Hosting Hotline: How Can I Organize My Hosting Business?

Welcome to the Hosting Hotline! Today, we’re tackling a fantastic question from Jilayne about staying organized as a busy host and business owner. Whether you’re jotting down ideas on the go, managing multiple properties, or trying to streamline tasks, staying organized is essential for business success.

In this episode, Sarah and Annette share their go-to tool for organization, Asana, and offer actionable tips for using it effectively. From setting due dates to managing recurring tasks and integrating your calendar, this episode is packed with advice to help hosts take control of their to-do lists and reduce overwhelm.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] Listener Shoutout: Celebrating Jilayne’s success and determination as a host and entrepreneur.
• [00:02:00] The Power of Organization: Why staying organized is key for hosts running a business, even when life gets busy.
• [00:04:00] Why We Love Asana: A breakdown of why Asana is our favorite organization tool and how it works for hosting businesses.
• [00:06:00] Pro Tip 1: Always start tasks with a verb or action to keep your to-do list clear and actionable.
• [00:08:00] Pro Tip 2: Set due dates for every task to prioritize effectively and avoid overdue tasks.
• [00:13:00] Pro Tip 3: Use Asana’s recurring tasks feature to streamline maintenance and operations.
• [00:17:00] Pro Tip 4: Integrate Asana with your calendar to ensure your schedule matches your task list.
• [00:20:00] Staying Accountable: Why habits matter and how to build them for organizational success.

Resources Mentioned:

• Asana: The ultimate organizational tool for hosts.
• Paul Minors on YouTube: Expert tutorials on getting started with Asana.
• Relay Bank: Our favorite business banking tool for short-term rental hosts.
• Airbnb Supply Closet Management... Pro Tips + Newbie Mistakes | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Stay Connected:

• Got a question for the Hosting Hotline? Visit HostingHotline.com and leave us a message!
• Follow us on Instagram for more hosting tips: @thanksforvisiting_.

Mentioned in this episode:

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome back to another episode of Thanks for Visiting! This week, we’re diving into a hosting nightmare that became a learning opportunity. Imagine waking up to find that Airbnb has not only shut down your listing but removed it entirely from the platform. That’s exactly what happened to us, and we’re here to share the entire story, how we handled it, and what you can learn from our experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you prepare for the unexpected and keep your hosting business running smoothly—even when things go wrong.

[00:01:00] #STRShareSunday: WanderChatt

We’re highlighting @WanderChatt, a vacation rental business specializing in unique builds like the incredible Merry Mushroom property. Learn how they’ve mastered the art of partnering with influencers to market their rentals.

[00:03:00] The Gas Leak Incident

A late-night message from a guest reporting a potential gas leak sets off a chain of events that leads to Airbnb shutting down our listing. Here’s what happened next.

[00:06:00] Navigating Airbnb Support

We break down the frustrating process of working with Airbnb’s support team, including why they initially refused to communicate with us as co-hosts.

[00:10:00] Getting the Listing Back Online

From proving the property was safe to dealing with the slow response times, we share how we finally got the listing reinstated—and the important documentation that made it possible.

[00:15:00] Why Direct Bookings Matter

This experience reinforced the importance of having a direct booking option. We explain how we leveraged our email list to fill last-minute availability while waiting for Airbnb to reinstate the listing.

[00:19:00] Lessons Learned for Hosts

What every host should know about preparing for emergencies, working with Airbnb, and diversifying booking platforms to protect your revenue.

Have you ever experienced something similar with your Airbnb listing? We’d love to hear your story!

📧 Email us at [email protected].

📱 Follow us on Instagram: @thanksforvisiting_.

• STRShareSunday: WanderChatt – Follow on Instagram
• How to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business – Watch on YouTube

Mentioned in this episode:

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, Sarah and Annette tackle a question from a Canadian host managing a property in Maui. How can you simplify payment options for direct bookings when popular platforms like Zelle or Venmo aren’t available to you? Whether you're an international host or just exploring ways to level up your direct booking experience, this episode has you covered!

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] Listener Question: A Canadian host asks about streamlining direct booking payments for their Maui property.
• [00:02:30] The Decline of Checks: Why checks are becoming obsolete and how switching to digital payments benefits both you and your guests.
• [00:03:00] Exploring Stripe: What you need to know about using Stripe for credit card payments—even as a Canadian host managing a U.S.-based property.
• [00:05:00] Relay to the Rescue: Learn how Relay banking supports international hosts by offering easy, secure payment solutions.
• [00:07:00] Relay’s Expert Insight: Hear directly from the Relay team about how to use their platform to accept payments through ACH, wires, and more.
• [00:08:30] Practical Next Steps: Tips on setting up your business for seamless payments, including whether to establish a U.S. entity for hosting.

Resources Mentioned:

• Relay Banking: Get $50 when you fund a Relay Account
• Stripe Customer Service
• The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your Airbnb Business the RIGHT way (banking, taxes, LLC, profits) | Subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Mentioned in this episode:

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome back to our latest land update! In this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of building Rich Hollow Retreat. From navigating septic system decisions to firing and rehiring construction teams, this update is packed with insights, challenges, and small wins. Plus, we share our ambitious goal to open early summer 2025—fingers crossed!

[00:01:00] Sharing Rich Hollow Retreat Progress

Annette and Sarah discuss why it’s important to market your property before it’s live and encourage followers to document their journey on social media.

[00:02:00] The Journey So Far

Catch up on what’s been happening since our last land update. If you’re new, check out previous episodes (links below!) to follow the story from the beginning.

[00:03:00] Septic Systems: Lessons Learned

The unexpected joys of septic planning! We share how preparing for a fourth unit now changes our long-term plans and financial projections.

[00:10:00] Construction Team Updates

We fired one team, hired another, and are finally making progress! Learn how we’re setting clear payment terms and timelines with our new crew.

[00:13:00] Budgeting and Facebook Marketplace Hacks

Our GC found creative ways to save money on construction materials, including leveraging Facebook Marketplace. Annette shares tips for tracking purchases to maintain clean financial records.

[00:17:00] Financing with a HELOC

Sarah explains why we chose a HELOC over private or hard money lending, and how it’s helping bridge the funding gap for phase one.

[00:20:00] Design Decisions and Debates

From floating shelves to dishwasher placement, we’re diving into the details of what makes a short-term rental functional and beautiful.

[00:24:00] Setting Goals for Summer 2025

We share our realistic timeline and reflect on how weather, team availability, and progress meetings are shaping our plans.

Follow our journey and get sneak peeks of Rich Hollow Retreat!

Instagram: @RichHollowRetreat

Have questions about buying land, building a retreat, or working with partners? DM us on Instagram @thanksforvisiting_ or leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. We’d love to hear from you!

• Part 1: We Bought Land
• Part 2: Laying a Foundation for Long-Term Partnership
• Part Reality Check on Glamping Site Timelines, Financing & Construction
• Part 4: Why We Stopped Construction & How We’re Pivoting Our Strategy
• How to Buy Land for your Airbnb Glamping Business | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your pressing hosting questions! Today’s caller, Shannon, asks two great questions: How do you handle Airbnb’s 15% service fee adjustment? And more importantly, how can she get her guests to leave reviews?

We’re diving deep into actionable strategies to help you encourage reviews without overwhelming or annoying your guests. From leaving subtle breadcrumbs throughout their stay to crafting the perfect review request, this episode will help you elevate your hosting game.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] What Is Airbnb’s 15% Service Fee?
• Sarah explains how Airbnb’s simplified pricing impacts hosts, why it varies by region and software, and how to adjust your pricing to cover the difference using PriceLabs or your PMS.
• [00:05:00] The Power of Breadcrumbs:
• Discover how to plant subtle cues throughout your guest experience that emphasize your commitment to a five-star stay.
• [00:07:00] Messaging That Resonates:
• Learn how to craft review requests that feel personal and genuine, including the secret to mentioning five-star reviews without sounding pushy.
• [00:08:00] The “Five-Star WiFi Password” Trick:
• A clever hack to subtly remind guests about five-star reviews every time they connect to the WiFi.
• [00:09:00] When to Ask for a Review:
• Timing is everything. We share the perfect moment to make your ask—and how to frame it for the best results.
• [00:11:00] Educating Guests on Reviews:
• Not all guests know how the Airbnb review system works. Simple ways to educate them and ensure they understand the impact of their feedback.

Resources Mentioned:

• Hosting Hotline: Ask your hosting questions at HostingHotline.com.
• Dynamic Pricing Tools: Learn more about PriceLabs.
• How to Respond to Negative Airbnb Reviews: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Get More Bookings in 2025! Join us for a Listing Audit Boot Camp!

Data Meets Design: The Secret to Maximizing Airbnb Revenue

Welcome back to Thanks for Visiting! In this episode, we dive into the intersection of data and design with Bri and Jordan from Somerled, a team that blends market research with creative vision to maximize short-term rental revenue. Whether you’re looking to increase bookings, refresh your property, or design with intention, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to elevate your hosting game.

Episode Highlights:

(00:01:00) #STRShareSunday: Stay at Holly House

We feature this vibrant property tailored for bachelorette stays. From the selfie station and makeup vanity bar to a stunning outdoor mural, this listing is a masterclass in guest-focused design.

(00:03:00) Guest Introduction: Bri and Jordan from Somerled

Learn how these co-founders combine backgrounds in marketing and interior design to create data-driven strategies for STR properties.

(00:08:00) What Is Data-Driven Design?

Bri and Jordan explain their process, from competitor analysis to designing spaces that resonate with target audiences.

(00:12:00) Common Design Mistakes

Discover the pitfalls of overly personalized design, “home goods specials,” and skipping competitor research—and how to avoid them.

(00:18:00) Bed Configurations That Work

Why your bed setup matters and how to tailor it to your guest demographic, from families to bachelorette groups.

(00:22:00) The Power of Professional Photography

Bri and Jordan share why great photos, lifestyle shots, and intentional styling are non-negotiables for a standout listing.

(00:30:00) Case Study: College Station Transformation

How Somerled helped a Texas A&M property exceed expectations with subtle design nods to its niche market.

(00:38:00) Amenities That Stand Out in 2025

From private island putting greens to karaoke rooms, learn what’s trending and how unique amenities can drive bookings.

(00:50:00) Bootcamp Reminder: Listing Audit Made Simple

Don’t miss our January Bootcamp, designed to help you audit and optimize your listings for 2025 success.

Resources Mentioned:

• #STRShareSunday: @stayathollyhouse
• Somerled Designs: SomerledDesigns.com
• Check Out the Texas A&M Property: thefieldhousecstx
• January Bootcamp: SAVE YOUR SEAT!
• Watch 7 Design Mistakes Every Airbnb Host Makes: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Mentioned in this episode:

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Get More Bookings in 2025! Join us for a Listing Audit Boot Camp!

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This week, we’re tackling a question from Natasha, who asks if we help hosts optimize their short-term rental listings. Whether it’s on Airbnb, Vrbo, or your direct booking site, listing optimization is critical to standing out in a competitive market. In this episode, we’ll explore key strategies for creating high-converting listings and share details about our upcoming Listing Audit Bootcamp.

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:00] Listener Spotlight: Natasha’s Question

• Natasha asks about optimizing listings and how hosts can improve their property visibility across platforms.

[00:02:00] Importance of Listing Audits

• Why regular listing audits are crucial for maximizing bookings.
• The surprising details many experienced hosts overlook.

[00:03:00] New Year’s Resolution: Revamping Your Listing

• Why now is the perfect time to revisit your listings and refresh outdated information.

[00:04:00] Bootcamp Announcement: Learn to Audit Your Own Listings

• Details on the January Listing Audit Bootcamp and how it equips hosts with the tools to optimize their own listings repeatedly.
• Overview of the three live training sessions, including photo optimization, crafting compelling descriptions, and tracking analytics.

[00:07:00] Tracking Analytics: What Metrics Matter

• Learn how to use Airbnb’s performance dashboard to track conversions and identify areas for improvement.
• The importance of testing one change at a time to measure its impact effectively.

[00:09:00] Tips for Ongoing Optimization

• How to set a recurring reminder to audit your listings throughout the year.
• Seasonal updates and how to align your listings with changing guest behaviors.

Want to start 2025 with high-performing listings? Join our Listing Audit Bootcamp! Learn actionable strategies to attract more guests and boost bookings. Sign up here.

Resources Mentioned:

• Thanks for Visiting Bootcamp
• The Real Reasons Airbnb Hosts are Losing Money
• Call in to the Hosting Hotline: Submit your question here.

Take the first step in optimizing your listings by evaluating your current titles, photos, and descriptions. Write down your conversion rate metrics today and track the impact of any changes you make.

Let us know how you’re transforming your listings—DM us on Instagram or email us your success stories!

Mentioned in this episode:

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome back to Thanks for Visiting, where we dive into the heart of what it takes to be a successful short-term rental host. In this solo episode, we explore a topic that often gets overlooked: the best investment you can make as a host—investing in yourself. 🎯

From personal growth to professional development, this episode unpacks why prioritizing yourself is the key to unlocking your potential as a host, business owner, and individual.

[00:01:00] Listener Spotlight: Onyx Oasis

We highlight Onyx Oasis, a beautifully curated property with a stunning Instagram feed featuring pinned posts that inspire hosts to elevate their social media game.

[00:03:00] Why Investing in Yourself Matters

Discover why self-investment isn’t selfish but essential for long-term success in hosting and life.

[00:04:00] Lessons Learned: Annette’s Journey

Annette reflects on the shift from investing in others to making herself a priority—and the hard lessons that came with it.

[00:06:00] Overcoming the Guilt of Self-Investment

Sarah and Annette discuss cultural pressures and common misconceptions around putting yourself first.

[00:08:00] The Ripple Effect of Growth

Learn how personal growth positively impacts your business, relationships, and community.

[00:11:00] Financial Growth: Managing Your Personal Finances

Practical tips for tracking spending, working with financial experts, and gaining clarity on your financial health.

[00:14:00] Physical and Mental Wellbeing

The connection between health, productivity, and avoiding burnout. Annette shares her experience with coaching, while Sarah emphasizes finding practices that work for you.

[00:18:00] Business Development as Personal Development

A deep dive into masterminds, courses, and retreats that Sarah and Annette have invested in—and why it’s worth every penny.

[00:24:00] Building Community and Relationships

How nurturing personal connections and giving back to your community enhances your hosting journey.

[00:37:00] Bootcamp Announcement!

Join our first-ever January Bootcamp! Learn to audit your listings for success with expert-led sessions and actionable analytics. Sign up here.

• Onyx Oasis: Follow on Instagram @OnyxOasis
• Rocket Money App: Personal budget tracking made simple
• Unreasonable Hospitality: A must-read book on going above and beyond in service
• Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell: A guide to turning failures into opportunities
• Thanks for Visiting Bootcamp: Save Your Seat!
• What Makes a Good Airbnb Listing: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

What’s your plan for investing in yourself in 2025? Whether it’s joining a mastermind, prioritizing self-care, or diving into a new business tool, we challenge you to commit to your growth this year. DM us on Instagram or email us to share your plans!

Mentioned in this episode:

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Get More Bookings in 2025! Join us for a Listing Audit Boot Camp!

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your most pressing questions about short-term rentals! This week, Carol asks about whether a landline is necessary for remote vacation rentals. If your property is in a rural or remote location, this episode is packed with important safety insights and expert advice.

In this episode, we dive into:

Episode Highlights

(00:01:00) Listener Question: Do I Need a Landline in My STR?

Carol asks about landlines for remote properties, and we explore the importance of emergency communication.

(00:02:00) Why Landlines Are Crucial for Remote Rentals

We discuss guest safety, connectivity issues, and how a landline can help protect your property and guests.

(00:03:00) Expert Tip: Engage Local Emergency Services

Learn why connecting with your local fire marshal and emergency services is a proactive step for rural property owners.

(00:04:00) Personal Experience with Remote Hosting

Sarah shares lessons from managing a remote property and working with safety expert Justin Ford.

(00:05:00) Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Why investing in safety infrastructure like a landline is worth it for peace of mind and guest safety.

• Justin Ford: Short Term Rental Safety Expert
• How to Buy Land for your Airbnb Glamping Business

Got questions you want answered? Submit your question at HostingHotline.com!

Mentioned in this episode:

Breezeway | Get Breezeway’s full guidebook, messaging, and operations tools for just $19.99 per unit per month!

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome back to Thanks for Visiting! As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the most loved episodes of the year and the incredible takeaways they’ve provided for our community of hosts. These episodes have sparked important conversations, inspired profitable strategies, and highlighted major wins from listeners just like you.

From mastering pricing strategies to embracing themed properties, advocating for hosting rights, and optimizing operations, these episodes reflect the topics that matter most to short-term rental hosts everywhere.

(00:01:00) #STRShareSunday: Mileaway Stowe

We’re featuring this stunning farmhouse in Stowe, Vermont, and its gorgeous direct booking site.

(00:02:00) Year in Review: Gratitude and 2024 Reflections

Looking back on an election year, how hosting evolved, and what we learned as an industry.

(00:05:00) Top 7 Episodes of 2024

A rundown of the most loved episodes and the profitable strategies they uncovered:

1. Dynamic Pricing vs. Cleaning Fees (Episode 321)
2. How To Make Facebook & Instagram Ads That Drive Bookings for Your Short-Term Rental (Episode 333)
3. Pet-Friendly Airbnb Listings: Welcoming Dogs to Your Short-Term Rental (Episode 335)
4. We Fought Restrictive Local Hosting Laws (and Won) (Episode 339)
5. Optimize Your Supply Inventory as an Airbnb Co-Host in 2024 (Episode 347)
6. Revenue Management 101: How to Track Growth & Optimize Your Strategy (Episode 391)
7. Simple Strategy to Add Thousands to Airbnb Revenue (Episode 405)

(00:25:00) The Land Journey & Personal Growth

Sarah and Annette reflect on their long-term project of purchasing land and building unique properties.

(00:30:00) YouTube Adventures & Stepping Out of Comfort Zones

How Thanks for Visiting expanded to YouTube with video-specific content to serve the hosting community.

(00:33:00) Member Success Stories

Celebrating HBM member wins, including:

• Katie’s $30K revenue increase with two properties.
• Michelle’s launch of 19 properties as a Co-host.
• Heatherly’s pivot to long-term insurance bookings.

(00:36:00) 2025 Bootcamp Announcements

Introducing Bootcamp Intensives to help you focus on specific aspects of your hosting business.

(00:40:00) Final Thoughts & Community Reflections

Sharing our gratitude for the incredible hosting community and setting the stage for 2025.

• #STRShareSunday: @mileawaystowe
• Submit Your Property: strshare.com
• Dynamic Pricing Tools: PriceLabs
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!
• Hosting Business Membership: Get on the waitlist!
• Bootcamp Intensives: Join us in January for a Listing Audit Boot Camp!
• Rent Responsibly: Learn More

Mentioned in this episode:

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.