How to Start an Airbnb

6: Top Software Tools Every Short-Term Rental Owner Needs

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Episode 10: Automating Your Short-Term Rental Business

Hey there, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the time and effort it takes to manage your short-term rental, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down the essential software tools that automate 75% of my hosting process—seriously, these are game-changers! From managing bookings to cleanings and pricing, these tools will save you time, increase your efficiency, and help you scale your business like a pro.

Key Takeaways for Automating Your STR Business

  1. Hospitable

    • Sync calendars across platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to prevent double bookings.
    • Automate guest communication and integrate with keyless entry systems like Schlage.
    • Bonus features include direct booking options and financial breakdowns for each booking.

    • Turno (Formerly TurnoverBnB)

      • Automates cleaning schedules and connects you with reliable cleaners worldwide.
      • Tracks inventory and offers invoicing options, though I prefer simpler alternatives for invoicing.

      • PriceLabs

        • Dynamic pricing adjusts nightly rates based on market demand, ensuring optimal revenue.
        • Customize settings for minimum, base, and maximum prices, plus last-minute booking discounts for slow months.

        • QuickBooks

          • Simplifies bookkeeping by tracking expenses and receipts, making tax prep a breeze.

          • Guidely and Canva

            • Create guest welcome guides (digital or printed) to enhance the guest experience and reduce common questions.

            • Google Sheets

              • A versatile tool for tracking cash flow, property analysis, and staying on top of your finances.
                • Why Listen to This Episode?

                Managing a short-term rental doesn’t have to consume all your time. With the right tools, you can automate the most time-consuming tasks and focus on what matters—growing your business and delivering an amazing guest experience. If you’re looking for ways to streamline your operations and free up your schedule, this episode is a must-listen.

                Mentioned in the Episode
                • Pricelabs: Maximize your profits! Get your first month FREE and $10 off your first paid month with this link.
                • Hospitable: Save $30 when you sign up here. Every dollar counts, so start saving time and money today!
                • Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
                  • Let’s Connect!

                  Have questions about automating your short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap, and I’ll help you get started or guide you through the process.

                  Work With Me

                  Are you a real estate agent interested in niching down into short-term rentals? Let’s chat! This niche is wide open in most markets, and with the right tools and strategy, you can dominate. Message me on Instagram, and we’ll make it happen!

                  Chapters

                  00:00 Introduction to Automation in Short-Term Rentals

                  07:20 Key Software for Property Management
                  11:29 Streamlining Cleaning Operations with Turno
                  18:42 Maximizing Revenue with PriceLabs
                  20:42 Bookkeeping and Financial Management Tools
                  21:11 Enhancing Guest Experience with Guidely and Canva

                  Subscribe and Share

                  Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with other hosts or agents looking to level up their short-term rental game. Let’s build smarter, more successful businesses together!

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                  How to Start an AirbnbBy Brittany Wenninger