Thanks For Visiting

In this Hosting Hotline episode, listener Colby from Humble Abode in Australia calls in with a question many hosts are asking: Can you still nudge guests toward booking direct after their stay—even with Airbnb’s updated policies?Colby has been sending post-stay messages encouraging repeat visits and direct bookings. But with Airbnb tightening its rules, is that strategy still allowed?We break down:Why post-stay messages via Airbnb’s platform are now a hard noWhat is still okay when it comes to asking for reviewsHow to compliantly shift communication off-platformWhy your in-home marketing game matters more than everSimple tools and strategies (like StayFi) that keep you compliant and effectiveThe real reason you shouldn’t try to outsmart Airbnb's AIPlus, we share smart alternatives to keep your marketing efforts alive—without breaking the rules.🔗 Mentioned in this episode:StayFi: A platform for collecting guest emails with consent, post-bookingThanks for Visiting Bootcamp: Get on the waitlist for our next deep-dive session

This week on Hosting Hotline, we’re joined by Phil Kennard, founder of FutureStay—a platform built specifically for rental-preneurs. Whether you're managing one short-term rental or a growing handful, Phil is here to help you take back control of your business and stop relying solely on platforms like Airbnb.We dig into:What it means to be a “rental-preneur”The truth about Airbnb's off-platform policyWhy direct bookings aren’t as scary (or risky) as you thinkHow to use the “billboard effect” to drive bookingsCommon listing mistakes that quietly hurt your rankingThe direct booking loop and how to build guest trustWhy even 10% direct bookings can change your bottom lineWhether you’re brand new or deep in your hosting journey, this episode will inspire you to think like a business owner—and start setting yourself up for long-term success.RESOURCES:FutureStay | Direct booking platform for rental-preneurs (exclusive offer for TFE listeners)Google Vacation Rentals | Where 70%+ of travel searches beginAirbnb’s Off-Platform Policy | New rules effective May 2025Proper Insurance | STR insurance designed for hostsThe Hosting Handbook | Your beginner’s guide to starting strongMentioned in this episode:Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!

This week on Hosting Hotline, we’re answering a question from Joanna—a host in Central Virginia—who’s working to increase bookings by upselling gap nights before or after a guest’s stay.Also known as adjacent nights or half-day stays, these nights are often overlooked revenue opportunities. But the truth is, guests are more willing than you think to arrive early or stay late—if you offer it the right way and at the right time.In this episode, we cover:– What “gap nights” really are (and why guests say yes)– The 3 best times to offer a gap night– Why “half-day stay” might sell better than “early check-in”– The importance of testing and tracking guest responses– How to automate these offers without sacrificing conversions– A reminder that your core upsell is your core product: the stay!Whether you’re managing a single unit or scaling a portfolio, don’t miss this conversation about one of the easiest ways to boost your revenue without increasing your workload.Want to get your questions answered on the show? Visiting HostingHotline.com. RESOURCES: – Hostfully | PMS with automated messaging tools– Breezeway | Smart guest messaging & turnover management– Get the Hosting Handbook | New host? Start here

You’ve heard whispers of a short-term rental tax loophole that can save hosts big money—but is it real? And more importantly, does it apply to you?In this episode, we're joined by Amanda Han, CPA and tax strategist, who breaks down exactly how short-term rental owners can legally reduce their tax burden without qualifying as a real estate professional. Amanda walks us through the difference between material participation and real estate professional status, how to track your hours, and how to avoid some of the most common mistakes hosts (and even CPAs!) make when trying to claim this benefit.We also talk about:How short-term rentals create tax losses even when they cash flowWhat actually counts toward your material participation hoursWhether midterm rentals qualify (spoiler: not usually)Common write-offs hosts overlook—and how to structure your finances to make the most of themWhen a cost segregation study makes sense (and when it doesn’t)How to find the right tax professional for your STR businessThis episode is a must-listen if you own, co-host, or are considering investing in a short-term rental and want to keep more of the money you’re making.Resources:Amanda’s Website: Keystone CPAAmanda on InstagramAmanda’s YouTube ChannelSTR Host Tax Advantage Cheat SheetShould You Fire Your Property Manager? (Or Are Your Expectations Misaligned?) | Subscribe to our YouTube channelMentioned in this episode:Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!

If you're a new host wondering whether a Ring camera is worth the investment—or how to manage your smart locks like a pro—you’re not alone.On this Hosting Hotline episode, Sarah and Annette answer listener Winn’s questions about securing her very first short-term rental. They cover everything from guest privacy concerns to how often you should change your keypad code.You’ll learn:What your insurance provider needs to know about outdoor camerasHow to decide whether security devices are right for your listingBest practices for guest communicationManual vs. automated keypad code systemsHow to use SimplySafe or similar services for an extra layer of protectionWhether you’re managing one property or building a short-term rental portfolio, this episode will help you feel more confident about keeping your space—and your guests—safe.Want to get your question answered on the show? Visit HostingHotline.comRESOURCES:Hosting Handbook: Our on-demand course for new STR hostsSimplySafe: Affordable and easy-to-install home security systemsSchlage Keypad Electronic DeadboltYale Assure Wi-Fi Connected Smart Lock

This week’s episode is a special one—we’re taking you behind the scenes of an exclusive short-term rental retreat held in the UK at the stunning, historic Knowsley Hall. Alongside 17 founders, CEOs, and global leaders in the STR space, we got to talk shop, exchange ideas, and ask bold questions about where our industry is headed.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Knowsley Hall (est. 1385!) is blending historic preservation with modern hospitalityLessons from tech leaders who got their start as hosts—and the problems they built businesses to solveCandid insights on profitability, pricing, direct bookings, AI risk, and OTA algorithmsInterviews with Ella (Autohost), Bart (Autorank), Phil (Futurestay), and Marc (Boostly)—all with actionable takeaways for your businessWe asked them:What separates thriving hosts from those struggling right now?Is there hope for direct bookings—and how do we make it work?What tech is worth investing in (and what can you ditch)?What’s one trend in hosting that needs to die already?If you’ve ever wanted an inside look at the STR industry from a global perspective, this episode is packed with high-level insight, practical advice, and some spicy opinions on what needs to change.RESOURCES:Hostfully | Use Code TFV500 for $500 off!Stayfi | Provide an exceptional WiFi experience for your vacation rental guestsAutohost.ai – Smart Screening for HostsAutorank.io – Optimize Your Airbnb RankingFuturestay – Simplified Property ManagementBoostly – Build Your Direct Booking BrandShort Stay SummitKnowsley Hall on InstagramSubscribe to our YouTube Channel | Top 10 Amazon Cleaning Must-Haves for Your AirbnbMentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

In this week’s Hosting Hotline, we’re answering a question we hear all the time: Should I consider midterm rentals (30+ day stays)? If you’re wondering whether it’s the right move for your property, this episode will help you break it down.We cover the pros, cons, and what it really looks like to add midterm rentals into your hosting strategy—including Sarah’s firsthand experience with listing on Furnished Finder during the off-season.We break down:What counts as a midterm rental—and how it’s different from STRs and LTRsThe pros: lower turnover, longer stays, consistent income, and guest qualityThe cons: more hands-on screening process, less automationWhy midterm guests are not just short-term guests staying longerHow to test the waters using platforms like Furnished FinderWhat amenities, furniture, and stocking levels midterm guests expectHow to check demand in your market before jumping inA $30-off listing code to get started risk-free on Furnished FinderWe’re also joined by Tanya Shin, Chief Growth Officer at Furnished Finder, who shares trends they’re seeing (hint: it’s not just nurses anymore) and the best way to see if your city is midterm-ready.

This week, we’re diving deep into the world of sheets, stains, thread counts, and what your guests actually care about when it comes to the sleep experience. We’re joined by Deepak Mehrotra, founder of California Design Den, a luxury bedding brand trusted by thousands of short-term rental hosts—and the highest-rated cotton sheet brand on Amazon.In this episode, Deepak pulls back the curtain on everything you never knew you needed to know about bedding. From the science behind thread count to how microfiber might be hurting your guest experience (and your skin), this is the ultimate STR bedding masterclass.We cover:– Why 400 thread count cotton is the sweet spot for hosts – The difference between softness, smoothness, and weight (yes, there’s a difference) – Why microfiber is basically plastic—and what that means for your guests – The truth about poly/cotton blends and "hotel-grade" sheets – The easiest way to reduce wrinkles and stains (hint: it’s your dryer settings) – How often you really need to replace your sheets – Why Deepak built a VIP program just for hosts—and how to get in – What every host can learn from selling on marketplaces like AmazonIf you’ve ever wondered what sheets to buy, how long they last, or how to talk about linens in your listing description, this episode is packed with answers, clarity, and a few hot takes.RESOURCES:Try California Design Den’s STR programRequest samples and join their free host program: https://www.jotform.com/form/240328613238150Shop Standard Textile via HostGPOJoin to access hospitality-grade bedding, towels, and more: https://public.hostgpo.com/presignup.html?key=tfv&utm_source=tfv&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=affiliateSubscribe to our YouTube Channel | Top 10 Amazon Cleaning Must-Haves for Your AirbnbMentioned in this episode:Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!

Welcome to another Tuesday Hosting Hotline! Today, we’re answering a question from Joanna, a new host who admits she’s got zero design sense—and she’s not alone. Furnishing a short-term rental (STR) without making expensive mistakes is one of the biggest hurdles for new hosts. So what’s the smartest way to get it done?In this episode, Sarah and Annette break down:Why design matters more than ever in today’s competitive STR marketWhether you should hire an interior designer, stager, or go DIYWhat to look for in a short-term rental design specialistHow to interview designers (and avoid staging traps)Where to splurge vs. where to saveWhat guests really care about—and how that impacts your ROIThe truth about property management options (and why self-hosting still rules)Pro tips on sourcing quality furnishings and maximizing your setup budgetWhether you’re design-challenged or just need help avoiding analysis paralysis, this episode will set you up to furnish your rental with confidence—and without blowing your budget.Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel | STR tips, tricks, and top toolsMentioned in this episode:Somerled Designs | Short-term rental interior design Minoan | Save big on furniture and decor for your STRAre you a brand-new host? | Get the Hosting Handbook today!Mentioned in this episode:Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

This week we’re sharing an incredible story of resilience, risk, and hosting transformation inside our community. Meet one of our Hosting Business Mastery members who went from chemical engineer to thriving short-term rental owner—with nine beautifully designed units and a passion for guest care that can’t be taught.She didn’t just dip a toe in—she jumped in headfirst, took on rental arbitrage, faced an unexpected HOA shutdown, and fought to stay in business. Along the way, she found support, built a powerful partnership with her landlord, and even showed up to City Council to advocate for Houston hosts.In this episode, we cover:– How she transitioned from corporate life into hosting– The emotional and financial rollercoaster of rental arbitrage– What happened when her first property was shut down by an HOA– How she negotiated new landlord partnerships—and had them pitch in– Her advocacy work and public testimony that helped reverse STR policy changes– Pro tips she implemented to boost her bookings and revenue (hello, rule sets and late checkout fees!)– The power of community, coaching, and asking for help before calling it quitsIf you’ve ever questioned whether you’re cut out for this, or felt like giving up—this story is your reminder to keep going. Real hosts face real challenges, and there’s real support waiting for you when you show up.Resources:– Ola’s Website: www.snoozelane.com– Snooze Lane on Instagram: @thesnoozelane– Connect with Ola: @olagiwa– Local Interview with Ola: Voyage Houston– Join us inside Hosting Business Mastery: thanksforvisiting.com/yes– Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: Airbnb House Rules That Actually Work (Copy These!)Mentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!