All Forum Posts by: Ryan Schildroth

Hi everyone! 

I'm so excited to share that I've just listed my first STR in KCMO, right next to West Plaza! I followed much of the guidance on these forums and books I've read, and started off strong with over 30 nights booked in the first 10 days!

Because I chose a regional metro market, I knew going in that weekend trips would be the primary bookings, and that has been the case so far. The challenge is going to be getting my weekdays filled. I've integrated automation for messaging and dynamic pricing, and taken all the necessary steps (that I'm aware of) to align with AirBnB's algorithm - Instant Book, flexible stay minimum and cancelation policy, building up 5 star reviews etc. I'm also in the process of starting a social media account to help promote the property on FB and IG. 

I might just need to be patient, but after working for over 2 months to get this property ready, I'm stuck in this mindset of "there's always something else I can be doing." KC also has some opportunity areas I can leverage for longer stays (i.e. multiple hospitals for traveling healthcare), but I'm not sure how to go about exploiting them from a marketing standpoint, other than in my actual listing (i.e. highlighting a dedicated workspace). 

Finally getting around to my question: are there any other approaches I'm missing that would lead to more weekday stays? 

Also, I'd love any feedback on the listing itself! Thank you all!

Thank you for all the responses, and reassuring my direction. 

One other question regarding listing though: do y'all think it's good to get the listing up on AirBnB ASAP either with some sneak peak photos or a "Coming Soon" photo, and then blocking off the next 10-14 days to finish the final touches? Or wait until the place is completely ready for pro photos and list after with a wide open calendar?

Thank you!

I'm about to list my first STR in the KCMO market and am going back and forth on whether or not I should get professional pictures. All of the books I've read on STRs say to spend the money, and that it'll be a huge difference maker for bookings. I've also heard the argument that if expectations from great pictures don't meet reality, guests will be disappointed from the get-go. While it has plenty of charm, the home is nearly 100 years old. Another side note is that my fiance is an Art Director and has a knack for photography, just not necessarily real estate specific.

Any advice before I drop $500 on a pro?

Yeah, I looked into the ADU idea briefly but agree it's too much of a headache. Plus it'll make a way better den/lounge area in the short-term arena. Thanks for the comment!

Thank you! This is really helpful. I like the corrugated metal idea for the main walls too. And I figured as much for the roof, but is there anything I need to do for the floor?

I just purchased a single family in KC that I'm going to make a full time STR. It has a great outdoor patio and yard area, and a very large shed that I envisioned turning into a bar/hangout area. Because KC experiences very warm summers and cold winters, I thought it would be best to at least add insulation to the roof and walls, but I'm way out of my element. Curious if anyone has handled a similar project, maybe while converting an ADU, and could offer advice on options I might have. I plan on asking some contractors, but I'm frankly still in the relationship building phase, and want a little more knowledge going into those conversations.

TL;DR: I have a shed and want to make it comfortable for my guests to hang out in. What's the most cost effictive way to insulate? Dry wall vs. something else, like wood-paneling? Do I still need a split unit for heating and cooling? 

I've already started the process of running electric out there, and will probably add a water line as well. Any additional advice would be greatly appreciated!