The STR Sisterhood

Running an Airbnb Business After Loss: Sharon Pace’s Story of Resilience


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Can a single moment shift everything — not just in business, but in life? In this profoundly moving episode, I sit down with Sharon Pace, a resilient real estate investor whose world was turned upside down after the loss of her husband. What followed was a journey of deep grief, unexpected strength, and an unwavering commitment to continue the life and business they had built together.


Sharon opens up about stepping into unfamiliar territory—taking over their short-term rental business, learning new systems, and facing daily challenges—while processing unimaginable loss. But her turning point came at the LIVE BIG Beach Retreat, where community, mindset shifts, and emotional support sparked her healing and helped her rediscover purpose in her work.


We talk about the realities no one prepares for: how to plan ahead as a couple, the unpredictable waves of grief, and the power of saying yes to growth even when you feel anything but ready. Sharon’s story is filled with vulnerability, courage, and wisdom—reminding us that in the darkest seasons, support and intention can light the path forward.


Whether you're building a business with your partner, navigating solo entrepreneurship, or simply searching for strength during life’s toughest moments, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep going—and to believe in what’s possible!



HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY POINTS:


[01:03] A short introduction about our guest Sharon Pace and how she got started with short-term rentals space

[03:05] Sharon shares the deeply personal story of her husband's prolonged health battles and how it became the catalyst for her to start their investment journey

[11:22] Sharon shares how she took over their short-term rental business from her husband, navigating the challenges with support from friends and a supportive community

[17:35] Sharon reflects on the importance of planning ahead to ease the burden on the surviving spouse and emphasizes the value of legal, financial, and tech support to avoid extra stress

[21:05] How a pivotal mindset shift occurred when Sharon attended Live Big Retreat, which became a turning point in her healing process

[25:27] Sharon talks about how grief is unpredictable and emphasizes the power of supportive groups as essential pillars in her healing

[28:43] Sharon shares that after going through deep personal loss, she’s become intentional about only keeping supportive, positive people in her life and business

[31:27] How Sharon approached learning new things even when she didn't feel ready

[33:53] Sharon’s advice for someone who may be starting out on their short term rental journey and maybe doing this solo or with their spouse

[37:23] The lightning round



Golden Nuggets:


  • “I would say that to anyone out there, oh, have a will, have a trust, do all these things, put everything in order, make sure your properties are in the right LLC, or if they're in a personal name, the beneficiary is listed out because it's so much work on the surviving spouse to have to figure all this out.”
  • “Your network really is your net worth, honestly, but not only in the real estate realm, but also friendship.”
  • “Find a real estate agent who has their own short term rentals that knows the industry inside and out.”

  • This episode is brought to you by StayFi — the easiest way to grow your direct bookings!
    ⁠http://stayfi.com/STRSisterhood⁠

    Use the code “SISTERHOOD” at checkout for 50% off your first 3 months.

    Let’s Connect!


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonkaypace/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharon.d.pace


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    The STR SisterhoodBy Stacey St. John

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