In this episode of the podcast, Mateo and John chat it up with Happy Guest co-founders Alex Husner and Kanan Whited. There's something refreshing about this guest portal and the story and psychology behind the app is entertaining and fulfilling. You're gonna want to download this one.

Episode Highlights:

Guest Introductions: Exciting projects ahead: Alex, a returning guest, shares her excitement about new projects and life post-Casago.

First-time guest Kanan Whitehead, co-founder of Happy Guest, joins the show to discuss his journey into vacation rental tech.

Kanan’s Origin Story: From Amazon to Vacation Rentals: Kanan’s background in scaling creativity at Amazon/Whole Foods led him into vacation rental branding and operations. His work at Airbnb led to developing tools that streamline operations for property managers, leading to the founding of Happy Guest.

Why Happy Guest was created: Kanan and Alex discuss how Happy Guest was born from a desire to simplify the vacation rental guest experience. Focus on creating a seamless guest journey by improving communication, workflows, and reducing operational burdens for managers.

Psychology of the Guest Journey: Happy Guest focuses on the psychology of guest interactions, creating a fun and stress-free experience for both guests and property

Upsells Timing: The trend is upsells in the property management space, but upsells are most effective closer to the check-in date rather than at the time of booking.

Importance of Guest Communication: Guests prefer to communicate on platforms they are comfortable with (e.g., Airbnb), and property managers should align with those preferences while collecting necessary contact details.

Unified Communication: The challenge of disjointed guest communications (email, text, Airbnb messages) can make Airbnb the most consistent touchpoint. The goal is to streamline communication and keep it aligned with the guest's preferences.

Gamification: Happy Guest's check-in process includes a gamified element to make it engaging for guests, inspired by the success of platforms like Hopper that have integrated fun, playful design elements.

Visual Design and Branding: There is a trend towards minimalist design in tech, but Happy Guest differentiates itself with a more playful, colorful approach. The design aims to make the platform memorable and enjoyable for both property managers and guests.

Guest Journey Optimization: Happy Guest emphasizes simplifying the guest journey, from booking to check-in, using technology to make the process intuitive and stress-free for both guests and property managers.

Revenue Opportunities: Happy Guest offers upsells such as early check-in or other customizable add-ons. Property managers can increase revenue while saving time through automation.

Streamlined Setup: The platform is quick to set up, requiring little ongoing management from hosts. Once implemented, it automates many repetitive tasks, freeing property managers to focus on other responsibilities.

Consistency in Guest Experience: Inconsistent messaging and outdated terms across platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, direct bookings) are common pain points. Happy Guest helps property managers streamline and standardize their guest communications across all platforms.

No App Download Required: Happy Guest is web-based, avoiding the friction of requiring guests to download an app, which is a significant roadblock for user adoption.

Event Participation: Happy Guest is involved in industry events, offering prizes and stays to encourage people to experience the platform firsthand at conferences.

Ease of Use: The platform offers property managers the tools to simplify guest interactions without having to be constantly engaged, making it highly time-efficient.

Happy Guest

We're excited to announce the launch of Villa Tracker OTA, a pioneering platform connecting the vacation rental industry with traditional travel agencies.

Our good friend Moriya Rockman, founder of Smiling House and Villa Tracker, joins us to discuss the platform's vision, its impact on the industry, and its partnership with Guesty.

Moriaya shares her journey, the challenges faced in creating an OTA, and the potential for new bookings, sustainability, and innovation within the short-term rental sector.

The episode highlights the collaborative spirit of the industry, the importance of trust and high standards, and the exciting future of integrated travel planning.

Episode Highlights:

• Villa Tracker Overview: Villa Tracker is a new OTA that connects the vacation rental industry with traditional travel agencies, bridging a gap that has existed since the inception of platforms like Airbnb.
• History and Need: The vacation rental industry has traditionally excluded third-party professionals like travel agents. Villa Tracker seeks to integrate these professionals into the booking process, offering a B2B2C model.
• Target Audience Expansion: Villa Tracker aims to serve not just high-budget clients but also travelers who are looking for unique accommodations, including city apartments and luxury villas, with the help of their trusted travel agents.
• COVID-19 as a Catalyst: The demand for private accommodations during COVID-19 highlighted the need for vacation rentals in the travel industry, inspiring the creation of Villa Tracker.
• Challenges and Vision: Creating Villa Tracker required overcoming significant technical and trust-building difficulties, but the platform is poised to open new opportunities for property managers and travel agents alike.
• Partnership with Guesty: Villa Tracker's partnership with Guesty, a leading PMS, was critical in meeting high industry standards and launching the platform.
• Moriya's Journey: Moriya shares her story from managing a small property in Switzerland to creating a groundbreaking platform, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in the industry.
• Industry Collaboration: The podcast highlights the collaborative nature of the vacation rental industry, where professionals push each other to innovate and grow, benefiting the industry as a whole.

In this episode, we delve into the current challenges facing the short-term rental industry in Barcelona with friend and colleague Jaume Barberena.

Jaume, a Catalan and industry expert Director at Bizflats, provides an in-depth look at the new regulations set to take effect in Barcelona and the current and potential impact on the industry.

This episode goes DEEP and one you do not want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

Early Challenges: Jaume discusses the greenfield nature of the STR market in Barcelona at the time, highlighting the lack of existing frameworks and the challenges of educating property owners about the benefits of short-term rentals.

Professionalization of STRs: Jaume explains how Barcelona's STR industry has always been highly professionalized, with early efforts to establish a unified voice through the founding of Apartur, an industry association.

Airbnb’s Impact: The conversation shifts to how Airbnb's entry into the market in 2010 significantly lowered the barrier to entry, leading to an influx of non-professional hosts and a shift in public perception of STRs.

Regulatory Environment: Jaume describes how the proliferation of STRs led to increasing pushback from local communities, HOAs, and eventually, the government, culminating in a negative image of the industry.

Recent Developments: The discussion turns to the recent news of a potential ban on foreign STR licenses in Barcelona by 2028. Jaume clarifies that this stems from a regional government decree that requires local authorities to create new STR regulations within five years.

Future Outlook: The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of continued mobilization and education efforts within the industry to influence local regulations and ensure the future of STRs in Barcelona.

Lobby Influence: Jaume suspects deep-pocketed hotel and construction lobbies influencing politicians in Barcelona, pushing for legislation that favors large hotels over short-term rentals.

Rhetoric Escalation: The anti-STR stance in Barcelona has intensified, culminating in the mayor's proposal to ban all STRs while simultaneously suggesting the construction of 5,000 new hotel rooms.

Tourism Appeal: Barcelona's year-round attractiveness and suitability for families make it a popular destination, with STRs offering better value and experiences than hotels, a trend Jaume believes will continue despite regulatory pressures.

Impact of STR Bans: Jaume warns that removing a significant portion of STR capacity could lead to skyrocketing hotel rates, similar to what happened in New York.

Illegality and Hospitality: John discusses how restrictive laws in New York have led to increased rates, illegal activities, and difficulties for travelers, which undermines the hospitality industry’s goal of being welcoming and accessible.

Community Organization: The crisis has united the STR community in Barcelona, with ApartTour's membership growing significantly. Jaume emphasizes the importance of collective action and grassroots advocacy.

Legal Action: ApartTour is taking legal steps, including a lawsuit for unconstitutionality and individual claims for damages, to challenge the new regulations.

Local Business Impact: Jaume highlights how STRs positively impact local businesses, even in non-tourist areas, by bringing in foreign customers, which is often overlooked by anti-STR rhetoric.

Tourism Phobia: The episode touches on the concentrated nature of tourism in specific areas leading to over-tourism and how this fuels anti-tourism sentiments, with calls for more nuanced, neighborhood-specific solutions.

Call for Advocacy: Jaume and the hosts encourage listeners to start or join advocacy groups in their communities to ensure STRs are represented in regulatory discussions and not unfairly targeted.

Partnership Over Conflict: Mateo emphasizes the need for STR operators to engage with communities as partners rather than adversaries, aiming for constructive dialogue and mutual benefit.

Respectability and Recognition: Jaume's ultimate goal is to gain respectability for the STR industry, ensuring it is recognized as a legitimate and valuable part of the community.

Mateo welcomes AI expert Nick Mote to discuss the transformative potential of multimodal AI in the hospitality industry. From understanding how AI can now interpret and process multiple types of inputs to its practical applications in vacation rentals, Nick sheds light on the current and future landscape of AI technology

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Multimodal AI: Nick explains the concept of multimodal AI, which can process various inputs like text, images, and soon videos, to generate more contextual outputs, enhancing AI capabilities beyond traditional text-based models.
• Impact on Hospitality: Discussion on how multimodal AI is already changing the vacation rental industry, including improved image captioning and enhanced marketing descriptions.
• Future Applications: Exploration of potential future uses, such as AI-powered guest interactions and maintenance support by analyzing guest-uploaded photos.
• Technology Adoption: Nick and Mateo discuss the implications for tech innovators and how multimodal AI can revolutionize guest experiences, making interactions more intuitive and efficient.
• Integration Challenges: Addressing the industry's resource constraints, Nick talks about how AI can aid in development and improve efficiency across various business functions.
• Developer Assistance: AI as a tool for developers to write better code and for marketing teams to optimize their efforts, highlighting the broad adoption potential within organizations.
• Practical Business Applications: Strategies for businesses to integrate AI into their operations, including partnering with third-party providers and using off-the-shelf AI products.

We invite listeners to share their thoughts on how AI is impacting their business and any additional angles or applications we might have missed..

Original articles or posts

Skift: Guesty, Short-Term Rental Software Provider, Acquires Rentals United https://shorturl.at/fINQW

PhocusWire: Guesty Acquires Rentals United https://shorturl.at/dSTW3

Hotel Technology News: Guesty Acquires Rentals United to Expand Its Property Management Platform Capabilities in the Short Term Rental Market https://shorturl.at/chR25

Short Term Rentalz: Guesty makes Rentals United fifth acquisition since 2022 https://shorturl.at/tJMP6

Tagging: Rentals United Guesty TravelNet Solutions Lynnbrook Group Inhabit ICND

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John and Mateo dive into a candid conversation about the current landscape of short-term rental (STR) conferences, focusing on the recent VRMA Spring Forum. They discuss the challenges faced by both vendors and property managers, analyze the ROI (Return on Investment) metrics, and explore potential solutions to enhance the value of industry conferences.

With insights from their own experiences and observations, they emphasize the importance of adaptability, inclusivity, and innovation in shaping the future of STR conferences. Join them as they share their thoughts, opinions, and hopes for the industry's most significant events.

Episode Highlights:

• Discussing the ROI metrics for conferences, they emphasize the importance of tangible outcomes and sustained relationships post-event.
• ohn shares Direct's decision to not attend the VRMA Spring Forum based on past experiences and ROI analysis.
• Mateo raises questions about the inclusivity and relevance of major conferences like VRMA for all segments of the STR community.
• The conversation evolves to address the changing landscape of industry conferences, including the rise of smaller, more intimate events.
• They explore potential format changes for VRMA conferences and highlight the need for creativity and adaptability.
• John acknowledges the innovative efforts of industry leaders like Tyann Marcink Hammond with Touch Stay and Madison Rifkin CEO of Mount in reshaping the conference experience.
• Closing the episode, they express optimism for the future of STR conferences, their support of VRMA, and encourage listeners to share their feedback and ideas.

Episode Sponsor

- Direct

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Original article or post - Skift - Expedia Is Considering Ways to Introduce Sponsored Listings on Vrbo

https://skift.com/2024/04/09/expedia-is-considering-ways-to-introduce-sponsored-listings-on-vrbo/By Dennis Schaal

Tagging: Dennis Schaal, Rob Torres, Amiad Soto, Guesty VRBO

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Mateo and John continue to delve into the world of short-term rentals in Canada. Joined by guest John Papaconstantinou of Papa's Getaways, they discuss the unique opportunities and challenges of the Canadian vacation rental market and John's journey into the industry.

This episode features engaging discussions on industry dynamics, personal experiences, and strategic approaches to business. John Papa's journey serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to navigate the evolving landscape of short-term rentals.

Episode Highlights:

• Everyone expresses excitement for their upcoming participation in the CanStay Short-term Rental conference in Banff.
• John Papa shares his journey into the short-term rental space, inspired by real estate investing podcasts and his desire to transition from his nine-to-five job.
• The appeal of short-term rentals in Magog, Quebec, emphasizes the region's four-season attractions and strategic occupancy goals.
• Acknowledgment of the immersive nature of their work and the occasional need to balance business discussions with personal time.
• John Papa highlights the importance of mutual trust and understanding in his partnership with his wife emphasizing how their complementary strengths allow them to efficiently tackle various aspects of property management without getting in each other's way.
• The conversation explores the nuances of the Canadian short-term rental market, including regulatory considerations and seasonal booking strategies.
• Discuss insights into the collaborative nature of the industry and the potential for growth and innovation.
• Mateo and John Papa explore the transition from traditional financial services to the dynamic world of short-term rentals, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous learning.
• Expanding the Business Horizon: With aspirations to scale Papa's Getaways, John Papa envisions offering comprehensive services to property owners, from pre-approval assistance to property management, aiming to facilitate second home ownership while maximizing rental income.
• Addressing Financing Challenges: John Papa acknowledges the challenges in financing second home purchases and emphasizes the importance of accessibility and affordability in making property ownership more attainable for prospective buyers.
• Mateo and John discuss the challenge of changing perceptions around short-term rental investments, particularly for homeowners looking to leverage their second homes for rental income.
• Navigating Regulations and Challenges: The conversation shifts to the regulatory landscape and the challenges hosts and property managers face, particularly in areas with strict regulations.
• Addressing Cultural and Language Barriers: John highlights the language divide in Quebec and the need for greater bilingual communication and understanding in the industry and proposes ideas for bridging this gap, including bilingual podcasts and initiatives to promote language learning and cultural exchange.

Upcoming Events and Advocacy Opportunities:

The upcoming CanStays Rental Alliance conference will provide a platform for industry professionals to engage with policymakers and advocate for fair regulations.

Interested in checking out the Canstays Conference?

Use Coupon Code Direct100 for $100 off when buying your tickets for the CanStays Rental Alliance Conference https://www.canstaysrentalalliance.com/tickets/

Episode Sponsor

- Turno

Property Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn’t Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno’s Cleaner Marketplace

Compare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily manage all your turnovers in one place

the no BS podcast Listeners: $150 Offer for New Turno Users

Complete your first turnover with a Turno Marketplace Cleaner by 3/31/2024. and receive a $150 Amazon gift card from Turno! visit: https://turno.com/nobs

Today we're diving into the regulatory challenges faced by short-term rental hosts, particularly in British Columbia, Canada.

Our guest, Deana Steele founder of Keys To Kelowna, a limited edition luxury vacation homes & rental management company joins us in conversation. Deana sheds light and shares her insights into navigating BC's business and regulatory landscapes and enlightens us on the newest developments that have impacted the short-term rental industry up North.

Get ready for an insightful no BS conversation you won't want to miss!  

Episode Highlights:

• Continued Regulatory Challenges in Canada: Canada faced significant regulatory hurdles during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a period of uncertainty and constraints for short-term rental hosts.
• The Need for Proactive Engagement: Mateo emphasizes the importance of positioning oneself as a professional ally in regulatory discussions rather than adopting a confrontational approach. Building partnerships and advocating for responsible hosting can shift the narrative positively.
• Impact of Short-Term Rentals: Contrary to popular belief, short-term rentals are not solely responsible for housing shortages or increased rental costs. Studies, including one cited from the Harvard Business Review, reveal that the impact of short-term rentals on housing markets is relatively minor compared to other factors.
• Regulatory Impact on Homeowners: Homeowners in British Columbia express exhaustion and frustration due to stringent regulations affecting short-term rentals. Various initiatives, including foreign buyers bans and taxes, have not effectively addressed housing affordability issues, leading to disappointment among property investors.
• Economic Considerations: Deana shares insights into how regulatory changes have affected her business and the broader tourism ecosystem. Amidst challenges, she highlights the resilience of short-term rental hosts who have adapted through diversification and strategic planning.
• Enforcement and Future Prospects: Challenges in enforcing regulations are evident, with limited resources and varying levels of compliance. The impending May 1st deadline marks a critical juncture, with regulations set to significantly impact short-term rental operations.
• Potential Solutions and Advocacy: Discussions revolve around legal challenges, grassroots resistance, and potential changes in government policies.Calls for public-private partnerships and incentives to facilitate the transition from short-term to long-term rentals as viable solutions.
• Community Advocacy: Forming alliances and advocating for property rights are crucial strategies employed by short-term rental hosts to navigate regulatory landscapes. The discussion underscores the significance of storytelling and positive messaging in shaping public perception and policy decisions.
• The Role of Associations: Deana discusses the establishment of a property rights association aimed at challenging regulatory measures and promoting responsible short-term rental practices. The association serves as a unified voice for hosts in engaging with policymakers and the media.
• Navigating the regulatory landscape: Deana provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the industry, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and collaboration in shaping regulatory frameworks.

Upcoming Events and Advocacy Opportunities:

The upcoming CanStays Rental Alliance conference will provide a platform for industry professionals to engage with policymakers and advocate for fair regulations.

Interested in checking out the Canstays Conference?

Use Coupon Code Direct100 for $100 off when buying your tickets for the CanStays Rental Alliance Conference https://www.canstaysrentalalliance.com/tickets/

Episode Sponsor

- Turno

Property Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn’t Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno’s Cleaner Marketplace

Compare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily manage all your turnovers in one place

the no BS podcast Listeners: $150 Offer for New Turno Users

Complete your first turnover with a Turno Marketplace Cleaner by 3/31/2024. and receive a $150 Amazon gift card from Turno! visit: https://turno.com/nobs

Original article or post - Short Term Rentalz - AJL Atelier unveils 2024 short-term rental industry landscape https://shorttermrentalz.com/news/ajl-atelier-2024-str-industry-landscape/ by Paul Stevens

Tagging: Simon Lehmann

Direct Software - https://directsoftware.com/

Book a PMS demo with John - https://meetings.hubspot.com/jstokinger/discovery - mention this no BS Daily Dose for $500 off implementation!

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