

Get Paid For Your Pad | Airbnb Hosting | Vacation Rentals | STR Revenue Management
Freewyld Foundry
Get Paid For Your Pad is the go-to podcast for Airbnb hosts, short-term rental operators, and vacation rental entrepreneurs who want to scale smarter, earn more, and stay ahead of industry shifts.Hosted by Jasper Ribbers, Eric Moeller, and Kaye Putnam from Freewyld Foundry, this podcast delivers actionable tips on Airbnb pricing strategies, revenue management, direct bookings, listing optimization, and guest experience. You'll hear from real hosts, property managers, and industry pros who share behind-the-scenes insights, lessons learned, and the systems they use to grow profitable STR businesses.Whether you're managing one property or one hundred, you'll walk away with practical strategies to increase occupancy, boost profits, and build a sustainable short-term rental brand.Tune in weekly to learn how to thrive in today’s competitive Airbnb market, and get paid what you’re worth.Freewyld Foundry offers revenue and pricing management (RPM) services to the top 1% of STR hosts. Learn more and request a free Revenue Report: https://www.freewyldfoundry.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 14, 2024 • 43min
How Steven went from near bankruptcy to building a thriving STR business
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn this episode, Jasper Ribbers interviews Steven Suarez, the founder of Argest Rentals, about his experiences in property management and the challenges he faced in scaling his business. They discuss the importance of building strong relationships with virtual assistants, navigating partnerships and breakups, and the art of renegotiating in business. Steven shares valuable insights and lessons learned from his journey, emphasizing the need for clear communication, restructuring, and perseverance in the face of adversity.TakeawaysBuilding strong relationships with virtual assistants is crucial for success in property management.Navigating partnerships requires clear communication and setting expectations from the beginning.Scaling back and reevaluating properties and clients is essential for long-term growth.Managing stress and emotions is important for staying focused and making sound business decisions.Appreciating and supporting virtual assistants fosters loyalty and improves team morale.The art of renegotiating is a valuable skill in business and can help navigate challenging situations.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Catching Up02:22 The Rum and Coke Story08:07 Challenges and Lessons Learned in Property Management14:07 Navigating Partnerships and Breakups19:23 Scaling Back to Scale Up23:41 Managing Stress and Emotions27:41 Building Strong Relationships with Virtual Assistants30:11 The Importance of Appreciating and Supporting Virtual Assistants35:00 The Art of Renegotiating in Business37:51 Where to Find Steven Suarez Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 2024 • 37min
Experiential design is where the money is at on Airbnb
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn today's episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, I had the pleasure to talk to Heather Loduca & Erin Donnelly, the founders of Pink Wall Designs, straight out of Canada. They are not only seasoned in interior design for short-term rentals and boutique hotels but also investors themselves, owning properties that stand as testaments to their expertise. The focus of our conversation revolved around the critical importance of interior design in the increasingly competitive Airbnb and short-term rental market. Design, as we explored, isn't just about aesthetics; it's crucial for marketing, creating memorable guest experiences, and ensuring your property stands out in a sea of options.Erin and Heather shared insights on making properties Instagrammable, leveraging social media for direct bookings, and the significance of targeting your design to appeal to your ideal guest avatar. They emphasized the power of experiential design, suggesting features like selfie walls and thematic decor that resonate with your target audience and encourage social sharing. The conversation also delved into the strategic use of platforms like TikTok for market research and promotion, highlighting the platform's effectiveness in reaching potential guests quickly.Moreover, Erin and Heather offered advice on collaborating with local businesses and influencers to enhance guest experiences and market your property more effectively. They underscored the importance of continually updating and refreshing your property's design to keep up with trends and guest expectations.For those interested in learning more about their work or seeking their services, Aaron and Heather can be found on Instagram at @PinkWallDesigns and TikTok under the same handle. They also have a website, Pink Wall Designs, Inc., for further information and contact details.This episode is a reminder that in the world of short-term rentals, creating an experience, not just a place to stay, is key to success. Designing with intention and focusing on the guest experience can set your property apart and ensure its success in the competitive market of 2024 and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 2024 • 44min
How a near death experience inspired two brothers to go all-in on STRs
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn today's insightful episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I had the distinct pleasure of discussing the evolving landscape of the short-term rental industry with Zohar and Eran Lotem, the dynamic sibling duo behind 5 Star STR. Their journey from various entrepreneurial ventures to leaders in the short-term rental space is not just a business story; it's a narrative of resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of what it takes to create exceptional guest experiences.Zohar and Eran, seasoned entrepreneurs, have a rich history of ventures spanning from retail operations across notable locations such as the Las Vegas Strip, California, Hawaii, and the Virgin Islands to unique forays into the fashion and CBD cosmetics industry. The transition to short-term rentals post-2016 marked a significant turn in their careers, especially following a life-altering accident in 2020 that Eran endured. This incident led them to establish the first accessible Airbnb short-term rental home in Las Vegas, a reflection of their dedication to inclusivity and adaptability.Their company, 5 Star STR, has seen remarkable growth, expanding its portfolio from four to 20 properties within a year. They specialize in managing high-end properties, catering to a premium segment of the market. What sets 5 Star STR apart is its dual approach to management: offering premium full-service and online service, each designed to deliver an unparalleled level of excellence to property owners and guests alike.During our conversation, Zohar and Eran shared their unique insights into the operational and strategic aspects of running a successful short-term rental business. They emphasized the importance of safety and meticulous maintenance in their properties, citing examples of unexpected safety hazards they have encountered and addressed in their properties. This level of attention to detail not only ensures guest safety but also reflects their commitment to providing a secure and comfortable stay.The discussion also delved into the challenges and opportunities unique to the short-term rental industry. The Lotem brothers highlighted the role of advanced technologies and property management systems in streamlining operations and reducing the need for extensive manpower. They contrasted their current business model with their past ventures, noting the shift from a pure revenue focus to creating value and memorable experiences for guests and property owners.A key topic of our conversation was their innovative approach to creating unique guest experiences. Zohar and Eran are exploring ways to differentiate their properties through high-quality, luxury furniture and unique features like custom wall prints from a vertical printer. This strategy aims to offer guests something more than just accommodation—it's about creating unforgettable experiences that resonate on a personal level.Zohar and Eran are also strong advocates for collaboration within the industry. They believe in joining forces with other industry players to acquire unique items for their properties, enhancing the overall guest experience and staying competitive in the market. This collaborative spirit is evident in their invitation to others in the industry to connect through their website, 5starstr.com, for potential partnerships and collaborations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 2023 • 35min
Curate local experiences for your guests with Mount
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn this episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I, Jasper Ribbers, engage in an insightful conversation with Madison Rivkin, founder of Mount. We delve into the concept of Mount, a platform revolutionizing the guest experience in short-term rentals. Focusing on how travelers book experiences, Mount connects local businesses offering diverse activities like brewery tours or rafting trips, making them easily discoverable online.Madison explains that Mount allows hosts and property managers to curate and offer a personalized list of experiences through their platform, enhancing guest satisfaction. For instance, a host in New York City could recommend an underground foodie tour in Chinatown or a donut tour in West Village. Each host creates a mini marketplace with a unique URL, which they can share with guests through various means, including QR codes in properties. This not only elevates the guest experience but also enables hosts to earn a commission.I discuss with Madison the distinctiveness of Mount compared to other platforms like Airbnb Experiences and Viator. Mount’s unique selling point is its emphasis on personalization, making it appear as if the recommendations are directly from the host, unlike the more generalized offerings on Airbnb and Viator. Madison also highlights how Mount caters to off-the-beaten-path, local experiences, avoiding the 'tourist trap' feel of mainstream platforms.We explore the flexibility of Mount, discussing how hosts with unique local knowledge or resources, like hidden hikes or boats, can create their own experiences. Madison shares that Mount integrates with various property management systems (PMS) and guidebooks, simplifying the process for hosts to incorporate these experiences into their offerings.Delving into Mount’s future goals, Madison mentions their ambition to embed experiences directly into digital guidebooks and to expand their eco-friendly mission, aiming to reduce tourist waste and promote sustainable tourism practices. Mount encourages the use of local resources and experiences, aligning with the trend of experiential travel, particularly popular among younger generations seeking unique, Instagram-worthy activities.Madison's journey, from founding Mount as a bike lock company at age 12 to its evolution into a travel experience facilitator, is both fascinating and inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to market needs and leveraging personal experiences to enhance their platform.For those interested in using Mount, the sign-up process is straightforward. Hosts can register on rentmount.com, create their mini marketplace, and start offering personalized local experiences to their guests. This integration of unique local experiences not only enhances guest stays but also helps hosts distinguish their offerings in a crowded market.Before we wrap up today's episode, remember to connect with us on Instagram @getpaidforyourpad for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel. We appreciate your support.. Stay tuned, and keep being awesome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 15, 2023 • 30min
Offer grocery stocking services to your guests with Noshable
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn this episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I welcomed Connor Paton, CEO and founder of Noshable, to discuss his innovative company that's enhancing the Airbnb experience. Noshable's service allows guests to pre-order groceries and have them ready in their Airbnb rental upon arrival. This service tackles a common inconvenience for travelers: arriving at a rental with no basic necessities like food and water.Connor shared the journey behind Noshable. The idea stemmed from personal experiences of inconvenience when arriving at unfamiliar destinations and the time-consuming process of grocery shopping. This led to the development of a platform where guests could effortlessly have their groceries delivered and stocked before they arrive. Connor’s background in property management and prop tech, including his time at Realpha, played a crucial role in realizing the need for such a service.The process with Noshable is integrated into the Airbnb booking experience. Guests receive a link to pre-order groceries from a selection of over 20 major retail grocery stores, with the ability to order up to a year in advance. This integration ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for both guests and property managers.Noshable is in its early stages, having recently completed beta testing in several states. Connor discussed the technical and operational aspects of Noshable, including their focus on standardizing operations to ensure consistency across locations. The company aims to expand to more areas, currently active in markets with Walmart, Kroger, and affiliate stores.For property managers, Noshable presents a cost-effective and potentially profitable solution. The platform is free for property managers, with a share of the markup on groceries and the ability to set their own delivery fees. This model provides an additional revenue stream and enhances service offerings.Connor emphasized the importance of removing friction in hospitality, drawing inspiration from companies like Disney. Noshable’s service addresses the basic needs of food and accommodation, enhancing the vacation experience from the moment guests arrive.Further discussing future developments, Connor mentioned plans to integrate with property management systems, introduce an AI shopper for efficient grocery ordering, facilitate group orders, and expand to restaurant partnerships for dining experiences. These features aim to streamline the ordering process and expand the scope of services offered by Noshable.For more information, Connor directed listeners to the Noshable website, shopnoshable.com, and offered his contact for inquiries and collaborations via email (connor@shopnoshable.com) or LinkedIn.Before we wrap up today's episode, remember to connect with us on Instagram @getpaidforyourpad for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel. We appreciate your support.. Stay tuned, and keep being awesome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 10, 2023 • 35min
Will 2024 be another 2023 in the STR industry?
*** FREE REVENUE MANAGEMENT TRAINING***DATE: TUESDAY DECEMBER 12TH 1PM PST / 4PM ESTSIGN UP AT: https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/webinarIn today's episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I, Jasper Ribbers, delve into my recent experiences and learnings from the Data and Revenue Management (Darm) Conference in Nashville. This episode is packed with insights, especially for those of us in the short-term rental industry, focusing on data, revenue management, and enhancing guest experiences.One of the highlights from the conference was Will Godera's keynote speech. His concept of "unreasonable hospitality," which he exemplified through his New York restaurant's journey to becoming the world's number one, deeply resonated with me. It emphasized the importance of going beyond the conventional to create memorable guest experiences. This approach doesn't necessarily require significant investment but rather a focus on understanding and catering to the unique needs of each guest. As an example, Will’s story about serving a New York hot dog in a high-end restaurant setting to please a group of European guests underscored the power of personalized service.The market data and forecasts presented by AirDNA and KeyData were particularly enlightening. The industry saw an increase in demand in 2023, but an oversupply led to decreased occupancy rates. For 2024, we're looking at a balanced growth in supply and demand, with slight increases in average daily rates and revenue per available room. This data is crucial as we plan our strategies for the coming year.An important takeaway from the conference was the necessity of understanding detailed booking data for effective revenue management. Knowing the booking lead times and trends – whether guests book in advance or closer to their stay – is critical for setting optimal pricing strategies. This approach becomes increasingly important in a market that isn't experiencing the rapid growth of previous years.Seeing the growing interest in revenue management among hosts, I'm excited to announce a free, detailed training session on this topic, scheduled for Tuesday at 1 PM PST. This session, which you can join at getpaidforyourpad.com/webinar, will be highly actionable, showcasing the strategies used in my business. It's designed to provide valuable insights that hosts can implement in their operations.To conclude, I share a bit about my upcoming personal travels, including a visit to the Netherlands, a skiing trip in Austria, and a romantic getaway to Paris with my wife. I'm looking forward to these personal experiences and equally excited to share more industry insights in the upcoming episodes. Thanks for listening, and I hope to see many of you in the upcoming webinar.Before we wrap up today's episode, remember to connect with us on Instagram @getpaidforyourpad for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel. We appreciate your support.. Stay tuned, and keep being awesome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2023 • 45min
BOOSTYLY SHORT-TERM RENTAL DOCUMENTARY COMING SOON
>>> Watch our free Revenue Management training at https://www.getpaidforyourpad.com/cfm-replay>>> FREE E-Book: 5 Most Common Airbnb Revenue Management Mistakes>>> Click here to downloadIn this episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I had the privilege to host Mark Simpson, founder of Boostly, for an early morning discussion. Mark, known for his impact in the short-term rental space, shares insights from recent industry conferences, including the Bigger Pockets Conference, VRMA, and HostCon. He highlights the growing influence of Google in the vacation rental sector and its move to become the top meta search platform with Google Vacation Rentals. This shift is changing how travelers search and book accommodations, making them more price-savvy and driving the need for hosts to diversify their marketing strategies.Mark discusses the importance of understanding big players like Google, Airbnb, and Expedia, and how they're targeting growth in different continents. He emphasizes the need for hosts to have a diverse marketing presence, leveraging various channels to increase visibility. Mark also delves into the rising significance of short-form videos in influencing travelers' decisions, noting platforms like YouTube Shorts and TikTok as key drivers.Another significant topic we cover is working with influencers. Mark advises on the importance of establishing clear contracts and expectations with influencers. He suggests using platforms like Stay MO to connect with influencers and negotiate deliverables like Instagram stories, posts, and drone shots. The key, Mark notes, is engagement and relevance to your target market.Lastly, Mark talks about his latest endeavor – a documentary featuring two hosts over a year, highlighting their growth and lessons learned. This documentary, aiming to resemble a Netflix-style presentation, is set for a release on the Boosly YouTube channel with a live watch party.For those interested in direct bookings and leveraging Boostly's services, Mark mentions a special discount for listeners who mention "Get Paid for Your Pad" when booking a call with Boostly.Before we wrap up today's episode, remember to connect with us on Instagram @getpaidforyourpad for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel. We appreciate your support.. Stay tuned, and keep being awesome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 2023 • 37min
New marketplace Comparable connects homeowners with STR managers
The podcast discusses insights from the book 'Vacation Rental Secrets' and the importance of avoiding quick fixes in challenges. It also explores the challenges of hiring the right talent for vacation rental management and the use of personality assessments. The podcast introduces Comparent, a platform connecting homeowners with professional vacation rental managers, aiming to provide transparency. The speakers discuss the challenges of dealing with difficult homeowners and the power of saying no. They also touch on the concept of Big East rental futures and the challenges of building an online marketplace.

Nov 28, 2023 • 48min
Host your luxury homes on Plumguide
*** Save over $7,500 and sign up for our Black Friday Bundle at https://getpaidforyourpad.com/blackfriday.In this episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I, Jasper Ribbers, had the pleasure of hosting Doron Meyassed, the founder and CEO of Plum Guide. Our discussion delved deep into the intricacies and unique approach of Plum Guide, an OTA (Online Travel Agency) catering to a niche market of discerning travelers, typically urban dwellers earning upwards of $150,000 annually, who are passionate about design, culture, and travel.Doron shared his global upbringing and his entrepreneurial journey before Plum Guide, including his experience with creating online communities for prominent clients like Spotify, Airbnb, and Google. The concept of Plum Guide was born from a unique Airbnb experience in Tel Aviv, prompting Doron to explore the idea of a platform that showcases properties where hosts have invested considerable effort into every detail of the guest experience.Plum Guide sets itself apart by rigorously vetting properties, accepting only the top 3-5% across three price points: medium, high, and luxury. The platform addresses major pain points for travelers: ensuring consistent quality across homes, helping guests match with the right property, and providing exceptional service. Their service teams include Matchmakers who assist guests in selecting homes and a customer service team for round-the-clock support.Doron also elaborated on Plum Guide's no exclusivity policy for hosts, their integration with major PMS systems, and their focus on European and North American markets. He further discussed the company's stringent standards for hosts, the importance of transparent guest reviews, and the emphasis on managing expectations to enhance guest experiences.For hosts interested in joining Plum Guide, the process involves an application through their website or via channel managers, followed by a selective vetting process. Doron highlighted that, on average, homes generate 10-20% of their revenue from Plum in the first year, with potential for growth. He also emphasized their commitment to price parity across platforms to maintain fairness and trust. Doron encouraged hosts passionate about their craft to reach out to Plum Guide. For those looking to book a unique stay, he recommended exploring Plum Guide's carefully curated selection of homes. Visit www.plumguide.com to discover more about this distinctive platform that's redefining the standards for vacation rentals.Listeners, I hope you found this episode insightful and informative. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "Get Paid for Your Pad."Before we wrap up today's episode, remember to connect with us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/getpaidforyourpad/ or @getpaidforyourpad for eexclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel Get Paid For Your Pad or even more great content. We appreciate your support,Stay tuned, and keep being awesome! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 25, 2023 • 31min
How to leverage discounts on Airbnb to drive bookings
*** Save over $7,500 and sign up for our Black Friday Bundle at https://getpaidforyourpad.com/blackfriday.In this episode of "Get Paid for Your Pad," I want to start by wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving holiday. As I prepare for my own Thanksgiving getaway to Mexico's Valle de Guadalupe wine country, I'm excited to share insights on a crucial topic: discounts in revenue management.As some of you might know, I've been deeply involved in revenue management for Freewyld, the hospitality brand I co-launched. We recently initiated a revenue management course, one of the first in our industry, to help hosts understand this vital aspect better.The heart of this episode revolves around discounts on Airbnb, a powerful tool for enhancing conversions. Airbnb promotes listings with discounts by incorporating features like strike-through pricing, additional line items in the price breakdown, and eye-catching callouts. These features make listings more appealing to potential guests.I discuss various discount strategies, including early bird and last-minute discounts, emphasizing their potential benefits. Length of stay discounts, often known as weekly and monthly discounts, are also crucial in encouraging longer bookings. I dive into the nuances of these discounts and their impact on guest conversions.Moreover, I explain how hosts can set up custom promotions to provide extra incentives for potential guests. These customized promotions can be a valuable addition to your pricing strategy.Towards the end of the episode, I introduce a special Black Friday promotion. We're offering an incredible bundle deal that includes lifetime access to my programs, Casual Mastery and Legends X, along with 90 days of access to the Rising Star Mastermind. It's a fantastic opportunity to access these valuable resources at a discounted rate.In summary, this episode provides a deep dive into the significance of discounts in revenue management on Airbnb. I share practical insights and strategies to help hosts optimize their listings and attract more bookings through effective discounting. Don't miss out on our exciting Black Friday bundle deal, where you can access these valuable programs and resources at a discounted rate. Before we wrap up, remember to connect with us on Instagram @getpaidforyourpad for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes moments, and don't forget to hit that 'Subscribe' button on our YouTube channel Get Paid For Your Pad for even more great content. We appreciate your support,Stay tuned, keep being awesome and Happy Hosting! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


