Host Planet: Airbnb, Holiday Let, and Vacation Rental Insights

On this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, Bevan Thompson from Hostfully breaks pricing down to what actually fills calendars without killing profit. He explains why most hosts should lean on dynamic pricing – with smart guardrails – so rates rise when demand spikes and ease off when the market softens. The goal isn’t the lowest price or the highest price; it’s the right price today based on seasonality, lead time, events, and how your comp set is behaving.

Bevan also covers the essentials of tracking seasonal demand, watching your competitive set, and deploying promotional pricing the right way. Most importantly, every tactic must pass a simple test: are you still in profit after fees, cleaning, and taxes? He closes with how Hostfully’s PMS centralises pricing, calendars, and channel distribution – plus digital guidebooks that lift guest experience and repeat stays.

Key takeaways:

1. Use dynamic pricing – with guardrails. Let software adjust nightly rates automatically, but set minimums, maximums, and stay rules so you don’t underprice peak weekends or overprice shoulder dates. Revisit floor/ceiling rates monthly as demand shifts.

2. Track seasonality and your comp set. Monitor pacing and local events, then compare your ADR, occupancy, and RevPAR against similar listings. Adjust for lead time (early vs last-minute), and tweak minimum-stay and check-in rules to capture demand pockets.

3. Promotions must protect margin. Run targeted offers (e.g., last-minute discounts, midweek deals, longer-stay breaks) only after confirming all-in costs – cleaning, platform fees, taxes, and ops. Use a PMS like Hostfully to push updates across channels and pair promos with guidebook upsells to grow revenue per stay.

1:53 Consider using dynamic pricing 

4:20 Track seasonal demand 

5:21 Understand your market and competition

6:55 Promotional pricing

8:11 Make sure you’re in profit!

9:42 Check out Hostfully’s PMS and digital guidebooks: https://www.hostfully.com/influencers/host_planet/?pscd=get.hostfully.com&ps_partner_key=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy&ps_xid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gsxid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gspk=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://www.hostfully.com/influencers/host_planet/?pscd=get.hostfully.com&ps_partner_key=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy&ps_xid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gsxid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gspk=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Hostfully: https://www.hostfully.com/influencers/host_planet/?pscd=get.hostfully.com&ps_partner_key=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy&ps_xid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gsxid=SuzwsrHUM40Auh&gspk=amFtZXN2YXJsZXkzMjAy

Episode to check next: From OTAs to Direct: STR Listing Strategy with Hostfully: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o22WbSpdlZo&t=3s

Host Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #BevanThompson #Pricing #DynamicPricing

On this month's Host Planet Mortgage Podcast, Joe Stallard from House and Holiday Home Mortgages walks holiday let owners through the practical steps that make a mortgage application faster and stronger. From the very first checklist – ID, proof of address, income evidence, and bank statements – to how lenders read those documents, Joe explains what underwriters look for and how small oversights can slow everything down.

The conversation also covers real sticking points: proving income (employed vs self-employed), what lenders want to see on bank statements, how applications change for expats and other special cases, and why affordability is assessed differently from lender to lender. Joe breaks down concepts like top slicing (combining rental income with personal salary), proof of deposit, and whether the recent base rate cut is filtering through to products yet – so you know what to prepare and what to expect.

Key takeaways:

1. Preparation = speed and confidence. Have core documents ready before you speak to a lender: photo ID, proof of address, last three months’ bank statements, income evidence (payslips/P60 for employed; SA302s/tax calculations, tax year overviews and accounts for self-employed), plus any supporting info a broker requests. Clean, complete paperwork can materially improve your application timeline.

2. Affordability isn’t one-size-fits-all. Holiday let lenders model affordability in different ways. Some lean heavily on projected rental income, others assess personal affordability and may allow top slicing (using salary to support the loan). Expect extra questions if you’re an expat or have complex circumstances – answering them well can open up more options.

3. Know your proof-of-funds and the market context. Be ready to evidence the deposit (savings trail, equity release, gift letter, etc.). Joe also explains how to think about product choice around a base rate cut – headline rates can move, but criteria and documentation standards still rule the day, so focus on a clean, complete application to secure the best available terms.

1:18 Getting your documents ready can have a big impact on your application

1:51 The documents you need to get started

2:59 Proving your income 

3:58 Proving your income when self-employed

5:18 Bank statement essentials 

6:28 Lender questions in special circumstances, such as expat customers

7:26 Affordability for holiday let mortgages 

9:33 Lender approaches differ in relation to affordability 

11:14 Some lenders consider ‘top slicing’ by looking at rental income and salary

11:56 Proof of deposit 

13:35 Has the base rate cut had an impact on products?

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Joe Stallard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-stallard-9b462429/

House and Holiday Home Mortgages: https://www.hhhmortgages.com/host-planet

Episode to check next: Holiday Let Mortgages Explained: What You Need To Know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeiKXfMDLq8&t=1s

Host Planet Mortgage Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #HolidayLets #HolidayLetMortgage #Mortgages #JoeStallard #JamesVarley

On this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, James Varley sits down with Andy Fenner, Chief Executive of the Short Term Accommodation Association (STAA), to announce the Host Planet Roadshow 2026 – a national series built for short-term rental hosts, property managers, agencies, and industry professionals.

Kicking off in Cornwall in February 2026 and rolling through Portsmouth, London, Nottingham, Bath, Chester, and Edinburgh, the roadshow will bring practical guidance, policy clarity, and real-world hosting tips to the regions that power the UK’s short-term rental economy.

Host Planet and STAA are teaming up to deliver hands-on sessions and candid conversations with industry leaders and local stakeholders. Expect updates on regulation and compliance, frameworks for raising standards, and concrete tactics to grow responsibly – alongside structured networking and data-led insights tailored to each city’s market realities.

Key takeaways:

1. Host Planet x STAA partnership. The 2026 roadshow is a joint effort to professionalise the sector, align on best practice, and channel regional feedback into national advocacy, so hosts have both practical tools and a stronger voice.

2. Built for action, not theory. Each stop features regulation demystified, compliance checklists, and revenue/operations playbooks (with local case studies), plus time for Q&As and on-the-spot problem solving with experts.

3. Local focus, national impact. By visiting Cornwall, Portsmouth, London, Nottingham, Bath, Chester, and Edinburgh, the series meets hosts where they operate – helping them raise standards, connect with peers and partners, and shape the policy conversation from the ground up.

1:16 Host Planet Roadshow 2026

2:14 The importance of regional events

5:06 Your chance to connect with the industry

6:44 Take part in crucial conversations with politicians

9:02 Learning from others is essential 

10:18 James outlines details of the full Host Planet Roadshow 2026

11:37 The soon-to-be-unveiled registration scheme

13:29 Why the registration scheme is good news for the holiday let sector

16:01 It’s vital the registration scheme is simple and easy-to-use

17:23 STAA lobbying: the government needs to understand the benefits of our industry

20:04 The benefits of supporting the STAA

21:56 Join the STAA for just £15 per month: https://ukstaa.org/

23:10 Individual shout-out: Diane Lloyd

27:06 What you can do to protect the STR industry

Get in touch with the STAA: [email protected]

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Andy Fenner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfenner2025/

Short Term Accommodation Association: https://ukstaa.org/

Episode to check next: Is Your Direct Booking Website Useless? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGewt3ZV6UA&t=391s

The Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #HostPlanetRoadshow #UKRoadshow #HolidayLetEvents #UK #STAA #AndyFenner

Short-term rental distribution can make or break your occupancy. In this episode, Joseph Cox from Hostfully breaks down where you must be listed, how Airbnb and Booking.com dominate demand, and what truly differentiates the major online travel agencies (OTAs). He also spotlights niche platforms that punch above their weight for certain audiences, plus UK-focused sites like Simply Owners and GroupAccommodation.com that can deliver high-intent traffic.

Beyond OTAs, Joseph explains how to unlock Google Vacation Rentals, why a PMS is essential for syncing calendars/rates and maximising exposure, and the importance of owning your funnel with a direct booking website. He closes with a reminder about platform risk – don’t rely on a single channel – and how Hostfully’s PMS and digital guidebooks can help you convert more stays and upsell with less effort.

Key takeaways:

- Be everywhere that matters. Start with Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo, then layer in relevant niche platforms to reach specific guest segments.

- Distribute smartly, not manually. Use a PMS to push listings, sync availability/rates, and connect to Google Vacation Rentals – and back it up with a direct booking site you control.

- Reduce platform risk and boost revenue. Don’t depend on one OTA; spread demand across channels and use tools like digital guidebooks to improve guest experience, drive upsells, and increase repeat direct bookings.

1:56 Where you need to be listed

2:51 Airbnb and Booking.com are the big boys

3:37 Airbnb’s popularity

4:52 The differences between Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo

6:01 Other niche platforms

6:56 UK listing sites like Simply Owners and GroupAccommodation.com

8:05 How to get listed on Google Vacation Rentals

9:36 How a PMS can help ensure maximum exposure 

10:32 Why you need a direct booking website

12:00 The risk in only being listed on one platform

13:30 Check out Hostfully’s PMS

14:29 Hostfully digital guidebooks

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook?

You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://www.hostfully.com/influencers/host_planet/

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Joseph Cox: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmicox/

Hostfully: https://www.hostfully.com/influencers/host_planet/

Episode to check next: Learn How To Take Great Photos For Your Airbnb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vi9XiAQ1H-0&t=2s

Host Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #ListingPlatforms

In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – Matt Jeffery from Zeal Tax breaks down the recent changes to the Furnished Holiday Lettings (FHL) tax regime and what they mean for short-term rental owners and investors. With the FHL regime being abolished in April, many hosts are left wondering how this will affect their current tax position, future investments, and overall profitability.

Matt provides practical advice on navigating the transition, from understanding the impact on capital allowances to strategic planning for future tax efficiency. His key message? Don’t panic – there’s still time to take action and protect your financial interests.

Key takeaways:

1. The FHL regime may be gone, but capital allowances are still in play. Owners can still make claims before their next tax return is due, ensuring they don’t miss out on valuable relief.

2. New investors need to rethink their approach. The changes will affect how properties are evaluated for tax purposes, making early advice and accurate structuring essential.

3. STR businesses should step up and support their clients. Property managers and industry professionals need to educate their owners about the implications of these changes and encourage proactive tax planning.

1:04 What changed in April?

3:43 What does it mean for current holiday let owners?

5:57 The implications for new holiday let investors

8:05 James’s kitchen question

9:38 The biggest issues owners are facing

16:24 There is still time to claim capital allowances!

19:29 Can you offset capital allowances against a capital tax gains bill?

20:41 The amount of capital allowances you could expect from the average property

21:58 What STR businesses should be doing to help their clients

24:00 Matt’s message: don’t panic!

25:14 Register for Holiday Let Success: https://www.hostplanet.club/events

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Matt Jeffery: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-jeffery-156a8245/

Zeal Tax: https://gozeal.co.uk/services/industries/host-planet-furnished-holiday-lets/

Call: 01633 287898

Email: [email protected]

Episode to check next: Where To Buy A Holiday Let In The UK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsndRmmn6VU&t=3s

The Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #FHL #FurnishedHolidayLets #Tax #CapitalAllowances

In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – Jennifer Knight from Savvy Social Solutions shares actionable tips for short-term rental hosts looking to step up their Instagram game. From creating authentic content that showcases your property’s personality to leveraging location-based posts that catch the right audience, Jennifer breaks down how hosts can stand out in a crowded feed.

Whether you’re wondering how often to post, how to use Reels and Stories effectively, or if having a perfectly curated grid still matters, Jennifer’s advice is simple: focus on what makes you unique. This masterclass is packed with practical tips to boost visibility, build trust, and turn browsers into bookings.

Key takeaways:

1. Showcase the experience, not just the space. Post mini-tours of your property, highlight unique features, and share guest testimonials to build credibility and connection.

2. Location matters. Incorporate local landmarks and experiences into your posts to attract guests searching for stays in your area.

3. Be consistent and authentic. Don’t stress about a perfectly manicured grid – focus on Reels, Stories, and content that reflects the true personality of your rental.

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Jennifer Knight: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-knight1/

Savvy Social Solutions: https://www.savvysocialsolutions.com/

Episode to check next: Master Your Minimum Stay Strategy with PriceLabs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TivYkUjBrMI&t=158s

Host Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #Instagram #JenniferKnight #SavvySocialSolutions

In this episode of Holiday Let Insider, Rachel Brennan, Senior Manager of Property Onboarding at Sykes Holiday Cottages, explains why partnering with an agency can be a game-changer for holiday let owners. Drawing on her experience helping thousands of property owners navigate the onboarding process, Rachel highlights how Sykes provides the tools, expertise, and daily support to make hosting simpler and more profitable.

Whether you’re a first-time holiday let owner or feeling overwhelmed managing your property solo, Rachel offers practical advice on how Sykes empowers owners to stay in control while taking the stress out of the day-to-day. From pricing strategies to boosting visibility and managing guest communication, this episode is packed with insights on why “going it alone” might not be the best path to success.

Key takeaways:

1. Tailored support, not one-size-fits-all. Sykes offers flexible management packages based on each owner’s needs – whether you want full-service support or just help with bookings, the choice is yours.

2. Owners always stay in control. Working with Sykes doesn’t mean losing control. You set the pricing, approve bookings, and have the final say on every key decision, with Sykes providing expert advice to optimise results.

3. Partnering with a trusted brand drives bookings. Listing with a household name like Sykes instantly boosts your property’s visibility and credibility, helping you secure more bookings and get your nightly rates right from day one.

1:55 Why work with an agency instead of going it alone?

5:44 The support Sykes provides on a day-to-day basis

8:57 Build a package depending on your needs

9:59 The owner stays in control of pricing (and everything else)

11:25 The onboarding process with Sykes

13:43 The visibility difference = more bookings

16:47 Getting the nightly rates right

19:32 Trust and credibility with a household name

21:53 Feeling overwhelmed with your holiday let? Talk to Sykes

23:49 The commission owners pay

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Rachel Brennan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-brennan-26098118a/

Sykes Holiday Cottages: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/letyourcottage/

Episode to check next: Thinking of Buying a Holiday Let? Watch This First: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6anSm_lgte4&t=6s

Holiday Let Insider is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #SykesCottages #JamesVarley #RachelBrennan

In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, powered by Hostfully, we sit down with Jeremy Gall, the Founder and CEO of Breezeway, to explore what it really takes to run smart operations in the short-term rental (STR) world. From his early days building FlipKey to his current mission with Breezeway, Jeremy brings a wealth of experience and insight into the operational challenges hosts and property managers face today – and how technology can help them overcome these hurdles.

Jeremy dives into the balance between automation and human touch, how to build better systems for proactive guest communication, and the most common mistakes STR operators make. Whether you're managing five listings or 50, this episode is packed with strategies to help you streamline operations, scale effectively, and create better guest experiences.

Key takeaways:

1. Operations make or break the guest experience. Clear processes, task automation, and a proactive approach to communication are essential. Operational gaps can lead to missed cleanings, poor guest reviews, and unnecessary stress.

2. Proactive messaging builds trust. Jeremy outlines the ideal guest communication schedule – from pre-arrival to post-checkout – and explains how Breezeway helps hosts deliver timely, informative messages that solve issues before they arise.

3. Tech can’t replace human connection – but it can enhance it. The future of STR operations isn’t just AI and automation. It’s about finding the right tools to support human decisions and deliver service at scale – without losing the personal touch.

0:00 Episode starts

1:05 How STR hosts can improve operations

3:54 Common mistakes

7:25 How to get your operations running smoothly

8:59 Getting the balance right between automation and the human touch

11:25 The importance of proactive guest communication (and how Breezeway can support)

15:22 The optimum proactive messaging schedule 

18:20 Solving issues quickly with guest comms 

20:03 How Breezeway helps hosts

21:53 From FlipKey to Breezeway

24:05 Exciting tech trends in short-term rentals

25:15 The impact of AI on STR operations

26:45 Favourite brand: Casago

27:32 Individual shout-out: Tim Cafferty from Outer Banks Blue in North Carolina

28:24 What Jeremy would change about the STR industry

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Jeremy Gall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremiahgall/

Breezeway: https://www.breezeway.io/vacation-rental?utm_campaign=11079539-Host%20Planet&utm_source=Host%20Planet

Episode to check next: Is Your Direct Booking Website Useless? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGewt3ZV6UA&t=8s

The Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #JeremyGall #Breezeway

In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, powered by Hostfully, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked – and often most frustrating – aspects of short-term rental management: trash. Alex Shapiro, CEO and Co-Founder of CanMonkey, joins us to share five practical tips to help hosts manage waste more efficiently, avoid neighbour complaints, and protect their guest experience.

From sticking to the local schedule to setting up an on-call removal service, Alex walks us through the real-world strategies that work – and why trash should never be treated as an afterthought. Whether you’re managing one listing or 50, this episode offers valuable, actionable advice to keep your bins (and your guests) in check.

Key takeaways:

1. Stay on schedule. Missing trash day can lead to overflowing bins, complaints from neighbours, and a ruined guest experience. Know the local pick-up days and align your turnover schedule accordingly.

2. Automate where possible. Consider using a “can-to-kerb” service like CanMonkey to eliminate manual bin handling. It’s especially helpful for remote hosts or busy urban properties.

3. Be a good neighbour. Waste mismanagement isn’t just a nuisance –it can damage relationships with the local community. A tidy, consistent trash routine is a small step that makes a big difference.

0:00 Episode starts

1:55 Stick to the local trash schedule 

2:52 Label your bins clearly

3:48 Invest in extra trash cans 

5:53 Have a local rubbish removal company on standby

7:01 Consider a can-to-kerb service like CanMonkey

7:54 CanMonkey automates trash day

9:22 The importance of being a good neighbour

11:00 CanMonkey is operational across the United States

12:26 Starting the business by accident!

16:07 CanMonkey: https://www.canmonkey.com/

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Alex Shapiro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-alexander-shapiro-74b47259/

CanMonkey: https://www.canmonkey.com/

Episode to check next: Master Your Minimum Stay Strategy With PriceLabs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TivYkUjBrMI&t=5s

Host Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #AlexShapiro #CanMonkey

In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, we dive into the world of automation, AI, and practical tech tools that help short-term rental (STR) hosts reclaim their time and streamline operations.

Our guest is Adam Buckmaster, Director, Product Marketing & Strategic Solutions at eviivo, a leading property management system (PMS) known for empowering hosts through smart, integrated technology. From instant messaging tools to smart guest communications and forward-thinking features, Adam shares invaluable insights into the future of frictionless hosting.

Whether you're managing one property or a growing portfolio, this episode covers the must-know tech tips that can dramatically reduce your daily admin. Adam also shares his thoughts on where the industry is heading in 2025, how eviivo is carving out a niche in the competitive PMS space, and why direct bookings still matter more than ever. For hosts who want to stay ahead of the curve without burning out, this episode is a must-listen.

Key takeaways:

1. Embrace automation, but stay human. Automation can save STR hosts hours every week – but Adam stresses that it's most powerful when it enhances rather than replaces the guest experience. Think smart messaging tools that deliver helpful info at the right time, without sounding robotic.

2. Direct bookings still matter. While OTAs are important, Adam highlights that building your direct booking pipeline remains crucial for long-term success. eviivo offers tools to help hosts market directly, reduce commission costs, and build brand loyalty.

3. Adopt AI – even if you’re sceptical. For hosts hesitant about using AI, Adam offers reassurance: start small, use trusted tools, and don’t let fear hold you back. AI isn’t just the future – it’s already helping thousands of hosts save time and delight guests today.

0:11 How can hosts save time with automation and AI

6:35 The best times to communicate with guests

10:31 Keep a close eye on guest messages

13:07 Message to reluctant AI adopters

16:48 Airbnb Experiences 

20:28 2025 trends

23:10 How eviivo stands out in the PMS space

28:03 Direct bookings

32:09 Favourite brand: Key Data 

32:54 Individual shout-out: Ana Harrison 

34:03 Top tips to hosts who want to save time

Looking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!

Check out these special offers:

Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.

Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.

Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2C

Email Frank: [email protected] 

Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Adam Buckmaster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adambuckmaster/

eviivo: https://eviivo.com/

Episode to check next: Stop Building on Someone Else's Land: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbADM2DROtM&t=6s

The Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Contact the show: [email protected]

#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #eviivo #AdamBuckmaster