What if you could guarantee five-star reviews—without being on-site, glued to your phone, or buried in repetitive tasks? In this episode, AirDNA’s Jamie Lane sits down with Sean McGregor, Founder of NoCodeSTR.com to unpack how automation, no-code tools, and AI are transforming what’s possible in short-term rental operations.

Sean McGregor helps short-term rental hosts and property managers “Automate the Annoying” parts of their business using NoCode tools, automation, and AI — so they can run leaner, deliver better guest experiences, and get their time back. He’s the founder of NoCodeSTR.com (has hosted over 5,000 groups on Airbnb, and has maintained a 4.98★ rating since 2018. He even offers a 5★ Guarantee — meaning he doesn’t take a commission if a guest leaves anything less than a 5-star review. All while running his business remotely from 40+ countries with his family).

Sean shares how he went from manually managing a growing STR portfolio to building fully automated systems that deliver consistent, high-quality guest experiences—even while traveling internationally. By focusing relentlessly on guest satisfaction and eliminating friction through proactive communication, he created a system so reliable that he offered a bold guarantee: no five-star review, no commission.

The conversation dives deep into the evolving tech stack—from tools like Airtable and Zapier to AI-powered messaging and custom-built workflows—and what it means for hosts and property managers today. Whether you’re managing one listing or scaling to hundreds, this episode explores how to think about automation strategically, balance tech with hospitality, and unlock new levels of efficiency without sacrificing the human touch.

You don’t want to miss this episode!

Key Takeaways for STR Hosts & Managers

• Automate proactively, not reactively: Anticipate guest needs (like check-in details or local recommendations) before they ask to prevent issues from turning into negative reviews.

• Use “second-day check-ins” to protect reviews: A simple automated message during the stay can surface problems early—giving you a chance to fix them before checkout.

• Centralize your data to unlock automation: Tools like Airtable can act as the brain of your operation, connecting bookings, messaging, maintenance, and guest insights.

• Start small, then layer complexity: Even a basic automation (like sending booking data to a spreadsheet) can spark momentum and lead to more advanced systems over time.

• Balance AI with human touch: Automate repetitive tasks, but stay personally available for high-touch moments—hospitality still matters.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy 

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Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Follow Sean on LinkedIn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanmcgregor/

NoCodeSTR.com

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Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 178

How resilient is the short-term rental market in the face of a "camel’s back" economy? In this month's episode of the STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane and Director of Economics and Forecasting Bram Gallagher peel back the layers of a complex March performance. While headlines grapple with energy price shocks and an ambivalent labor market, the underlying data reveals a sector that is proving remarkably robust.

This conversation is essential for any host or manager looking to separate temporary "noise"—like the recent snow drought that skewed seasonal averages—from the long-term trends shaping the summer ahead. From the surprising strength of urban markets like Philadelphia and Chicago to the early booking signals of the 2026 World Cup, Jamie and Bram provide the clarity you need to optimize your rates and expectations for the high season.

You don’t want to miss this deep dive into the data driving the next six months of STR performance!

Key Takeaways

• Look Beyond the Headline Occupancy: While national occupancy saw its 10th consecutive month of decline (down 0.3%), the data shows that excluding mountain and lake resorts—which suffered from a massive "snow drought"—occupancy actually increased across all other location types.

• Monitor Urban Market Resurgence: Urban occupancy is trending upward (up 1%), with cities like Denver, Chicago, and Nashville showing positive growth, signaling a healthy return of business and group travel interest.

• Prepare for the "Halo Effect" of Major Events: World Cup demand isn't just hitting host cities; markets near national parks and secondary cities like Austin and Buffalo are seeing elevated pacing as international travelers plan extended "once in a lifetime" American tours.

• Factor in Energy-Driven "Drive-To" Shifts: High energy and gas prices may actually benefit regional "drive-to" markets as travelers recalibrate international flight plans in favor of domestic coastal destinations.

• Existing Hosts Hold the Pricing Power: While new listings may feel pressure to lower rates, the Repeat Rent Index (RRI) remains strong, suggesting that established operators with high-quality listings are successfully maintaining their pricing power despite inflationary worries. 

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 177

What happens when the biggest bottleneck in your short-term rental business—guest communication—gets automated almost entirely? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Jay Ullrich, CEO and Co-founder of HostBuddy AI, to unpack how AI is transforming the way hosts and property managers operate at scale. From missed bookings due to slow responses to overwhelmed virtual assistants, this conversation dives into a pain point every STR professional knows too well—and shows what’s possible on the other side.

Jay shares his journey from managing 30+ properties in San Diego to building a tool born out of necessity—one that now handles up to 90% of guest communication automatically. But this isn’t just about saving time. It’s about unlocking better reviews, higher occupancy, and more efficient teams. As guest expectations rise and response times shrink, AI is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s becoming foundational to staying competitive in today’s STR landscape.

The conversation also tackles the bigger picture: Are AI tools just “ChatGPT wrappers”? How should operators evaluate new tech? And what does the future look like when automation approaches 100% of guest interactions? Whether you're managing one property or scaling a portfolio, this episode offers a grounded, operator-first perspective on where the industry is headed—and how to adapt.

You don’t want to miss this episode!

Key Takeaways

• Speed = Revenue: Responding even an hour late can cost you bookings—AI ensures instant replies and captures demand in real time.

• 80–90% Automation Is Achievable Today: With the right setup, most guest communication can be fully automated, freeing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

• Better Communication = Better Reviews: As AI adoption rises, guest satisfaction scores—especially for communication—are improving across the industry.

• AI Isn’t Just Support—It’s a Sales Tool: Automated messaging can proactively upsell gap nights and drive incremental revenue that’s often missed manually.

• Specialization Wins in Tech: The best tools aren’t trying to do everything—they focus deeply on one problem (like messaging) and integrate with the rest of your stack.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 176

What happens when AI, massive tech consolidation, and shifting guest behavior all collide at once? In this episode, Jamie sits down with industry veteran Richard Vaughton who’s seen every cycle of short-term rentals—from early spreadsheets to today’s AI-powered ecosystems. Together, they unpack a rapidly evolving landscape where yesterday’s tools are becoming obsolete, and tomorrow’s winners are being shaped right now.

At the center of it all is a fundamental shift: the move from fragmented tech stacks to powerful, enterprise-level “operating systems” that could redefine how property managers run their businesses. Meanwhile, AI is no longer a buzzword—it’s quietly automating pricing, guest communication, and even operations, raising a critical question: what does a property manager actually do in the future?

And then there’s the elephant in the room—OTAs. Despite years of pushback and the rise of direct booking strategies, platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com continue to gain ground. With AI entering the search and booking experience, will that dominance strengthen—or finally be disrupted? This conversation explores where the leverage is shifting, and what it means for anyone trying to stay competitive in STR.

You don’t want to miss this episode.

Key Takeaways:

• The “Operating System” Era Is Coming: The future of STR tech isn’t dozens of disconnected tools—it’s consolidated platforms that do everything, powered by deep integrations and AI.

• AI Will Compress Margins (and Headcount): From pricing to guest messaging, AI is rapidly replacing manual workflows—unlocking efficiency, but also increasing competition and driving prices down.

• Most Tech Startups Won’t Survive: With low barriers to building AI tools, the market is flooding with new solutions—but only a handful will scale. The rest risk being replaced or absorbed.

• Property Management Is Fragmenting: Full-service models aren’t the only path anymore. Expect more “menu-based” services—where operators pick and choose exactly what they outsource.

• OTAs Aren’t Going Anywhere (Yet): Despite the promise of AI-driven direct booking, OTAs still win on trust, convenience, and scale—and they’re investing heavily in AI to stay ahead.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 175

What happens when home prices stop rising—but the market still starts moving again? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Mike Simonsen, Chief Economist at Compass, to unpack the biggest housing market shift in years—and why it matters deeply for short-term rental investors.

After four years of frozen transaction volume and relentless price growth, 2026 is shaping up to be the beginning of a new cycle. Mike breaks down why home prices are likely to remain flat while incomes gradually catch up—unlocking long-awaited improvements in affordability. But the real story isn’t just pricing—it’s movement. With mortgage lock-in slowly easing and hiring trends poised to play a critical role, we’re entering a phase where transactions begin to rise again, even without dramatic rate cuts.

For STR operators, this shift has major implications. From regional price corrections in high-growth markets like Florida and Austin, to the slowdown in migration-driven demand, the conversation reveals where opportunities are emerging—and where caution is warranted. Whether you’re investing, managing, or simply watching the market, this episode gives you the data-driven lens to understand what’s happening right now—and what comes next.

You don’t want to miss this episode!

Key Takeaways

• Flat prices ≠ weak market Home prices are to stay roughly flat in 2026, but that stability—combined with rising incomes—marks the first real improvement in affordability in years.

• Sales are quietly rebounding Even modest growth (3–5%) in home sales signals a meaningful shift after years of suppressed transaction volume.

• The “lock-in effect” is fading—slowly More homeowners now hold mortgages above 6%, meaning fewer are stuck in ultra-low rates. Time—not just rate cuts—is unlocking supply.

• Migration slowdown is hitting STR demand A weak hiring market is driving the “Great Stay,” reducing relocation-driven bookings that once fueled STR growth in Sunbelt markets.

• Regional divergence = opportunity Markets like Austin and Florida are seeing price corrections due to oversupply and slowing inbound migration—potentially improving investment fundamentals for STR buyers.

• Watch rates and hiring—not just prices Weekly demand signals like pending sales and price cuts react quickly to mortgage rate spikes and labor market shifts—making them critical indicators for what’s next.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4amypnC

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 174

The short-term rental market never moves in a vacuum—and February’s data proves it. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane and co-host Scott Sage unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface of the latest performance numbers. From a sluggish winter season to the early signals of a strong spring break, they explore how supply growth, economic trends, and even global events are shaping the STR outlook for 2026.

The big story? Demand is still growing—but just barely. With supply expanding faster than bookings and occupancy declining for the ninth straight month, hosts are feeling the squeeze. At the same time, factors like weak snowfall in mountain markets, rising oil prices, and broader economic uncertainty are influencing traveler behavior in ways that could ripple into the peak summer season.

But it’s not all cautionary signals. Spring break demand is pacing well ahead of last year, and major global events like the 2026 World Cup could still drive a strong travel season. Jamie and Scott break down what these mixed signals mean—and how hosts and property managers can respond with smarter pricing, better positioning, and a sharper eye on economic trends.

You don’t want to miss this episode.

Key Takeaways

• Demand is growing—but slowly. February demand rose about 1% year over year while supply increased around 2–3%, continuing the pressure on occupancy rates.

• Winter performance suffered in mountain markets. Poor snowfall led to weaker bookings and occupancy declines in ski destinations, dragging down overall STR performance.

• Spring break could reverse the trend. Early booking data shows strong demand pacing for March and April, especially in coastal markets.

• Economic signals matter more than ever. Slowing job growth, rising oil prices, and broader macro trends could shape travel demand in the months ahead.

• Global events create opportunity. Major events like the upcoming World Cup could drive significant travel demand—making strategic pricing and availability key.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/3MFteFv

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 173

STR Investor Sentiment Report 2026: Where Smart Money Is Buying Next

What are short-term rental investors really thinking right now? In a market defined by higher rates, elevated home prices, and shifting demand, the real story isn’t fear — it’s selectivity.

In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie and Bram unpack AirDNA’s first-ever STR Investor Sentiment Survey — a deep dive into the motivations, barriers, and strategies shaping short-term rental investment in 2026. With nearly 650 respondents (from first-time buyers to 10+ property operators), the data reveals a surprisingly resilient investor mindset. Cash flow — not appreciation, not tax advantages — is the dominant motivation. And experienced operators? They’re not retreating. They’re doubling down.

From financing trends and regulatory concerns to where capital is flowing next, this episode breaks down what separates cautious observers from confident buyers. Whether you’re looking to scale, buy your first STR, or pressure-test your strategy, this conversation offers a grounded, data-backed look at where the industry is headed.

You don’t want to miss this one.

Key Takeaways

• Cash flow is king. The primary motivation for new investors isn’t flipping or appreciation — it’s recurring income and long-term revenue stability.

• Experience builds confidence. The more properties an investor owns, the more likely they are to buy again in the next 12 months.

• Regulation becomes real at scale. First-time investors worry about prices. Seasoned operators worry about policy risk and demand durability.

• Interest rates matter — but they’re not the deal-breaker. Sentiment is split, but rate anxiety isn’t stopping committed buyers.

• Location strategy evolves over time. New investors gravitate toward familiar urban and coastal markets. Experienced operators target durable demand drivers like mountain, lake, and national park destinations.

AirDNA Investor Sentiment

https://www.airdna.co/short-term-rental-investor-survey

—————

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

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—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 172

Travelers say they’re worried about the economy — but they’re still packing their bags. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane sits down with Seth Borko, Head of Research at Skift, to unpack the 2026 travel outlook and what it really means for short-term rental hosts and property managers.

The headline? Travel remains the world’s top discretionary spending priority — even in an uncertain economy. While consumers are price-conscious and navigating a “K-shaped” recovery, they’re not cutting trips. Instead, they’re choosing cheaper flights, exploring more affordable destinations, and prioritizing accommodations and experiences over everything else. For STR operators, that’s a powerful signal: the right property in the right market, positioned around the right experience, is still incredibly compelling.

The conversation also dives into the rapid rise of AI in trip planning. Nearly half of U.S. travelers are already using AI tools for discovery and inspiration. While booking behavior hasn’t fully shifted (yet), personalization is accelerating — and that could reshape loyalty, distribution, and direct booking strategies in the years ahead.

You don’t want to miss this episode.

Practical Takeaways for STR Hosts & Managers

• Travel is still the #1 discretionary spend. Even in uncertain times, consumers want to travel — they’re just adjusting how they do it.

• Guests are saving on flights — not stays. Survey data shows travelers are cutting airfare costs first while prioritizing accommodations and experiences. Your property still matters.

• Experiences drive the trip. Today’s traveler starts with “What do I want to experience?” and back-solves into destination and accommodation. Design and market your STR as part of that experience — not just a place to sleep.

• Affordable destinations have momentum. With travelers choosing less expensive markets, regional and domestic STR markets may benefit from trade-down behavior.

• AI is reshaping discovery. Travelers are increasingly using AI tools to compare destinations, activities, and accommodations. Properties with clear positioning, strong differentiation, and well-structured listing content will win in AI-powered search.

• Loyalty may be redefined. As personalization improves, guests may be more willing to switch brands or platforms if the offer is better. Value, flexibility, and frictionless booking will matter more than ever.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/44x842m

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 171

Is 2026 shaping up to be a breakout year for short-term rentals — or another year of mixed signals? In this January market review, the STR Data Lab team unpacks early indicators that could define performance for the rest of the year, from rising bookings and shifting travel patterns to economic tailwinds and major event demand. For hosts, property managers, and investors, these first-month signals offer critical clues about where revenue opportunities — and risks — are emerging.

While occupancy dipped year over year due to continued supply growth, bookings surged at one of the strongest rates in months, signaling healthy future demand. Coastal destinations are seeing robust early reservations ahead of spring break and summer travel, while urban markets are experiencing a surprising boost driven largely by anticipation of the upcoming World Cup. Meanwhile, mountain and ski destinations are facing headwinds from a weak Western snow season — a reminder that hyper-local factors can still outweigh national trends.

The episode also zooms out to the economic backdrop shaping travel demand: job growth, disposable income, inflation trends, tax policy changes, and even larger tax refunds. The takeaway is clear — when people have money in their pockets, travel follows. Add in the potential windfall from major events like the World Cup, and hosts across many markets could see outsized revenue opportunities if they prepare early.

You don’t want to miss this episode if you’re planning pricing, investments, or strategy for 2026.

Key Takeaways

• Booking momentum matters more than current occupancy. Strong forward bookings suggest healthy demand ahead even if winter performance looks weak.

• Coastal markets are leading early for spring and summer travel. Hosts in beach destinations should prepare for competitive pricing and high demand.

• Major events create spillover demand beyond host cities. Nearby markets may benefit from travelers extending trips around large events.

• Mountain market performance is highly weather-dependent. Diversifying seasonality strategies can reduce risk in ski destinations.

• Economic conditions are turning favorable for travel. Rising disposable income and tax refunds could fuel increased bookings in 2026.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4j6rRMa

https://www.airdna.co/worldcup

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 170

What if the biggest opportunity in your STR business isn’t higher ADR or better occupancy — but who actually owns your guest relationship?

In this episode of The STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane sits down with Arthur Colker, CEO of StayFi, to unpack one of the most under-discussed levers in short-term rentals: guest acquisition costs and repeat demand. As OTAs continue tightening control over guest data and shifting fee structures, hosts and property managers are left asking an important question — are we building a business, or renting one?

Arthur breaks down why tracking guest acquisition costs, collecting first-party data, and building a direct booking channel isn’t just about avoiding platform fees. It’s about increasing total occupancy, improving booking windows, and creating long-term resilience. From practical strategies for smaller operators to how advanced hosts are reaching 60%+ direct bookings, this conversation reframes direct booking as a growth strategy — not just a defensive move.

If you’ve ever wondered whether investing in your brand, email marketing, or direct booking site is worth it — this episode delivers clarity.

You don’t want to miss this episode.

Practical Takeaways You Can Apply Now

• Think beyond the booker. Every guest in the reservation is a potential future customer. Expanding your marketing mindset beyond the primary booker unlocks new repeat and referral opportunities.

• Consistency beats perfection. A simple monthly email — even plain-text and personalized — can outperform polished newsletters. The goal is to stay top of mind when guests are ready to book again.

• Direct bookings increase total occupancy — not just margins. The real ROI isn’t only saving OTA fees. It’s filling nights that would otherwise sit empty.

• Build a brand, even if you’re small. Whether you have one property or ten, guests need an identity to remember. For smaller operators, your personal story and hospitality voice are the brand.

• Control your pricing strategy. Advanced operators often price higher on OTAs and reward direct bookings with better value — flipping the script from dependence to leverage.

Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇

https://bit.ly/4rYGQvP

—————

Connect with Jamie on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane

—————

Connect with Scott on social media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott

—————

Connect with AirDNA on social media:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co

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Episode 169