How to Open an Airbnb

12. Becoming the Go-To Short-Term Rental Expert in Your Market

Episode 12: Becoming the Go-To Short-Term Rental Expert
Hey, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! In today’s episode, I’m sharing my journey to becoming the go-to short-term rental expert in my market. I’ll be honest—I resisted this path for a while. I wanted to focus on being the top listing and buyer agent, but short-term rentals kept finding me. Once I embraced this niche, everything changed for my business.
I’ll walk you through how I positioned myself as an expert, the strategies I use to stand out, and how you can do the same in your market. If you’ve been thinking about niching down or want to learn how to turn your passion into a profitable business focus, this episode is for you!
Key Takeaways for Becoming a Short-Term Rental Expert
Why Niche Down?
Specializing in short-term rentals can open doors and reduce competition.
Being known as the expert attracts referrals and builds trust.
Transparency Builds Trust
Sharing your wins and struggles makes you relatable and credible.
Clients and other agents will see you as an open book who tells it like it is.
Social Media Is Your Best Friend
Post valuable content like short-term rental tips and potential investment opportunities.
Highlight client success stories to show your expertise and build connections.
Build Lasting Client Relationships
Support your clients during and after the transaction to foster loyalty.
Celebrate their successes publicly to strengthen your bond.
The Rewards of Embracing Your Niche
Opportunities to collaborate with companies and receive referrals.
A competitive edge in a market with few short-term rental specialists.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re tired of fighting for the same buyers and sellers as everyone else, it might be time to niche down. I’ll show you how focusing on short-term rentals can give you an edge and attract clients who need your expertise. Plus, I’m sharing practical tips to help you position yourself as the go-to expert in your market.
Mentioned in the Episode
The importance of hiring a designer for short-term rentals.
Social media strategies that have worked for me (even with a small following).
How sharing simple industry insights can make a big impact.
Let’s Connect!
Have questions about short-term rentals or ready to niche down? I’d love to help you out!
Instagram: @theairbnbroadmap
Email me: brittany@frontporchrealty.com or theairbnbroadmap@gmail.com
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent looking to specialize in short-term rentals? Let’s chat! Send me a DM on Instagram, and we’ll figure out how to grow your business in this niche market.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Life Update02:47 The Journey to Becoming a Short-Term Rental Expert05:13 Why Niching Down Transforms Your Business07:23 Challenges and Rewards of Specializing10:43 How to Position Yourself as an Expert15:15 Social Media Tips for Real Estate Agents17:01 Building Long-Term Client Relationships20:44 Let’s Work Together
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Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone ready to dive into the short-term rental world. Let’s build smarter businesses together!

11. Airbnb Arbitrage: The Secret to Starting Your Short-Term Rental Empire with Little Cash

Episode 11: Jumpstarting Your Short-Term Rental Game with Airbnb Arbitrage
Hey, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today, I’m talking about a super exciting strategy that’s perfect for beginners in the short-term rental game: Airbnb arbitrage. If buying a property feels out of reach, this approach might just be your ticket in. I’m breaking down what it is, how to do it legally, and how to make the most of it. Plus, I’m sharing my personal experience with negotiating deals, navigating challenges, and making your rental stand out.
Whether you’re brand new to short-term rentals or just looking for a creative way to grow, this episode is packed with tips and insights to help you get started.
Key Takeaways for Airbnb Arbitrage
What is Airbnb Arbitrage?
Rent a property from a landlord and sublet it on Airbnb or similar platforms.
It’s a low-risk, cost-effective way to start earning without buying property.
Why Try It?
Lower upfront costs make it beginner-friendly.
Provides cash flow to save for purchasing your first property.
How to Get Started:
Check with your city: Ensure it’s legal where you’re operating.
Pitch landlords: Make your case, showing how it benefits them.
Get it in writing: Always include subletting permission in your lease.
Top Cities for Airbnb Arbitrage:
Charleston, Nashville, Austin, New Orleans, and Jacksonville, among others, are hotspots with strong demand.
Tips for Success:
Standout Design: Create a unique space that guests will love.
Guest Experience: Make check-in smooth and hassle-free with detailed instructions.
Be a Good Neighbor: Enforce quiet hours to avoid complaints.
Potential Risks:
Eviction due to complaints or lack of permission.
Landlords might decide to try arbitrage themselves.
Pro Tip: Save your profits to reinvest in purchasing your first property instead of spending it on non-essentials.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve been dreaming of starting a short-term rental but don’t have the funds to buy a property, this episode is a must-listen. I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of Airbnb arbitrage, sharing practical tips and real-world advice to help you get started without breaking the bank.
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 @theairbnbroadmap for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Resource: Skift.com – A great place for insights on Airbnb arbitrage and top-performing cities.
Let’s Connect!
Thinking about trying Airbnb arbitrage? 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
Are you a real estate agent looking to break into the short-term rental niche? Let’s team up! Message me on Instagram to explore how you can tap into this growing market and scale your business.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Life Update03:09 Negotiating Deals and Inspections05:00 What is Airbnb Arbitrage?09:03 Legal and Landlord Considerations13:04 Top Cities for Airbnb Arbitrage17:34 Design Tips and Standing Out22:27 Risks and Rewards of Arbitrage30:17 Setting Rules and Managing Risks
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Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone ready to dive into the short-term rental world. Let’s build smarter businesses together!

10: Building Your Small but Mighty Team for Short-Term Rental Success

Episode 10: Building Your Small but Mighty Team for Short-Term Rental Success
Hey, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today, I’m diving into one of the most crucial aspects of running a successful short-term rental: your team. These people are your lifeline, the ones who know your property better than you do, and they’re essential for keeping everything running smoothly. From cleaners to CPAs, I’m breaking down the key team members you need and sharing tips on how to find and work with them.
If you’ve been struggling to put together your dream team or want to learn how to work more effectively with your current crew, this episode is for you!
Key Takeaways for Building Your STR Team
Cleaners:
Your cleaner is your number one team member—they are your eyes and ears on the property.
How to find cleaners: Utilize Facebook groups, word of mouth, or referrals from current cleaners.
Pro Tip: Do surprise audits once a quarter to ensure quality and address any overlooked issues. Use the “compliment, critique, compliment” approach to provide constructive feedback.
Handyman:
A reliable handyman is essential for handling maintenance issues quickly.
Tips: Use word of mouth or local contractors for referrals. Always ask for quotes upfront to avoid surprise bills.
Snow Removal (Seasonal):
Vital for properties in colder climates. Start searching for a snowplow service early in the fall to secure a spot on their list.
Pro Tip: Ask them to shovel paths to the front door for a better guest experience. Keep shovels at the property for emergencies.
Lawn Care:
Options include doing it yourself, hiring neighbors, or using a professional service.
Tip: Make sure the service adjusts mowing frequency based on the season to avoid unnecessary costs.
CPA (Certified Public Accountant):
Your CPA is a key player for managing taxes and ensuring you maximize your deductions.
Questions to ask: Do they have experience with short-term rentals or real estate investments? Can they help you plan purchases to optimize tax benefits?
Why Listen to This Episode?
Whether you’re starting your first short-term rental or scaling your portfolio, building the right team is critical for your success. In this episode, I share real-world tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you assemble a team that will keep your properties running smoothly and your guests happy.
Mentioned in the Episode
Hospitable: Save $30 when you sign up here. Automate guest communication and streamline your processes!
Evolve Property Management: Want to be hands-off? Start exploring Evolve here.
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Let’s Connect!
Who’s on your small but mighty team? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap to share your experiences, challenges, and tips for finding the perfect crew!
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent looking to specialize in short-term rentals? Let’s chat! This niche is full of opportunities, and with the right guidance, you can dominate your market. Message me on Instagram, and let’s make it happen.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Intro02:16 The Role of Cleaners in Your STR Success09:11 Why a Handyman is a Must-Have13:55 Snow Removal Services for Winter STRs22:18 The Importance of Lawn Care28:47 How a CPA Can Save You Thousands
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Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with other hosts or agents who want to create their dream STR team. Let’s build smarter, more efficient businesses together!

9: Is Too Much Knowledge Hurting Your Short-Term Rental Success?

Episode 9: Is Too Much Knowledge Hurting Your Short-Term Rental Success?
Hey, it’s Brittany! In today’s episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, we’re diving into a question many investors face: can knowing too much make it harder to pull the trigger on a deal? My husband, Clay, and I are currently searching for our next short-term rental, and let me tell you—it’s not as easy as it used to be! If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by too much information or found decision-making paralyzing, you’ll relate to this episode.
Mentioned in the Episode
Aloha Protein Bars: Save 20% on your first order! Trust me, they’re a game-changer for busy investors. Click here to order.
My Instagram: @theairbnbroadmap. Follow for behind-the-scenes looks at our journey.
Key Takeaways for Short-Term Rental Success
Knowing Too Much Can Hold You Back: I share how experience has made us second-guess even the smallest details and how we’re learning to overcome decision paralysis.
The “Twinkle” Factor: Clay and I always look for that “twinkle in our eye” to feel confident about a property, but sometimes, trust in the numbers has to come first.
Balancing Emotion and Strategy: Why thinking like an investor, instead of acting on emotion, can save you time and money in the long run.
Market Trends and Risks: Learn why starting a trend in an underdeveloped market can be a game-changer—and how to make your property a true “scroll stopper.”
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re a short-term rental investor—or thinking about becoming one—this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate tough decisions and take smart risks. From understanding market trends to deciding when to pull the trigger, I’m giving you a front-row seat to our personal journey and lessons learned along the way.
Mentioned in the Episode
Aloha Protein Bars: Save 20% on your first order! Trust me, they’re a game-changer for busy investors. Click here to order.
My Instagram updates: @theairbnbroadmap. Follow for behind-the-scenes looks at our journey.
Let’s Connect!
Have you ever struggled with decision paralysis or felt like knowing too much made it harder to act? Let’s talk! DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap.
Are you a real estate agent looking to niche down in short-term rentals? Let’s chat about how you can dominate your market with this in-demand expertise! Send me a message today.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Finding a Short-Term Rental15:43 Evaluating Property Potential and Challenges27:59 Strategizing for Success in Real Estate Investments

8: What Makes a Market Good for STR? Finding Your Ideal Location

Episode 8: What Makes a Market Great for Short-Term Rentals? Finding Your Perfect STR Location
Hey, it’s Brittany, and welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today, I’m taking you on an exciting deep dive into what makes a market ideal for short-term rentals. Finding the perfect location can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to break it down for you. We’ll talk about tourism hotspots, business hubs, year-round demand, market economics, and even how to stand out with unique experiences. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable insights and personal stories to help you find your next winning location.
Mentioned in the Episode
Pricelabs: Want to maximize your profits and take control of your pricing? Use this link to get your first month FREE and $10 off your first paid month. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Key Takeaways for Choosing the Best Short-Term Rental Market
Tourism Appeal: Look for markets with strong tourist attractions, stunning natural beauty, or major landmarks that draw consistent visitors year-round.
Business Hubs: Markets near convention centers or major cities are a goldmine for steady bookings with less property wear and tear.
Seasonalities: Target areas with year-round activities, like ski towns or college towns, and don’t forget to factor in accessibility and local regulations.
Unique Experiences: Stand out by offering eco-friendly, luxury, or niche properties—think cabins near wineries or cottages by historical sites.
Market Economics: Study occupancy rates, average daily rates (ADR), and market growth to align your investment with your financial goals.
Regulations: Focus on STR-friendly areas with clear and manageable zoning laws—this is key to avoiding headaches later!
Amenities: Tailor your property to local demands. Whether it’s a hot tub in the Smokies or blazing-fast Wi-Fi for remote workers, know your audience.
Competition: Analyze how crowded the market is and look for ways to differentiate yourself with unique features and stellar hosting.
Financial Feasibility: Ensure your numbers work! Your property should deliver strong returns after expenses—don’t settle for anything less.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re planning to invest in short-term rentals, understanding how to choose the right market is essential. In this episode, I share tips that I’ve learned from years in real estate and hosting, including what to look for and what to avoid. You’ll leave with a clearer idea of how to pick a location that works for you, whether you’re after consistent bookings, high nightly rates, or a mix of both.
Mentioned in the Episode
Pricelabs: Want to maximize your profits and take control of your pricing? Use this link to get your first month FREE and $10 off your first paid month. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Let’s Connect!
What’s your dream short-term rental market? I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions! Slide into my DMs on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap, and let’s chat about your STR journey.
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent wanting to specialize in short-term rentals? Let’s make it happen! STR is an untapped niche in many markets, and you can dominate with the right approach. Message me on Instagram, and we’ll figure out how to get you there.
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with friends or colleagues who are curious about short-term rentals. Together, we can make smarter investments and create incredible experiences for guests.
 
Chapters
00:00 Finding the Perfect Short-Term Rental Market09:04 Understanding Market Economics15:52 Navigating Rules and Regulations18:28 Evaluating Property Features and Amenities26:12 Conducting Competition Analysis31:15 Assessing Financial Viability

7: Five Common Mistakes Airbnb Hosts Make (and How to Avoid Them!)

Episode 7: Five Common Mistakes Airbnb Hosts Make (and How to Avoid Them!)
Hey there, it’s Brittany, and welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! In this episode, I’m spilling the tea on the top five mistakes I see short-term rental hosts make all the time—and more importantly, how you can avoid them. Whether it’s understanding your market, furnishing your space, or keeping up with maintenance, I’ve got tips to help you skip the headaches and save yourself time, money, and stress. Stick around until the end, because I’ll reveal the biggest mistake that could cost you thousands and even derail your hosting career!
Key Takeaways for Smarter Hosting
Know Your Market
Tailor your property to match the needs of your guests and your area.
Example: At a ski resort? Think ski racks and boot warmers. Near a family-friendly spot? Baby gates and kid-sized amenities can go a long way.
Invest in Comfortable, Durable Furniture
Skip the super pricey or flimsy furniture and go for medium-grade pieces that look great and last.
Pro Tip: Materials like leather or faux leather are easy to clean and perfect for high-traffic rentals.
Stay on Top of Maintenance
Fix problems quickly—your guests will notice, and reviews matter!
Be upfront about temporary issues, like a broken coffee maker, so guests feel informed and cared for.
Deliver on Your Promises
If your listing says “fully stocked kitchen,” make sure it’s stocked for your max guest count.
Bonus Tip: Stay in your own rental for a few days after setup to catch anything you might’ve missed.
Bonus: The Most Critical Mistake to Avoid
You’ll have to listen to the episode for this one, but trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Why Listen to This Episode?
Whether you’re a new host or a seasoned pro, we’ve all made mistakes. This episode is your shortcut to avoiding common pitfalls and leveling up your hosting game. Learn from my experience so you can spend more time enjoying those five-star reviews and less time sweating the details.
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 @theairbnbroadmap for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect!
Have you ever made one of these mistakes or come up with a clever way to improve your rental? Tag me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap and share your story—I’d love to hear from you!
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent looking to specialize in short-term rentals? Let’s chat! This niche is wide open in many markets, and with the right strategy, you can dominate. DM me on Instagram, and we’ll get started.
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone who’s looking to become a better host. Together, we can build smarter, more successful STR businesses!
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Common Airbnb Mistakes
01:53 Understanding Your Guests and Market
06:00 Cleaning, Maintenance, and Furniture Choices
11:57 Delivering on Promises and Marketing Essentials
17:58 The Importance of Marketing and Professional Photos
24:50 The Critical Need for Licensing in Short-Term Rentals

6: Top Software Tools Every Short-Term Rental Owner Needs

Episode 10: Automating Your Short-Term Rental Business
Hey there, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the time and effort it takes to manage your short-term rental, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down the essential software tools that automate 75% of my hosting process—seriously, these are game-changers! From managing bookings to cleanings and pricing, these tools will save you time, increase your efficiency, and help you scale your business like a pro.
Key Takeaways for Automating Your STR Business
Hospitable
Sync calendars across platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to prevent double bookings.
Automate guest communication and integrate with keyless entry systems like Schlage.
Bonus features include direct booking options and financial breakdowns for each booking.
Turno (Formerly TurnoverBnB)
Automates cleaning schedules and connects you with reliable cleaners worldwide.
Tracks inventory and offers invoicing options, though I prefer simpler alternatives for invoicing.
PriceLabs
Dynamic pricing adjusts nightly rates based on market demand, ensuring optimal revenue.
Customize settings for minimum, base, and maximum prices, plus last-minute booking discounts for slow months.
QuickBooks
Simplifies bookkeeping by tracking expenses and receipts, making tax prep a breeze.
Guidely and Canva
Create guest welcome guides (digital or printed) to enhance the guest experience and reduce common questions.
Google Sheets
A versatile tool for tracking cash flow, property analysis, and staying on top of your finances.
Why Listen to This Episode?
Managing a short-term rental doesn’t have to consume all your time. With the right tools, you can automate the most time-consuming tasks and focus on what matters—growing your business and delivering an amazing guest experience. If you’re looking for ways to streamline your operations and free up your schedule, this episode is a must-listen.
Mentioned in the Episode
Pricelabs: Maximize your profits! Get your first month FREE and $10 off your first paid month with this link.
Hospitable: Save $30 when you sign up here. Every dollar counts, so start saving time and money today!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Let’s Connect!
Have questions about automating your short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap, and I’ll help you get started or guide you through the process.
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent interested in niching down into short-term rentals? Let’s chat! This niche is wide open in most markets, and with the right tools and strategy, you can dominate. Message me on Instagram, and we’ll make it happen!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Automation in Short-Term Rentals07:20 Key Software for Property Management11:29 Streamlining Cleaning Operations with Turno18:42 Maximizing Revenue with PriceLabs20:42 Bookkeeping and Financial Management Tools21:11 Enhancing Guest Experience with Guidely and Canva
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Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with other hosts or agents looking to level up their short-term rental game. Let’s build smarter, more successful businesses together!

5: Financing Your Short-Term Rental - Loan Programs and Funding Options

Episode 5: Navigating Financing for Short-Term Rentals
Hey there, it’s Brittany, and welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Financing your short-term rental doesn’t have to be stressful. In this episode, I’m breaking down the most popular loan options—like second home loans, DSCR loans, HELOCs, and private capital partnerships. Whether you’re buying your first short-term rental or scaling your portfolio, this episode will help you feel confident in making the best financial decisions for your goals.
Key Takeaways for Financing Your Short-Term Rental
Second Home Loans
Perfect for first-time short-term rental buyers, these loans are easy to qualify for and similar to conventional mortgages.
They offer competitive interest rates but may have restrictions, like proximity to your primary residence.
Transparency about the property’s usage is key.
DSCR Loans (Debt Service Coverage Ratio Loans)
These loans focus on your property’s income potential instead of your personal income.
Expect higher down payments (20–30%) and interest rates, but they’re ideal for investors with high debt-to-income ratios.
Tools like AirDNA can help with revenue projections during the application process.
Private Capital Partnerships
A great way to scale quickly by leveraging other people’s capital while you handle operations.
Ensure clear agreements about roles, responsibilities, and exit strategies to avoid future conflicts.
HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit)
Tap into your home’s equity to fund your rental, but be cautious about fluctuating interest rates and appraisal risks.
Always compare multiple appraisal options to ensure accuracy.
Portfolio and Commercial Loans
Specialized loans for managing multiple properties or making commercial-level investments.
Typically handled directly by banks or lenders with customized terms.
Why Listen to This Episode?
Understanding your financing options is crucial for short-term rental success. In this episode, I’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each loan type so you can choose the one that aligns with your financial goals. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, these insights will save you time and money.
Mentioned in the Episode
Start Your Airbnb Profile: Ready to begin hosting? Get $48 back when you sign up with this link. I’ve got your back every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
Let’s Connect!
Have a financing question or need help finding a lender? I’ve got trusted resources to guide you! DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap, and let’s chat.
Work With Me
Are you a real estate agent looking to dominate the short-term rental niche? Let’s make it happen! This niche is wide open in most markets, and with the right approach, you can stand out. Message me on Instagram, and let’s get started.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Financing Short-Term Rentals03:04 Understanding Secondary Home Loans05:48 Exploring DSCR Loans11:55 Private Capital Partnerships Explained18:08 Utilizing HELOC for Short-Term Rentals32:08 Other Loan Options and Conclusion
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Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with anyone navigating the world of short-term rental financing. Together, we can make smarter investments and grow our STR businesses!