STR Data Lab™ by AirDNA

What happens when AI, massive tech consolidation, and shifting guest behavior all collide at once? In this episode, Jamie sits down with industry veteran Richard Vaughton who’s seen every cycle of short-term rentals—from early spreadsheets to today’s AI-powered ecosystems. Together, they unpack a rapidly evolving landscape where yesterday’s tools are becoming obsolete, and tomorrow’s winners are being shaped right now.At the center of it all is a fundamental shift: the move from fragmented tech stacks to powerful, enterprise-level “operating systems” that could redefine how property managers run their businesses. Meanwhile, AI is no longer a buzzword—it’s quietly automating pricing, guest communication, and even operations, raising a critical question: what does a property manager actually do in the future?And then there’s the elephant in the room—OTAs. Despite years of pushback and the rise of direct booking strategies, platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com continue to gain ground. With AI entering the search and booking experience, will that dominance strengthen—or finally be disrupted? This conversation explores where the leverage is shifting, and what it means for anyone trying to stay competitive in STR.You don’t want to miss this episode.Key Takeaways:The “Operating System” Era Is Coming: The future of STR tech isn’t dozens of disconnected tools—it’s consolidated platforms that do everything, powered by deep integrations and AI.AI Will Compress Margins (and Headcount): From pricing to guest messaging, AI is rapidly replacing manual workflows—unlocking efficiency, but also increasing competition and driving prices down.Most Tech Startups Won’t Survive: With low barriers to building AI tools, the market is flooding with new solutions—but only a handful will scale. The rest risk being replaced or absorbed.Property Management Is Fragmenting: Full-service models aren’t the only path anymore. Expect more “menu-based” services—where operators pick and choose exactly what they outsource.OTAs Aren’t Going Anywhere (Yet): Despite the promise of AI-driven direct booking, OTAs still win on trust, convenience, and scale—and they’re investing heavily in AI to stay ahead.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 175

What happens when home prices stop rising—but the market still starts moving again? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Mike Simonsen, Chief Economist at Compass, to unpack the biggest housing market shift in years—and why it matters deeply for short-term rental investors.After four years of frozen transaction volume and relentless price growth, 2026 is shaping up to be the beginning of a new cycle. Mike breaks down why home prices are likely to remain flat while incomes gradually catch up—unlocking long-awaited improvements in affordability. But the real story isn’t just pricing—it’s movement. With mortgage lock-in slowly easing and hiring trends poised to play a critical role, we’re entering a phase where transactions begin to rise again, even without dramatic rate cuts.For STR operators, this shift has major implications. From regional price corrections in high-growth markets like Florida and Austin, to the slowdown in migration-driven demand, the conversation reveals where opportunities are emerging—and where caution is warranted. Whether you’re investing, managing, or simply watching the market, this episode gives you the data-driven lens to understand what’s happening right now—and what comes next.You don’t want to miss this episode!Key TakeawaysFlat prices ≠ weak market Home prices are to stay roughly flat in 2026, but that stability—combined with rising incomes—marks the first real improvement in affordability in years.Sales are quietly rebounding Even modest growth (3–5%) in home sales signals a meaningful shift after years of suppressed transaction volume.The “lock-in effect” is fading—slowly More homeowners now hold mortgages above 6%, meaning fewer are stuck in ultra-low rates. Time—not just rate cuts—is unlocking supply.Migration slowdown is hitting STR demand A weak hiring market is driving the “Great Stay,” reducing relocation-driven bookings that once fueled STR growth in Sunbelt markets.Regional divergence = opportunity Markets like Austin and Florida are seeing price corrections due to oversupply and slowing inbound migration—potentially improving investment fundamentals for STR buyers.Watch rates and hiring—not just prices Weekly demand signals like pending sales and price cuts react quickly to mortgage rate spikes and labor market shifts—making them critical indicators for what’s next.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/4amypnC—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 174

The short-term rental market never moves in a vacuum—and February’s data proves it. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane and co-host Scott Sage unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface of the latest performance numbers. From a sluggish winter season to the early signals of a strong spring break, they explore how supply growth, economic trends, and even global events are shaping the STR outlook for 2026.The big story? Demand is still growing—but just barely. With supply expanding faster than bookings and occupancy declining for the ninth straight month, hosts are feeling the squeeze. At the same time, factors like weak snowfall in mountain markets, rising oil prices, and broader economic uncertainty are influencing traveler behavior in ways that could ripple into the peak summer season.But it’s not all cautionary signals. Spring break demand is pacing well ahead of last year, and major global events like the 2026 World Cup could still drive a strong travel season. Jamie and Scott break down what these mixed signals mean—and how hosts and property managers can respond with smarter pricing, better positioning, and a sharper eye on economic trends.You don’t want to miss this episode.Key Takeaways Demand is growing—but slowly. February demand rose about 1% year over year while supply increased around 2–3%, continuing the pressure on occupancy rates.Winter performance suffered in mountain markets. Poor snowfall led to weaker bookings and occupancy declines in ski destinations, dragging down overall STR performance.Spring break could reverse the trend. Early booking data shows strong demand pacing for March and April, especially in coastal markets.Economic signals matter more than ever. Slowing job growth, rising oil prices, and broader macro trends could shape travel demand in the months ahead.Global events create opportunity. Major events like the upcoming World Cup could drive significant travel demand—making strategic pricing and availability key.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/3MFteFv—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 173

STR Investor Sentiment Report 2026: Where Smart Money Is Buying NextWhat are short-term rental investors really thinking right now? In a market defined by higher rates, elevated home prices, and shifting demand, the real story isn’t fear — it’s selectivity.In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie and Bram unpack AirDNA’s first-ever STR Investor Sentiment Survey — a deep dive into the motivations, barriers, and strategies shaping short-term rental investment in 2026. With nearly 650 respondents (from first-time buyers to 10+ property operators), the data reveals a surprisingly resilient investor mindset. Cash flow — not appreciation, not tax advantages — is the dominant motivation. And experienced operators? They’re not retreating. They’re doubling down.From financing trends and regulatory concerns to where capital is flowing next, this episode breaks down what separates cautious observers from confident buyers. Whether you’re looking to scale, buy your first STR, or pressure-test your strategy, this conversation offers a grounded, data-backed look at where the industry is headed.You don’t want to miss this one.Key TakeawaysCash flow is king. The primary motivation for new investors isn’t flipping or appreciation — it’s recurring income and long-term revenue stability.Experience builds confidence. The more properties an investor owns, the more likely they are to buy again in the next 12 months.Regulation becomes real at scale. First-time investors worry about prices. Seasoned operators worry about policy risk and demand durability.Interest rates matter — but they’re not the deal-breaker. Sentiment is split, but rate anxiety isn’t stopping committed buyers.Location strategy evolves over time. New investors gravitate toward familiar urban and coastal markets. Experienced operators target durable demand drivers like mountain, lake, and national park destinations.AirDNA Investor Sentimenthttps://www.airdna.co/short-term-rental-investor-survey—————Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/4j0oq9T—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 172

Travelers say they’re worried about the economy — but they’re still packing their bags. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane sits down with Seth Borko, Head of Research at Skift, to unpack the 2026 travel outlook and what it really means for short-term rental hosts and property managers.The headline? Travel remains the world’s top discretionary spending priority — even in an uncertain economy. While consumers are price-conscious and navigating a “K-shaped” recovery, they’re not cutting trips. Instead, they’re choosing cheaper flights, exploring more affordable destinations, and prioritizing accommodations and experiences over everything else. For STR operators, that’s a powerful signal: the right property in the right market, positioned around the right experience, is still incredibly compelling.The conversation also dives into the rapid rise of AI in trip planning. Nearly half of U.S. travelers are already using AI tools for discovery and inspiration. While booking behavior hasn’t fully shifted (yet), personalization is accelerating — and that could reshape loyalty, distribution, and direct booking strategies in the years ahead.You don’t want to miss this episode.Practical Takeaways for STR Hosts & ManagersTravel is still the #1 discretionary spend. Even in uncertain times, consumers want to travel — they’re just adjusting how they do it.Guests are saving on flights — not stays. Survey data shows travelers are cutting airfare costs first while prioritizing accommodations and experiences. Your property still matters.Experiences drive the trip. Today’s traveler starts with “What do I want to experience?” and back-solves into destination and accommodation. Design and market your STR as part of that experience — not just a place to sleep.Affordable destinations have momentum. With travelers choosing less expensive markets, regional and domestic STR markets may benefit from trade-down behavior.AI is reshaping discovery. Travelers are increasingly using AI tools to compare destinations, activities, and accommodations. Properties with clear positioning, strong differentiation, and well-structured listing content will win in AI-powered search.Loyalty may be redefined. As personalization improves, guests may be more willing to switch brands or platforms if the offer is better. Value, flexibility, and frictionless booking will matter more than ever.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/44x842m—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 171

Rising forward bookings contrast with falling occupancy due to supply growth. Coastal destinations show strong early reservations ahead of spring and summer. Urban demand is getting a surprising lift from World Cup-driven travel and nearby spillover. Mountain and ski markets struggle amid a weak Western snow season. Economic factors like jobs and disposable income are shaping travel momentum.

What if the biggest opportunity in your STR business isn’t higher ADR or better occupancy — but who actually owns your guest relationship?In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Arthur Colker, CEO of StayFi, to unpack one of the most under-discussed levers in short-term rentals: guest acquisition costs and repeat demand. As OTAs continue tightening control over guest data and shifting fee structures, hosts and property managers are left asking an important question — are we building a business, or renting one?Arthur breaks down why tracking guest acquisition costs, collecting first-party data, and building a direct booking channel isn’t just about avoiding platform fees. It’s about increasing total occupancy, improving booking windows, and creating long-term resilience. From practical strategies for smaller operators to how advanced hosts are reaching 60%+ direct bookings, this conversation reframes direct booking as a growth strategy — not just a defensive move.If you’ve ever wondered whether investing in your brand, email marketing, or direct booking site is worth it — this episode delivers clarity.You don’t want to miss this episode.Practical Takeaways You Can Apply NowThink beyond the booker. Every guest in the reservation is a potential future customer. Expanding your marketing mindset beyond the primary booker unlocks new repeat and referral opportunities.Consistency beats perfection. A simple monthly email — even plain-text and personalized — can outperform polished newsletters. The goal is to stay top of mind when guests are ready to book again.Direct bookings increase total occupancy — not just margins. The real ROI isn’t only saving OTA fees. It’s filling nights that would otherwise sit empty.Build a brand, even if you’re small. Whether you have one property or ten, guests need an identity to remember. For smaller operators, your personal story and hospitality voice are the brand.Control your pricing strategy. Advanced operators often price higher on OTAs and reward direct bookings with better value — flipping the script from dependence to leverage.Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/4rYGQvP—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 169

Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago (now part of Vacasa), veteran short-term rental operator and franchisor. He discusses the Vacasa–Casago integration and how local ownership and empowered in-market teams change operations. They cover franchise economics, hidden tech complexity like PMS and integrations, and why churn, accountability, and curated portfolios matter for sustainable growth.

Is 2026 shaping up to be the most compelling year for short-term rental investing since the post-pandemic boom? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane and co-host Scott Sage break down the newly released 2026 Best Places to Invest report — and explain why smart investors may finally see the odds shifting back in their favor.After several challenging years marked by high home prices, rising interest rates, and uneven STR performance, the data is starting to tell a more optimistic story. Jamie walks through the core metrics behind AirDNA’s rankings — including investability, demand momentum, revenue growth, and regulatory viability — and explains why yield, not hype, is driving today’s best opportunities. The result? A list that favors overlooked small and mid-sized cities, infrastructure-driven demand, and markets where affordability still creates room for returns.The conversation also explores how investors can tailor their strategy using price-tier analysis and demand drivers like universities, national parks, and major infrastructure projects. Rather than chasing “vacation-only” destinations, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what makes a strong STR market — and how to build a repeatable investment thesis using data, not instinct.You don’t want to miss this episode if you’re planning your next STR investment.Key Takeaways2026 may mark a turning point for STR investing as yields improve and financing pressures ease.Yield matters more than ever — especially in markets with lower home prices and steady demand.Small and mid-sized cities continue to outperform, driven by infrastructure, workforce, and extended-stay demand.Price-tier analysis unlocks opportunity, showing where returns change dramatically at different budget levels.Demand drivers like universities and national parks create resilient, diversified booking patterns beyond traditional vacation travel.Best Places To Invest:https://www.airdna.co/best-places-to-invest-in-vacation-rentals—------------Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/4s2G7tf—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 167

2025 was anything but predictable for short-term rentals. After a surprisingly strong start, the second half of the year told a very different story — and the December data brings that contrast into sharp focus. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane is joined by Bram Gallagher to break down the final U.S. performance numbers and what they reveal about the state of the STR industry heading into 2026.From weakening occupancy to long-awaited ADR growth finally outpacing inflation, the conversation unpacks why topline stability masked huge disparities beneath the surface. While national averages ended the year nearly flat, many operators experienced dramatic wins or losses depending on where they operate, who they serve, and how they’re positioned. The episode also explores how broader economic forces — cooling labor markets, mortgage-rate volatility, and a K-shaped economy — showed up clearly in STR performance.Looking ahead, Jamie and Bram dig into pacing data for early 2026, uncovering encouraging signs for spring break and summer travel, especially in resort markets. They also discuss what easing mortgage conditions and stabilizing occupancy could mean for investors considering their next move. Whether you’re managing one property or a growing portfolio, this episode helps cut through the noise to understand what really drove performance — and what to watch next.You don’t want to miss this episode!Key Takeaways for STR Hosts & Operators2025 was a tale of two halves: Strong performance early in the year gave way to declining occupancy in the back half, despite modest ADR gains.Averages hide extremes: While national occupancy finished flat, nearly half of major markets saw meaningful gains — and others saw steep declines.Luxury outperformed across the board: Higher-priced listings consistently captured stronger (or less negative) occupancy than budget properties, reinforcing the K-shaped economy.Resort markets led the way: Coastal and mountain destinations posted the strongest occupancy and ADR growth, while urban markets continued to struggle.Early 2026 signals are improving: Spring break and summer demand are pacing well, lead times are stabilizing, and easing mortgage conditions may unlock new investment opportunitiesYear End Review:https://www.airdna.co/blog/us-review-december-2025—————Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇https://bit.ly/3Yz8mlS—————Connect with Jamie on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane—————Connect with Scott on social mediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott—————Connect with AirDNA on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdnaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co—————Episode 166