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It’s tax time, and if you're a short-term rental host, this episode is a must-listen.We’re breaking down the five biggest tax mistakes we see STR hosts make—and how to avoid them so you can keep more of what you earn. From understanding the seven-day rule to knowing how your cleaning schedule could trigger self-employment tax, we’re unpacking how STR income is classified and what actually qualifies for those juicy tax deductions.We’re also sharing actionable tips on how to track your time, understand depreciation, and avoid missteps with personal use and local tax rules. Plus, we’ll introduce you to a tax pro we trust if you need expert guidance.Quick disclaimer: We are not CPAs or tax professionals—just experienced hosts sharing what we’ve learned and linking you to the right resources. Always talk to your own tax pro!Resources :Connect with Amanda Han — Tax advisor specializing in STR and real estate investorsDownload our STR Host Tax Cheat SheetSubscribe to our YouTube Channel | 6 Ways to Use ChatGPT in Your Airbnb BusinessMentioned in this episode:Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!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!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

Today’s question comes from Melody, and it is all is all about upsells: specifically, how should hosts collect payment for add-ons like early check-in and late checkout?In this episode, we cover:What qualifies as an upsellThe pros and cons of using Airbnb’s Resolution CenterAlternatives like Venmo, PayPal, QuickBooks, and property management softwareWhy proper tracking is critical (especially as your team grows)How to keep things easy and professional with tools like Hostfully guidebooksReal host results: thousands in additional revenue from upsells alone!Whether you’re using Airbnb, Vrbo, direct booking, or a combination of all three, we’ll help you choose the right path for boosting your income—without complicating your systems.Resources mentioned:Get on the waitlist for our next BootcampTry Hostfully Guidebooks3 Genius Ways to Make Your Airbnb Stand Out & Get More Bookings! (YouTube) |Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayQuiz | 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!

Spring cleaning isn't just for your own home—your short-term rental deserves a deep refresh too. In this episode, we're giving you seven essential tips to help you roll up your sleeves and bring your Airbnb back to life after winter. From deep cleaning overlooked appliances to inventorying kitchen essentials, and refreshing outdoor spaces, we walk through a full-property plan to get your place sparkling clean and guest-ready.Need help getting started? We’re sharing what to clean, what to replace, and how to budget the time and energy needed for a successful spring reset.Resources:Shop with Us | Round-Up of our Favorite Cleaning suppliesWhen to FIRE your Airbnb Cleaner! | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode: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!StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Your property management system (PMS) is supposed to make hosting easier—but what happens when it feels like it's limiting what you can do on Airbnb?In this Hosting Hotline episode, we answer Leslie’s question about using HostAway and navigating PMS limitations when trying to run last-minute promotions or access Airbnb’s categories (like treehouse, cabin, or OMG stays).We break down:Why some Airbnb features may not be visible through your PMSHow to troubleshoot and get direct support from both your PMS and AirbnbThe truth about Airbnb categories and how listings actually get includedTips for using office hours and chat support to get unstuck fasterIf you've ever felt unsure whether your PMS is helping or holding you back, this episode is for you.Resources:How to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelHostfully | Get $500 off with code TFV500Pricelabs | Sign up for your free 30-day trial today! Mentioned in this episode:Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

5 Mistakes Airbnb Hosts Are Making (And How to Fix Them)Many Airbnb hosts are unknowingly making mistakes that are costing them bookings, revenue, and guest satisfaction. In this episode, we’re breaking down the five most common mistakes we see over and over again—and more importantly, how to fix them fast.Mistake 1: Chasing Hacks Instead of Focusing on GuestsAre you joining wishlist groups or hiring VAs to remove bad reviews? Hacks might seem like quick wins, but they won’t fix the real problem—your guest experience.Mistake 2: Poor Quality PhotosBad, outdated, or cluttered listing photos are killing your conversion rate. We’ll walk you through why professional, realistic photos matter more than ever.Mistake 3: Rigid Calendar ManagementAre unnecessary rules and blocked dates limiting your bookings? We’ll show you how minimum stays, check-in restrictions, and cleaner availability might be hurting your revenue.Mistake 4: Emotional PricingIf you're pricing based on feelings instead of data, you’re leaving money on the table. We discuss how to use market-driven pricing to maximize revenue.Mistake 5: Operating Out of Fear Instead of StrategyAre strict house rules, excessive guest screening, and an overprotective mindset keeping you from welcoming great guests? We talk about why trust is key to running a successful Airbnb.These simple fixes can increase your bookings, boost guest satisfaction, and help your business thrive—so don’t miss this one.Resources Mentioned:Beginner’s Guide to Dynamic Pricing Software (PriceLabs) | Subscribe to our YouTube channelMentioned in this episode:Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!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!

Hosting Hotline: How Do I Know If a Guest Is Scamming Me?In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, we're diving into a tough but important topic: how to handle guest claims that may not be true—specifically bed bug accusations. Francesca from Puerto Rico calls in to ask about a troubling trend she's noticing among fellow hosts: guests claiming bed bugs without evidence.Sarah shares her personal experience of dealing with bed bugs in New York City and breaks down the realities of what these pests are, how they spread, and what it really takes to get rid of them. She and Annette also offer advice for how hosts can prepare, respond quickly and professionally to guest claims, and protect their reputation and revenue in the process.Whether it’s a true infestation or a potential scam, this episode will help you feel more confident handling high-stress guest situations with professionalism and care.Resources:How to Respond to Negative Airbnb Reviews | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode:Host Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Discover how to elevate your status as a local Airbnb expert by starting a meetup for hosts. Learn key tips on selecting a venue, engaging attendees, and attracting sponsors to cover costs. Explore how hosting these events can lead to networking opportunities and potential real estate deals. The hosts share their personal experiences and practical advice on building community and follow-up strategies to maintain momentum after the meetup. It's an inspiring guide for anyone looking to become a leader in the short-term rental space.

In this Hosting Hotline episode, Jane calls in with a question every host has to consider: What smart lock should I be using for my short-term rental?Sarah and Annette break down their most trusted smart locks, the brands they avoid, and the key factors to consider when choosing the right lock for your property. They also share their must-have backup system to prevent lockouts—because even the best smart locks can fail at the worst times.In this episode, we cover:The two smart lock brands we trust the mostWhy some locks can create more headaches than they’re worthThe importance of integrating your lock with your PMSWhy using the same code for all guests is a huge safety riskOur non-negotiable backup system to avoid guest lockoutsSmart locks are a crucial part of the guest experience. Get this decision right, and you’ll save yourself time, stress, and potential disasters.Resources:This Secret Airbnb Setting That Can Improve Your Listings by 300% | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelOur favorite locks:Yale AssureSchlage EncodeWall-mounted Lockbox Submit your question at HostingHotline.comMentioned in this episode:Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayHost Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!

Is It Time to Fire Your Airbnb Property Manager?Hiring a property manager or Co-Host can take a huge weight off your shoulders—but what happens when the relationship isn’t working? In this episode, we break down how to evaluate whether your property manager is helping or hurting your business.We cover:Common frustrations hosts have with property managers (and when they’re valid)The difference between a property manager and a Co-Host—and why expectations matterKey contract terms you should review before making a decisionSigns that it’s time to fire your property manager—and when it’s NOTWhat to consider before taking on self-managementHow to have a productive conversation before making a big changeIf you’re feeling frustrated with your current setup, this episode will help you decide whether to stay, go, or adjust your expectations.Resources:Beginner Airbnb Marketing Mistake New Hosts Make | Subscribe to our YouTube channelMentioned 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!Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!

In this Hosting Hotline episode, listener Julia asks a smart and strategic question: When do guests actually book their stays? She’s noticing a trend of Sunday evening bookings and wants to fine-tune her marketing efforts based on real booking data.Since we didn’t have the hard numbers on hand, we called in an expert—Jeff Brown from Intellihost—who pulled data from 466,000 reservations across thousands of properties worldwide. He breaks down:The least and most popular days for bookings globallyHow trends in Maryland compare to the worldwide datasetWhy tracking your own booking data is key to personalized marketingThe real takeaway: New leads are great, but don’t forget about returning guests!Julia’s question highlights an important aspect of hosting—understanding booking behaviors to optimize marketing efforts. Tune in to learn how you can leverage this knowledge to drive more bookings!Resources Mentioned:Intellihost | Learn More!The Airbnb Instant Book Mistake YOU Might be Making that is Costing You $$$!!!! | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Hosting Hotline | Get your hosting questions answered!Mentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayHost Checklist | Grab our Airbnb Essentials Checklist and make stocking your Airbnb a breeze – we've got all your hosting needs covered!Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!