How to Start an Airbnb

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

In this episode, I’m diving into Airbnb’s latest feature that’s got everyone talking: the Co-Host Network. Whether you want to earn money managing someone else’s listing or you’re a host who needs help, this episode breaks down everything you need to know. Plus, I share my honest take on whether co-hosting is really worth it—and why you should consider learning to automate your own STR first.

If you're thinking about managing STRs without owning property, or if you're an overwhelmed host ready to hand off the work—this episode is for you. I cover everything from how co-hosts are matched, to how this platform could be a new income stream, to when it might not make sense for you (yet). Plus, I share how to save money with my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator before jumping into the deep end.

Curious about becoming a co-host or hiring one for your listing?
DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or story! I’d love to help you think through what’s best for your STR goals.

Before you hire a co-host, learn to do it yourself with the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I’ll teach you how to automate your listing in just 30 minutes a week—no expensive management fees required. Use promo code airbnbroadmappodcast for $50 off!

00:00 – Life update: Baby girl is (almost) here!
02:30 – What is Airbnb’s Co-Host Network?
05:52 – The services co-hosts actually provide
11:22 – My take: Try automation before hiring a co-host
12:47 – Why my course is affordable (and how to save more)
15:01 – How much co-hosts earn & how they charge
17:25 – Flat fee vs. percentage: What’s better?
19:22 – Do you have to be local to co-host?
20:54 – Do you need hosting experience?
23:18 – How the co-host matching process works
25:20 – The huge difference between co-hosts and property managers
26:44 – Final thoughts: Should you co-host or hire one?

Enjoyed this episode? Hit subscribe and share it with a friend who’s exploring co-hosting or thinking about hiring one! Let’s keep building profitable short-term rentals—one smart decision at a time.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

This episode is raw, real, and packed with truth bombs. I’m pulling back the curtain on the mistakes I’ve made (and seen others make) when it comes to overspending on short-term rentals. We’re talking ROI—return on investment—and how to be smart with your money from the moment you close, all the way to guest checkout. From skipping unnecessary renos to investing where it actually matters, this one’s a must-listen if you want your STR to actually profit.

You’ve got design boards, Pinterest inspo, and a gut feeling that says “go big.” But before you overspend on custom cabinets or a $5K couch, hit play. This episode will help you stay grounded in strategy so you don’t blow your budget—and your profits.

Thinking about remodeling your Airbnb or unsure if a purchase is worth it?
DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Ready to launch your first (or next) short-term rental the smart way?
Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my signature course that walks you through every step, from setup to success. Airbnb Roadmap listeners get $50 off with the promo code. Need 1:1 help? Check out my mentorship program!

00:00 – Intro
01:53 – You closed! Now what?
03:11 – Fantasy design vs. business decisions
05:08 – Real talk: we almost renovated our kitchen
07:45 – The “buy too much house” mistake
08:33 – The upgrade spiral is real
09:39 – Guests don’t care about your trim
11:59 – What they do care about
13:06 – ROI must-haves: comfort, not cosmetics
17:03 – The mattress that haunts me
19:15 – Functional kitchens over fancy ones
22:27 – Spa-like bathrooms (without a reno)
23:31 – Tech, TVs, and touchpoints
27:10 – Lighting tips that matter
28:22 – Cleanliness & maintenance: don’t skip
29:54 – Communication is part of your ROI
31:54 – Is that upgrade for your guest—or for you?
33:52 – Pretty doesn’t mean profitable
34:32 – DM me your ROI questions

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be getting a little carried away on the spending. Let’s build profitable Airbnbs, not just pretty ones.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I tackle one of the biggest questions every short-term rental host eventually faces: Should you hire a property manager, or take the reins and self-manage? While I’ve always gone the self-management route, I’ve learned a lot from friends and fellow hosts about both sides of this decision—and I’m breaking it all down for you. From the pros and cons to the red flags and must-ask questions, this episode is packed with real-world insight to help you decide what’s right for your short-term rental journey.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a property manager—or felt overwhelmed by the idea of doing it all yourself—this episode is your decision-making cheat sheet. You’ll walk away with the clarity you need to either confidently delegate or strategically automate. Plus, I share some personal stories (like a flooded basement and a board game night gone wrong) that’ll give you a real sense of what it’s like to be in the hosting trenches.

Thinking about hiring a property manager or self-managing your 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.

Want help setting up or scaling your short-term rental? Let’s work together! Learn more about how I help investors and hosts build profitable, guest-loved properties—without the stress.
👉 frontporchrealtywi.com

00:00 – Welcome + Today’s Topic
00:53 – What Property Managers Do
03:30 – Pros of Hiring a Property Manager
06:23 – Real-Life Emergency Story
08:49 – Property Managers & Reviews
10:29 – Costs, Communication & Control
12:12 – Major Cons to Consider
18:26 – Losing the Personal Touch
20:52 – Damage Fees & Review Risks
22:10 – Red Flags to Look For
26:15 – Smart Questions to Ask
28:58 – Evolve as a National Option
31:54 – Do YOU Need a Property Manager?
33:00 – Final Thoughts & Let’s Connect

If this episode helped you out, I’d love it if you subscribed and left a review. Know someone debating between hiring or self-managing? Share this with them—it might be just what they need!

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and fellow Airbnb host, Julia, who shares her honest experience of becoming a first-time mom and first-time short-term rental investor—at the same time. We’re talking about pregnancy, property launches, hot tub struggles, and what it's really like to manage an STR with a newborn in tow. Whether you're a mom, future mom, or just juggling a lot while trying to build your STR business, this one’s for you.

This episode is raw, relatable, and packed with real-life tips for any host juggling a big life change. Julia keeps it honest about what’s hard, what’s possible, and what she wishes she knew when she started. If you're building a short-term rental business while also building your family—you’re not alone.

Thinking about buying an STR while navigating a big life change too?
DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Ready to launch your first (or next) short-term rental the smart way?
Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my signature course that walks you through every step, from setup to success. Airbnb Roadmap listeners get $50 off with the promo code. Need 1:1 help? Check out my mentorship program!

00:00 – Intro & how Julia and I met
01:02 – Julia’s background & first-time investor journey
03:36 – Why they invested before buying a primary home
07:54 – Surprise: pregnant after the offer was accepted!
12:09 – Launching an STR while 6 months pregnant
14:39 – Splitting responsibilities with a supportive partner
16:15 – The truth about hot tubs (and how they manage theirs)
21:35 – Balancing STR tasks with newborn life
24:48 – The reality of hosting during maternity leave
28:00 – How becoming a mom changed her STR setup
30:29 – Biggest struggles (and what helped the most)
35:13 – Plans for expanding and future use of their STR
36:10 – Final advice for first-time moms and first-time investors
41:45 – Where to find Julia online

Know a mom, investor, or STR host who needs to hear this episode?
Hit subscribe, leave a review, and send this to someone who’s navigating the same season. We’re all figuring it out—let’s do it together.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

If you're buying a home in Wisconsin—whether as a primary residence, investment property, or short-term rental—you need to understand how to craft a strong, competitive offer to purchase. In this episode, I walk you through the WB-11 Residential Offer to Purchase, breaking down key sections, contingencies, and pro tips to increase your chances of winning in a competitive market.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an Airbnb investor, or a real estate agent, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the offer process with confidence!

If you’re buying real estate in Wisconsin—especially for an Airbnb investment—this episode gives you insider knowledge on writing an effective and strategic offer. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes, negotiate like a pro, and protect your investment.

Need expert guidance for buying a home or short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your experience! I’d love to help you out.

Looking for a real estate agent who understands short-term rental investing? Work with me at Front Porch Realty. I specialize in finding profitable Airbnb properties and structuring offers that win.

00:00 - Intro: Why This Episode is a Must-Listen
01:00 - What is an Offer to Purchase?
03:00 - Key Sections of Wisconsin’s WB-11 Offer
06:00 - What to Include & Exclude in the Offer
09:30 - Seller Credits & Earnest Money Explained
14:00 - Writing a Competitive Offer in a Seller’s Market
19:00 - Inspection Contingencies & How to Negotiate Repairs
25:00 - Appraisal Contingencies & What to Do if the House Undervalues
30:00 - Financing Contingencies & Protecting Yourself from Rate Changes
35:00 - Pro Tips for Writing Offers on Short-Term Rentals
42:00 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Enjoying The Airbnb Roadmap? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! If this helped you, share it with a friend who's buying a home or investing in real estate.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

If you’ve ever wondered how to find, analyze, purchase, and set up a profitable short-term rental, this episode is for you! I’m walking you through every single step my husband Clay and I took to buy our latest Airbnb investment property—from spotting the deal to financing options, negotiating the offer, planning renovations, furnishing the space, and getting it ready for guests.

Whether you're a first-time Airbnb investor or looking to scale your portfolio, this episode is a must-listen. Learn from our process, avoid common pitfalls, and discover expert tips for launching a successful vacation rental.

If you’re interested in Airbnb investing, vacation rental properties, or making passive income with short-term rentals, this episode gives you the exact blueprint to follow. I break down every decision, from financing and design to negotiating deals and managing renovations, so you can confidently launch and scale your own Airbnb business.

Thinking about buying an Airbnb or growing your short-term rental business? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Looking for expert help in finding and purchasing the perfect short-term rental property? Work with me at Front Porch Realty, where I specialize in Airbnb-friendly real estate investments in Wisconsin and beyond.

00:00 - Why I Mention Real Broker LLC for Compliance
01:00 - How We Found This Airbnb Investment Property
05:00 - Short-Term Rental Analysis: Running the Numbers
09:30 - Choosing the Best Loan for Airbnb Investors
14:00 - Negotiating the Best Deal on a Vacation Rental
19:00 - Renovation Planning for Short-Term Rentals
23:00 - Airbnb Interior Design: DIY vs. Hiring a Designer
28:00 - How to Furnish an Airbnb & Order Logistics
32:00 - Hiring Airbnb Cleaners, Handymen & Property Managers
37:00 - Prepping for Launch: Pricing, Photography & Listing Optimization

Enjoying The Airbnb Roadmap? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! If you found this helpful, share it with a friend who’s thinking about investing in Airbnbs or short-term rentals.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

Furnishing your short-term rental isn’t as simple as just throwing in some furniture and calling it a day. In this episode, I break down everything you need to consider to make your rental stand out while maximizing guest satisfaction and profitability. From choosing between designing it yourself or hiring an interior designer to must-have essentials and budgeting tips, I cover it all. Plus, I share a life update on our latest STR purchase, the lessons we learned, and the hilarious way we transported a mattress to our new property.

Why furnishing your STR strategically can boost bookings and profits

The pros and cons of DIY design vs. hiring an interior designer

Budgeting tips and how to get high-quality furniture without overspending

The importance of understanding your target audience before designing

Essential items every STR should have (plus my favorite cost-saving hacks!)

Lessons learned from my latest STR purchase and renovation process

Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re setting up a short-term rental, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make smart design choices. Whether you’re furnishing your first property or your tenth, you’ll walk away with actionable tips to create a beautiful and functional space that keeps guests coming back.

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Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP

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

Let’s Connect Thinking about furnishing your short-term rental? 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 expert guidance in setting up and optimizing your short-term rental? Let’s work together! Check out my services at Front Porch Realty.

Chapters 00:01 Life update – Our latest STR purchase 05:07 The unexpected mattress struggle 11:53 Designing your STR: DIY vs. hiring a designer 15:34 Understanding your target audience before furnishing 18:38 Budgeting tips for STR furniture 23:54 The must-have essential items for guests 32:05 Making your STR stand out with cohesive design 40:09 Cost-saving tips for kitchenware, linens, and decor 44:34 Lessons learned and final furnishing tips

Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share it with a fellow host who needs help furnishing their STR.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I sit down with Stephanie Dietrich to discuss the ins and outs of investing in short-term rentals out of state. Stephanie shares her journey into real estate investing, including the fears and challenges she faced purchasing a short-term rental four hours from home. From licensing hurdles to finding a reliable team, Stephanie opens up about what it takes to successfully manage a property from afar. Plus, we dive into the pros and cons of working with a property manager versus self-managing and how regulations impact the short-term rental game. If you’ve ever thought about expanding your real estate portfolio beyond your local market, this episode is for you!

If you’ve ever considered investing in short-term rentals beyond your local market but felt hesitant due to distance and lack of control, this episode is packed with insights to help you overcome those fears. Stephanie’s experience shows that with the right team and mindset, you can successfully manage an out-of-state rental and grow your investment portfolio with confidence.

Stephanie Dietrich : Instagram: @theczechcottage

Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today!

Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r

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

Thinking about investing in short-term rentals out of state? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Want help finding and setting up the perfect short-term rental property? I specialize in helping investors find, analyze, and launch successful Airbnb properties. Check out my services at Front Porch Realty or reach out on Instagram!

00:00 – Intro & Getting to Know Stephanie Dietrich 03:30 – Stephanie’s Background & Transition into STR Investing 10:00 – Why She Chose an Out-of-State Investment 15:30 – Managing a Short-Term Rental from 4 Hours Away 20:00 – Property Managers vs. Self-Managing 30:00 – Regulatory & Licensing Challenges 40:00 – The Unexpected Costs of Cleaning & Maintenance 50:00 – The Financial Upside of Short-Term Rentals 55:00 – Final Thoughts & Where to Find Stephanie

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Share this episode with anyone considering investing in short-term rentals—especially those thinking about expanding beyond their home state.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

Cleaning and maintenance may not be the most glamorous part of hosting, but trust me—it’s one of the most important. In today’s episode, I’m diving into the best practices that will keep your short-term rental spotless and running smoothly. I’ll share hard-learned lessons from managing our properties, including one unforgettable nightmare guest. You’ll also hear tips on how to train your cleaners, conduct maintenance audits, and reduce guest questions with clever automation tricks. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work!

Why Cleaning Matters – A spotless property builds trust, earns five-star reviews, and reduces complaints.

Guest Expectations – Poor maintenance can ruin a guest’s experience and hurt your reputation.

Bed Setup Tips – Use three sets of linens per bed to speed up turnovers and offer early check-ins.

Kitchen & Appliance Care – Regularly clean appliances like ovens, toasters, and coffee machines to maintain a polished look.

Living Room Details – Clean under and inside couches, and avoid white rugs to minimize visible stains.

Bathrooms Matter – Provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and ensure no hair or grime is left behind.

Maintenance Audits – Conduct quarterly audits to catch issues before guests do, such as broken arcade games or malfunctioning doors.

Automate Guest Instructions – Use guides and QR codes for appliances, showers, and Wi-Fi to reduce guest inquiries.

Cleaning and maintenance can directly impact your short-term rental’s profitability. In this episode, I provide essential best practices to ensure your guests have a spotless, stress-free stay. You’ll learn how to work with cleaners, automate tasks, and avoid negative reviews.

Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today! Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r

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

Thinking about improving your cleaning and maintenance processes? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Are you a real estate agent or investor looking to optimize your short-term rental strategy? Let's team up! Message me on Instagram to learn more about my mentorship program and how we can grow your business together.

Chapters: 00:01 Introduction – Why Cleaning and Maintenance Are Crucial 02:21 Nightmare Guest Story – How One Guest Created a Four-Day Headache 08:09 Cleaning Best Practices – Bed Setup, Linens, and Early Check-Ins 12:50 Kitchen Maintenance – Appliance Care and Cabinet Organization 17:18 Living Room Cleaning – Nooks, Crannies, and Rug Considerations 23:39 Bathroom Essentials – Providing Amenities and Ensuring Cleanliness 28:25 Maintenance Audits – Room-by-Room Inspections and Guest Feedback 35:12 Automation Tips – Guides, QR Codes, and Guest Communication 41:12 Final Thoughts – Prioritizing Cleaning for Five-Star Reviews

Subscribe and Share Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone who could benefit from these tips. Let’s create better guest experiences and smarter businesses together!

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY

Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today’s episode is all about picking the right property for short-term rental success. Not all homes are created equal, and finding the perfect investment property goes beyond good looks. I'll break down the key things to consider when touring properties, from location and layout to amenities and zoning laws. Plus, I share some real-life examples to help you spot red and yellow flags during inspections. Oh, and a little life update: Clay and I are renovating a nursery for our first baby girl!

Finding the right property is a crucial step in your short-term rental journey. In this episode, I share exactly what to look for when touring homes, so you can make smart investments and avoid costly mistakes. If you're about to purchase or renovate a property, you don’t want to miss this!

Thinking about purchasing a short-term rental property? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Are you a real estate agent or investor looking to optimize your short-term rental strategy? Let's team up! Message me on Instagram to learn more about my mentorship program and how we can grow your business together.

Chapters: 00:00 Life Update – Renovating a Nursery & 2025 Plans 02:08 Introduction – Picking the Right Property for Short-Term Rentals 03:14 Location Factors to Consider 05:28 Accessibility and Neighborhood Vibes 07:17 Layout Considerations – Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Common Areas 10:19 Outdoor Spaces – Backyards, Patios, and Balconies 13:01 Parking Concerns and Township Scrutiny 15:08 Red Flags in Property Inspections 20:48 Yellow Flags – Mold, Roofing, and Electrical Issues 24:05 Fixer-Uppers vs. Turnkey Investments 27:51 Essential Amenities – Kitchens, Laundry, and Wi-Fi 31:53 Final Thoughts – Key Takeaways for Touring Properties

Subscribe and Share Loved this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone looking to purchase their own short-term rental. Let’s build smarter, more profitable investments together!