the no BS short-term rental podcast

In this episode of the no BS podcast, we explore the intersection of co-living and short-term rentals with guests Cliff Johnson and Atticus LeBlanc. The discussion delves into the benefits of co-living, the flexibility and financial empowerment it offers, and its role in addressing affordable housing issues. Atticus shares his journey into creating PadSplit, including his experiences with real estate investment and the evolution of the co-living model. Cliff adds insights from his extensive background in vacation rentals and highlights how co-living can complement the short-term rental market. The episode also covers regulatory challenges, the potential for commercial property conversions, and the community support PadSplit provides to both investors and residents.PadSplit https://www.padsplit.com/Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast00:57 Diving into Co-Living and Short-Term Rentals02:31 Atticus LeBlanc's Journey and Vision07:19 The Birth of PadSplit13:10 PadSplit's Impact and Future20:41 Challenges and Misconceptions21:33 Regulatory Clarifications and Affordable Housing24:15 Addressing Misconceptions About Co-Living26:15 Making Co-Living Easy and Effective28:19 Community and Peer Support in Co-Living34:31 Scaling and Future Prospects of PadSplit35:29 Innovative Housing Solutions and Conversions40:34 Empowerment and Community Impact41:39 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the No BS podcast, we welcome back Marcus from Hostaway to catch up on the exciting developments since his last appearance in December 2022. We dive into Hostaway's impressive feats, such as raising a massive $175 million in Series A funding, followed by an even more staggering $365 million Series B funding round. Marcus gives us an inside look at the intricacies of running a top-tier business, emphasizing the paramount importance of stellar customer support and innovative technology. We also explore the future plans for Hostaway, the evolving landscape of the short-term rental industry, regulatory challenges, and what it takes to achieve market leadership. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with industry knowledge and future trends.Link to Hostaway: https://www.hostaway.com/Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast00:57 Welcoming Marcus from Host Away02:26 The Simple Truths of Business and Life04:56 Host Away's Major Funding Announcements06:20 The Three Pillars of Running a Business12:31 The Importance of Customer and Investor Relationships20:45 The Future of Vacation Rentals and Direct Bookings23:16 Investing in Technology and Customer Success24:08 Acquisitions and Market Competition25:55 Challenges of Following Playbooks30:30 Valuations and Market Opportunities35:20 Impact of Regulation on Real Estate40:04 Company Culture and Employee Compensation45:58 Conclusion and Future Outlook

In this episode, we journey from the days of Big Printing, brush elbows with some very established brands, and take the learnings to Vacation Rental Operations with Brian ButlerThe conversation covers the evolution and impact of technology in vacation rentals, the integration of AI and machine learning, and the balancing act of scaling while maintaining company culture. Brian also introduces his current project, EZcare, detailing how it revolutionizes property care and operations through innovative inventory management and scheduling solutions. The discussion is candid, insightful, and filled with valuable industry perspectives and future tech trends.We LOVE this conversation and know you will too! EZcare website: https://www.ezcare.io/Contact Brian Butler: brian@ezcare.ioEpisode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the No BS Podcast00:57 Hosts' Personal Updates and Banter02:04 Introducing Guest Brian Butler03:01 Brian Butler's Career Journey06:09 Transition to the Hospitality Industry07:42 Experiences at Navis and Vacasa16:50 Challenges and Innovations in the Industry22:12 The Rush to Grow: Is It Worth It?23:16 The Impact of Rapid Scaling on Company Culture24:34 The Rise of the Hobbyist in the Vacation Rental Market25:42 Introducing EZcare: A New Approach to Business26:16 Building Tools for the Vacation Rental Industry32:24 The Importance of Inventory Management39:54 The Future of Property Care with AI42:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the no BS podcast, we dive deep into the world of short-term rental upgrades with Mark Lumpkin of STR Cribs. The discussion covers everything from the origin of STR Cribs, which provides comprehensive renovation and setup services for short-term rentals, to their unique approach to transforming dated properties into high-revenue vacation spots. Mark explains how STR Cribs not only handles design and construction but also advises on maximizing revenue through strategic amenities and safety considerations. The episode also touches upon Mark's journey into the industry, the importance of differentiating rental properties, the company's financing opportunities, and potential future expansions and plans for the company Notably, the conversation explores the broader trends in the STR industry and the growing need for unique, experience-driven rental properties to stand out in saturated markets.STR Cribs website - https://strcribs.com/Mark's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142/ Mark's email - mlumpkin@strcribs.com00:00 Welcome to the No BS Podcast00:57 Meet the Hosts: Mateo and John01:08 Home Renovation Stories01:29 Introducing Our Guest: Mark Lumpkin03:09 Mark's Journey into the STR Industry05:15 Travel Adventures and STR Insights09:15 The Birth of STR Cribs10:50 Consulting and Revenue Management14:40 Expanding STR Cribs' Reach19:40 Future Projects and Innovations21:25 The Airbnb Clone Epidemic22:42 Standing Out with Bold Design Choices23:24 Exploring Partnerships and Collaborations24:14 Maximizing Property Revenue with Small Changes24:51 Media and Marketing Strategies25:46 The Power of Social Media26:19 Upcoming TV Show and Content Plans26:43 The Value of Sharing Knowledge29:29 Networking and Industry Events32:51 Innovative Financing Opportunities35:52 Future Trends in the STR Market39:16 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

This week we share an important conversation during Human Trafficking Prevention month and delve into the dark side of the vacation rental industry with our friend Ela Mezhiborsky, co-founder and president of Autohost. We discuss the crucial issues around human trafficking in short-term rentals and the importance of awareness, education, prevention, and protection. Ela shares her journey, detailing how Autohost emerged as a key player in AI-driven guest screening to combat fraudulent activities and criminal behavior, including human trafficking. We also stress the importance of training and awareness, encouraging listeners to take concrete steps such as enrolling in specialized courses. With a focus on bringing industry players together for greater accountability and ethical operations, this episode aims to spur action and discourse around a critical but often overlooked issue.DO NOT MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EDUCATE YOURSELF AND YOUR TEAM!Vacation Rental Human trafficking awareness education by Dr. Judy Sullivan OsterhageVisit this link for a special $50 off deal exclusive for the no BS podcast listeners --> https://www.traffickingawareness.org/offers/QUSL2jy8/checkout00:00 Welcome to the No BS Podcast00:57 Introducing Our Special Guest: Ela Mejaborski01:51 The Dark Side of the Hospitality Industry03:14 The Birth of Autohost05:38 A Light Bulb Moment: Spotting Illegal Activity11:39 Understanding Human Trafficking15:24 The Importance of Awareness and Training21:26 Housekeeping Team Challenges21:56 Importance of Neighbor Relations23:07 Security and Technology in Rentals23:30 Human Trafficking Awareness28:21 Educational Resources and Courses32:11 Call to Action for Property Managers39:12 Conclusion and Future Steps

This week, we're diving into the messy world of **hospitality tech** and uncovering solutions that actually work. Our guest is Abdul Ahadh, CEO and co-founder of Calry, a game-changing Unified API for property management systems (PMS). If you've ever struggled with clunky integrations or wasted time wrestling with tech that doesn't play nice, this episode is for you. We break break down: - Why the PMS integration game is broken. - How Calry's Unified API cuts through the chaos. - Real-world benefits like reduced resource burn and faster integrations. Plus, Ahad shares his journey from Bangalore's startup scene to disrupting the short-term rental API game. He gives us a sneak peek into Calry's expansion plans and why they're the partner you need to scale smarter, not harder. Visit CALRY - https://calry.app/Timestamps (because we know you're busy): **00:00** - No BS welcome: Let's get real about hospitality tech. **00:57** - Post-VRMA takeaways and industry chatter. **03:00** - Homecoming Week in Atlanta: The vibe shift. **07:51** - Meet Abdul Ahadh and the origin story of Calry. **09:49** - Building Calry: Why the world needed a Unified API. **13:32** - The gritty truth about hospitality tech challenges. **16:49** - Bangalore: Why it's the Silicon Valley you should care about. **18:05** - How Calry's solving real problems—and what's next. **21:34** - Why PMS integrations suck and how to fix them. **22:31** - The Unified API solution: One point of contact, endless possibilities. **24:05** - Business efficiency unlocked: The Calry effect. **26:23** - Open API and business decisions. **31:50** - Scaling up: Calry's roadmap for the future. **38:51** - The advantages of switching to Calry. **44:28** - Closing thoughts: Ahad's advice for the next big disruptor.

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...

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...

Mateo welcomes AI expert Nick Moat 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 technologyEpisode 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/fINQWPhocusWire: Guesty Acquires Rentals United https://shorturl.at/dSTW3Hotel Technology News: Guesty Acquires Rentals United to Expand Its Property Management Platform Capabilities in the Short Term Rental Market https://shorturl.at/chR25Short Term Rentalz: Guesty makes Rentals United fifth acquisition since 2022 https://shorturl.at/tJMP6Tagging: Rentals United Guesty TravelNet Solutions Lynnbrook Group Inhabit ICNDIs there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

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- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

Original article or post - Skift - Expedia Is Considering Ways to Introduce Sponsored Listings on Vrbohttps://skift.com/2024/04/09/expedia-is-considering-ways-to-introduce-sponsored-listings-on-vrbo/By Dennis SchaalTagging: Dennis Schaal, Rob Torres, Amiad Soto, Guesty VRBOIs there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

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- TurnoProperty Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn't Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno's Cleaner MarketplaceCompare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily...

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

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 StevensTagging: Simon LehmannDirect 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!Is there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

Original article or post - Forbes - Short-Term Rentals Are Getting Popular Again. Here's Why https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2024/03/02/short-term-rentals-are-getting-popular-again-heres-why/?sh=325d8bc920fb by Christopher ElliottTagging:Christopher Elliot- Author, consumer advocate and journalistCasey Halloran - CEO of Costa Rican Luxury Vacations,Danielle Finch - Director Customer Experience @ HomeToGoMarcus Räder - Founder & CEO at HostawayPierre-Camille Hamana - CEO & Founder, Hospitable.comIs there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

Original article or post - Skift - Airbnb's New Listing Verification Process Favors Pro Hosts https://skift.com/2024/02/22/airbnbs-new-listing-verification-process-favors-pro-hosts/ by Dennis SchaalTagging - Dennis Schaal- Executive Editor, Founding Editor, Employee Numero Uno, Chief Storyteller at SkiftIs there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

In this episode, John and Mateo welcome a special guest, the one and only Catherine Radcliffe, founder of STR Benefits Consulting and Lost Together Stays. Tune in for valuable insights as Catherine shares the unique challenges and opportunities in the Canadian short-term rental market and introduces the CanStays Rental Alliance conference.Get ready for an insightful no BS conversation you won't want to miss! Use Coupon Code Direct100 for $100 off when buying your tickets for the CanStays Rental Alliance Conference https://www.canstaysrentalalliance.com/tickets/Episode HighlightsMeet Catherine Radcliffe: A proud Canadian, Catherine is the founder of STR Benefits Consulting and Lost Together Stays. She has dual citizenship and a passion for addressing the specific challenges faced by the Canadian short-term rental industry.CanStays Rental Alliance Conference: Catherine introduces the CanStays Rental Alliance conference, set to take place in Banff, Canada, in two months.Addressing Canadian Specifics: Catherine highlights the distinctive aspects of the Canadian short-term rental landscape, including provincial differences, healthcare nuances, and unique challenges faced by hosts.Motivation Behind the Conference: Catherine shares the inspiration behind organizing the conference, emphasizing the lack of representation for Canadian issues in existing vacation rental conferences. The conference aims to provide a platform for discussions on Canadian-specific topics like regulations, healthcare access, and marketing requirements.Impact of the Pandemic on Canadian Business: Mateo questions how the pandemic affected the short-term rental business in Canada and learns of the impact of regional disparities, healthcare considerations, and challenges faced by smaller communities.The Need for National Conversations: Catherine emphasizes the importance of a streamlined national conversation across provinces, sharing best practices, navigating regulations, and addressing the unique needs of each region.Conference Topics and Speakers: The hosts and Catherine discuss the diverse topics that will be covered at the conference, including safety, revenue management, employment practices, and accessibility. A lineup of Canadian speakers, along with a French track, adds to the conference's uniqueness.Networking Opportunities: John highlights the networking opportunities at the conference, encouraging hosts, property managers, and vendors to take advantage of the chance to learn, share ideas, and collaborate.Early Bird Special: Catherine provides details on the early bird special for conference tickets, including pricing and the option to bring a plus one. The hosts emphasize the value of attending and participating in discussions that can influence the future of the industry.Influence in Canada: Catherine discusses the significance of influencing outcomes in the Canadian market, pointing out the country's ability to pivot and make changes quickly. We stress the importance of being a voice and knowledge base for Canadian decision-makers.Socialistic Approach: Catherine emphasizes the socialistic approach in Canada, focusing on community well-being and partnership with elected officials to find solutions that benefit everyone.Episode Sponsor- TurnoProperty Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn't Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno's Cleaner MarketplaceCompare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily manage all your turnovers in one placethe no BS podcast Listeners: $150 Offer for New Turno...

Original article or post - Harvard Business Review - What Does Banning Short-term Rentals Really Accomplish? https://hbr.org/2024/02/what-does-banning-short-term-rentals-really-accomplish by Sophie Calder-Wang, Chiara Farronato, and Andrey FradkinTagging - David Angotti - Chief Evangelist at Guesty, Founder of StaySenseIs there an article or social post you'd like us to respond to on the no BS Daily Dose?? If so, please fill out this Google form- https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1EoiHZ5PvtsTqDqvZDrhDWvrkDGPJcTVrhioaPO0S4nY/edit

This is the 2nd time that Dawn Yeskulsky has joined us on our podcast but the first as CEO & Founder of her own companies PMS Pros and Yes2vr Advisors.With 28 years of experience in Vacation Rentals touching the majority of customer-facing verticals, Dawn brings her unique perspective and knowledge to helping short-term rental property managers and vendors navigate complex decisions.A great listen!Episode HighlightsDawn reflects on Bob Ackerman pushing her into sales, initially resisting the shift but eventually embracing the challenge and giving RNS 14 years.We share amusing anecdotes about the early days of technology, reminiscing about carrying large computer towers for demos.John & Mateo discuss Dawn's pioneering role as a woman in the vacation rental sales space. Dawn humbly acknowledges the challenges but expresses her deep connection and dedication to the industry.John and Dawn discuss the intricacies of payment processing, its challenges, and the constant evolution of the industry.Dawn shares her unique journey, highlighting her move from TRACK to Inhabit. John speculates on the California connection that made this transition possible.The conversation shifts to industry trends, with John acknowledging the efforts of various companies like Travelnet Solutions, Guesty, and Hostaway in emulating Inhabit's model through acquisitions.Dawn emphasizes the significance of building long-standing relationships and earning the trust of property managers. She discusses the value of honesty in steering clients in the right direction and her desire to reconnect with them after spending years behind the scenes at various companies. Dawn introduces PMS Pros as a response to the need for onboarding support consulting in the property management industry aiming to complement, not replace, existing PMS onboarding teams.PMS Pros acts as a project manager for property managers, facilitating effective communication with onboarding teams.Episode Sponsor - TurnoProperty Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn't Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno's Cleaner MarketplaceCompare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily manage all your turnovers in one placethe no BS podcast Listeners: $150 Offer for New Turno UsersComplete 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

In this episode, hosts John and Mateo sit down with Nick Mote, CEO and Founder of Automate, JetML, and Oregon Labs. Nick shares his journey into the short-term rental industry, from his background in marketing to his ventures in machine learning and AI. Get ready for an insightful no BS conversation you won't want to miss! Visit this link for a $150 Offer for New Turno Users https://turno.com/noBSEpisode HighlightsNick shares insights into his diverse background, from his early interest in tech and computers to his marketing role at Tree Top during the recession.The journey takes a turn towards machine learning as Nick describes his experience at Vacasa, where he played a pivotal role in developing a groundbreaking 365-day daily pricing model.Venturing into Entrepreneurship: The conversation unfolds as Nick discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, leading to the inception of JetML in 2018, aimed at empowering data scientists to produce their work efficiently.Nike and the Sneakerhead Culture: Nick delves into his role at Nike, where he worked on predicting digital line attendance for sneaker drops, offering a fascinating glimpse into the sneakerhead culture.Rented and the AI Tools: Nick's journey continues with his collaboration with Rented, contributing to the development of AI-driven revenue management tools.Saving Time with AI: John shares his thoughts on using AutoMate, emphasizing the time-saving aspect. With the Pro version and personalized input, the tool adapts to sound more authentic, providing valuable time efficiency.Average Time Savings: John and Mateo discuss the significant time savings per listing, a crucial win for property managers. Nick highlights how the tool helps instantly generate quality descriptions, eliminating the bottleneck of waiting for freelance copywriters.AI as an Equalizer: Mateo sees AutoMate as an equalizing tool, accessible to property owners, managers, and hosts of all sizes. It addresses the challenge of crafting compelling descriptions, making it an invaluable resource for anyone in the industry.The Challenge of Fresh Descriptions: Nick discusses the tool's potential to rewrite bad descriptions and the opportunity to update listings multiple times a year. He envisions incorporating event data, allowing managers to highlight local events in their descriptions dynamically.Integration and Future Plans: Nick explains the simplicity of adopting AutoMate without integration hassles. While an API is available, future plans include potential integration with PMSs or other services, enhancing scalability and usability.No-Risk Proposal: The hosts and Nick agree that AutoMate's trial-first approach is a no-risk proposal, allowing users to experience its benefits firsthand. The tool's ability to enhance property rankings and increase guest conversions while saving time makes it a compelling solution.Challenges of AI Adoption: The conversation delves into the challenges of AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of user engagement and responsible use. Nick encourages industry professionals to consider how tech tools can elevate the guest experience rather than replace the human touch.As the episode concludes, Nick leaves listeners with a challenge: to think about how technology can be leveraged to elevate hospitality without compromising the human element. The future of AI in the short-term rental industry holds exciting possibilities, and AutoMate Vacations aims to be at the forefront of this transformative journey.Episode Sponsor- TurnoProperty Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn't Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno's Cleaner...

We had the privilege of spending some time and getting to know Assaf Karmon CEO & Co-founder at Turno.Assaf shares his journey from a background in software engineering to solving problems in the short-term rental industry. The property care aspect of vacation rentals is complex and can be daunting to those ill-informed or to those who just "wing it". Turno is an amazing resource for property managers and hostsAdditionally, we're excited to welcome Turno in as a new no BS show sponsor!Give it a listen!Visit this link for a $150 Offer for New Turno Users https://turno.com/noBSEpisode HighlightsAssaf elaborates on Turno's evolution, starting with a focus on scheduling and property careWe discuss Turno's collaboration with Airbnb which allows for a seamless experience for their users.Assaf emphasizes the importance of user experience and empathy in creating software solutionsWe inquire about Turno's scaling strategy and global reach.Assaf attributes success to luck, persistence, and taking opportunities while maintaining a vision.Assaf stresses the importance of staying disciplined, focusing on core features, and not overcommitting during the scaling process.John and Assaf discuss the challenges of avoiding overengineering and overpromising in response to customer requests and the Importance of staying true to the company's initial vision and North StarAssaf emphasizes the need for focus and avoiding distractions in business and Mateo adds insights on the importance of perfecting and refining the core productAssaf compares this stage to Airbnb's journey of making incremental improvements and refining user experiences.Episode Sponsor - TurnoProperty Management and Hosting is Hard. Cleaning Doesn't Have to Be. Get Competitive Cleaning Bids on Turno's Cleaner MarketplaceCompare prices and services from vetted STR cleaners in your area and easily manage all your turnovers in one placethe no BS podcast Listeners: $150 Offer for New Turno UsersComplete 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

This week it's just us as we recap the amazing year that was 2023!This is a super quick episode that touches on all the right things... but first make sure to visit this link for an EXCLUSIVE no BS 3-month FREE Membership to HostGPO! https://hostgpo.com/no-bs/Episode HighlightsBusiness adaptation: Companies focus on new revenue streams and differentiation.Professionalism: More operators adopt a professional approach, focusing on profitability and data.Profitability and sustainability: Businesses prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly practices.Differentiation: Standing out in a sea of inventory becomes crucial.Creativity and tech-enabled experiences: New trends like glamping and unique rentals emerge.Episode 116 marks the 31st episode of the season and the 2023 recap.Derailed: a fictional murder mysteryThree significant episodes: The 100th episode with Matt Landau, the Bill Faeth episode, and the most downloaded episode to date with Vacasa CEO, Rob Graber.The podcast took a two-month break and came back rebranded as the no BS podcast and focused on a deeper, more intimate format.Appreciation for collaborations with HostGPO and anticipation for upcoming partnerships in 2024.Commitment to eco-positive changes, including planting trees and contributing to ocean and coral restoration with Global Investment Group.Anticipation for the industry's response to challenges and the opportunity for growth and creativity.

This week we dive head-first into the world of purchasing and buying groups with Jeff Iloulian CEO of HostGPO.Jeff's entry into the vacation rental industry was unconventional (like many of us), as he found himself involved in unique lease arbitrage deals for properties in between renovations.The idea to start a group purchasing organization (GPO) "selfishly" came to meet his purchasing needs as a better more efficient way to set up and supply his units.This is a great fast-moving episode!Visit this link for an EXCLUSIVE no BS 3-month FREE Membership to HostGPO https://hostgpo.com/no-bs/Episode HighlightsEvolution of the Vacation Rental Industry: We discuss how the vacation rental industry has evolved over the years. Jeff emphasized that the industry is continually changing, and what may seem like the end of the "Wild West" phase is just a stage in its ongoing development.HostGPO has exclusive partnerships with certain brands, ensuring that its members have access to products that may not be available elsewhere in the vacation rental industryHostGPO has scaled aggressively, reaching 300,000 units in its network.Jeff emphasizes the importance of having a team composed of people who understand the vacation rental industry and the needs of HostGPO members.HostGPO raised external capital to accelerate growth. Jeff highlights a strategic partnership with a major GPO outside the vacation rental industry, leveraging their buying power and expanding vendor partnerships.Jeff emphasizes the power of the community aspect in negotiating better deals. The larger Host GPO becomes, the more leverage they have in securing favorable terms for their members.WE discuss taking inspiration from the hotel industry's approach to creating memorable guest experiences. Hotels are adopting elements from short-term rentals, and hosts can learn from the hotel playbook to elevate their offerings.Hosts should look beyond short-term returns on investment and consider the long-term trajectory of their business. This includes strategic investments in brand development, guest experience, and operational efficiency.Episode Sponsor - DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

This week we chat with our environmentally conscious friend and entrepreneurial badass Matt Kallstrom, founder and CEO of The Global Improvement Group.The conversation is fun, educational, and enlightening with one of the craziest turning point stories we've ever heard on the show.Making a difference has never been easier and we're challenging each and every one of you to sign up and do your part for Mother Earth - we are! For every 100 downloads of the no BS podcast, we're partnering with The Global Improvement Group to plant trees, clean plastics from the ocean, and help rehabilitate coral reefs.Episode HighlightsChildhood Aspiration: Matt had a childhood dream of becoming a CEO, inspired by his entrepreneurial family background.Environmental Mission: Matt's deep connection to nature and concern for the environment led him to start a company with a mission to offset carbon and contribute to environmental causes.Eco-Friendly Beauty Pageant: A serendipitous encounter at an eco-friendly beauty pageant in Omaha, Nebraska, led to a partnership with a hairstylist and a commitment to plant trees for every haircut.Business Model Evolution: The company's business model evolved from product sales to a for-purpose for-profit model, focusing on carbon offset and environmental impact.Transition to Sustainability: Matt discusses the transition his organization has made toward sustainability, aligning with groups focused on making a positive impact on the environment.Non-Profit Business Model: The podcast delves into the business model of Global Improvement Group, which operates as a non-profit. Matt explains the concept of making a difference while generating revenue, challenging the common perception that non-profits should not make money.Two-Pronged Approach: Global Improvement Group's approach involves helping businesses adopt sustainable practices for efficiency while also focusing on creating positive environmental impacts, such as planting trees, cleaning up oceans, and coral restoration.Sustainable Practices for Property Managers: Matt outlines some easy-to-adopt sustainable practices for property managers, including avoiding single-use plastics and incorporating eco-friendly alternatives.Flexible Sustainability Programs: Global Improvement Group offers a flexible, a la carte approach to sustainability programs, allowing businesses to choose and switch between initiatives like tree planting, ocean plastic cleanup, and coral restoration.Episode Sponsor - DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

In this episode of the no BS podcast, we chat with our friend and entrepreneur Brooke Pfautz, founder of Vintory and Comparant.com.The discussion includes how the launch of Comparant.com aims to revolutionize the industry by offering a platform for vacation homeowners and property managers to connect. The website has over 5,000 professional rental managers already listed, providing homeowners a single platform to compare and choose short-term rental property management based on performance, reviews, and services. Exciting times for our industry and the team at Vintory and Comparent!A must-listen!Episode HighlightsMarketplace Dynamics and Leveling the Playing Field: Brooke emphasizes the marketplace aspect of Comparant, allowing smaller property managers to compete on equal footing.Comparison with Past Attempts and Evolution of Ideas: We address past attempts at similar concepts by other companies and emphasize the unique aspects of Comparant.Brooke's Vision: Brooke expresses excitement about the potential impact of Comparant on the industry. He looks forward to seeing how companies adapt and change to reach the next level in response to public reviews and feedbackThe Influence of Reviews: Brooke and Mateo discuss the impact of reviews on property management. Brooke shares how review systems from platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have made him a better vacation rental manager, emphasizing the motivation to maintain a positive reputation.Driving Excellence: We hosts discuss how public reviews encourage property managers to step up their game and offer best-in-class services. The conversation includes anecdotes about handling unexpected situations to ensure positive reviews.Future Plans: The discussion touches on future plans for Comparant, including the implementation of AI-driven chatbots to enhance user experience and streamline the sales process for property managers.Shortening Sales Cycles: The hosts explore how platforms like Comparant can potentially shorten the sales cycle by providing homeowners with comprehensive information upfront, making the decision-making process more efficient.Episode Sponsor - DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

We have the privilege of sharing this episode with our good friends Neely Khan and Chris Maughan of I-PRAC. Both Neely and Chris have been on our show (separately) in the past, but this time it's different because Neely has officially joined the I-PRAC team as Managing Director.John and Mateo are proponents of TRUST as a necessary tool in hospitality for both managers and guests and they dive deep into this importance in this episode.Episode HighlightsChris explains how Neely's journey with I-PRAC began, initially as a content writer, and her progression to Senior Content WriterChris emphasizes the importance of staying true to your values and working on the business, not just in it.Neely explains why she chose to take on the role at I-PRAC, citing her strong connection to the brand, mentorship by Chris, and the opportunity to learn and grow.Neely highlights the value of I-PRAC approval as a marketing tool and the unique level of peace of mind it offers guests, emphasizing that there's no similar solution in the industryMateo further explores the barriers to adoption, considering the industry's competitiveness and the need for assurance in the guest experienceThe discussion delves into finding the "sweet spot" and speculates about the reasons for the slow adoption of guest experience assuranceThe hosts consider whether negative incidents or public failures in the short-term rental industry are necessary to drive changeThe conversation touches on how guest experience assurance can be a differentiator and addresses the challenges of convincing established property managers of its value.Chris acknowledges Airbnb's significant impact on the industry but mentions their past mistakes in addressing trust and confidence issues.Episode Sponsor - DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

Emir Dukic, Founder & CEO at Rabbu, Inc. sat with us talking about his journey with arbitrage short-term rentals in Charlotte NC, scaling his company from 8 to 400, and very recently transitioning back to what he loves best which is helping others with focus on tech.Emir, a technologist at heart jumped head-first into software development to aid Rabbu's growth."The decision to build our own property management system was rooted in our core competency as technologists. We understood the problems we wanted to solve, and building a custom solution was a natural progression for us" - EmirRabbu is for vacation rental investors bringing the right data and people together like Zillow is for home buyers.Tune in to learn more about Rabbu's innovative approach to short-term rental data and education.Episode HighlightsEmir's entry into the short-term rental industry began with a personal experience. He and his wife turned a room above our garage into an Airbnb unit to generate some extra income. The success we experienced opened our eyes to the potential of short-term rentals.We discuss the challenging journey of deciding to build your own tech and how it's driven by the necessity to create a seamless experience for both hosts and guestsEmir discusses the challenges faced by property management software providers and emphasizes the importance of proper education and communication between software providers and usersWe explore the significance of professionalization in the short-term rental industry and how Rabbu aims to assist investors, real estate agents, and other stakeholders in making informed decisions.Emir dives into how they understood the problems they wanted to solve, and as technologists building a custom solution was a natural progression for them.We talk about frustrations that often arise from the lack of robust customer support and tailored solutions provided by existing property management systemsEpisode Sponsors - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of your properties are unique, and that's why its smart calculations take into account the performance of your rentals, occupancy rates in your market, and even preferences, like minimum pricing and length of stay. stay ahead of the game with your pricing strategy.Head to https://hello.pricelabs.co/thenobspodcast/ to snag a free 30-day trial of PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing and get a free Market Dashboard too. Make sure to use the code THENOBSPODCAST to get your free trial and $10 off on your first bill.- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

This week we're joined by Amanda Jensen, Co-Founder of Sanctuary Treehouse Resort in Sevierville Tennessee for the first episode of our Alternative Accommodation Series.Amanda shares their journey into hospitality, starting with a family-built treehouse that inspired the idea. Before we dive into the Sanctuary vision of modern vacation rental amenities in family-friendly treehouses, we touch on the impact of the devastating 2016 Gatlinburg fires and the Smoky Mountains community resilience. The Sanctuary Treehouse Resort represents a new frontier in the vacation rental industry, offering an immersive and interactive experience for guests while fostering community support and engagement.A wonderful episode with tones of family first and you can do anything when you put your mind to it!Episode HighlightsAmanda and her husband Brian purchased 40 acres, to maintain the natural beauty of the land and keep condos out of their view.The vision expanded to create an interactive treehouse resort, blending modern amenities with nostalgic experiencesAmanda creatively incorporates her daughter's artwork into the treehouse themesPlanned amenities include an on-site supply store, pizzeria, butcher shop, and a network of walking trailsAmanda discusses her innovative approach to guest amenities, offering personalized recommendations and exclusive discounts to enhance their stay.She emphasizes the importance of preserving the natural environment and building within the topography of the land.We delve into the challenges of scaling the resort from seven to over a hundred treehouses and Amnada highlights their commitment to maintaining a personalized touch and fostering guest relationships, even as they expandEpisode Sponsors - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of your properties are unique, and that's why its smart calculations take into account the performance of your rentals, occupancy rates in your market, and even preferences, like minimum pricing and length of stay. stay ahead of the game with your pricing strategy.Head to https://hello.pricelabs.co/thenobspodcast/ to snag a free 30-day trial of PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing and get a free Market Dashboard too. Make sure to use the code THENOBSPODCAST to get your free trial and $10 off on your first bill.- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

This week Tim Rosolio, Expedia Group's VP of Vacation Rental Partner Success, joins the podcast. We discuss his journey from business consulting into the travel industry and how Tim's passion for vacation rentals extends throughout his life where he is involved as a traveler, shareholder, employee, and owner. There's so much growth potential within Expedia Group and Vrbo, it seems like the sky's the limit. Episode HighlightsTransitioning to HomeAway allowed Tim to focus on vacation rentals and the joy of helping people create memorable experiencesThe Importance of professional acting partners, delivering consistent quality, and community involvementThe importance of diversity in the vacation rental industryExpedia Groups Accelerator Program is supporting new and fresh ideasThe importance of proactive leadership in driving industry developmentExpedia's One Key Loyalty Program is introduced to unify various rewards programs from Expedia Group's acquired brandsTim discusses the importance of staying current and introducing innovations in the short-term rental industryMateo raises the topic of developing commercial partnerships within the short-term rental industryTim mentions the challenges caused by fragmented technology but believes there's an opportunity for seamless APIs to facilitate partnerships.John discusses the challenges of fragmentation within the industry and how standardization takes time to achieveEpisode Sponsors - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of your properties are unique, and that's why its smart calculations take into account the performance of your rentals, occupancy rates in your market, and even preferences, like minimum pricing and length of stay. stay ahead of the game with your pricing strategy.Head to https://hello.pricelabs.co/thenobspodcast/ to snag a free 30-day trial of PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing and get a free Market Dashboard too. Make sure to use the code THENOBSPODCAST to get your free trial and $10 off on your first bill.- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager who is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

This episode is a long time in the making. We welcome a fan of our show and Vacasa CEO, Rob Greyber to our podcast! Rob brings decades of work in the technology and travel industry, to a high-profile must-win situation at Vacasa's helm.Additionally, what makes this episode extraordinary is that Rob agreed to answer questions submitted by our listeners "live" on the pod on top of all our questions.Listening to this episode will leave you with a greater understanding of where Rob is coming from and hopefully optimistic about the future of Vacasa and its place in our short-term rental eco-systemEpisode HighlightsRob reflects on his early career experiences, working with technology and witnessing the transformational power of tech solutionsWe discuss Rob's accidental but significant early career experiences that shaped his understanding of technology and its potentialRob emphasizes the company's commitment to serving owners and guestsWe address industry criticisms aimed at Vacasa and how it is navigatedThe significance of advocacy efforts in the industry and Rob's perspective on criticismsWe address the notion of Vacasa not being "local" with "boots on the ground" and its impact on the company and industryFour questions from our no BS audience are highlighted and answered by RobIndustry Diversity - The value of various players, from boutique operators to larger brands, in contributing to the growth of the vacation rental industryInsight and vacation rental savvy that is unlocked when you process 31,000 reservations a weekend* Donation Links to Help the Maui Communities Affected by The Wild Fires *Red Cross of Hawaii — https://www.redcross.org/local/hawaii.htmlHawai'i Community Foundation “Maui Strong Fund” — https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strongUnited Way of Maui — https://mauiunitedway.org/Maui Humane Society — https://www.mauihumanesociety.org/Coconut Condos Ohana Relief - https://www.gofundme.com/f/6su93-lahaina-fire-reliefEpisode Sponsors- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager that is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct is built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation. - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of...

We're excited to sit and chat with Jonathan, TopKey Co-Founder, and CEO, about his journey from growing up in a vacation rental town to building a tech-enabled financial operating platform for lodging and short-term rental operators.Episode HighlightsWe discuss the growth and development of vacation rental destinations over the past decade, particularly the Gulf Coast of Florida.Jonathan explains how TopKey initially aimed to create a marketplace connecting property managers and homeowners and hit on the shift in direction after joining Y Combinator, which led to a deeper focus on the vacation rental industry.TopKey's recent $5.2 million raise and how different rounds are today compared to just a couple of years ago.The conversation explores how Jonathan's background led to the creation of TopKey, a financial operating platform for property managers and hotels.TopKey's primary focus is on helping operators streamline financial processes, such as expense tracking, account management, and owner transactions.Jonathan explains how TopKey issues Visa-issued credit cards tied to individual units, enabling real-time transaction tracking.TopKey's platform integrates with major accounting software and PMS systems, simplifying the monthly close process for bookkeepers and property managers.Episode Sponsors - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of your properties are unique, and that's why its smart calculations take into account the performance of your rentals, occupancy rates in your market, and even preferences, like minimum pricing and length of stay. stay ahead of the game with your pricing strategy.Head to https://hello.pricelabs.co/thenobspodcast/ to snag a free 30-day trial of PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing and get a free Market Dashboard too. Make sure to use the code THENOBSPODCAST to get your free trial and $10 off on your first bill.- DirectDeciding which property management software to use isn't easy. Direct encourages everyone to demo a few options and see which is best for you now and for your growth. If you're a host or property manager that is unhappy, it's a great time to talk with Direct!Direct's built on a modern framework that's intuitive and seamlessly integrates operations, distribution, connectivity, accounting, and engagement tools all within the software.Head to info.directsoftware.com/nobs and book a demo with John and receive $500 towards implementation costs. Direct wants to be part of the conversation.

We sit down with our friend Adrian Johnson, Owner of SeaBreeze Vacation Rentals on Anna Maria Island on Florida's Gulf Coast.We discuss Adrian's journey from the security industry to vacation rental property management, where he shares insightful experiences and challenges he faced along the way, what it takes to be successful, and dive deep into current and future technology in the short-term rental space.Episode HighlightsAdrian emphasizes the importance of attention to detail during the guest turnover process and the impact it has on guest satisfaction.Adrian shares his experiences dealing with natural disasters and the unpredictability of the business, touching on red tide, hurricanes, and the importance of preparedness.Preparing for the Future: Adrian emphasizes the importance of having a well-prepared hurricane plan in place for properties.Building In-House Services: Adrian explains how SeaBreeze expanded its services by bringing laundry, pool maintenance, and even construction in-house. He highlights the strategic approach of timing and quality over quantity.Focusing on the Guest Experience: Adrian shares how SeaBreeze treats owners and guests like family, providing a welcoming and warm atmosphere. He believes in going the extra mile to create exceptional experiences.The importance of finding a one-stop-shop platform to streamline operations for property managers.Adrian shares his thoughts on AI's impact on the industry and how it could revolutionize processes.We discuss the power of listening to customers' needs and avoiding a "my way or the highway" mentality.Adrian emphasizes the need for software companies to think outside the box and offer unique solutions to property managers.Episode Sponsor - PriceLabsCustomize your pricing strategies and run your business just the way you want. Ensures your rates are always spot-on to match the local demand, supply, and market factors. PriceLabs knows that each of your properties are unique, and that's why its smart calculations take into account the performance of your rentals, occupancy rates in your market, and even preferences, like minimum pricing and length of stay. stay ahead of the game with your pricing strategy.Head to https://hello.pricelabs.co/thenobspodcast/ to snag a free 30-day trial of PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing and get a free Market Dashboard too. Make sure to use the code THENOBSPODCAST to get your free trial and $10 off on your first bill.

We almost named this episode "Love Him or Hate Him, Just Don't Ignore Him". It was a 50/50 toss-up and we chose what we chose. We LOVE this episode and are excited to share our conversation with Bill Faeth, Founder of Build Short Term Rental Wealth and Co-Founder of the STR Wealth Conference. Bill is a super smart dude that has a solid grasp on business and numbers and how they all work together in a world where co-hosting is king and the words "professionally managed" might have a different definition or negative connotation depending on who's saying it. There's so much to unpack and we align with Bill on many things... so much in fact that we put a VRMA International panel discussion together that was sparked from recording this episode. For the betterment of our industry and alignment for the greater good, this is a MUST-LISTEN-TO episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a recording from our Rent Responsibly webinar we did in April on how culture and sustainable thinking affects a business's long-term success. We were lucky to be joined by some amazing special guests! Margot Lee Schmorak - Hostfully Wes Smithe - Direct Dawn Yeskulsky, SME - Inhabit® Rob Greyber - Vacasa David Krauss - Rent Responsibly Vanessa de Souza Lage - Sustonica Resha Shroff - Lynx Automation Official presentation snippet below: In their well-loved no-BS style, Mateo and John will host a meaningful conversation about how culture and sustainable thinking pedal the flywheel of your business's long-term success. Designed for CEOs, founders, and leaders of companies big and small, this session will challenge you to consider your cultural mindset, how your decisions impact the ecosystem around you and vice versa, and the power our industry has to impact our world for the better through travel. But they won't leave you hanging on those big questions. They'll also provide actionable strategies to carry your hospitality business long into the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, we have the incredible Brittany Blackman, the Owner of Breathe Easy Rentals, joining us as our guest. Brittany captivates us with her inspiring journey. When we last spoke with her, she had 12 units and had no intentions of expanding. Fast forward to today, and she has reached an impressive 25 units, comfortably establishing her presence. We can't help but anticipate that Breathe Easy Rentals will soon be managing around 50 units the next time we catch up. What sets Brittany apart is her genuine display of emotions. She wears her heart on her sleeve, which is a breath of fresh air in a world where appearances are everything. Her infectious passion for vacation rentals is both contagious and inviting. As the leader of an owner-focused property management company, Brittany experiences the pressure to excel. Balancing work and personal life becomes a true test, and we commend her for the way she handles it. This episode is an absolute must-listen, packed with valuable insights and a captivating story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No guests this week as we quickly recap the Shortyz (Vacation Rental Oscars) 2023 categories, short listers, and winners. The 20 award categories were judged by an independent panel consisting of investors, consultants and experts, before a short voting period was held. All of the winners were decided by a 50:50 split between judge scores and the public vote, with more than 65,000 votes cast from around the world. Shoutout to Paul Stevens for putting together another amazing industry event. We end the pod talking about the two FREE Beach Bonfire networking events we throwing next week in the Florida Panhandle with our friends in the vacation rental industry celebrating property managers! Joining us (Direct and Guestor) are Lynx, PriceLabs, Safely, RealTech, and AirDNA for an evening of fun, networking, and a little bit of education. Back next week with an amazing guest that is leading the way in Destin! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're going to be hard to find someone with more passion and love for the short-term rental space than Eric Thibodeaux CEO of Safer VR's, Current Tides Vacation Rentals, and HereStays... among other ventures. Eric wants the vacation rental industry to be admired and respected for exceptional levels of safety. He helps property managers and owners craft and improve their safety and loss prevention processes. This helps with their profitability and improves the overall guest experience. Eric has been managing and owning vacation rentals in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, since 2003. In addition, he has thousands of multi-family doors in several states. Property management and real estate investment are a true passion and we dive into how he looks at investing and also utilizes Guestor as an investment platform. The key to his success... finding opportunities where he can invest passively. This is a really great interview with one of the kindest and smartest men in vacation rentals.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We did it! We made it to 100 episodes! A huge thank you is in order to Matt Landau Founder at VRMB.com for joining us on our celebratory episode! We're fans of Matt and appreciate all that he has done and continues to do for the short-term rental space. When he got started back in 2006 things looked a lot different than how they are today. So much of who Matt is today was initially forged living in Panama living amongst the locals and establishing himself as a trusted community member. This allowed him to organize and demobilize street gangs in his and surrounding neighborhoods where he lived and operated vacation rentals. Matt has done much the same for our vacation rental community where he has earned the trust of the industry by putting out best practices and bringing like-minded people and ideas together. He challenges all of us to be the best of ourselves and continues to question his own direction all while continuing to find things he's excited about. A wonderful episode with an amazing man. Now for our next 100! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We met Yeves Perez Chairman and CEO at Workbnb a few months back and just knew we had to get him on. A call from his mama got Yeves back home to Reno to help her out with her bustling Airbnb business. His marketing background was instrumental in turning a corner with market research. What was noticed was that the majority of travelers staying at her properties were those traveling for work... more specifically construction work. This prompted entrepreneurial juices to flow and Workbnb was born. We dive into the difficulties of raising capital specifically for black and brown founders and how he is persevering despite all of this. What the team has built at Workbnb is super exciting and has the potential to change the game in Workforce rentals. Hear how a lodging placement app specifically designed for blue-collar travel that doesn't even have a search bar is going to change the way companies book accommodations. A must-listen, the future is bright for Workbnb! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Francois Gouelo is the real deal and we're lucky to have the CEO and Co-Founder of Enso Connect join our podcast. His road to Enso started out as a class project/competion at University with a 10k prize going to the winner. A ski trip where he didn't necessarily master "pizza and fries" solidified the project focus and as they say... the rest is history. Francois is on a mission to redefine guest experience through connectivity. In his words, "we're the zapier of guest experience". What does that actually mean? Think if/then statements. If this thing happens in one technology, then make it do this thing in another technology... Enso connect is the middle-ware that makes it happen. Such a great conversation with a man that cares about how efficiently tech is working for users in vacation rentals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we sit with John An, Founder & CEO of TechTape, and dive into all things STR Wealth Conference! This was year two for the hard-hitting conference that takes place in Nashville. Kudos to all involved for getting over 1000 people to attend while other shows in our industry are struggling with attendee-to-vendor ratios and attendees in general. This show was WAY different than any others that we have attended with HIGH ENERGY and a focus on hosts. We talk about what it does right and where it misses. Other vacation rental conferences and organizations can learn a lot from what STR Wealth is doing. We're big fans of John and get to know his and TechTapes' story a little better in this episode. What impresses us about John is how he has immersed himself (the right way) in things that make a real difference from day one and this is why he has found success as a short-term rental thought leader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does one go from a ship broker with a degree in maritime law to CEO and Founder of Fülhaus Inc? That's one of the many questions we dive into with the fantastic Andria Santos in this episode. Fülhaus, pronounced like the 80s and 90s sitcom with Danny Tanner, Uncle Joey, and Uncle Jessee, started out like most in this industry...kind of by accident. A declined job offer that turned into a design and furnishing opportunity led to her starring role. There's so much to unpack with Andria and a ton of excitement around a new product that has the potential to really change the way look at and attack furnished real estate. Andria and her team have the logistics under control and you'll want to listen up to get the full scoop. A wonderful interview! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We finally got Arthur Colker CEO and Founder of StayFi on our show! A great conversation touching on his entrance into #hospitality and more importantly the evolution to bring actionable value to #propertymanagement companies. What started as a consulting/marketing gig for Heirloom turned into a product a vision to capture the email addresses of all individuals who tap into the wifi in specific #shorttermrentals. Email is the best way to help drive direct books through retargeting email marketing campaigns and StayFi gives managers a leg up on the competition. We also dive into brand focus, recession-proofing your business, the importance of charging for your #marketing costs, and how #data wins all. We really love this episode and it's exciting to see how StayFi has transitioned from a cool tech option that captures emails to a full-blown marketing platform giving property managers the tools to crush! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we chat up and deliver a great interview with Dustin Abney CEO of Portoro! Dustin's resume is littered with companies like dotloop, Zillow, D. Alexander, and Avantstay before launching his 2nd startup Portoro. We talk about what gave him the "Airbnb" bug, how to differentiate oneself, the days of sleeping on couches, and the lessons learned working at early startups through acquisitions and exiting. Portoro started with the idea of getting behind BRAND and bringing hotel-quality luxury and amenities to all aspects of property management. Portoro has put together a super team of industry experts and backed it with well-thought-out technology to deliver high-end experiences for both guests and homeowners across every touchpoint. A great episode you don't want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A quick listen this week where we dive into our new roles. John Stokinger is the new Director of Sales at Direct, an award-winning property management software and Mateo Bradford is the Head of Fund Development for Guestor a platform designed that allows anyone to easily invest in vacation rentals. In this episode, we talk about the reasons behind our moves, their impact on the vacation rental industry, and why our love for short-term rentals makes us perfect for the tasks at hand. https://www.directsoftware.com/ https://www.guestor.com/ https://www.derailedpodcast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We had a great time catching up with the one and only Robertin Nunez, Co-Founder at CoHost Expert and LivingQuarters.net. If you get the opportunity to grab some time with Robertin at a show or during his travels, you really should prioritize it. There are short-term rentals, vacation rentals, corporate housing, and business travel, and most people we know lean one way or another. Robertin proudly straddles the fence and has found a way to meet the needs of all still with a focus on B2B travel. How do you win with B2B? Trust and Accountability. - Recurring theme here lately on our show! In the game of hospitality and accommodations, there are Hotels and then there is everyone else. Are we team Alternative Accommodations? A really great episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we talk with our good friend Matt Durrette the CEO of Cozi Real Estate Group. Like most, Matt stumbled into vacation rentals in a unique way too. It's a great story that starts with a trip with friends. They decided to rent a camping spot from Airbnb for South by Southwest. This trip made him realize how much the property owner was bringing in on the platform by making his property available for others to enjoy. There's more to this story that will give you a good laugh s well. From Baltimore to Texas Hill Country, Cozi Real Estate Group is making a name for itself and it all started to really click by focusing on focus on Top Down Operations. Matt prides himself on Cozi's company culture and has found success with by focusing on Homeowners, Employees, and Guests, in that order. You don't want to miss this episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are joined on the podcast by visionary and dreamer Annie Munro Sloan, Co-Founder & CEO of The Host Co. Annnie's trip to hospitality and short-term rentals came via many interesting career stops which she says are all actually tied with roots in hospitality. Companies that she has her fingerprints on include, Discovery Inc for HGTV, Twitter, Facebook (Meta), and Lucasfilm to name a few... we geeked out over the latter! Annie and her partner saw a need to develop a way for hospitality brands to sell items to guests while putting a Point of Sale in their hands. Enter The Host Co. It's the “easy button” for upsells. There is so much to her story and the sky is the limit with the offerings. During the interview, we actually came up with a few good ideas that we think could be game-changers! Really cool person, and an awesome product offering! Make sure to check out this episode! THE HOST CO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A big important episode this week as the amazing Vanessa De Souza Lage Founder and CEO of Sustonica join us. Vanessa talks about how she went from corporate marketing to emerging into the tech side of the vacation rental industry. Vanessa and her team were early pioneers in providing distribution tech options for short-term rentals. From there, we transition into gender rights, standing up for those who experience domestic violence, and the importance of sustainable vacation rentals. This episode tackles topics of importance from different spectrums that Vanessa has had a huge personal and significant impact on. Sustonica, her newest venture, is the 1st sustainability certification specifically for vacation rentals. Participating with this accreditation platform proves to travelers, owners, employees, and investors, that you're committed to environmental sustainability. This is a must-listen-to episode! Is my vacation rental green? Take the test! - https://form.jotform.com/223455114636352 Domestic Violence Resource page - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_xCBNpXAoLFtLecZ5RCD2yMQGv-DXZXlkbvIGvsV-eM/edit?usp=sharing  Sustonica - https://sustonica.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices