If you’ve ever wondered how to scale your short-term rental business or pivot into a new real estate niche, boutique hotels might be the perfect opportunity for you. Boutique hotel investing combines the fundamentals of STRs—guest experience, revenue management, and location—but on a much larger scale. And the best part? Unlike single-family STRs, boutique hotels are valued based on income, not comps, giving you more control over asset appreciation.

In this episode of Short Term Rental Riches, Tim interviews Rich Somers, a seasoned real estate investor with an $80M portfolio of boutique hotels. Rich shares his journey from managing Airbnbs to acquiring and renovating underperforming boutique hotels in some of the most competitive markets. Along the way, he highlights essential strategies, like leveraging seller financing, navigating Airbnb regulations, and mastering SEO and direct bookings. Whether you’re just starting in real estate investing or are a seasoned STR operator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you grow your portfolio while maximizing guest experience and revenue.

• STRs vs. Boutique Hotels: Boutique hotels offer scale and operational control, and their valuation is based on income instead of comparable properties. This allows investors to force appreciation by increasing revenue.

• Creative Financing Strategies: Many boutique hotels are owned outright by baby boomers, creating unique opportunities for seller financing. Offering flexible terms can help you close deals faster.

• Airbnb Regulations Are an Advantage: Tight short-term rental regulations in many cities are driving demand back to boutique hotels. Choosing markets with strict Airbnb rules can create high occupancy and premium rates.

• Direct Bookings & SEO: Focusing on direct bookings through SEO and social media marketing can reduce reliance on OTAs (Airbnb, Vrbo) and significantly boost your bottom line.

• Overcoming Challenges: From high-interest bridge loans to unexpected renovations, boutique hotels require proper contingency planning and operational excellence to mitigate risks.

The boutique hotel space is rapidly growing, and as Rich Somers explained, it’s one of the best ways to scale your portfolio while navigating strict Airbnb regulations and a high-interest rate environment. Whether you’re leveraging seller financing, using bridge loans, or refining your guest experience strategy, the potential for forced appreciation and profitability is massive in boutique hotels.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

I’m excited to have you here because today’s episode is all about improving your short-term rental game with practical, actionable tips. I’ve been in this business for years, and if there’s one habit that’s made a huge difference, it’s taking notes on everything—whether I’m listening to a podcast, attending an event, or watching STR success stories on YouTube. I recently went through my inbox, where I save all my ideas, and pulled out 12 incredible tips to help you boost Airbnb visibility, improve your listing, and enhance your guest experience.

In today’s fast-paced STR market, standing out is key, and small changes can make a massive impact. From ensuring your property is categorized correctly on Airbnb (yes, you can request a category change!) to investing in high-quality photos with drone shots and twilight lighting—this episode covers it all. I’m also diving into smart tech upgrades like wireless chargers and pet-friendly touches that guests love. And if you’re scaling your business or managing properties remotely, stay tuned for operational tricks, including how to leverage same-day deliveries for emergencies. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• Optimize Airbnb Categories: Request up to 5 new categories for your listing to improve visibility using the Airbnb category request page (visit elevate.translated.com/categories).

• Professional Photos Matter: Invest in drone photos, twilight shots, and highlight parking or nearby attractions to attract more guests.

• Add Convenience with Tech: Install wireless chargers by bedsides and in common areas—guests love having quick access to charging.

• First Impressions Count: Check your doormat! Ensure it’s clean and welcoming. Bonus points for adding a fun message that makes guests smile.

• Consistent Lighting: Make sure your lightbulbs match in color temperature (stick with warm 3000K for a cozy feel)—no "hospital lights"!

Thanks for tuning in! Whether you’re updating your photos, adding smart tech upgrades, or fine-tuning your pricing strategy, remember that every step brings you closer to running a standout short-term rental. These small but impactful changes can lead to higher bookings, glowing reviews, and a smoother operation overall.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Welcome back to Short-Term Rental Riches! I’m excited to be home in Medellin after visiting California, where I got to check in on my first short-term rental properties from 2015. This episode is all about the big takeaways from 2024 and what to expect in 2025. If you’ve been hosting Airbnb guests or managing short-term rentals, you know that market trends change fast—and understanding STR market trends for 2025 can be your key to maintaining high occupancy and revenue. This year, I’ve seen a significant drop in new STR supply, but demand has remained strong, creating a huge opportunity for hosts who are leveraging the right strategies.

I’ll cover the most important trends, including how AI is reshaping how guests search for properties and why Google Vacation Rentals could be a game-changer for direct bookings. If you’re using tools like Price Labs or considering listing on Google to avoid commission fees, this is your guide to staying competitive. Whether you're focused on increasing your Airbnb revenue or refining your guest experience to earn more five-star reviews, this episode is packed with practical advice. Let’s dive in and set you up for success in 2025!

• Occupancy Trends & Supply Slowdown: STR supply is stabilizing or decreasing in some markets, giving established listings an edge to increase bookings.

• Average Daily Rate (ADR) Adjustments: Nationwide, ADRs have dipped slightly, making dynamic pricing tools like Price Labs essential for maximizing your revenue.

• AI’s Impact on Search: Guests are using AI-based searches to find highly specific STRs. Properties that align with personalized searches will see increased visibility.

• Google Vacation Rentals: Google’s no-commission listing option is a game-changer for direct bookings. Partnering with platforms like Hostaway makes integration seamless.

• Long-Term Strategy with Direct Bookings: A direct booking website can reduce your reliance on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, especially as competition grows.

Thanks for tuning into Short-Term Rental Riches! With the 2025 market shaping up, staying informed and proactive can help you outpace the competition. Whether it’s leveraging AI to boost your listing visibility, optimizing your pricing strategy, or listing on Google Vacation Rentals, there’s never been a better time to strengthen your short-term rental business.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments and let me know what trends you’re seeing in your market. Don’t forget to like, and subscribe for updates. Here’s to crushing your 2025 STR goals—see you in the next episode!

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Today, we’re unpacking all things short-term rental profitability with a special guest, John Bianchi, who’s mastered the art of finding profitable Airbnb markets and avoiding risky investments. Over the years, I've received countless messages asking, “Is this property worth the purchase?” or “Is this STR market too crowded to make money?” While I’d love to dive into everyone’s listings, it’s a time-consuming process that requires detailed research. That’s why experts like John are game-changers—they provide the market analysis and strategies you need to make informed decisions quickly.

In this episode, we’ll cover how to navigate saturated Airbnb markets, identify whether there’s still room to profit, and build a data-backed "buy box" so you can spot a winner faster. John also explains why amenities matter and how unique features like game rooms and outdoor spaces can give your listing a competitive edge. Whether you’re worried about how your listing ranks on platforms like Airbnb or struggling to figure out how much to spend on upgrades, this conversation is packed with Airbnb investing tips you won’t want to miss. Let’s dig in and help you level up your Airbnb portfolio in 2025 and beyond!

• Understanding Market Saturation Just because a market has lots of listings doesn’t mean it’s off-limits. John explains why some Airbnb markets are still worth investing in, even when they seem oversaturated.

• Luxury Demand vs. Fun-Driven Amenities Instead of only focusing on a high-end look, create listings with experience-focused amenities like game rooms or outdoor entertainment to boost your short-term rental revenue.

• The Power of Data Tools Not all data is equal! John recommends STR data tools like PriceLabs and AirDNA to track trends and find the right Airbnb pricing strategy for your market.

• Risky STR Markets to Avoid Some regions that surged during the pandemic—like Blue Ridge—are struggling with low demand despite high home prices. John shares insights on when to walk away from "boomed" areas.

• Building a Strong “Buy Box” Narrow down your options by creating a list of key features—like the right number of bedrooms and essential amenities. Once you spot an outlier with higher projected revenue, you’ll know you’ve found a winner.

Thanks for tuning in to another episode of Short-Term Rental Riches! John gave us a ton of valuable insights into building a profitable Airbnb portfolio and identifying top STR markets. Whether you're planning to buy in 2025  or upgrading an existing listing, remember that using the right tools and strategies can make all the difference.

Unlock Profitable Airbnb Opportunities with John Today!

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Finding profitable Airbnb properties in 2025 might seem like a challenge, but it’s far from impossible with the right tools and strategies. Today, we’re joined by Airbnb investing expert Jon Bianchi, who has helped direct over $90 million in STR investments across 200+ properties. From real estate data analysis to selecting the right markets, Jon has fine-tuned a process to identify cash-flowing STR properties that outperform others.

In this episode, we break down Jon’s strategies for using platforms like AirDNA for STR market analysis, optimizing amenities to attract guests, and avoiding risky real estate markets. Whether you’re focused on boosting Airbnb income or expanding your real estate portfolio, this conversation delivers insights for STR success. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your property into a revenue-generating asset, this episode is a must-listen.

• Effective STR Market Analysis: Learn how to use AirDNA and other tools to identify profitable short-term rental markets with potential for cash flow.

• Key Amenities for Success: Discover the must-have amenities that make your property competitive and the nice-to-have features that set you apart.

• Avoiding Risky Real Estate Investments: Identify oversaturated or underperforming markets to avoid costly investment mistakes.

• Boosting Airbnb Income: Optimize your STR listings with better management, guest experience, and strategic amenities for maximum revenue.

• How to Find Cash-Flowing Properties: Understand price-to-rent ratios and the importance of full-time hosting data for STR property selection.

Unlock Profitable Airbnb Opportunities with John Today!

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Finding profitable Airbnb properties in 2025 might seem like a challenge, but it’s far from impossible with the right tools and strategies. Today, we’re joined by Airbnb investing expert John Bianchi, who has helped direct over $90 million in STR investments across 200+ properties. From real estate data analysis to selecting the right markets, John has fine-tuned a process to identify cash-flowing STR properties that outperform others.

In this episode, we break down John’s strategies for using platforms like AirDNA for STR market analysis, optimizing amenities to attract guests, and avoiding risky real estate markets. Whether you’re focused on boosting Airbnb income or expanding your real estate portfolio, this conversation delivers insights for STR success. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your property into a revenue-generating asset, this episode is a must-listen.

• Effective STR Market Analysis: Learn how to use AirDNA and other tools to identify profitable short-term rental markets with potential for cash flow.

• Key Amenities for Success: Discover the must-have amenities that make your property competitive and the nice-to-have features that set you apart.

• Avoiding Risky Real Estate Investments: Identify oversaturated or underperforming markets to avoid costly investment mistakes.

• Boosting Airbnb Income: Optimize your STR listings with better management, guest experience, and strategic amenities for maximum revenue.

• How to Find Cash-Flowing Properties: Understand price-to-rent ratios and the importance of full-time hosting data for STR property selection.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Real estate markets are constantly evolving, and short-term rental investing adds another layer of complexity. As an Airbnb host or STR investor, it’s not just about demographics and trends. You also need to consider unique factors like oversupply in short-term rentals, the potential for unfavorable regulations, and even crime rates in your chosen market. These risks, if overlooked, can undermine the success of your investment.

In this video, we’ll unpack four reasons why some markets are just too risky for your next Airbnb or STR property. From volatile real estate speculation risks to markets with increasing short-term rental competition, knowing how to identify red flags can save you from costly mistakes. We’ll also talk about how guest reviews and selecting the right property type can help you stand out in competitive markets. So, whether you’re using tools like AirDNA to assess market trends or navigating landlord laws for STRs, these tips will ensure your next move is a smart one.

• Speculative Markets Are Risky: Investing in areas reliant on unpredictable appreciation is a gamble. Focus on markets with stable growth and strong fundamentals, avoiding those known for real estate speculation risks.

• Oversupply Can Hurt Profits: Use tools like AirDNA to analyze how new short-term rentals impact average occupancy and daily rates. Markets flooded with STRs often lead to declining revenues.

• Landlord Laws Matter: Research local landlord laws for STRs to ensure you're compliant. Regulations are constantly changing and can significantly affect your ability to operate.

• Crime Rates and Reviews: High crime rates can hurt both property value and guest experiences. Negative reviews stemming from unsafe neighborhoods can drive away future bookings.

• Differentiation is Key: In oversaturated markets, focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences and maintaining strong Airbnb reviews to outperform the competition.

Investing in short-term rentals offers fantastic opportunities, but only if you approach it with the right knowledge. Understanding real estate speculation risks, avoiding oversupply, navigating landlord laws for STRs, and prioritizing safe neighborhoods are critical steps toward success.

Stay ahead by leveraging tools like AirDNA, focusing on guest reviews, and staying informed about market trends.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

If you're managing short-term rentals, you know how vital dynamic pricing tools are to maximizing your revenue. Platforms like PriceLabs and Wheelhouse integrate seamlessly with Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, making it easier to adjust rates daily. However, what many hosts don’t realize is that the price you see in your tool often doesn’t match the final cost your guests pay. These hidden costs—from platform commissions to payment processing fees—can significantly impact your pricing strategy and overall revenue management.

In this episode, I’ll break down 6 hidden factors affecting the prices your guests see. Whether it’s Airbnb commission fees, property management software charges, or local taxes, understanding these details is key to staying competitive. We’ll also discuss how cancellation policies, STR promotions, and discounts influence your listings on platforms like Booking.com and VRBO. By the end, you’ll have actionable insights to fine-tune your short-term rental revenue management strategy for optimal results.

• Channel Commission Fees: Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com charge varying fees that directly impact the final price your guests see. Stay informed to stay competitive.

• Property Management Software Charges: Tools like HostAway and Guesty often add hidden fees, which can inflate the price without your knowledge.

• Payment Processing Fees: Credit card fees, often around 3%, are passed on to guests or deducted from your revenue, depending on the platform.

• Cancellation Policies & Rate Plans: Offering flexible or non-refundable booking options can change guest pricing significantly and impact your revenue strategy.

• Taxes & Local Fees: STR taxes, like transient occupancy fees, can vary widely by location and platform. Make sure your listings on Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com are aligned.

Pricing isn’t just about setting competitive rates—it’s about understanding the ecosystem of fees and commissions that affect your listings. By diving into these dynamic pricing insights, you’ll be better equipped to maximize your short-term rental revenue and deliver great guest experiences. If you’re looking for help with revenue management or pricing strategies, my team and I are here for you.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Welcome back to the Short Term Rental Riches podcast! Today, we’re unpacking the latest trends reshaping the short-term rental industry, straight from the HostChella conference in Miami.

One of the biggest takeaways? Travelers are opting for more budget-friendly alternatives—what Airbnb calls "destination dupes." Instead of splurging on high-demand locations like Lake Como, Italy, guests are gravitating toward nearby, affordable destinations like Lake Maggiore. This shift offers a huge opportunity for property investors looking to expand their portfolios without breaking the bank.

Whether you're new to short-term rentals or a seasoned host, these insights will help you maximize bookings, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of the curve.

5 Key Takeaways:

• Budget-Friendly Travel Is Booming: Guests are seeking affordable "destination dupes," making secondary markets a hot spot for short-term rental investment.
• Maximize the 'Billboard Effect': Listing on OTAs like Airbnb and Booking.com can drive direct bookings—especially if you create a dedicated website using tools like HostAway.
• Adopt Dynamic Pricing Strategies: With tools like PriceLabs or Wheelhouse, adjust your rates to market demand and maximize revenue​.
• Plan Ahead with Open Calendars: Travelers are planning further out—up to 18 months in advance—so opening your calendar wide can increase visibility and bookings.
• Navigate Changing Regulations: STR regulations vary by city and neighborhood. Use services like Avalara to ensure compliance and avoid surprises​.

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode! The travel landscape is evolving, and staying informed is your ticket to success in the short-term rental industry. Whether you're adjusting to new guest trends or exploring tools to streamline your operations, there’s always an opportunity to grow.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!

Trash might not be the first thing you think about when managing your short-term rental, but it’s often one of the most critical pieces of the puzzle. From overflowing trash bins to improperly sorted waste, neglecting trash management can ruin a guest’s first impression and even lead to poor reviews. The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can streamline your vacation rental operations, leaving your property sparkling clean for every check-in.

In this episode, we’re diving into trash management solutions for Airbnb hosts and short-term rental property managers. You’ll discover why asking guests to take out the trash isn’t the best practice, how to coordinate with your housekeeping team, and how services like CanMonkey can simplify the process. Whether you’re managing a single property or an entire portfolio of vacation rentals, these tips will help you save time, avoid stress, and provide a seamless guest experience. Let’s get into it!

• Leverage Your Housekeeping Team: Coordinate with your housekeepers to handle trash removal. Offer flexible scheduling or additional pay to align with local trash pickup days.

• Use CanMonkey or Similar Services: Automate your trash management with services like CanMonkey, which handle trash can placement and retrieval based on local schedules.

• Hire Landscapers for Trash Removal: If you have a landscaper who visits regularly, consider adding trash duties to their service for a small fee.

• Build Neighborly Connections: Foster good relationships with neighbors. They, or their kids, may be willing to help manage trash bins for a modest payment.

• Add Extra Trash Cans: Prevent overflowing trash by investing in additional bins, giving you more flexibility with pickups and capacity during busy guest stays.

Managing trash doesn’t have to be a burden, even for busy Airbnb hosts or property managers. With these tips, you’ll not only keep your property looking great but also enhance the overall guest experience—leading to better reviews and more bookings. Whether it’s working with your housekeepers, neighbors, or services like CanMonkey, there’s a solution for every host.

Need help managing your short-term rental and you don’t want to go it alone? Shoot us a message here and we’ll see if we can help.

Are you enjoying the podcast? Please subscribe, leave a rating and a review, and share it! This helps us reach others that may find the info helpful as well.

You can find all of our links here including our website, recommended resources, upcoming live event, short-term rental playbook, Instagram, and more!