Skip to content
×
Pro Members Get
Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
ANNUAL Save 54%
$32.50 /mo
$390 billed annualy
MONTHLY
$69 /mo
billed monthly
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
×
Try Pro Features for Free
Start your 7 day free trial. Pick markets, find deals, analyze and manage properties.
All Forum Categories
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

All Forum Posts by: Jim Mueller

Jim Mueller has started 1 posts and replied 31 times.

Post: Wifi door lock recommendations

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

We use a Schlage Encode deadbolt with Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries. I also use dielectric grease on the battery connections to prevent corrosion. We have a lockbox with a key for backup in case the electrical part malfunctions.

Post: Best lock for STR

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

Like a lot others have said. Schlage Encode with a lockbox for the key in case of problems. We also always use Energizer Ultimate lithium batteries and put dielectric grease on all the battery connections. 

Post: Interesting and sad guest story.

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

Very sad to hear. You did your best by asking them to keep small dogs on a leash. You make a great point about risks in any given area. Sorry this happened to you and your guests.

Post: finding an STR daily rate sweet spot with pricelabs

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

Like @Luke Carl said and the famous price “Tickler” Tim Grillot says also. Tickle with the price and your listing often. 

Post: Remote Lock: Doorknob handle or deadbolt?

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

Hey Tim

We use a Schlage Encode deadbolt with Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries. I also use dielectric grease on the battery connections to prevent corrosion. We have a lockbox with a key for backup in case the electrical part malfunctions. Hope this helps. 

Post: App suggestions for self managing STR

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

We have one STR and we use Guesty for Hosts to manage the calendars and Pricelabs to recommend pricing. There is a ton of other options as well. Self managing is simple but it's not easy. I still believe it is the best way to go for us. Do your homework go for it!

Post: STR COMPETITION THROUGH CLEANING FEES!

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21
Quote from @Daniel Bedell:

Yeah I agree with @Luke Carl this is Airbnb's new thing, the see the nightly rate you are really going to get. I have been reluctant to eliminate it myself and think if you have a rental that competes more on quality than price you should keep charging it. I am constantly tinkering with my pricing, fees, discounts, minimum nights though to see what might work. 


 100% agree with all of this!

Post: Smoky Mountain Slow Down?

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

Post: Smoky Mountain Slow Down?

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

We are no experts for sure. We purchased a 2/2 cabin, no great view, 915 SF in PF just off the Parkway and went live Oct 1, 2021. Our Jan 1 - June 30, 2023 is up approximately 5% compared to the same time in 2022. I'm not sure why other than I constantly try to tweak our listing to get bookings daily. This is the only STR we have.

Post: Is it insane to manage your own STR?

Jim Mueller
Posted
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Central NY
  • Posts 31
  • Votes 21

It’s simple but in no way easy, so yes it may be insane. We self manage from 12 hours away. Do your homework and go for it!