First STR Advice

[Jerry Zigounakis]

I just bought my first STR and hopefully closing in February. The home is in a great location in Big Bear Lake, CA close to the Village and Ski Slopes.

I have an array of emotions being scared of failung and excited all at the same time. My head is spinning on how to make this run as smoothly and efficiently to help maximize gains and bare minimum, break even after expenses. I have a feeling just starting out my home is not going to get much exposure on sites like air bnb or vrbo until I get some good reviews.

If anyone has experience in this market I would be intrigued to hear how best to manage my new STR. Big Bear has a lot of ordinances and rules to follow to host STRs. Just trying to get my ducks in a row...feeling overwhelmed.

[Michael Baum]

Hey @Jerry Zigounakis, gratz on the new place!

I will say that even though you get the boost from VRBO and AirBNB, the first year of operation is usually lean as you build up the rep.

Offering a discount on the stay is a way to be more attractive but don't go crazy. You might get the dregs staying at your place and you don't want it trashed.

Make sure you list it on VRBO and AirBNB for maximum exposure. Get some professional photos. Now for some nice winter shots then schedule for summer so you can add them as well. Nice to have a mix seeing as it is both a winter and summer destination.

Is the place furnished or do you have to do the whole nut? There are a lot of good posts on here so I would take some time and read the forum so you can hit the ground running.