How did one property cover an entire mortgage—and spark a 30-property empire?

In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, We sit down with Islam Elgarhi, a short-term rental investor and entrepreneur, to uncover how he turned a chance discovery into a thriving business.

From scaling his portfolio with smart systems to creating an AI tool that helps hosts tackle unfair reviews, Islam shares his secrets for success. Plus, we explore how his martial arts background has shaped his mindset for resilience and growth in the fast-paced world of Airbnb hosting.

If you’re ready to learn how innovation and discipline can transform your short-term rental game, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights!

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/islam-elgarhi/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/islamelgarhi/

Website - https://modernstayconsulting.com/

Website - https://www.reviewlawyer.ai/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #Airbnb #Entrepreneurship #SystemsDevelopment #VirtualAssistants #ArtificialIntelligence #ReviewManagement #MartialArts #FocusAndDiscipline #InnovationInRealEstate

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Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ever wonder why some hosts seem to always get glowing reviews while others struggle?

In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, I’m joined by my business partners Alex Steeg and Kory Himmer to dive into the game-changing power of proactive communication in short-term rental hosting.

We break down how setting clear expectations upfront can prevent negative reviews and enhance guest satisfaction. From booking confirmations to review requests, we share a 5-step strategy to keep your guests informed and your business running smoothly. Plus, we discuss the latest tech tools to streamline communication and make your life easier.

If you’re ready to take your hosting to the next level, this episode is a must-listen!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kory.himmer

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/603bnb/

Website - https://603bnb.com/ / https://www.smartstaycoaching.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.steeg86

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alexsteeg/

Website - https://www.shorewaymgmt.com/ / https://www.smartstaycoaching.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #GuestCommunication #ProactiveHosting #AirbnbHosting #VRBOHosting #GuestExperience #AutomatedMessages #AIResponses #HostingTips #STRSuccess

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Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ever wondered how hostels are redefining the travel experience?

In this episode, I sit down with Nate St Cyr, the visionary co-founder of Malama Capital and Howzit Hostels, to uncover how he’s revolutionizing the traditional hostel concept. From daily pancake breakfasts and Margarita nights to crafting a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere, Nate shares his journey of turning a simple idea into a thriving hospitality brand.

We dive into how Generation Z’s desire for connection inspired his approach, the power of social media and influencer partnerships, and his innovative strategies for building an empowered team. If you’re curious about the future of travel, hospitality, or entrepreneurship, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Tune in now to hear Nate’s incredible story and get inspired to think differently about what it means to create unforgettable travel experiences. Let’s go!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/howzithostels

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/howzithostels/

Website - https://www.howzithostels.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #Hostels #HospitalityIndustry #CommunityExperience #GenerationZ #SocialMediaMarketing #GuestExperience #EmployeeRetention #HospitalityEntrepreneurship #TravelTrends #HowsItHostels

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Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ever Dealt With a Water Damaged Rental Property? This Could Save You Thousands.

As short-term rental owners, Rory and I have seen it all - from the good, the bad, to the downright disastrous. One fateful night, we got that dreaded 2am call about a water damaged property, and let me tell you, it was a nightmare. 

But what happened next is the real story. In this episode, we sit down with Darren Pettyjohn, the co-founder of Proper Insurance, to unpack why short-term rental insurance is so crucial - and how their specialized coverage saved our bacon when disaster struck.

Darren pulls back the curtain on the unique challenges facing vacation rental owners, the sneaky tricks some insurance companies use, and the innovative solutions Proper has pioneered. If you own a short-term rental property, or are thinking about getting into the game, you won't want to miss this. 

It could be the difference between a minor headache and a total nightmare. Click play and find out how Proper Insurance can give you the peace of mind to focus on being a 5-star host.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/propervacationrentalinsurance

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/properinsurance/

Website - https://www.proper.insure/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #ShortTermRentalInsurance #PropertyProtection #ClaimsManagement #VacationRentalOwners #RiskManagement #PropertyManagerInsurance #GuestDamageProtection #EntrepreneurialInsights #InsuranceInnovation #PeaceOfMind

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

What happens when a passion for design meets the wild beauty of Joshua Tree?  In this episode, Rory Gill and I sit down with Dre Shapiro, a designer whose journey into short-term rentals is as inspiring as it is unexpected. Dre fell in love with a vacation rental in Joshua Tree, turned it into her own, and transformed it into a guest favorite through her incredible design sensibilities.

We discuss her unique approach to creating unforgettable guest experiences, from curated book collections and vintage record players to custom murals and luxurious amenities. Dre’s story showcases how personal touches can set your rental apart.

Operating in the desert isn’t without its challenges. Dre opens up about staffing hurdles, maintenance struggles, and how showing appreciation to her team has been a game-changer. Plus, she shares practical tips for new hosts on blending thoughtful design with minimalist comfort, helping guests feel at home while standing out in the market.

This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and lessons for anyone in—or considering joining—the short-term rental space. Whether you’re a host, a guest, or simply love design, you won’t want to miss it! 🎧

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dre_design_/

Website - https://www.dredesign.co/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbDesign #JoshuaTreeRentals #HostingTips #GuestExperience #DesertDesign #NewYorkInfluence #PropertyManagement #CreativeHosts #HospitalityDesign

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ready to learn from one of the top short-term rental experts in the game?

In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, we’re joined by Garrett Brown, the resident expert at Bigger Pockets, who shares his journey from hospitality to real estate success.

Garrett reveals how his background in hotels and restaurants shaped his approach to managing multiple short-term rentals. He also talks about the importance of staying positive, adapting quickly, and creating consistent content—even when it doesn’t yield instant results.

Looking for tips on managing properties or discovering the next big short-term rental trend? Garrett has it covered. From finding rising hot spots to offering unique guest experiences, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the STR world.

Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@garrettbrownre

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/garrettbrownre/#

Website - https://www.biggerpockets.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHosting #HospitalityIndustry #RealEstateInvesting #BiggerPockets #ContentCreation #GuestExperience #SystemsAndProcesses #RisingHotSpots #ShortTermRentalTrends

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ever wondered how to transform your short-term rental into a family-friendly haven?

In the latest episode of the Smart Stay Show, Rory and I sit down with Fran Maier, CEO of Baby Quip, to explore how providing essential baby and toddler gear can elevate the guest experience. Fran shares her journey as a host-turned-innovator and how Baby Quip helps families travel light while ensuring hosts deliver a seamless stay.

From reducing guest packing stress to offering promo codes and affiliate opportunities, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Plus, hear firsthand how Rory and I tackled the chaos of traveling with a little one!

Tune in now and discover how small changes can make a BIG impact. Don't miss Fran’s exclusive 20% promo code—perfect for your next family-friendly hosting upgrade.

Email - https://www.facebook.com/BabyQuip/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/babyquip/

Website - https://www.babyquip.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #FamilyTravel #BabyGear #ShortTermRentals #GuestExperience #HospitalityInnovation #StartupStory #AirbnbHost #SustainableTravel #PassiveIncome

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

What if you could reduce your reliance on OTAs, save money, and build a loyal guest base—all while maintaining complete control over your short-term rental business? That’s exactly what we’re exploring in this episode of The SmartStay Show!

Rory Gill and I sit down with Abby Grous, the Senior Product Manager of Direct at Hospitable, to unpack the power of direct bookings. From Hospitable’s innovative tools to real-world strategies for maximizing revenue, we cover everything you need to know about making direct bookings work for you. Abby gives us an inside look at Hospitable’s basic and premium offerings, shares tips for boosting guest loyalty, and highlights the game-changing features on their product roadmap.

This is your chance to learn how to optimize your direct booking process, enhance the guest experience, and take full ownership of your rental business. Don’t miss the special referral code Abby shares exclusively for our listeners—your next step to hosting success starts here.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hospitable/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hospitable_com/

Website - https://hospitable.com/contact-us/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #DirectBookings #PropertyManagement #GuestExperience #PaymentProcessing #ReviewManagement #GuestVetting #DamageProtection #HospitableDirectBooking #STRHostTips

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

Ready to take your short-term rental business to the next level? In this episode of the Smart Stay Podcast, Rory Gill and I chat with Punith Upadhya, the mastermind CEO of Moon Gaze Stays, who’s figured out how to run a world-class short-term rental operation from hundreds of miles away!

Puneet pulls back the curtain on his game-changing strategies, including how he’s built seamless systems, empowered his local team, and mastered the art of delivering unforgettable guest experiences. Plus, he reveals how the "Limitless" program transformed his mindset, helping him tackle challenges and seize unexpected opportunities with confidence.

We also get into his personal tips for staying motivated, creating SOPs that keep operations smooth, and adding those wow-factor touches that guests rave about. If you’re serious about scaling your short-term rental business and learning from a true pro, this is the episode you can’t miss. Hit play and get inspired!

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/punith.upadhya

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/punith3upadhya/

Website - https://www.moongazestays.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #RemoteManagement #GuestExperience #LimitlessMindset #SystemsAndProcesses #PersonalizedTouches #DirectBookings #BusinessPartnerships #Motivation #EngineeringApproach

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!

In this episode of the Smart Stay Show, I sit down with Christina Melander, the founder of Knotty Pine Design and a talented short-term rental host, to discuss how she creates memorable guest experiences with a blend of budget-conscious, authentic design. Christina shares her insights on crafting distinctive, fantasy-driven vibes that stand out on listings and leave a lasting impression.

We dive into how to balance sturdy, long-lasting furniture with unique, locally-sourced pieces, and how meaningful items like family heirlooms and artwork can elevate the guest experience. Christina also shares practical advice for new hosts, including sourcing high-quality furnishings through resale channels, gathering guest feedback, and avoiding generic décor.

If you're a short-term rental host looking to elevate your space and make a real impact on your guests, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. Tune in for inspiration on creating a home away from home that your guests will never forget!

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/knottypine.design/

Website - https://www.knottypine.design/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHosting #UniqueDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #SustainableHospitality #GuestExperience #VintageFinds #LocalTouchpoints #HostCommunication #InteriorDesignTips

Follow Us!

Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show!

Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide.

SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube

Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn

Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram

Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn

Jason Muth on LinkedIn

Hospitality.FM

SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!