How to Open an Airbnb

21. How to Buy an Airbnb in Wisconsin: Writing a Strong Offer

Episode Summary
If you're buying a home in Wisconsin—whether as a primary residence, investment property, or short-term rental—you need to understand how to craft a strong, competitive offer to purchase. In this episode, I walk you through the WB-11 Residential Offer to Purchase, breaking down key sections, contingencies, and pro tips to increase your chances of winning in a competitive market.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an Airbnb investor, or a real estate agent, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the offer process with confidence!
Mentioned in the Episode
Start Your Airbnb Profile: Ready to begin hosting? Get $48 back when you start your profile using this link. I’ll be here to guide you every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Key Takeaways
What is a WB-11 Residential Offer to Purchase? A breakdown of Wisconsin’s official home-buying contract.
Must-Know Offer Terms: Price, contingencies, earnest money, closing dates, and more.
What Should Be Included & Excluded in the Offer? Handling furniture, appliances, and additional parcels.
How to Win in a Competitive Market: Smart negotiation tactics to stand out to sellers.
Short-Term Rental Considerations: Key contract clauses for Airbnb investors.
How to Protect Yourself with Contingencies: Inspection, appraisal, and financing safeguards.
Earnest Money Strategies: How much to put down and what it means for your offer.
Seller Credits & Closing Cost Hacks: Saving cash while structuring a strong deal.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re buying real estate in Wisconsin—especially for an Airbnb investment—this episode gives you insider knowledge on writing an effective and strategic offer. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes, negotiate like a pro, and protect your investment.
SEO Keywords & Phrases
How to write an offer to purchase in Wisconsin
WB-11 Residential Offer to Purchase explained
How to buy a short-term rental in Wisconsin
Wisconsin real estate contract guide
Best offer strategies for homebuyers
How to win a bidding war on a house
Earnest money deposit rules Wisconsin
Short-term rental purchase agreement tips
Appraisal and inspection contingencies explained
How to negotiate seller credits for closing costs
Let’s Connect
Need expert guidance for buying a home or short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your experience! I’d love to help you out.
Work With Me
Looking for a real estate agent who understands short-term rental investing? Work with me at Front Porch Realty. I specialize in finding profitable Airbnb properties and structuring offers that win.
Chapters
00:00 - Intro: Why This Episode is a Must-Listen 01:00 - What is an Offer to Purchase? 03:00 - Key Sections of Wisconsin’s WB-11 Offer 06:00 - What to Include & Exclude in the Offer 09:30 - Seller Credits & Earnest Money Explained 14:00 - Writing a Competitive Offer in a Seller’s Market 19:00 - Inspection Contingencies & How to Negotiate Repairs 25:00 - Appraisal Contingencies & What to Do if the House Undervalues 30:00 - Financing Contingencies & Protecting Yourself from Rate Changes 35:00 - Pro Tips for Writing Offers on Short-Term Rentals 42:00 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps
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Enjoying The Airbnb Roadmap? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! If this helped you, share it with a friend who's buying a home or investing in real estate.

20. Step-by-Step: How We Bought & Renovated Our Airbnb

Episode Summary
If you’ve ever wondered how to find, analyze, purchase, and set up a profitable short-term rental, this episode is for you! I’m walking you through every single step my husband Clay and I took to buy our latest Airbnb investment property—from spotting the deal to financing options, negotiating the offer, planning renovations, furnishing the space, and getting it ready for guests.
Whether you're a first-time Airbnb investor or looking to scale your portfolio, this episode is a must-listen. Learn from our process, avoid common pitfalls, and discover expert tips for launching a successful vacation rental.
Key Takeaways
How to find great short-term rental deals (even before they hit the market!)
Analyzing Airbnb profitability: Running the numbers to estimate revenue and expenses
Best financing options for STR investors: DSCR loans vs. conventional mortgages
Winning negotiation strategies for vacation rentals to secure the best price and terms
Short-term rental renovation tips: What upgrades add the most value
How to furnish an Airbnb on a budget: Saving money on furniture, design, and décor
Setting up an Airbnb listing for success: Photography, pricing strategy, and automation
Building your short-term rental team: Cleaners, handymen, property managers & more
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re interested in Airbnb investing, vacation rental properties, or making passive income with short-term rentals, this episode gives you the exact blueprint to follow. I break down every decision, from financing and design to negotiating deals and managing renovations, so you can confidently launch and scale your own Airbnb business.
SEO Keywords & Phrases
How to buy an Airbnb property
Short-term rental investing for beginners
Best cities for Airbnb investment 2025
DSCR loan vs. conventional loan for vacation rentals
How to negotiate an Airbnb property purchase
Airbnb renovation checklist
How to furnish an Airbnb cheaply
Vacation rental property management tips
Best financing options for Airbnb investors
How to analyze short-term rental deals
Airbnb automation tools and strategies
How to scale an Airbnb business
Mentioned in the Episode
Aloha Protein Bars: Receive 20% off your first order when clicking on the link below. Trust me, you will love them!
Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about buying an Airbnb or growing your short-term rental business? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Looking for expert help in finding and purchasing the perfect short-term rental property? Work with me at Front Porch Realty, where I specialize in Airbnb-friendly real estate investments in Wisconsin and beyond.
Chapters
00:00 - Why I Mention Real Broker LLC for Compliance 01:00 - How We Found This Airbnb Investment Property 05:00 - Short-Term Rental Analysis: Running the Numbers 09:30 - Choosing the Best Loan for Airbnb Investors 14:00 - Negotiating the Best Deal on a Vacation Rental 19:00 - Renovation Planning for Short-Term Rentals 23:00 - Airbnb Interior Design: DIY vs. Hiring a Designer 28:00 - How to Furnish an Airbnb & Order Logistics 32:00 - Hiring Airbnb Cleaners, Handymen & Property Managers 37:00 - Prepping for Launch: Pricing, Photography & Listing Optimization
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Enjoying The Airbnb Roadmap? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! If you found this helpful, share it with a friend who’s thinking about investing in Airbnbs or short-term rentals.

19. The Art of Airbnb Design: What No One Tells You About Furnishing

The Art of Airbnb Design: What No One Tells You About Furnishing
Furnishing your short-term rental isn’t as simple as just throwing in some furniture and calling it a day. In this episode, I break down everything you need to consider to make your rental stand out while maximizing guest satisfaction and profitability. From choosing between designing it yourself or hiring an interior designer to must-have essentials and budgeting tips, I cover it all. Plus, I share a life update on our latest STR purchase, the lessons we learned, and the hilarious way we transported a mattress to our new property.
Key Takeaways
Why furnishing your STR strategically can boost bookings and profits
The pros and cons of DIY design vs. hiring an interior designer
Budgeting tips and how to get high-quality furniture without overspending
The importance of understanding your target audience before designing
Essential items every STR should have (plus my favorite cost-saving hacks!)
Lessons learned from my latest STR purchase and renovation process
Why Listen to This Episode?If you’re setting up a short-term rental, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make smart design choices. Whether you’re furnishing your first property or your tenth, you’ll walk away with actionable tips to create a beautiful and functional space that keeps guests coming back.
Mentioned in the Episode
Aloha Protein Bars: Receive 20% off your first order when clicking on the link below. Trust me, you will love them!
Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s ConnectThinking about furnishing your short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With MeWant expert guidance in setting up and optimizing your short-term rental? Let’s work together! Check out my services at Front Porch Realty.
Chapters00:01 Life update – Our latest STR purchase05:07 The unexpected mattress struggle11:53 Designing your STR: DIY vs. hiring a designer15:34 Understanding your target audience before furnishing18:38 Budgeting tips for STR furniture23:54 The must-have essential items for guests32:05 Making your STR stand out with cohesive design40:09 Cost-saving tips for kitchenware, linens, and decor44:34 Lessons learned and final furnishing tips
Subscribe and ShareIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share it with a fellow host who needs help furnishing their STR.
 

18. Investing Beyond State Lines: Stephanie Dietrich’s Guide to Going Remote

Episode Summary: 
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I sit down with Stephanie Dietrich to discuss the ins and outs of investing in short-term rentals out of state. Stephanie shares her journey into real estate investing, including the fears and challenges she faced purchasing a short-term rental four hours from home. From licensing hurdles to finding a reliable team, Stephanie opens up about what it takes to successfully manage a property from afar. Plus, we dive into the pros and cons of working with a property manager versus self-managing and how regulations impact the short-term rental game. If you’ve ever thought about expanding your real estate portfolio beyond your local market, this episode is for you!
Key Takeaways
How Stephanie transitioned from homeownership to short-term rental investing.
The importance of choosing a location that attracts guests but also appeals to you personally.
Managing a rental from a distance: the systems, contractors, and property managers that make it work.
The unexpected costs of cleaning fees and why choosing the right cleaner matters.
Licensing, inspections, and regulatory challenges that come with short-term rental investing.
The pros and cons of keeping emotional attachment out of investment properties.
The financial benefits of leveraging home equity to fund short-term rental investments.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever considered investing in short-term rentals beyond your local market but felt hesitant due to distance and lack of control, this episode is packed with insights to help you overcome those fears. Stephanie’s experience shows that with the right team and mindset, you can successfully manage an out-of-state rental and grow your investment portfolio with confidence.
Mentioned in the Episode
Stephanie Dietrich : Instagram: @theczechcottage
Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today!
Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about investing in short-term rentals out of state? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Want help finding and setting up the perfect short-term rental property? I specialize in helping investors find, analyze, and launch successful Airbnb properties. Check out my services at Front Porch Realty or reach out on Instagram!
Chapters
00:00 – Intro & Getting to Know Stephanie Dietrich03:30 – Stephanie’s Background & Transition into STR Investing10:00 – Why She Chose an Out-of-State Investment15:30 – Managing a Short-Term Rental from 4 Hours Away20:00 – Property Managers vs. Self-Managing30:00 – Regulatory & Licensing Challenges40:00 – The Unexpected Costs of Cleaning & Maintenance50:00 – The Financial Upside of Short-Term Rentals55:00 – Final Thoughts & Where to Find Stephanie
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Share this episode with anyone considering investing in short-term rentals—especially those thinking about expanding beyond their home state.
 

17. Cleaning and Maintenance Hacks for STR Success

Episode Summary:Cleaning and maintenance may not be the most glamorous part of hosting, but trust me—it’s one of the most important. In today’s episode, I’m diving into the best practices that will keep your short-term rental spotless and running smoothly. I’ll share hard-learned lessons from managing our properties, including one unforgettable nightmare guest. You’ll also hear tips on how to train your cleaners, conduct maintenance audits, and reduce guest questions with clever automation tricks. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work!
Key Takeaways:
Why Cleaning Matters – A spotless property builds trust, earns five-star reviews, and reduces complaints.
Guest Expectations – Poor maintenance can ruin a guest’s experience and hurt your reputation.
Bed Setup Tips – Use three sets of linens per bed to speed up turnovers and offer early check-ins.
Kitchen & Appliance Care – Regularly clean appliances like ovens, toasters, and coffee machines to maintain a polished look.
Living Room Details – Clean under and inside couches, and avoid white rugs to minimize visible stains.
Bathrooms Matter – Provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and ensure no hair or grime is left behind.
Maintenance Audits – Conduct quarterly audits to catch issues before guests do, such as broken arcade games or malfunctioning doors.
Automate Guest Instructions – Use guides and QR codes for appliances, showers, and Wi-Fi to reduce guest inquiries.
Why Listen to This Episode?Cleaning and maintenance can directly impact your short-term rental’s profitability. In this episode, I provide essential best practices to ensure your guests have a spotless, stress-free stay. You’ll learn how to work with cleaners, automate tasks, and avoid negative reviews.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today!Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect!Thinking about improving your cleaning and maintenance processes? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With MeAre you a real estate agent or investor looking to optimize your short-term rental strategy? Let's team up! Message me on Instagram to learn more about my mentorship program and how we can grow your business together.
Chapters:00:01 Introduction – Why Cleaning and Maintenance Are Crucial02:21 Nightmare Guest Story – How One Guest Created a Four-Day Headache08:09 Cleaning Best Practices – Bed Setup, Linens, and Early Check-Ins12:50 Kitchen Maintenance – Appliance Care and Cabinet Organization17:18 Living Room Cleaning – Nooks, Crannies, and Rug Considerations23:39 Bathroom Essentials – Providing Amenities and Ensuring Cleanliness28:25 Maintenance Audits – Room-by-Room Inspections and Guest Feedback35:12 Automation Tips – Guides, QR Codes, and Guest Communication41:12 Final Thoughts – Prioritizing Cleaning for Five-Star Reviews
Subscribe and ShareEnjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone who could benefit from these tips. Let’s create better guest experiences and smarter businesses together!

16. Hidden Gold or Money Pit? How to Spot a Winning STR Property

Episode Summary:Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today’s episode is all about picking the right property for short-term rental success. Not all homes are created equal, and finding the perfect investment property goes beyond good looks. I'll break down the key things to consider when touring properties, from location and layout to amenities and zoning laws. Plus, I share some real-life examples to help you spot red and yellow flags during inspections. Oh, and a little life update: Clay and I are renovating a nursery for our first baby girl!
Key Takeaways:
Location Factors – Proximity to attractions, accessibility, and neighborhood vibe can make or break your property's success.
Understand Your Clientele – Think about who you want to attract (e.g., families, groups of friends, business travelers) and tailor the property to meet their needs.
Layout Considerations – Look for the right number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and open spaces to accommodate your guests comfortably.
Outdoor Areas Matter – Flat yards, secure balconies, and patios can be big selling points.
Parking Issues – Avoid properties with insufficient parking, as this can cause guest complaints and even township scrutiny.
Inspection Red & Yellow Flags – Structural issues, mold, and outdated roofing or electrical systems need special attention, though many are fixable.
Essential Amenities – Fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and strong Wi-Fi are highly desirable for guests.
Why Listen to This Episode?Finding the right property is a crucial step in your short-term rental journey. In this episode, I share exactly what to look for when touring homes, so you can make smart investments and avoid costly mistakes. If you're about to purchase or renovate a property, you don’t want to miss this!
Mentioned in the Episode:
Aloha Protein Bars: Receive 20% off your first order when clicking on the link below. Trust me, you will love them!Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP
Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect!Thinking about purchasing a short-term rental property? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With MeAre you a real estate agent or investor looking to optimize your short-term rental strategy? Let's team up! Message me on Instagram to learn more about my mentorship program and how we can grow your business together.
Chapters:00:00 Life Update – Renovating a Nursery & 2025 Plans02:08 Introduction – Picking the Right Property for Short-Term Rentals03:14 Location Factors to Consider05:28 Accessibility and Neighborhood Vibes07:17 Layout Considerations – Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Common Areas10:19 Outdoor Spaces – Backyards, Patios, and Balconies13:01 Parking Concerns and Township Scrutiny15:08 Red Flags in Property Inspections20:48 Yellow Flags – Mold, Roofing, and Electrical Issues24:05 Fixer-Uppers vs. Turnkey Investments27:51 Essential Amenities – Kitchens, Laundry, and Wi-Fi31:53 Final Thoughts – Key Takeaways for Touring Properties
Subscribe and ShareLoved this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone looking to purchase their own short-term rental. Let’s build smarter, more profitable investments together!

15. Succeeding without Relying on Airbnb: Joe Boyle's Proven Tips of Direct Booking

In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I sit down with Joe from Educated Mortgage, an expert in mortgage lending and short-term rental financing. We dive deep into the world of direct bookings, how he transitioned from using Airbnb and VRBO to securing repeat guests, and the financial benefits of taking control of your bookings. Joe also shares his extensive knowledge of short-term rental financing, mortgage strategies, and why working with the right lender can make all the difference. Whether you’re new to short-term rentals or looking to scale, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways:
Direct Booking 101: Why Joe prefers direct bookings over Airbnb and VRBO and how it benefits both the host and the guest.
Cash Flow Benefits: How receiving payment upfront through direct bookings can help with property expenses and cash flow management.
Tax & Accounting Tips: Why working with a CPA is crucial for managing direct booking revenue and taxes.
The Role of a Great Lender: How having an experienced lender can make or break your short-term rental investment.
Seasonality & Pricing Strategies: Understanding how booking patterns and pricing work for direct booking success.
Airbnb & VRBO as Lead Generators: How to use these platforms to attract guests and convert them into direct bookings.
The Shift in Short-Term Rental Regulations: How municipalities are responding to the rise of STRs and what hosts should prepare for.
Technology vs. Old School Booking Methods: The difference between automating your bookings and keeping a manual record.
Real Estate Investing as a Long-Term Strategy: Why getting into the game early can set you up for future success.
Why Listen to This Episode?
You’ll learn the ins and outs of direct booking from someone who has successfully transitioned from Airbnb/VRBO reliance.
If you’ve ever wondered about the financial side of short-term rentals, Joe provides a deep dive into cash flow, accounting, and taxes.
Discover how you can structure your bookings to maximize profit and minimize risks.
Learn why picking the right lender is crucial for your STR investment success.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Joe Boyle : Educated Mortgage (608)217-9968 
joe@edumtg.com
Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today!
Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s ConnectThinking about shifting to direct booking? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With MeWant to scale your short-term rental business or need help finding the perfect investment property? Let’s chat! Visit Front Porch Realty for expert guidance on buying and managing short-term rentals.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction & Meet Joe02:20 – Why Direct Booking?07:00 – The Cash Flow Advantage of Direct Bookings09:15 – Managing Taxes & Accounting for STRs14:00 – How Airbnb & VRBO Fit Into the Strategy18:50 – Challenges & Benefits of Direct Bookings25:45 – Real Estate Investing as a Long-Term Strategy32:50 – Mortgage Lending & STR Financing35:00 – How to Choose the Right Lender39:50 – Funny & Scary STR Stories
Subscribe and ShareIf you loved this episode, please subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and leave a review! Share this with your fellow hosts and real estate investors who are looking to take their business to the next level.
 

14. You’re Leaving Money on the Table If You’re Not Using This Tool

Episode Summary:Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! In today’s episode, I’m breaking down one of the most powerful tools for short-term rental success: dynamic pricing. If you're serious about maximizing profits and occupancy, this strategy is a game-changer. I'll walk you through how dynamic pricing works, the top tools you can use, and share stories from my experience to help you get ahead. Plus, I’ll give you a quick update on our latest cabin project and how we're growing our portfolio through refinancing. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
Dynamic Pricing Explained – Adjust your rates in real-time based on demand, seasonality, events, and trends.
The Tools You Need – An overview of Price Labs, Beyond Pricing, and Wheelhouse, with pros and cons for each.
Optimize Occupancy – How dynamic pricing can boost your calendar bookings, even in slow seasons.
Pricing Strategy Tips – Learn when to lower prices for reviews and when to raise them to attract higher-paying guests.
Year One vs. Year Two Strategy – Set lower rates in your first year to build credibility, then increase rates strategically.
Why Avoid Airbnb's Pricing Tool – It favors guest bookings over maximizing your profits.
Why Listen to This Episode?Dynamic pricing can make or break your short-term rental business. In this episode, I’ll teach you how to use this strategy to stay competitive, maximize profits, and secure repeat guests. If you're ready to increase your occupancy and revenue, this is a must-listen!
Mentioned in the Episode:
Maximize your profits and get that money! Get your first month FREE and receive $10 off your first paid month when you click on the link below!
https://pricelabs.co/users/sign_up?referral=AG6OCO
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Mentorship Program: I help clients optimize their dynamic pricing setup with Price Labs.
Let’s Connect!Thinking about using dynamic pricing for your short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With MeAre you a real estate agent or investor looking to optimize your short-term rental strategy? Let's team up! Message me on Instagram to learn more about my mentorship program and how we can grow your business together.
Chapters:00:01 Life Update – New Cabin Progress and Refinancing Strategy02:44 Introduction to Dynamic Pricing03:30 How Dynamic Pricing Works: Factors That Influence Rates05:55 Real-Life Example: Local Events and Occupancy Trends09:46 Tools for Dynamic Pricing: Overview of Top Companies14:19 Pros and Cons of Beyond Pricing18:05 Why I Love Price Labs and Its Key Features23:13 Wheelhouse Overview and Custom Pricing Options26:16 Pricing Strategy: Avoid Overpricing and Maximize Bookings33:03 Year One vs. Year Two Strategy for Setting Rates35:08 Final Thoughts on Dynamic Pricing
Subscribe and ShareEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone looking to grow their short-term rental business. Let’s maximize profits and build smarter businesses together!