All Forum Posts by: Andrew Street

Hi Thanh - Managing a single STR can be manageable, but as your portfolio grows, hiring a vacation rental company can be a game-changer. They handle everything—guest communication, pricing optimization, cleaning coordination, and maintenance—allowing you to focus on scaling or other priorities.

While you pay a percentage of your revenue, the time and stress saved often outweigh the cost, especially with larger portfolios. Plus, professional management companies often have tools and strategies to maximize occupancy and revenue, which can offset their fees. It’s a smart choice if you want to streamline operations and ensure a consistent, high-quality guest experience without being hands-on 24/7.

I'd be happy to share more ideas. Let me know! 

Hi Joy - Service animals can’t legally be restricted due to landscaping concerns, but you can include a note in your listing to inform guests, such as:

"The front yard has decorative shells, and the backyard is turf. If your pet has sensitive paws, we recommend taking precautions."

This keeps the listing inclusive while giving guests helpful info. Let me know if you’d like help updating the wording!

I'd be happy to connect for more ideas! Let me know. 

Hi Rereloluwa - Congratulations on becoming a Superhost—it’s a great milestone! You’ve taken strong steps by hiring a reliable cleaner and listing the property across multiple platforms. To further boost occupancy and revenue, consider revisiting a dynamic pricing tool like PriceLabs, as it works best with more time and data to adjust rates competitively. Focus on attracting midterm renters through platforms like Furnished Finder, especially during slower periods. Enhancing guest experience with small touches, like a welcome basket or local guide, can lead to better reviews and repeat bookings. If you haven’t already, professional photography can help your listing stand out in a crowded market. Offering discounts for weekday or longer stays could also help improve occupancy. Keep building on your progress and leveraging your Superhost status to attract more guests. Best of luck!

I'd be happy to share more ideas, let me know! 

Hey Jonathan - I usually start by checking what similar properties are charging in the area, considering things like size, amenities, and location. I adjust pricing based on demand, like raising rates during peak season or local events, and lowering them in slower months to stay competitive. I also watch occupancy rates and adjust if bookings are low. For seasonality, I take into account holidays and local events that might drive demand.

I'd be happy to connect for more ideas! 

Hey Thanh! Setting up direct bookings is a great way to avoid platform fees! To vet guests, you can use a pre-booking form, ask about their plans, and require an ID and signed agreement. For payments, tools like Stripe, PayPal, or booking software like OwnerRez work well.

Happy to connect if you’d like to chat more or need additional tips!

Hi Marc - Aircover offers some protection for damages caused by guests, but it's limited and doesn't replace having dedicated STR insurance. STR insurance provides broader coverage, including liability, property damage (even non-guest-related), and gaps Aircover might not cover.

For damages caused by guests, document everything (photos, receipts, estimates) and file a claim through Airbnb. However, for major issues, STR insurance ensures you're fully covered. It’s a good idea to have both for peace of mind!

I'd be happy to connect for more ideas! 

Hello Eric! That sounds like a great plan! To estimate expenses, consider setting aside a percentage for management fees, plus costs for cleaning and utilities. It’s wise to start with breaking even and ensure you're comfortable with the costs involved.

Happy to connect if you'd like to discuss more! 😊

Hi Gary - That’s a tough one, but I can see where your cleaner is coming from. If she held the time for your property and couldn’t take on other jobs, it makes sense to compensate her for that. Offering 50% of the cleaning fee for cancellations within 48 hours seems like a fair middle ground.

You might want to set up a clear policy with her going forward so everyone’s on the same page for situations like this. It’ll make things easier if it happens again!

I'd be happy to share more ideas. Let me know! 

Hey Nick! Congrats on your first STR in Sevierville—sounds like a strong start! Offering discounts and opening up your calendar are great steps. For more bookings, consider promoting on social media or offering last-minute deals.

Regarding ticket partnerships, local attractions or smaller groups might be more flexible than larger platforms like Xplorie. Viator could also be a good option to explore. Happy to connect and share ideas! 😊

Hello Lei! Investing in Hawaii sounds like an amazing plan! Ko Olina is a beautiful spot - and having a vacation home there for your family while focusing on capital appreciation is a smart move. 

To get started - I'd recommend connecting with local STR investors and researching Hawaii's regulations. Partnering with an experienced local agent will be key—they can guide you through the market and help identify the best opportunities.

Happy to connect and share more tips! 😊