Scaling to 100+ Rentals: The Grit & Growth of Tennis Pro Ashley Freeman
Mar 19, 2025
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Ashley Freeman, a former tennis pro and now a short-term rental powerhouse, shares her inspiring journey managing over 100 properties in Oxford, Mississippi. She reveals the unique challenges and advantages of investing in college towns, leveraging local insights for success. Ashley discusses how her athletic background instilled resilience and competitiveness in her business approach. The conversation also covers innovative property management strategies and the continuous demand for rentals in a dynamic college environment, along with tips for aspiring investors.
Ashley Freeman's transition from tennis pro to short-term rental owner showcases the power of local knowledge and adaptability in building a successful rental business.
The importance of grit, customer service, and community engagement is essential for maintaining competitive advantage in the fluctuating short-term rental market.
Deep dives
The Journey from Tennis Pro to Short-Term Rental Success
The host interviews Ashley Freeman, who transitioned from being a tennis pro to a successful short-term rental owner in a college town. After an unexpected divorce, she explored the emerging Airbnb market, which allowed her to earn significant income from her five-bedroom home. In just a few years, Ashley expanded her portfolio to over 100 properties, leveraging her local knowledge and connections to thrive in a competitive market. Her journey emphasizes the importance of adaptability and having a solid plan in the short-term rental landscape.
Understanding the Local Market Dynamics
Successful short-term rentals in college towns require a deep understanding of local dynamics and target demographics. Ashley highlights that small properties of two to four bedrooms are often the most profitable, catering primarily to parents and friends visiting students. Special events such as football games and festivals drive demand, but consistent occupancy is maintained through ongoing engagement with the community. This local knowledge not only helps in setting competitive rates but also in fostering relationships that enhance guest experiences.
The Importance of Service and Resilience
Ashley draws on her background in tennis to emphasize the need for grit and excellent customer service in the short-term rental industry. Handling different personalities and challenging situations is key; she stresses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and a heart for service, regardless of guest behavior. Learning to take feedback professionally allows her to improve and adapt while continuing to support property owners. This resilience and commitment to service are vital to long-term success in a fluctuating market.
On this week's episode of The Short Term Show, Avery is joined by Ashley Freeman, a former tennis pro turned short-term rental powerhouse. Ashley shares how she transitioned from teaching tennis to managing over 100 properties in a college town, leveraging local knowledge and relationships for success. She dives into the pros and cons of investing in college town rentals, how her athletic background shaped her business mindset, and why adaptability and competitive edge are key in the short-term rental industry.
For more information on how to get into short term rentals, read Avery’s Book, Short-Term Rental, Long-Term Wealth: Your Guide to Analyzing, Buying, and Managing Vacation Properties