In this episode of the STR Data Lab, Jamie Lane welcomes Ben Gross, CEO of Minty Living, as their first two-time guest. Ben provides an overview of Minty Living, highlighting its growth and technological advancements over the past four years.

The conversation explores the challenges and importance of technology in scaling operations in the short-term rental market. Ben discusses the operational complexities and his approach to integrating technology for better efficiency and profitability. They delve into how Minty Living manages to maintain high guest experience scores and operational efficiency at scale. Ben shares insights on handling market changes, regulatory impacts, and macroeconomic forces affecting the industry.

The discussion also touches on the challenges of tech-enabled service providers and the build vs. buy dilemma. The conversation shifts to the broader urban short-term rental market, addressing declining RevPAR, supply dynamics, and investor sentiment. Ben elaborates on how he uses data to drive business efficiencies and optimize vendor performance. He also talks about the potential for collaboration with local governments and other vacation rental managers. Ben concludes by reflecting on Minty Living's journey towards profitability and future plans to leverage their findings to help other vacation rental operators.