Thanks For Visiting 503. How Kristen and Michael Built a Standout STR Brand in Joshua Tree
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Oct 2, 2025 Kristen and Michael reveal how they carved a niche for their Joshua Tree rental in a competitive market. They share the risks taken and lessons learned while becoming self-sustaining through strategic upgrades like a hot tub and professional photography. Discover how their direct booking site, powered by Lodgify, reduced reliance on OTAs and transformed their business. As they reflect on evolving goals and the importance of quality in a cooling market, they inspire hosts to make long-term, thoughtful investments.
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Living In The Reno To Launch Quickly
- Kristen and Michael moved into their STR during renovation and lived on-site while working long days to save money.
- They relied on family nearby for breaks and paid the mortgage for only a few months before the listing self-sustained.
Treat Hosting As A Business
- They treated hosting like a committed business and reinvested profits rather than expecting passive income.
- That long-term mindset let them cover expenses and scale improvements without personal bailouts.
Reinvest In High-Impact Upgrades
- Reinvest strategically: add high-value amenities like a hot tub and improve interiors to increase bookings and off-season demand.
- Price high from the start to attract guests who pay and respect your property.