All Forum Posts by: Frank Barletta

In the past, I've launched and sold 2x PropTech ventures in the multi-family space and now own a portfolio of short-term rentals. I am fascinated by this space and believe in our industry, so I would love to solve some problems!

I am happy to reciprocate in any way I can, such as a discount in a product I build, opportunity to invest, etc.

Thank you in advance!

2 Votes

Brooklyn guy - Let me know if you're in midtown. Let's grab a coffee.

These went on sale during black Friday and figured to share: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Arcade1Up/page/72239652-B330-4...

0 Votes

Quote from @Account Closed:

Hey fellow hosts,

I've just had a frustrating experience and I could really use some advice on how to encourage direct communication with guests. Here's the scoop:

Last weekend, I had guests stay at my property. After their departure, I was surprised to receive a complaint from Airbnb about the cleanliness and amenities in my unit – which, to my knowledge, was in top condition as I always do thoughrough checks.The guests reported that the apartment was not clean, specifically mentioning dusty shelves and a non-working coffee maker. They also complained about the "lack of promised amenities," citing that there was no iron available, which is puzzling because I pride myself on a well-stocked space.

Here's the kicker: in my unit, I maintain a comprehensive guest book with detailed instructions on everything, including how to use the coffee maker (which was brand-new) and where to find the iron (in the wardrobe, on the top shelf, clearly labeled). I also make a point to tell guests to reach out any time with any questions or issues – my phone is practically glued to my hand, so I'm very responsive.

None of this was brought to my attention during their stay. No calls, no messages, nothing. I would've been more than happy to guide them through any troubles or even send someone to check on the supposed issues. But instead, they went straight to Airbnb with these inaccuracies.

It feels a bit unfair and it's certainly not helpful for maintaining a good standing with future guests or Airbnb.

Have any of you dealt with a similar situation? How do you encourage your guests to speak to you first about any issues they encounter before they go directly to Airbnb with complaints? I want to ensure open lines of communication, but this incident has me a bit stumped.

Thanks in advance for your insights!

Best,

Angel

Some people suck. It's good to vent; you'll find hosts here who share similar experiences.

I've had a guest stay for a month complaining about simple things such as the trees/hedges being too bushy and the air conditioner being too noisy.
They texted me asking for a concession when it was time to put in a review.

Sharing this because, in the end, this was 1 awful couple out of 1000+ we've hosted, and life goes on.

All you can do is keep a good paper trail and photos and answer CS honestly. Airbnb support is pretty fair overall.

Most guests will contact you directly and this is not the norm.

0 Votes

Quote from @Ren Lok:

Hey everyone.

Our Airbnb came with a Vivint Security System(door sensor, smart deadbolts, window sensors on all windows, video doorbell, camera in back and a few other things). It's $50 a month for the monitoring.

How much Security do you guys have in your houses?

If I switch to something like ring, and just have a camera on the outside and a video doorbell. It ends up being $10 a month and would have the equipment paid for within a year.

What problem are you trying to address with the security system @Ren Lok?

0 Votes

The most practical and cost-effective gear is a Google Wifi Mesh.
Easy setup for the most inexperienced technical folks.

If you're worried about coverage, StarLink is really good and you may be able to create a network per unit and cap the bandwidth to provide good-quality internet.

1 Vote

It is more cost-effective and practical to install a large-size TV and get the Nintendo, Super Nintendo, and Sega Mini consoles.

It comes with games preloaded, legal, and each to swap in case something breaks.

0 Votes

Quote from @Jake Chial:

Thanks for the input. I was able to find a lender to do 20% on the commercial side with a rate comparable to if I was conventional. Even though its not a 30 year am, the numbers make sense and it wont effect any future plans.

Was a personal guarantee required? Be careful if you're unsure or unaware of what they are. Wishing you well on your new journey!

0 Votes

If these questions are welcome, it would be great to learn from my peers.

I'm selling an asset, and it has bookings confirmed until the end of the year. Since I've built a strong reputation:

How does Airbnb / Vrbo handle this?

Would you transfer the bookings to the buyer to prevent disruption to the vacation plans of guests? (Already considered selling the revenue)

Would you reach out to the guests and let them know and give them options?

Talk to me.

2 Votes

Upstate New York, New York

Parents (like me) will book without that stuff, so I don't believe it'll make substantial upticks in bookings but a bonus for these types of guests.

I'd be more worried about the highchair breaking and a kid getting hurt than it getting stolen.

Best of luck with your endeavor.

0 Votes

Orlando, Florida

Quote from @Dolev Zaharony:

Hello,

I have several Airbnb that I own and manage myself in the Raleigh, NC area.

I was approached by a person who owns a great place for an Airbnb- a large cabin with a pool and pond on a 3-acre land with tons of potential. He is looking to move out of the place, turn it into an Airbnb and have me manage the whole thing. How much do you typically take for that out of the profit? The location is in Raleigh.

Thanks!

Take the % of Gross Receipts you feel would be worth managing on their behalf.

1 Vote

All Forum Posts by: Frank Barletta

Frank Barletta has started 14 posts and replied 161 times.

Post: I want to start a new venture and need some help identifying big challenges in STRs.

Post: Any multi-game arcade machines/vendors you'd recommend?

Post: Airbnb Guests Contacting Airbnb Support Before The Host

Post: Security Systems for your STR.

Post: Internet for 4-unit building

Post: Any multi-game arcade machines/vendors you'd recommend?

Post: Do all your STR's show up on your personal credit?

Post: Selling an STR asset // Best path forward with existing booking (Airbnb/Vrbo)

Post: Including baby items in STRs

Post: How much will you take for managing an Airbnb?