All Forum Posts by: Maan Najjar

Hello,

I'm listing my smoky mountains cabin in Airbnb & Homeaway. So far it seems Airbnb is generating more bookings but it could be because my calendar is not open until November. I created the listing at Booking.com but I'm starting to wonder if it's worth the headache to manage the listing in more than 2 platforms. I know there are channel managers but the good ones that integrate with all platforms seem to take 1% or charge for $100/month and it seems too much. Does Booking.com & TripAdvisor generate bookings for vacation rentals or is it enough to just list in Airbnb & HomeAway ?

Thanks

Thanks all for the replies, those are really helpful information! I was going to buy my first cabin with Avery Carl but I had already signed contract with a seller, I'm definitely hoping to buy my second cabin from her. Looks like the Carls are the experts in self-managing in smoky mountains :)

Hello all,

Few months ago I purchased my first property in the smoky mountains in Pigeon Forge. Initially signed up for property management for few months before I'm mentally prepared to start self-managing. Now I finally did it, I gave 2 months notice to the property manager and set up my listing in Airbnb & Homeaway and opened up the calendar for November & December. I'm very impressed with Airbnb, I already received four bookings in Airbnb (although I may initially set the prices lower than average which attracted quick bookings). 

My first guest checks in November 1st, and I'm planning to travel to the property next month and start preparations. My first thoughts is to install keyless doorlock, ecobee and make sure kitchen has everything needed by guests. And of course make sure the property is comfortable and clean.

As for cleaning & maintenance, I found few companies who can take care of that. But I was wondering if fellow BP members have recommendations for cleaners & handymen, I would really appreciate recommendations! Also I was wondering what is usually recommended for Hot tub maintenance, is it done on weekly or monthly basis ?

Excited to start the journey!

Thanks,

Maan

Hello All,

I live in Orlando and I'm wondering if there are STR markets in Florida with strong rental income. Orlando/Kissimmee market looks very competitive so I'm trying to avoid it.

I've read in Evolve article that Destin rentals shows very strong rental income. A 2-bedroom Destin property grosses $43510 whereas Smoky Mountain grosses $34622 in average. Would appreciate other investors can share their experience in Destin (or other Florida markets)

Best,

Maan

Thanks @Mike V.! That's interesting, I didn't know that. I will make sure to look at 'rent collected' instead

Thanks all for the responses! It sounds great opportunity. @Avery Carl I got your email too, looking forward to talking with you :)

Hello all,

New member here and planning to buying my first STR in Smoky Mountains. I've been in smoky mountains once and I loved it. Very excited to join the market!

I'm thinking of buying a property around $250,000, but I want to be realistic in terms of ROI. So I was wondering how much would $250,000 rental gross in average ? I've seen some listings claiming 30,000+ revenue.

Thanks,

Maan