In this engaging episode of "The Host As Guest," host Leo sits down with Jeremy Worden, co-founder of BNBCalc, seasoned short-term rental owner, and experiential travel aficionado. Jeremy shares his unique journey from launching a boat rental business amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to becoming a prominent figure in the STR world, managing over 20 properties with a focus on creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Key Highlights:

• The Accidental STR Mogul: Learn how Jeremy transitioned from boat rentals to property management, spotting investment opportunities and developing a passion for experiential hospitality.
• B&B Calc's Origin Story: Discover the inspiration behind BNBCalc, a powerful tool born from the need to streamline property analysis and present compelling financial projections to owners and investors.
• Team Dynamics in STR Investing: Jeremy candidly discusses the importance of defining roles when partnering on property investments, emphasizing the need for a dedicated operator and passive investors.
• Direct Marketing Mastery: Uncover the secrets behind Jeremy's direct marketing approach, driving traffic through viral reels and social media engagement to attract the ideal guest avatar.
• Guest Avatar First: Jeremy challenges the conventional wisdom of market-first investing, advocating for a guest-centric approach that prioritizes understanding and catering to the target demographic.
• The Power of Experiential Hospitality: Explore Jeremy's passion for creating unique and memorable experiences for multiple families, focusing on properties with distinct amenities and features.
• OTAs as Allies, Not Enemies: Learn how to leverage OTAs like Airbnb to finalize bookings while maintaining a direct relationship with customers through effective branding and marketing strategies.
• Natural Scarcity and Defensible Assets: Gain insights into Jeremy's investment philosophy, seeking out properties with unique, hard-to-replicate features that ensure long-term defensibility and value.
• The Future of STRs: Jeremy shares his perspective on the evolving STR landscape, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing demand patterns and focusing on properties that offer lasting appeal.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify your guest avatar before investing in a market.
• Differentiate between direct marketing and direct bookings.
• Focus on creating unique experiences that cater to a specific target audience.
• Leverage OTAs strategically while building your own brand.
• Seek out properties with "natural scarcity" to ensure long-term defensibility.
• The STR industry offers unique opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to succeed in the dynamic world of short-term rentals. Tune in to gain a competitive edge and unlock the potential of experiential hospitality!

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