Starting out with an STR strategy. Any advice?

[Ashley Westerfeldt]

Hi,

This is my first post on BP. My husband and I are starting out and have created an LLC with an inherited single family property. We are using the property as an STR starting in May 2025. We are also close to pulling the trigger on acquiring another nearby single family home for a second STR. The area is a local tourist hotspot especially in the summer. We plan to use Airbnb for these listings and are wondering if anyone has any advice for starting up. Both have already been furnished and prepped. What we are working on is making sure that the business is organized and prepared. We have never managed property before and will be doing it on our own. We do live an hour away from these properties and have W2 jobs. We will hire cleaning and basic lawn care. What are the pitfalls we should avoid? What things should we be sure to setup ahead of time? What marketing strategies are the most cost effective? etc. We appreciate any advice we receive.

Thank you

Ash