin Miller, co-founder of Showplace and a true trailblazer in hospitality design. Justin brings a wealth of experience to the table, having co-founded Pillow, a groundbreaking property management tech platform, and now leading Showplace, where he helps rental owners and investors create spaces that leave a lasting impression. Justin’s journey is as inspiring as it is insightful. From navigating the challenges of launching tech-driven solutions for property management to becoming a go-to expert for design-driven short-term rental setups, he’s seen firsthand how the right approach can elevate a property from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re new to hosting or a seasoned STR owner looking for fresh ideas, Justin’s advice is packed with actionable insights you can start using today. Tune in now and discover how the power of design can help you create a short-term rental that guests will never forget! Things we discussed in this episode: The importance of setting up a short-term rental property for success before the first guest arrives The concept of the "amenities arms race" and the need for high standards in short-term rentals The significance of the first 5 photos in a short-term rental listing and how they can impact bookings The differences between designing a primary residence versus a short-term rental property The value of incorporating local flavor and branding into short-term rental design Showplace's comprehensive design process, including mood boards and product lists Tips for DIY hosts, such as using group purchasing organizations and local storage units The importance of understanding both the real estate and hospitality aspects of short-term rentals Practical setup tips, like using roll-off dumpsters and white-glove delivery services Justin Miller's plans to launch a new podcast called "Showplace" in Q4 2024 Get in touch with Justin: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/showplacehq Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/showplace_hq/ Website - https://www.showplacehq.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #ShortTermRentalDesign #AirbnbInteriorDesign #VacationRentalOptimization #GuestExperienceDesign #HospitalityInvestments #InstagrammableSpaces #AmenitiesArmsRace #RealEstateHospitalityConvergence #MemorableTravelExperiences #DesignForProfitability Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    40 分
  • AVOID These Airbnb Location Mistakes (Or Lose Money!) | Jason Muth
    2024/11/26
    In this episode, We dive into the crucial role of location in short-term rental success. From being close to key attractions like beaches and national parks to considering the charm of quieter residential neighborhoods, I’ll walk you through the factors that can make or break your rental’s performance. I also share my experiences hosting in Provincetown, Massachusetts, and offer practical tips for enhancing the value of your property—whether it's upgrading amenities, marketing hidden gems in your area, or catering to your guests' specific needs. Tune in to learn how to unlock the full potential of your short-term rental through the power of location! Things discussed in this episode: The importance of location in short-term rentals and how it can impact rental performance. How location affects the value and rental rates of properties, particularly lakefront and beachfront properties. The benefits and potential drawbacks of being in prime locations, such as near beaches or lakes. Considerations for choosing the right location when purchasing a new short-term rental property. The impact of neighborhood and community culture on the success of short-term rentals. Strategies for promoting lesser-known local attractions and unique features of an area. The importance of upgrading the property's own amenities and experiences to enhance the guest experience. The use of great photography and accurate marketing to highlight a property's location and proximity to attractions. Understanding the target market and catering to their specific needs and preferences. Leveraging a property's proximity to popular destinations by positioning it as a "base camp" for day trips and activities. Get in touch with Jason: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jasonmuth Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmuth/ Website - https://www.smartstayshow.com/ https://www.straightforwardstrs.com/ https://prideawaystays.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbHostTips #AirbnbSuperhost #ShortTermRentalSuccess #ShortTermRentals #LocationMatters #AirbnbHosting #PropertyInvesting #VacationRentals #CommunityDynamics #GuestExperience #MarketingTips #TargetMarket #DestinationTravel Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    28 分
  • How to Handle Airbnb Guests + Issues Without Being On-Site | Jarrett Chouinard
    2024/11/21
    In this episode, I’m joined by Jarrett Chouinard, the founder of Stellar Retreats, who shares his inspiring journey into the short-term rental world. Starting with just one arbitrage unit in Connecticut, Jarrett has grown his business into a thriving operation spanning multiple properties in New York, Rhode Island, and beyond. We’ll dive into his experiences with the challenges of the arbitrage model, how he navigates working with landlords, and the lessons he’s learned about guest demographics and client relationships. Jarrett also shares his approach to technology, systems, and building a team that supports growth. And as if that’s not enough, we’ll also talk about Jarrett's ambitious plans for the future and his entrepreneurial ideas that go beyond short-term rentals. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to learn, grow, and succeed in the short-term rental industry. Let’s get started! Things we discussed in this episode: Jarrett's transition from media and advertising into short-term rentals and real estate. The challenges and risks of the Airbnb arbitrage model, including dealing with landlords. The differences in guest demographics and communication styles across Jarrett's properties in different locations. Jarrett's approach to saying no to potential clients who don't fit his standards and the importance of working with the right partners. The technology and systems Jarrett uses, including smart locks, cameras, property management software, and supply delivery. Jarrett's plans to expand Stellar Retreats to 15 clients by the end of the year and his interest in other entrepreneurial ventures. The value of building a reliable ground team and the challenges of managing properties remotely. The benefits of hosting a short-term rental meetup in New York City to build a local network and community. The lessons Jarrett wishes he had known when starting, including the importance of not being intimidated by challenges. The role of trial and error, making mistakes, and learning in growing a successful short-term rental business. Get in touch with Jarrett: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jarrett.chouinard Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jarrettchouinard/ Website - https://www.stellaretreats.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbArbitrage #PropertyManagement #EntrepreneurialMindset #HospitalityTechnology #RemoteTeamBuilding #CommunityBuilding #GuestExperience #ScalingSTRBusiness #HospitalityInsights Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    40 分
  • Say Goodbye to Strangers Renting Your Second Home | Brent Hieggelke
    2024/11/19
    In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Brent Hieggelke, the visionary founder of Trustr, a groundbreaking platform redefining the short-term rental experience. Brent brings decades of experience in the vacation rental world, and together, we dive into how Trustr taps into the power of social networks to create trusted, more personal guest-host connections. Say goodbye to renting to total strangers and hello to curated "guest lists" of friends, family, and acquaintances! We explore how this innovative model leverages word-of-mouth recommendations, integrates with property management tools, and even uses an affiliate-style approach to enhance platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Whether you're a property owner hesitant to list or a guest seeking more authentic stays, this episode is packed with insights into the future of short-term rentals. Tune in now to hear how Truster is bridging the gap and opening new doors! Things we discussed in this episode: Truster's mission to enable more trusted short-term rental experiences by leveraging people's existing social networks. The hesitation some property owners have about renting to complete strangers, and Truster's solution of curated "guest lists." The power of word-of-mouth and personal recommendations over generic online reviews. Truster's plans to integrate with property management software and leverage an affiliate-style model. The challenges of convincing some owners to list their properties, especially if they view them as personal retreats. Brent's personal experiences navigating the vacation rental industry as a property owner. The evolution of the short-term rental market and the potential for platforms like Truster to unlock new opportunities. The concept of "serendipitous" property recommendations through social media and community groups. Truster's approach to offering different levels of privacy for property listings, from completely private to public. The idea of Truster serving as a "pipeline builder" for larger vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Get in touch with Brent: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brenth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bhieggelke/ Website - https://trustr.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #TrustedConnections #SocialNetworkRentals #PersonalizedHospitality #VacationRentalInnovation #PropertyOwnerEmpowerment #WordOfMouthMarketing #RentalMarketDisruption #TrustedRecommendations #CuratedGuestExperience Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    34 分