Thanks For Visiting

Safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s essential for every short-term rental. In this episode, international safety expert Justin Ford returns to discuss the biggest safety risks hosts often overlook and how to protect your guests and business.From smoke alarms and fire extinguishers to hot tub safety and bunk beds, this episode is packed with actionable insights for hosts at every level. Justin has spent over a decade advocating for vacation rental safety, and today, he’s sharing the most critical lessons from real-life incidents, upcoming regulatory changes, and how to stay ahead of safety requirements.We’re also joined by Wendy Doris, a successful co-host, who shares how implementing Justin’s safety strategies has improved her business and given her peace of mind.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeThe most overlooked safety risks in short-term rentalsWhy fire safety should be your top priority (and common mistakes hosts make)How to keep guests safe in hot tubs and poolsThe real cost of ignoring safety (beyond legal liability)Why the Breezeway safety course should be mandatory for your teamThe future of short-term rental safety regulations and how to stay compliantListen now to ensure your rental meets the highest safety standards.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeBreezeway Safety Course (free training for hosts) – Sign up hereBreezeway STR Software (your first property is free) – Claim it hereSmoke Alarm with Strobe (for hearing-impaired guests) – First Alert StoreHeat Detector (for garages & attics) – First Alert StoreBest Fire Extinguisher for STRs – First Alert PRO5Add This to Your ListingHosts should include a Safety section in their Airbnb or direct booking listing:Safety: We do full safety audits of this property annually, and smoke alarms, CO alarms, pool alarms, and the quality of hot tubs and pools are checked before each guest arrives. Our annual safety audits include fire safety, fall prevention, emergency preparedness, electrical and appliance safety, furniture and amenity safety, and pool and hot tub safety.More from Justin FordOther Episodes Featuring Justin:What Every Host Needs to Know About STR Safety8 Danger Zones in a Short Term Rental and How to Avoid ThemDryer Safety in Your Short Term RentalCleaning is Now SafetyHow to Make Your Short-Term Rental Safe: Top 5 Preventable STR Accidents from 20207 Tips to Ensure Pool & Spa SafetyBack to Basics: Fire Alarm 101Fire Safety Comes First in Your STRHoliday Safety Tips for Your STRThe Ultimate Airbnb Spring Safety GuideHoliday Safety Tips for Your STRSTR Safety in 2024: Regulations, Technology & TrendsSubscribe to our YouTube ChannelHUGE Aircover Mistake Most Airbnb Hosts Make – Watch NowTake Action: If you do one thing today, check your smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits. Implementing even a few of Justin’s tips can make your rental significantly safer for guests.If you found this episode helpful, subscribe and leave a review to help more hosts improve safety in their rentals.Happy Hosting!Mentioned in this episode:Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $500 off your subscription.Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayQuiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!

Hosting Hotline: Can You List a New Construction Airbnb with Renderings?In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, we answer Donny's questions about launching a new construction Airbnb listing with renderings and strategies for securing month-long bookings. Whether you're in the process of building a short-term rental or exploring midterm stay opportunities, we’ve got tips to help you navigate these challenges confidently.Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Using Renderings for ListingsCan you list an under-construction property using renderings? Learn how to set expectations with guests, manage your calendar conservatively, and avoid unnecessary stress.[00:04:00] Transparency is KeyTips for clearly communicating with guests when using renderings, including strategies for being honest about timelines and delivering on promises.[00:06:00] Build Buzz Before OpeningWhy it’s never too early to start building an email list and generating interest through local partnerships and online communities.[00:07:00] Marketing Month-Long StaysExplore strategies for attracting midterm guests, including creating separate listings and targeting digital nomads and seasonal travelers.[00:09:00] Price and Expense ConsiderationsWhy understanding your market, potential guest profiles, and operational costs are critical to making month-long stays profitable.[00:10:00] Practical Next StepsActionable advice for launching your new property, managing bookings, and preparing for success.Key Takeaways:Renderings Can Work: Using renderings is a great way to pre-launch your listing, but clear communication about timelines and expectations is essential.Conservative Calendars: Avoid unnecessary stress by opening your calendar cautiously to account for potential delays.Start Building Interest Early: Leverage social media, email lists, and partnerships to generate buzz for your property.Separate Listings for Midterm Stays: Optimize bookings by creating distinct listings for month-long stays while keeping shorter-stay options available.Understand the Costs: Thoroughly calculate pricing and potential expenses for longer stays to ensure profitability.Resources:How to Get Your Airbnb Listing Seen by More Guests (And Earn More!) | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned 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.

In this episode, we dive into one simple yet game-changing strategy to boost your Airbnb bookings in 2025: turning on Instant Book. Whether you’re hesitant about giving up control or ready to take your listing to the next level, this episode will show you how Instant Book can help you attract more guests, maximize revenue, and streamline operations—all while staying in control of your property.Episode Highlights[00:01:00] #STRShareSunday: Shoutout to @ShilohGlamping for their fantastic Instagram presence and direct booking site. Check out their inspiring FAQ section and video tour for ideas to level up your listing.[00:03:30] What is Instant Book? Learn how this feature simplifies the booking process for guests and helps you fill your calendar.[00:05:00] Why Guests Use Instant Book: Understand why many travelers filter for Instant Book listings and how that affects your visibility.[00:08:00] Overcoming Instant Book Fears: Addressing concerns like problem guests, last-minute bookings, and maintaining control over your property.[00:10:00] Proven Results: How turning on Instant Book can increase your bookings by up to 50% and improve your search ranking on Airbnb.[00:14:30] Customization Options: Tips for setting up guest requirements, pre-booking messages, and cutoff times to fit your hosting style.[00:18:00] Automation That Feels Personal: Combining automation with warm, personal touches to create an exceptional guest experience.Key TakeawaysBoost Visibility: Airbnb prioritizes Instant Book listings, giving you an edge in search rankings.Simplify Guest Communication: Automation reduces back-and-forth messaging while still keeping the personal touch.Control Last-Minute Bookings: Customize settings like advance notice and cutoff times to ensure your property is always ready.Maximize Revenue Potential: With 60% of bookings made through Instant Book, you’ll attract more guests and fill your calendar faster.Experiment with Confidence: Turning on Instant Book isn’t permanent—you can adjust or turn it off anytime to find what works best for you.Resources Mentioned#STRSHARESUNDAY: @ShilohGlampingTurn on Instant Book: Airbnb How ToNo bookings for your Airbnb? 5 Reasons Why and How to Fix ASAP! | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayHostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $500 off your subscription.Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!

Hosting Hotline: How Can I Organize My Hosting Business?Show Notes:Welcome to the Hosting Hotline! Today, we’re tackling a fantastic question from Jilayne about staying organized as a busy host and business owner. Whether you’re jotting down ideas on the go, managing multiple properties, or trying to streamline tasks, staying organized is essential for business success.In this episode, Sarah and Annette share their go-to tool for organization, Asana, and offer actionable tips for using it effectively. From setting due dates to managing recurring tasks and integrating your calendar, this episode is packed with advice to help hosts take control of their to-do lists and reduce overwhelm.Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Listener Shoutout: Celebrating Jilayne’s success and determination as a host and entrepreneur.[00:02:00] The Power of Organization: Why staying organized is key for hosts running a business, even when life gets busy.[00:04:00] Why We Love Asana: A breakdown of why Asana is our favorite organization tool and how it works for hosting businesses.[00:06:00] Pro Tip 1: Always start tasks with a verb or action to keep your to-do list clear and actionable.[00:08:00] Pro Tip 2: Set due dates for every task to prioritize effectively and avoid overdue tasks.[00:13:00] Pro Tip 3: Use Asana’s recurring tasks feature to streamline maintenance and operations.[00:17:00] Pro Tip 4: Integrate Asana with your calendar to ensure your schedule matches your task list.[00:20:00] Staying Accountable: Why habits matter and how to build them for organizational success.Resources Mentioned:Asana: The ultimate organizational tool for hosts.Paul Minors on YouTube: Expert tutorials on getting started with Asana.Relay Bank: Our favorite business banking tool for short-term rental hosts. Airbnb Supply Closet Management... Pro Tips + Newbie Mistakes | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!Stay Connected:Got a question for the Hosting Hotline? Visit HostingHotline.com and leave us a message!Follow us on Instagram for more hosting tips: @thanksforvisiting_.Mentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Airbnb Shut Our Listing Down: Here’s What We LearnedWelcome back to another episode of Thanks for Visiting! This week, we’re diving into a hosting nightmare that became a learning opportunity. Imagine waking up to find that Airbnb has not only shut down your listing but removed it entirely from the platform. That’s exactly what happened to us, and we’re here to share the entire story, how we handled it, and what you can learn from our experience.Whether you’re a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you prepare for the unexpected and keep your hosting business running smoothly—even when things go wrong.Episode Highlights[00:01:00] #STRShareSunday: WanderChattWe’re highlighting @WanderChatt, a vacation rental business specializing in unique builds like the incredible Merry Mushroom property. Learn how they’ve mastered the art of partnering with influencers to market their rentals.[00:03:00] The Gas Leak IncidentA late-night message from a guest reporting a potential gas leak sets off a chain of events that leads to Airbnb shutting down our listing. Here’s what happened next.[00:06:00] Navigating Airbnb SupportWe break down the frustrating process of working with Airbnb’s support team, including why they initially refused to communicate with us as co-hosts.[00:10:00] Getting the Listing Back OnlineFrom proving the property was safe to dealing with the slow response times, we share how we finally got the listing reinstated—and the important documentation that made it possible.[00:15:00] Why Direct Bookings MatterThis experience reinforced the importance of having a direct booking option. We explain how we leveraged our email list to fill last-minute availability while waiting for Airbnb to reinstate the listing.[00:19:00] Lessons Learned for HostsWhat every host should know about preparing for emergencies, working with Airbnb, and diversifying booking platforms to protect your revenue.Stay ConnectedHave you ever experienced something similar with your Airbnb listing? We’d love to hear your story!📧 Email us at hi@thanksforvisiting.com.📱 Follow us on Instagram: @thanksforvisiting_.Resources MentionedSTRShareSunday: WanderChatt – Follow on InstagramHow to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business – Watch on YouTubeMentioned in this episode:Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $500 off your subscription.Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Hosting Hotline: How to Accept Payments for Direct Bookings Without Zelle or Venmo?In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, Sarah and Annette tackle a question from a Canadian host managing a property in Maui. How can you simplify payment options for direct bookings when popular platforms like Zelle or Venmo aren’t available to you? Whether you're an international host or just exploring ways to level up your direct booking experience, this episode has you covered!Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Listener Question: A Canadian host asks about streamlining direct booking payments for their Maui property.[00:02:30] The Decline of Checks: Why checks are becoming obsolete and how switching to digital payments benefits both you and your guests.[00:03:00] Exploring Stripe: What you need to know about using Stripe for credit card payments—even as a Canadian host managing a U.S.-based property.[00:05:00] Relay to the Rescue: Learn how Relay banking supports international hosts by offering easy, secure payment solutions.[00:07:00] Relay’s Expert Insight: Hear directly from the Relay team about how to use their platform to accept payments through ACH, wires, and more.[00:08:30] Practical Next Steps: Tips on setting up your business for seamless payments, including whether to establish a U.S. entity for hosting.Resources Mentioned:Relay Banking: Get $50 when you fund a Relay AccountStripe Customer ServiceThe Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your Airbnb Business the RIGHT way (banking, taxes, LLC, profits) | Subscribe to our YouTube channel!Mentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Welcome back to our latest land update! In this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of building Rich Hollow Retreat. From navigating septic system decisions to firing and rehiring construction teams, this update is packed with insights, challenges, and small wins. Plus, we share our ambitious goal to open early summer 2025—fingers crossed!Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Sharing Rich Hollow Retreat ProgressAnnette and Sarah discuss why it’s important to market your property before it’s live and encourage followers to document their journey on social media.[00:02:00] The Journey So FarCatch up on what’s been happening since our last land update. If you’re new, check out previous episodes (links below!) to follow the story from the beginning.[00:03:00] Septic Systems: Lessons LearnedThe unexpected joys of septic planning! We share how preparing for a fourth unit now changes our long-term plans and financial projections.[00:10:00] Construction Team UpdatesWe fired one team, hired another, and are finally making progress! Learn how we’re setting clear payment terms and timelines with our new crew.[00:13:00] Budgeting and Facebook Marketplace HacksOur GC found creative ways to save money on construction materials, including leveraging Facebook Marketplace. Annette shares tips for tracking purchases to maintain clean financial records.[00:17:00] Financing with a HELOCSarah explains why we chose a HELOC over private or hard money lending, and how it’s helping bridge the funding gap for phase one.[00:20:00] Design Decisions and DebatesFrom floating shelves to dishwasher placement, we’re diving into the details of what makes a short-term rental functional and beautiful.[00:24:00] Setting Goals for Summer 2025We share our realistic timeline and reflect on how weather, team availability, and progress meetings are shaping our plans.Stay ConnectedFollow our journey and get sneak peeks of Rich Hollow Retreat!Instagram: @RichHollowRetreatHave questions about buying land, building a retreat, or working with partners? DM us on Instagram @thanksforvisiting_ or leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. We’d love to hear from you!Links to Previous UpdatesPart 1: We Bought LandPart 2: Laying a Foundation for Long-Term PartnershipPart Reality Check on Glamping Site Timelines, Financing & ConstructionPart 4: Why We Stopped Construction & How We’re Pivoting Our StrategyHow to Buy Land for your Airbnb Glamping Business | Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayFido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $500 off your subscription.

Hosting Hotline: How Can I Encourage Guests to Leave a Review?Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your pressing hosting questions! Today’s caller, Shannon, asks two great questions: How do you handle Airbnb’s 15% service fee adjustment? And more importantly, how can she get her guests to leave reviews?We’re diving deep into actionable strategies to help you encourage reviews without overwhelming or annoying your guests. From leaving subtle breadcrumbs throughout their stay to crafting the perfect review request, this episode will help you elevate your hosting game.Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] What Is Airbnb’s 15% Service Fee?Sarah explains how Airbnb’s simplified pricing impacts hosts, why it varies by region and software, and how to adjust your pricing to cover the difference using PriceLabs or your PMS.[00:05:00] The Power of Breadcrumbs:Discover how to plant subtle cues throughout your guest experience that emphasize your commitment to a five-star stay.[00:07:00] Messaging That Resonates:Learn how to craft review requests that feel personal and genuine, including the secret to mentioning five-star reviews without sounding pushy.[00:08:00] The “Five-Star WiFi Password” Trick:A clever hack to subtly remind guests about five-star reviews every time they connect to the WiFi.[00:09:00] When to Ask for a Review:Timing is everything. We share the perfect moment to make your ask—and how to frame it for the best results.[00:11:00] Educating Guests on Reviews:Not all guests know how the Airbnb review system works. Simple ways to educate them and ensure they understand the impact of their feedback.Resources Mentioned:Hosting Hotline: Ask your hosting questions at HostingHotline.com.Dynamic Pricing Tools: Learn more about PriceLabs.How to Respond to Negative Airbnb Reviews: Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelMentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.Make More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!

Data Meets Design: The Secret to Maximizing Airbnb RevenueWelcome back to Thanks for Visiting! In this episode, we dive into the intersection of data and design with Bri and Jordan from Somerled, a team that blends market research with creative vision to maximize short-term rental revenue. Whether you’re looking to increase bookings, refresh your property, or design with intention, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to elevate your hosting game.Episode Highlights:(00:01:00) #STRShareSunday: Stay at Holly HouseWe feature this vibrant property tailored for bachelorette stays. From the selfie station and makeup vanity bar to a stunning outdoor mural, this listing is a masterclass in guest-focused design.(00:03:00) Guest Introduction: Bri and Jordan from SomerledLearn how these co-founders combine backgrounds in marketing and interior design to create data-driven strategies for STR properties.(00:08:00) What Is Data-Driven Design?Bri and Jordan explain their process, from competitor analysis to designing spaces that resonate with target audiences.(00:12:00) Common Design MistakesDiscover the pitfalls of overly personalized design, “home goods specials,” and skipping competitor research—and how to avoid them.(00:18:00) Bed Configurations That WorkWhy your bed setup matters and how to tailor it to your guest demographic, from families to bachelorette groups.(00:22:00) The Power of Professional PhotographyBri and Jordan share why great photos, lifestyle shots, and intentional styling are non-negotiables for a standout listing.(00:30:00) Case Study: College Station TransformationHow Somerled helped a Texas A&M property exceed expectations with subtle design nods to its niche market.(00:38:00) Amenities That Stand Out in 2025From private island putting greens to karaoke rooms, learn what’s trending and how unique amenities can drive bookings.(00:50:00) Bootcamp Reminder: Listing Audit Made SimpleDon’t miss our January Bootcamp, designed to help you audit and optimize your listings for 2025 success.Resources Mentioned:#STRShareSunday: @stayathollyhouseSomerled Designs: SomerledDesigns.comCheck Out the Texas A&M Property: thefieldhousecstxJanuary Bootcamp: SAVE YOUR SEAT!Watch 7 Design Mistakes Every Airbnb Host Makes: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!Mentioned in this episode:Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment TodayHostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $500 off your subscription.Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind!Make More Money in 2025! Join us for a Pricing Boot Camp!

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This week, we’re tackling a question from Natasha, who asks if we help hosts optimize their short-term rental listings. Whether it’s on Airbnb, Vrbo, or your direct booking site, listing optimization is critical to standing out in a competitive market. In this episode, we’ll explore key strategies for creating high-converting listings and share details about our upcoming Listing Audit Bootcamp.Episode Highlights:[00:01:00] Listener Spotlight: Natasha’s QuestionNatasha asks about optimizing listings and how hosts can improve their property visibility across platforms.[00:02:00] Importance of Listing AuditsWhy regular listing audits are crucial for maximizing bookings.The surprising details many experienced hosts overlook.[00:03:00] New Year’s Resolution: Revamping Your ListingWhy now is the perfect time to revisit your listings and refresh outdated information.[00:04:00] Bootcamp Announcement: Learn to Audit Your Own ListingsDetails on the January Listing Audit Bootcamp and how it equips hosts with the tools to optimize their own listings repeatedly.Overview of the three live training sessions, including photo optimization, crafting compelling descriptions, and tracking analytics.[00:07:00] Tracking Analytics: What Metrics MatterLearn how to use Airbnb’s performance dashboard to track conversions and identify areas for improvement.The importance of testing one change at a time to measure its impact effectively.[00:09:00] Tips for Ongoing OptimizationHow to set a recurring reminder to audit your listings throughout the year.Seasonal updates and how to align your listings with changing guest behaviors.Want to start 2025 with high-performing listings? Join our Listing Audit Bootcamp! Learn actionable strategies to attract more guests and boost bookings. Sign up here.Resources Mentioned:Thanks for Visiting BootcampThe Real Reasons Airbnb Hosts are Losing MoneyCall in to the Hosting Hotline: Submit your question here.Take the first step in optimizing your listings by evaluating your current titles, photos, and descriptions. Write down your conversion rate metrics today and track the impact of any changes you make.Let us know how you’re transforming your listings—DM us on Instagram or email us your success stories!Mentioned in this episode:StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.