How to Start an Airbnb

31. Can You Really Buy an Existing Airbnb? Here’s the Catch


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Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course
  • Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
    • Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course
    • Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? It sounds like a shortcut—but there's a lot most people don’t tell you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens when you try to purchase a property that’s already operating as a short-term rental. From licensing delays to disappearing reviews to misleading listing agents (yes, really), you’ll learn exactly what to look out for before making an offer.

      Key Takeaways:

      • Why people sell their Airbnb properties—and what it reveals

      • The #1 misconception about “buying” an Airbnb listing

      • How to legally transfer future guests (and why it’s tricky)

      • Wisconsin’s licensing requirements and delays

      • Red flags in listings and misleading descriptions

      • How outdated permits and local regulations can ruin your plans

      • Why Listen to This Episode?
        You’ll walk away knowing how to protect yourself, ask smarter questions, and avoid investing in a “turnkey” short-term rental that turns into a hot mess. Whether you're actively shopping or just curious, this episode is packed with advice I give to my own real estate clients.

        Mentioned in the Episode:

        • Aloha Protein Bars: Receive 20% off your first order when clicking on the link below. Trust me, you will love them!
          • Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP
          • Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
          • Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course

            • Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.

            • Let’s Connect:
              Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

              Work With Me:
              🎓 Want to confidently analyze, purchase, and manage your own Airbnb—even if it’s not “turnkey”?
              Take my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course for less than $500 and learn everything you need (without the fluff)

              Chapters:
              0:00 – Welcome + listener shoutouts
              1:55 – Why sellers part ways with short-term rentals
              4:45 – Is it really profitable, or are they burned out?
              6:50 – What most buyers miss (and what I see as an agent)
              8:20 – The truth about transferring Airbnb listings
              10:30 – Future guests, cancellations & managing expectations
              12:20 – Should you honor existing pricing? (Yes!)
              14:00 – The licensing delay no one talks about
              17:30 – Red flags & misleading agent descriptions
              19:25 – Grandfathered-in properties vs. current rules
              22:20 – Wrapping up: Do it smart, not fast

              Subscribe and Share:
              Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review! Share this episode with someone thinking about buying a short-term rental—they need to hear this before they write that offer.

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              How to Start an AirbnbBy Brittany Wenninger