First deal jitters on smoky mountain cabin

[Marco Egurvide]

Hey BP!

I am currently under contract on my first str in the Smokey’s and I am excited, while at the same time getting those jitters as we move through the process. I’m looking for some advice from the community on the property I am in contract for and just getting insight from those of you that are much more experienced than I am.

It’s being marketed as a small secluded honeymoon cabin and most all decor is being directed at that demographic of renter. There is currently only one bed in bedroom and regular couch. My idea was to either to replace with a futon bunk bed or one of those hidden day beds so I can say that it would fit another couple or 2 kids so more of a family getaway not just couples only. This also could be for travelers/hikers that are not a couple. The other thing is using enemy method against the current Airbnb listing is I know I can take better photos and it is 20-30/night overpriced (not many bookings). Should I continue with my idea to change furniture around and make this a successful rental or would you cut and move to another property? My budget was under $500 which is why I am looking at smaller properties in the first place.

I would love your opinions based off current listing! Thank you!!!!

https://abnb.me/qBKq68sduqb

[Ken Boone]

Quote from @Scott Mac:

Hi Marco,

I like it--looks nice for a honeymoon cabin, but I think kids might be rough on the cute decorations.

If there are deer or similar (rabbits, raccoons, squirrels, hawks, etc...) Maybe post some pics of them (baited into the yard) with the cabin in the background, and leave the bait out.

It's better than watching mosquitoes buzz around all day and night.

Also it if has internet access, or cell phone access maybe point that out as a feature.

Any fun Bluegrass festivals in the area, maybe point those out too.

Good Luck!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCYkXLWmbkI

 Real bad advice for the Smokies.  I get the gist of your comment and I have a deer feeder in my back yard where it is legal and I don't have bears and I live in a rural area.  However, Racoons enough become a pain around a rental - you don't want to attract them. You need to check laws and regulations before baiting deer.  Problem with baiting for either is you are gonna attract bears which it is absolutely illegal to feed or bait.  Not only is it illegal, but that is what causes the bears to be trapped and relocated and sometimes euthanized when they become too people friendly.    Don't get me wrong bears are great, and the guests are twofold, they either love to see the bears or they are scared to death (Got a 4 star review because a bear came everyday and sniffed their car and got in the back of their pickup truck one afternoon).  However, when the bears take bites out of their motorcycle seats (has happened to my guests) or opens their unlocked car and gets inside and damages everything inside, they are no fun.  This is what happens when people bait the bears intentionally or not, they become used to an easy free snack from people and then become a problem.  

Please don't bait the bears in the smokies.