Get Paid For Your Pad | Airbnb Hosting | Vacation Rentals | STR Revenue Management

When Eric and I bought the existing Airbnb business at Strawberry Creek Village, the previous host didn’t use any technology tools at all.Running the community as a traditional vacation rental, she tracked bookings with pen and paper, texted the cleaner personally and physically plugged in and unplugged the outdoor lights herself each day.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric shares the home automation technology he’s installed at Strawberry Creek and describes the system we created around the digital locks and temporary access codes in our short-term rentals to streamline our business.Listen in to understand why Eric and I are setting up the tech ourselves and get our best advice on implementing new technology in your Airbnb hosting business.Topics CoveredWhat tech we’ve installed at Strawberry CreekLights turn on/off automaticallySchlage Encode digital locksNoiseAware in units and outdoorsApple TV and Nest thermostatsThe benefits of using digital locks in a STRSecurityGuest convenienceManagementHow we’re automating the guest code processHostfully to import info at bookingManage and track via RemoteLockOur best advice on implementing technologyTake time for onboarding processBuild SOPs around how to use techThe advantage of creating walk-through videosHelps VAs with guest messagingInsurance in case of owner disputesHow we’re building relationships with guestsPersonal communicationOnsite team memberResourcesStrawberry Creek VillageStrawberry Creek on InstagramBreezewayWheelhouseSchlage Encode LocksNoiseAwareApple TVNest ThermostatsEric on TikTokRemoteLockOvernight SuccessReview GPFYP on Apple PodcastsLegends X STR AcceleratorSTR Legends MastermindEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comSponsorHostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you manage listings remotely, operations can be a challenge.With no supervision, how do you maintain quality control? How do you make sure that your cleaners and maintenance workers are meeting expectations?David Golshan is the entrepreneur and real estate investor behind StayWithDave, a short-term rental business with properties in Los Angeles, Orange County and the Smoky Mountains. On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Dave asks me questions about the operations of his Airbnb business, describing how hard it is to find contractors he can count on when unexpected issues arise.Listen in for insight on putting systems in place to prevent operations issues and learn how to hustle to find good team members for your short-term rental business—despite the current labor shortage!Topics Covered The ins and outs of Dave’s Airbnb businessListings in LA, Orange County & Smoky MountainsTransition from arbitrage to management model Manage operations remotelyHire cleaner or cohost who’s invested in your visionDevelop systems to prevent issuesHow to hold STR team members accountableJob score card for everyone who works with youFinancial reward for achieving KPIsSample key performance indicators for STR cleanersAirbnb ratings ConsistencySample KPIs for STR maintenance staffNo guest complaints about things not workingShow up within certain amount of timeWhy it’s crucial to develop KPIs for contractorsAlign incentives with team membersIncentivize to do good jobHow to find maintenance workers and cleanersOnline platforms may not work in labor shortageStay in area and build relationships in person Connect with DaveStayWithDave StayWithDave on Instagram Resources Dave on Get Paid for Your Pad EP043 How to Maximize Profit from Your Airbnb Listing by Jasper Ribbers and Huzefa KapadiaThe Risks of Arbitrage on GPFYP EP419 Julie George Breezeway ThumbtackSTR Legends MastermindLegends X 90-Day STR AcceleratorEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com  Sponsor Hostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Eric and I are focused on buying property and building a hospitality brand. We also run a Short term rental mastermind as well as the Legends X coaching program.We started just like everyone else, hosting a single property on Airbnb.And the reason why we can teach at such high level is because we’ve been through it all; Run into challenges, made mistakes, figured out how to problem-solve and move forward.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric explains how he got started with Airbnb: his transition from house flipping real estate investor to STR entrepreneur.He describes what inspired his vision to build an online business in the real estate space, how he discovered STRs and why he pivoted from rental arbitrage to a management model.Listen as Eric shares his craziest guest experience and learn how you can benefit from our mistakes and scale a STR business of your own!Topics CoveredEric’s real estate investing background10 years raising money to flip housesAdded Section 8 apartment buildingsEric’s introduction to being a digital nomadMet John Lee Dumas 7 years agoVision for online business in real estateEric’s move: New Jersey to San DiegoBuilt network of entrepreneurs in CARoom at Epic Entrepreneur HouseWhat inspired Eric’s focus on STRsMet STR entrepreneur as Airbnb guestRealized could automate with techEric’s first Airbnb property in San DiegoOpportunity to lease 2BR in La Mesa, CAMade $2K profit in first monthWhy Eric pivoted from an arbitrage modelUps and downs of market in crashRecognized leasing too risky to scaleThe power of the management modelManaged vacant units for HNWI as STRs3X revenue of leases without paying rentUse profits to buy property, build wealthWhat Eric would've done differentlyFocus on building portfolio in single marketStick to one business model, property typeHow Eric dealt with challenging guestsRecognize where failed and solve problemGrow as person, make better decisionsResourcesJohn Lee Dumas of Podcasters’ ParadiseThe Epic Entrepreneur HouseEric on Get Paid for Your Pad EP175Overnight SuccessGet Paid for Your Pad on Apple PodcastsLegends X STR AcceleratorSTR Legends MastermindEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comSponsorHostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Short-term rental operators understand that technology helps automate certain aspects of our hosting business, saving time and streamlining our operations. But there are few tools that smaller Airbnb hosts can afford.So, what is the ideal tech setup for STR hosts with five units or less?Henry Bennett is the Cofounder and CEO of YourWelcome, a guest engagement tablet currently used in 15,000 STR properties. Henry and the YourWelcome team are in the process of launching PropertyCare, a complementary platform to automate guest engagement and manage STR cleaning and maintenance.Listen in to understand why text messaging is the best way to communicate with guests (and how PropertyCare facilitates SMS) and find out what affordable technology options are available to small Airbnb hosts!Topics CoveredHenry’s take: COVID changed the STR industryProperty managers looking to reduce costsDifficult to find cleaners and maintenance staffHow Henry thinks about Chesky’s predicted BOOM in STRsRecord domestic bookings for ‘revenge travel’Vacation rentals seen safer than hotelsWhat PropertyCare does to serve small Airbnb hostsSet up cleaning and maintenance tasksAutomates guest communicationsWhat differentiates PropertyCare from a PMSPMS = channel management and accountingPropertyCare integrates with PMS systemsThe gap in the market for tech seving small Airbnb hostsMost tech creates for big companies to scale fastHosts with 5-15 units underserved part of industryHow hosts benefit using PropertyCareLeverage CRM to personalize post-stay marketingCollect emails of ALL guests with advanced check-inConnect with HenryPropertyCare.comYourWelcomeResourcesHenry on GPFYP EP123Brian Chesky Interview on Travel’s Revolutionary MomentVRMARingCentralTwilioYour Porter AppGuestyRentals UnitedStayFiSTR Legends MastermindLegends X 90-Day STR AcceleratorEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.comSponsorHostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Airbnb entrepreneurs who help people start and scale their own short-term rental companies, you may be surprised to hear that, right now, we don’t think you should start a STR business.You should buy one.There's value creating your own hosting business. If you’re brand new to the industry, it’s a good place to start.But if you’re an experienced host with funding, you can create wealth by taking over another business and increasing its value. So, what does that look like?This episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric and I sit down to discuss the opportunities we see in buying an Airbnb business rather than starting one from scratch.Listen in for insight on where to find vacation rental businesses to buy and learn how YOU can acquire and then increase the profits of existing Airbnbs!Topics Covered Why we’re taking over an existing Airbnb businessSave money on operations to increase profitsImprove guest experience, property valueEric’s insight on raising money through investorsAll based on NETWORKInvest in PEOPLE and IDEAS What investors are looking forRule of 7 (7% return doubles $ every 10 years)Strong relationship makes risk manageableEric’s advice to someone who doesn’t have a networkFocus on one social platform, e.g.: LinkedInSurround self with people in industryBe patient STR market opportunities Management model to generate cashflowScale quickly and bring investors into pipelineBuy older STR businesses in secondary marketsHow to find existing vacation rental businessesChoose market carefullyBecome part of community (network)Share your vision, ask for properties Resources Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. KiyosakiThe Psychology of Money by Morgan HouselSonderZillowVrolioAirDNAVacasaHicksville Trailer PalaceOvernight SuccessReview Get Paid for Your Pad on Apple PodcastsLegends X STR AcceleratorSTR Legends MastermindEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com Sponsor Hostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As short-term rental hosts, we ALL want to build a listing that stands out from the competition. And we know that having the right photos is crucial in getting prospective guests to book.But what if you’re not a professional photographer, and you don’t have the money to hire one? Can you still take gorgeous listing photos if it’s just you and your smartphone?Kati and Brian Greene are the Cofounders of Overlooked 2 Overbooked, a service that helps hosts optimize their listings to attract their ideal guests at optimal prices.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Kati and Brian join me to share their top tips for taking photos of your property and describe how to choose the best ‘magnet photo’ for your listing.Kati explains the optimal way to order photos in an Airbnb listing and Brian discusses how to take your listing to the next level by including experience shots.Listen in for insight on using guest reviews to improve your listing and learn how Kati and Brian can help you build a listing that beats the competition!Topics Covered Overlooked 2 Overbooked’s virtual photo shootTeach host how to operate smartphone camera Guide through taking photos for listing on video chat Kati’s top tips for taking photos for your listingLower camera to waist level and lift gazePoint camera parallel to floor (not down at furniture)Use rule of thirds for exterior shotsHow to choose the best magnet photo for your listingReview thumbnail photos of listings ranked above youChoose image that stands out from competitionHow to appeal to your prospective guest’s lizard brainUse contrasting colors, include fun in photosMake guest trust you and feel safe in spaceThe optimum way to order your photos in an Airbnb listingStart with 5 best or most interesting featuresFollow up with room-by-room tour of propertyWide angle shot of room first, then detail shots Brian’s advice on serving as an ambassador of your townAsk why people visit and what’s cool about areaBecome concierge or expert re: local activitiesHow to use guest reviews to improve your listingUse guest comments for insight on what to featureCaption photos with quotes from reviewsHow to take your listing photos to the next levelSet up vignettes of experience guest might haveExample—people enjoying s’mores in fire pit Connect with Kati & BrianOverlooked 2 OverbookedFree Listing Assessment Resources Kati & Brian’s eBookColor WheelLegends X 90-Day STR AcceleratorEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com  Sponsor Hostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a recent interview with Skift CEO Rafat Ali, Brian Chesky predicted a near-future revolution in travel. A revolution that presents a big opportunity for short-term rental hosts.As more companies offer employees the option to work remotely, Chesky believes people will take advantage of the flexibility to travel. This will increase demand for STRs, especially in secondary markets.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Eric and I discuss the biggest opportunity we see right now in short-term rentals, describing how we’re finding older vacation homes in drive-to destinations and converting them into unique STR experiences. Listen in for insight on the benefit of investing in real estate for Airbnbs and learn how to upgrade an older STR property—without losing sight of what makes the local area special!Topics Covered Key takeaways from the recent Brian Chesky interviewPeople won’t go back to working in offices full-timeAffords much more flexibility to travelOpportunities for STR hosts in this revolution of travelFind older vacation homes in secondary marketsConvert into unique, modern STR experiences Why we’re investing in properties in secondary marketsFinancial decisions shaped by experience of COVIDPeople want to travel AND live there (can sell later)What short-term rental guests will need moving forwardFast internet, workspace for remote officeOption to disconnect and be in nature Approach to upgrading older STR propertiesImprove experience (e.g.: smart locks, guidebook)Highlight what makes local area specialBenefit of investing in real estate for STRsOwnership affords opportunity to build wealthMoney in properties as hedge against inflation How the Get Paid for Your Pad podcast is changingMondays focus on small hosts (Airbnb101)Wednesdays about managing STR business at scaleFridays we share journey building hospitality brand Resources  Brian Chesky: Travel RevolutionRemote Work at BufferAirDNAThe Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed and Happiness by Morgan HouselStrawberry Creek VillageSonderLyricStay AlfredLegends X STR AcceleratorGet Paid for Your PadEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com Sponsor Hostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you want your guests to delight YOU with five-star reviews, return visits and referrals, then you need to delight them first by delivering the unexpected.But what, exactly, does that look like? How can Airbnb hosts WOW their guests in every step of the short-term rental journey?J.T. McKay is the author of Airbnb on Autopilot: Save Time and Boost Profits for Your Vacation Rental. J.T. has been investing in real estate for over 25 years, and he currently operates 10 vacation rental units in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, J.T. joins me to discuss how to delight your Airbnb guests by delivering the unexpected, beginning with becoming a story-seller in your listing.J.T. offers advice on building a personal connection through your house manual and automating guest messaging with authenticity.Listen in for J.T.’s insight on WOW-ing your guests during their stay with selfie props, QR codes and V.I.G. (Very Important Guest) discounts to local restaurants and attractions!Topics Covered What makes Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge a popular STR market‘Vegas for families’ (amusement parks, dinner theatre, etc.)Attracts outdoor enthusiasts for hiking and fishing How to delight prospective guests with your Airbnb listingBecome story-seller and make future guest heroShows respect for space, attracts idea guestHow to delight your guests through your house manualInclude information about YOU to build personal connectionInfuse with personality and fun, pay attention to design Share restaurant recommendations and area info Shoot short how-to videos (e.g.: electronic lock, thermostat)How to automate guest messaging with authenticitySend first morning check-in messageUse customization tags (include guest name)Consider recording custom welcome videosJ.T.’s tips for delighting your guests once they’re in your unitProvide basket of selfie props, incentivize sharing on socialLeverage QR codes for connecting with info quicklyOffer USB charging outlets and Bluetooth speakersShare V.I.G. discounts to local restaurants and attractionsGive away free swag (i.e.: mugs, pens, cookbook PDF) Connect with J.T. J.T.’s Website Airbnb on Autopilot: Save Time and Boost Profits for Your Vacation Rental by J. T. McKay Email jt@jtmckay.com  ResourcesLoomYou on NetflixLegends X 90-Day STR AcceleratorEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com  SponsorHostfully [Discount Code PAD] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s your job as an Airbnb host to understand the struggles your guests might face and set them up for success. But what if your guests are international tourists who don’t speak the local language? How can you create a multilingual short-term rental to serve guests from anywhere in the world?Tracey Northcott is the Founder and Owner of Tokyo Family Stays, a vacation rental property management company based in Tokyo, Japan. Tracey is also the Guest Experience Specialist behind Tracey Northcott Consulting, a firm dedicated to helping other hosts improve their hospitality standards and maximize STR profits.On this episode of Get Paid for Your Pad, Tracey joins me to discuss how to set up a multilingual Airbnb, describing how she attracts large extended families of inbound tourists to her properties in Tokyo. Tracey shares her strategies for supporting guests who don’t speak the local language, explaining the benefits of providing infographics and professionally translated information.Listen in to understand why Google Translate is not good enough and get Tracey’s top tips for anticipating the needs of your international guests!Topics Covered Tracey’s ideal guest at Tokyo Family StaysInbound tourists or Japanese people who lived overseasLarge extended families (don’t exclude based on language) What to think about as the host international guestsWhat’s common for you not standard across worldMeet people where they are, provide tools for successRecognize common humanity of allHow Tracey serves guests who don’t speak the local languageInfographics for toilets, kitchen appliances and HVAC unitsHouse rules, trash/recycling info in multiple languagesThe benefits of providing infographics and translated informationSave time and stress fielding calls or fixing broken itemsGuests feel welcome and leave 5-star reviewsWhy Tracey suggests hiring a human translator over free appsNot too expensive, supports another small business ownerGoogle translate = unprofessional and not welcomingTracey’s tips for anticipating the needs of international guests Curated links to local recommendations and list of FAQsStep-by-step instructions for getting to STR property Connect with TraceyTokyo Family StaysTracey Northcott ConsultingTracey on Instagram Resources Tracey’s Listings on AirbnbLegends X 90-Day STR AcceleratorEmail jasper@getpaidforyourpad.com  Sponsor Hostfully [Discount Code PAD]   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.