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In this episode, I sit down with Carlos Saavedra, a cleaning expert who operates a high standard Airbnb cleaning company, and we get into the REAL behind the scenes of what makes or breaks your short term rental. We talk about everything from why your cleaner is actually the backbone of your business, to the small details guests notice that can tank your reviews, to how to properly vet and hire a cleaner who actually understands hospitality, not just “cleaning.”
We also go deep into systems, communication, linens, staging expectations, and the biggest mistakes I see investors make when setting up their Airbnb for success. If you have ever struggled with a cleaner, questioned your setup, or want to avoid costly mistakes from day 1, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways
Your cleaner is not just a cleaner, they are protecting your income • Hospitality cleaning is VERY different than residential or office cleaning • Small details like hair, linens, and supplies can make or break reviews • You should always interview multiple cleaners before hiring • Ask about pricing structure, experience, and consistency systems • White linens win every time for cleanliness perception and sanitation • 3 full linen sets per bed is the sweet spot for operations • Over staging your Airbnb can create unnecessary workload and inconsistency • Systems and communication between you and your cleaner are everything • Not all cleaners are built for short term rentals, and that is okay
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you are building or scaling an Airbnb, this episode will save you time, money, and headaches. I am not kidding when I say your cleaner can either elevate your business or completely destroy your guest experience.
This conversation will help you hire smarter, set better expectations, and build systems that actually support long term success. Whether you are brand new or already hosting, this is one of those foundational episodes you do not want to skip.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about hiring a cleaner or setting up your Airbnb the right way? 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
Ready to launch your Airbnb the RIGHT way without all the trial and error? Inside my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator, I walk you through everything from finding the right property to setting up systems like cleaning, pricing, and guest experience so you can actually make money and not feel overwhelmed.
Use code 5STARPODCAST for a special discount
Chapters
00:00 Intro and guest welcome 02:00 How Carlos got into Airbnb cleaning 05:00 What most cleaners are doing wrong 08:00 Going above and beyond as a cleaning company 12:00 3 must ask questions when hiring a cleaner 18:00 Real life cleaner interview horror story 22:00 Staging vs reality in Airbnbs 26:00 Linen strategy and why white wins 33:00 King vs queen bedding debate 37:00 When to fire your cleaner 41:00 Final thoughts and business shoutouts
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you think differently about your Airbnb setup, take a screenshot and share it on Instagram. Tag me so I can reshare and support you.
And if you have not already, make sure you are subscribed so you never miss an episode of The Airbnb Roadmap 🎙️
64. FREE Subscription to Hospitable?! Sit down with Hospitables Founder Pierre-Camille (PC) Hamana
I sat down with Pierre-Camille Hamana, the CEO of Hospitable, to talk about something that I honestly think is going to change the game for new Airbnb hosts…
👉 They just launched a FREE Essentials plan
Yes… free.
And if you are someone who has been holding back on getting started because of costs, systems, or just feeling overwhelmed with all the tools out there, this is exactly what you needed.
We break down:
Why they made this move
What is actually included
How it helps first-time investors
And how you can use it to start building your Airbnb business the right way from day one
We also dive into mindset, taking action, and why waiting for “perfect” is what keeps most people stuck.
Key Takeaways
What the Hospitable Essentials (FREE) plan actually includes
Why this is a huge opportunity for first-time Airbnb investors
How to start your Airbnb WITHOUT stacking expensive tools
Why automation should not stop you from getting started
The biggest mistake new hosts make when trying to “prepare everything first”
How Hospitable is helping hosts make money, not just manage properties
What features you can access for $0, including messaging and multi-platform syncing
How this creates long-term systems from the very beginning
Why loyalty and simplicity matter when choosing your tech stack
The connection between systems, scalability, and time freedom
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you have ever thought…
“I want to start an Airbnb but there is just too much to set up” “I don’t want to spend a ton of money upfront on software” “I feel overwhelmed with all the moving pieces”
This episode is going to simplify everything for you.
The reality is, you do NOT need a massive tech stack to get started anymore.
This free plan gives you the ability to:
Automate your messaging
Sync calendars across platforms
Stay organized from day one
And most importantly… actually take action.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about starting your first Airbnb or trying to simplify your systems? 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
If you are ready to go from idea to income, my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you step by step through finding, launching, and automating your Airbnb so you can build this the right way from the start.
Chapters
00:00 Why this episode matters for new hosts 02:30 Meet the CEO of Hospitable 05:00 The real reason people don’t start 10:00 Biggest fears for first-time Airbnb investors 15:30 The FREE Essentials plan explained 20:00 What you actually get for $0 25:00 Why this changes the game for beginners 30:00 Systems, automation, and scaling smarter 35:00 Features most hosts are not using 40:00 Final thoughts and how to get started
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you, take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @theairbnbroadmap so I can repost and say thank you!
And if you haven’t already, make sure you are subscribed so you never miss an episode 🎙️
In this episode, I’m sharing a real, honest breakdown of what I no longer buy for my Airbnb properties, and why. After getting hit with a massive 30-inch snowfall at our cabins and managing guest expectations in the middle of chaos, it reminded me just how important it is to have systems and smart decisions in place.
I walk through the biggest purchasing mistakes I’ve made over the years, from cheap furniture that doesn’t last, to design choices that actually hurt guest perception. If you’re in the furnishing, upgrading, or scaling phase of your short term rental, this episode is your reality check.
Not everything that looks good or feels like an upgrade will actually increase your bookings, your reviews, or your nightly rate. And if it doesn’t do at least one of those things, it’s probably not worth your money.
Key Takeaways
Cheap furniture will cost you more long term, you are better off investing in quality upfront White bedding builds trust with guests and signals cleanliness, darker colors can raise doubts Strong scents, candles, and plugins can negatively impact guest experience Fragile items, including wine glasses and decor, will break quickly and create safety risks Overly complicated smart home systems lead to confusion and more guest messages Every upgrade should serve a purpose, bookings, ADR, or reviews Some amenities sound great but do not perform based on your market or location Pinterest design does not always translate into a functional or guest friendly space Avoid anything controversial, including religious or political decor Furniture layout matters more than you think, flow impacts guest experience Do not cheap out on towels, guests notice comfort details immediately
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you are currently setting up your first Airbnb or thinking about upgrading your space, this episode will save you money, time, and frustration. I am sharing real mistakes I have made across multiple properties so you do not have to learn the hard way.
This is also a great episode if you feel like you are constantly spending money on your property but not seeing a return. I will help you shift your mindset into making strategic, ROI driven decisions instead of emotional or aesthetic ones.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about what to buy or skip for your Airbnb? 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
If you are ready to launch or scale your Airbnb the right way, my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything from property selection to full setup and systems.
You will learn how to make smart investment decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a short term rental that actually performs.
Chapters
00:00 Life update and upcoming guest interviews 02:00 30-inch snowstorm and managing guest expectations 06:00 Why this episode matters, stop wasting money 07:30 Cheap furniture mistakes 09:00 Bedding choices and guest perception 13:00 Strong scents and guest sensitivity 15:30 Fragile decor and wine glasses 18:00 Smart home technology pitfalls 20:30 ROI driven upgrades and amenities 22:30 When amenities are not worth it 23:30 Design mistakes and Pinterest traps 24:30 Avoiding controversial decor 25:30 Furniture layout and flow 26:45 Towels and guest comfort 28:30 Final thoughts and resource mention
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you rethink your Airbnb setup, share it with a friend who is in the process of furnishing their rental. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss upcoming guest episodes, especially the one dropping this April that I am so excited about 👀
62. First Airbnb, Should you Invest Local or Long Distance?
In this episode, I’m diving into one of the biggest questions new short term rental investors ask me all the time. Should you buy your first Airbnb close to home or invest long distance in a stronger market?
After a week of Airbnb chaos and dishwasher drama, I also share why I took a short break from the podcast and what that experience reminded me about time, systems, and running your rental like a business.
I walk through the real pros and cons of both strategies, including why long distance investing can actually force you to build better systems, how a strong team becomes the backbone of your Airbnb business, and why investing close to home can sometimes create more work than you expect.
If you’re trying to decide where to buy your first Airbnb property, this episode will help you think through the decision from a practical, real world perspective.
Key Takeaways
Close by properties feel convenient, but they can pull you into doing everything yourself.
Long distance properties force you to build systems and rely on your small but mighty team.
Your cleaner, handyman, lawn care provider, and even neighbors can become critical partners in running your Airbnb.
Property management software can automate guest communication and reduce your daily workload.
Your time has value, driving hours to fix small issues may cost more than paying someone locally.
For first time investors, owning a property nearby can help you learn the operations before scaling further away.
Successful Airbnb businesses rely on systems, processes, and trusted people.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you are thinking about buying your first short term rental, location is one of the most important decisions you will make.
In this episode I share real experiences from managing properties within a few hours of home, including the good, the frustrating, and the lessons learned along the way. You will learn how distance affects your systems, your time, and your mindset as an Airbnb host.
Whether you plan to invest locally or across the country, understanding these differences can help you build a more sustainable Airbnb business.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about where to buy your first Airbnb? 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
If you want step by step guidance on finding, launching, and managing your own short term rental, check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course.
Inside the course I walk you through:
Finding the right Airbnb property Running the numbers and evaluating ROI Designing and furnishing your rental Building your team and automating systems Launching and optimizing your listing
Learn more here: https://theairbnbroadmap.com
Chapters
0:00 Life update and why I skipped last week 3:00 The dishwasher chaos continues 6:20 The big question, local vs long distance Airbnb investing 7:30 Why long distance investing can actually work better 11:00 Running your Airbnb like a business 12:00 The convenience trap of nearby rentals 14:30 Time vs money for Airbnb owners 16:00 Who should be your local contact person 18:30 Cleaners, handymen, and neighbors as your team 21:30 Would I buy long distance for my first Airbnb 23:30 Why local investing can still be valuable 26:00 Final thoughts on choosing the right strategy
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
And if you know someone who is thinking about starting their first Airbnb, send this episode their way. It might help them make one of the biggest decisions in their investing journey.
61. Airbnb Guests Threatened Bad Reviews, This Is What I Did
In this episode, I am sharing a very real behind the scenes look at what the past week has looked like in our short term rental business. Between a dishwasher claim, rude guest messages, and review threats, it has felt like when it rains it pours.
Instead of letting it spiral, I used these situations as a reminder of why being proactive instead of reactive is everything in this business. I walk you through two real guest scenarios, exactly what was said, how I handled it, and what I did behind the scenes to protect our listings, reviews, and sanity.
If you have ever felt stressed by a guest, worried about a bad review, or unsure how to handle a tricky cancellation situation, this episode will help you think 3 steps ahead instead of constantly putting out fires.
Key Takeaways
Why proactive communication protects your reviews • How to handle guests who threaten bad reviews • When to call Airbnb and document everything • Why small refunds can protect long term revenue • How automation tools like Hospitable help create consistency • Why keeping communication inside Airbnb matters • How reviews shape your visibility and bookings • Why sometimes you have to spend $50 to protect thousands
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because hosting is not about avoiding problems. It is about having a plan before problems happen.
I break down a situation where a guest refused to cancel and openly admitted he wanted to leave a bad review. Instead of panicking, I called Airbnb immediately, documented everything, and had a note placed on the reservation. If he leaves a retaliatory review, it gets removed. That is proactive hosting.
I also share how I handled a dishwasher breaking mid bookings, what I did to soften the inconvenience, and how one guest still pushed back. These are the moments that test you as a host.
We also talk about the power of reviews and where the whole review culture actually started, shoutout to Michelin for creating the original rating system that evolved into the Michelin Star system. Wild, right?
This episode is equal parts strategy and real life hosting therapy session.
Mentioned in the Episode
Airbnb Vrbo Booking.com Hospitable Michelin
Let’s Connect
Thinking about how to protect your Airbnb reviews or handle difficult guests? 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
If you want systems, scripts, automation, and proactive hosting strategies built out step by step, check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I teach you how to protect your time, your revenue, and your sanity while building a 5 star short term rental business.
Chapters
00:00 Life update and guest chaos 05:00 Guest threatens bad review over cancellation 10:00 Calling Airbnb and documenting everything 15:00 Dishwasher drama and handling inconvenience 20:00 Why refunds can protect long term income 24:00 The origin of reviews and why they matter 27:00 Protecting your property with proof and photos 30:00 Final thoughts on proactive hosting
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you feel more confident as a host, make sure you subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another short term rental owner who needs to hear this.
The more proactive you are, the less reactive you have to be.
60. The Exact Conversation I Have With Every New STR Client
In this episode, I am sharing exactly what I tell every first time investor who calls me wanting to buy a short term rental in Wisconsin. From understanding state, county, and township regulations to septic capacity, negotiations, inspections, and writing strong offers, I break down the full process step by step.
If you have ever thought about buying a $600,000 cabin near Wisconsin Dells, Baraboo, or Castle Rock, this is your behind the scenes look at what actually happens from first phone call to closing day.
And yes, there is a little life update in the beginning involving a dishwasher disaster and a flooded kitchen. Because real life still happens while building businesses.
Key Takeaways
How Wisconsin short term rental regulations work at the state, county, township, and neighborhood level • What a Tourist Rooming House license inspection includes • Why septic capacity can make or break your investment • Why I personally avoid properties in HOA neighborhoods • How I protect my buyers with strategic offer language • Why sellers do not need to know you are an investor • What happens during due diligence and inspections • The risks of negotiating too hard • Why three bedroom properties are my personal sweet spot • What experienced investors look for versus first timers
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because buying a short term rental is not just about finding a cute cabin in the woods.
It is about understanding local regulations, septic ratings, conditional use permits, resident agents, and knowing how to structure your offer correctly so you do not get blindsided later.
If you want to invest in Wisconsin and avoid expensive mistakes, this episode is your crash course.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about buying your first Airbnb in Wisconsin? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress. I would love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
If you are ready to buy a short term rental in Wisconsin, I cover anywhere in the state. I walk my clients through regulations, numbers, offer strategy, and everything in between.
Want the full roadmap before you even start shopping? Check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course where I break down finding, analyzing, launching, and scaling your STR the right way.
Chapters
00:00 Dishwasher disaster and life update 06:45 First call with a new STR buyer 08:30 Wisconsin state level licensing explained 12:00 County and township regulations 16:30 Septic capacity and occupancy limits 18:45 Running the numbers and cash flow expectations 21:00 How I preview properties for out of state buyers 23:30 Offer strategy and negotiation tactics 27:00 Due diligence and inspections 29:30 What happens after closing
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you understand the Wisconsin short term rental process, share it with someone who is thinking about investing.
59. Airbnb Cancellation Policies Explained, Short Stays vs Long Stays
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I am breaking down Airbnb cancellation policies in real life terms, not just the fine print. This episode was inspired by a recent midterm guest who booked for 3 months and left after only 2 weeks, plus ongoing damage claim frustrations with Airbnb support.
I walk through what actually happens when guests cancel short stays versus long stays, why rejecting an alteration can sometimes protect you financially, and how different cancellation policies impact both hosts and guests. I also share personal stories from my own properties, including extreme cold weather stress, property damage realities, and how distance from your rentals forces you to become a better manager instead of a reactive host.
If you have ever been confused, frustrated, or blindsided by Airbnb cancellations, this episode will give you clarity and confidence moving forward.
Key Takeaways
Airbnb has different cancellation rules for short stays 27 nights or fewer and long stays 28 nights or more • All Airbnb listings include a 24 hour free cancellation window if the booking is made at least 7 days before check in • Flexible policies are guest friendly but offer the least protection to hosts • Moderate policies provide a balance between bookings and host protection • Limited and firm policies increase host protection but may reduce booking conversion • Long term stays function more like leases and can guarantee up to 30 nights of income • Rejecting an alteration does not penalize your host account • Never cancel on behalf of a guest or you risk losing Superhost status • Distance from your properties can actually help you scale and systemize better
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you host short term or midterm rentals and want to avoid losing thousands of dollars due to misunderstandings around cancellations, this episode is a must listen. I explain Airbnb policies using real numbers, real scenarios, and real outcomes so you can make smarter decisions for your listings.
This episode is especially helpful if you are considering midterm rentals, traveling nurse stays, or longer bookings and want to understand how to protect your income while still staying guest friendly.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about Airbnb cancellation policies or midterm rentals? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your experience. I would love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
If you are looking to buy, sell, or scale a short term rental, or if you want access to my Airbnb Roadmap course and resources, reach out. I also connect investors with STR focused agents across multiple states because there is a huge difference between a regular agent and one who truly understands short term rentals.
Chapters
00:01 Life update and recent guest damage 02:18 Temporary fixes and real world hosting decisions 04:40 Managing properties near vs far 07:05 Midterm guest cancellation story 10:29 Why Airbnb cancellations are confusing 12:50 Airbnb 24 hour cancellation rule 14:24 Flexible cancellation policy explained 19:12 Moderate cancellation policy explained 21:28 Limited cancellation policy explained 23:56 Firm and strict short stay policies 31:35 Airbnb policy changes in 2025 39:46 Choosing the right policy as a host 44:30 Long stay cancellation policies 46:53 Why rejecting alterations matters 51:02 Firm vs strict long term stays 54:03 Airbnb resort for sale opportunity 55:22 Courses, resources, and next steps
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you understand Airbnb cancellations better, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be confused or stressed about cancellations. I will see you in the next episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast.
58. I Went on Vacation and My Airbnb Fell Apart Here’s What Happened
This episode is a full vacation recap turned Airbnb reality check. I’m sharing what happened when I traveled with a baby, lost my voice, and still had to manage multiple Airbnbs from Mexico while dealing with extreme cold, frozen pipes, surprise early check ins, guest damage, and a very expensive plumbing bill. Normally my systems are automated and smooth, but this trip was back to back shenanigans that no amount of prep could have fully prevented. If you think owning Airbnbs means passive income with zero stress, this episode brings you right back to reality.
Key Takeaways
Owning Airbnbs does not mean nothing will ever go wrong, even with great systems Extreme cold can expose hidden issues in older properties You need backup contacts and solutions when contractors are unavailable Clear check in boundaries matter and early arrivals can create real problems Guest damage can happen fast, even with families and short stays Automations are helpful but can backfire if you forget they exist Vacations are still worth it, even when things go sideways
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you own or want to own short term rentals, this episode is a real behind the scenes look at what can happen when life, travel, weather, guests, and maintenance all collide at once. I walk through how I handled each issue, what frustrated me the most, and what I learned from it all. This is the honest side of hosting that rarely makes it to Instagram.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about managing Airbnbs while traveling or dealing with guest damage? 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
If you want help building systems that actually support your lifestyle and not run it, check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I teach you how to set up, automate, and manage your short term rentals with confidence, even when things go wrong.
Chapters
00:00 Losing my voice and recording anyway 04:00 Getting sick before vacation and traveling with a baby 06:00 Midterm guest issues and washer dryer expectations 08:45 Extreme cold and frozen toilet pipes 13:30 Plumber chaos and a $450 bill 20:45 Early check ins and cleaner boundaries 23:00 Guest damage and burned countertops 27:30 Unauthorized re entry after checkout 31:00 Airbnb reimbursement and review frustration 33:40 Dishwasher issues and wrapping up the trip
Subscribe and Share
If this episode felt real, relatable, or helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another Airbnb host who needs to hear that even the messy weeks are survivable. I’ll see you next week, hopefully with my voice back.
57. Airbnb Maintenance Problems No One Talks About
In this episode, I’m getting real about something no one loves to talk about: Airbnb maintenance. Fancy amenities like hot tubs, arcade games, golf simulators, saunas, and movie theaters can absolutely boost your average daily rate—but they also come with nonstop upkeep, guest messages at inconvenient hours, and real risk to your reviews.
I’m sharing real stories from my own Airbnbs—what broke, what I removed, what I kept, and why I now prioritize simple, durable, and low-maintenance setups over flashy features. If you’re deciding what amenities to add (or skip), this episode will save you money, stress, and late-night headaches.
Key Takeaways
High-end amenities can increase ADR, but they also increase risk
Hot tubs and pools require constant attention—not occasional check-ins
Arcade games and golf simulators break more often than you think
Guests book based on amenities—and punish you in reviews when they don’t work
“Set it and forget it” should be your Airbnb goal
Lower maintenance = better lifestyle, fewer refunds, and more consistent 5-star stays
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re debating whether to add a hot tub, sauna, arcade game, or golf simulator—or you already have one and feel overwhelmed—this episode will help you think like an investor, not just a designer. I break down what actually works long-term and how to protect your time, sanity, and reviews.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about Airbnb maintenance or amenities? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what features you’re debating! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Want to build an Airbnb that actually makes money without owning a full-time tool belt?
🎯 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — step-by-step guidance to launch smart
🚀 Mentorship Program — hands-on support and strategy
🎉 Launch Party Bonuses — $100 off the course + mentorship discounts
👉 Bonus: Buy the course, purchase an Airbnb with one of my recommended agents, and get the course refunded 100% after closing. Yes—completely free.
Links are in the show notes or DM me for details.
Chapters
00:00 – Testing the mic + life update 02:30 – Why this episode exists 07:45 – Fancy Airbnbs vs. maintenance reality 11:00 – Hot tubs: the biggest offender 15:00 – Arcade games that didn’t last 18:30 – Saunas: worth it or risky? 22:45 – Games that don’t break 25:15 – Golf simulators gone wrong 27:30 – Movie theater & Roku issues 30:00 – Real maintenance from back-to-back bookings 33:00 – The lifestyle cost of “resort-style” Airbnbs 35:00 – Course launch party + refund bonus
Subscribe and Share
If this episode saved you from buying a hot tub (or validated your regret 😅), please subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a friend who’s designing their Airbnb right now. It helps more than you know.
56. How to Get More 5-Star Airbnb Reviews (Without Feeling Awkward)
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I’m breaking down why Airbnb and Vrbo reviews are everything, especially when you’re launching a new property. I share real-life examples from our most recent Airbnb launches, including how we intentionally lowered pricing to stack reviews fast, why we accepted a 3-month midterm stay, and the pros and cons of sacrificing short-term reviews for guaranteed spring cash flow.
We also dive deep into the psychology behind reviews, why asking for them isn’t awkward (or pushy), and the exact systems I use to consistently earn five-star feedback, even when small issues pop up. If you’ve ever stressed over a four-star review or felt weird asking guests to leave feedback, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways
Reviews are the lifeline of your Airbnb (right next to great cleaners)
Sometimes lowering prices early helps you win long-term
Midterm stays can stabilize slow seasons—but cost you review volume
Asking for reviews is not awkward—it’s strategic
Timing your review messages matters more than you think
Subtle language like “hope you’re having a five-star stay” works
A single four-star review can hurt a new listing more than you realize
Airbnb and Vrbo handle reviews very differently behind the scenes
Hospitality beats perfection every single time
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re launching a new Airbnb, struggling to recover from a less-than-perfect review, or unsure how to ask for reviews without sounding desperate, this episode gives you real-world strategies you can use immediately. I’m sharing exactly what’s worked (and what didn’t) across multiple properties—no fluff, no theory, just experience.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about Airbnb reviews or launching a new 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 Me
Want the exact guest messages that have helped me earn hundreds of five-star reviews? The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything—from finding the property to launching it with systems that actually work.
🎉 Launch Party Bonus: Get $100 off for a limited time Seats are limited (because I still want time with baby Melanie—and daycare isn’t cheap 😅)
Chapters
00:00 – Life update & launching two new Airbnbs 02:30 – Why we accepted a 3-month midterm stay 05:45 – The review vs. cash flow tradeoff 08:30 – Why reviews matter more than you think 10:45 – How (and when) to ask for reviews 14:00 – Subtle messaging that works 18:15 – WiFi password hack 20:30 – The danger of early four-star reviews 23:00 – Airbnb vs. Vrbo review systems 26:00 – Final thoughts & course invite
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another Airbnb host who needs to hear this. Reviews matter—on podcasts too 😉
55. Things Don’t Calm Down... You Just Build Smarter
This episode is a full zoom-out reflection on 2025, a year that completely reshaped how I look at short-term rentals, success, systems, and family. From having Baby Melanie, launching multiple Airbnbs, renovating while pregnant (yes, really), traveling, and still growing the business… this year forced me to stop hustling harder and start building smarter.
I’m sharing what actually changed after becoming a mom, how automation became non-negotiable, why things never “calm down,” and how that realization led me to finally finish and refine the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. This one’s honest, personal, and very real.
Key Takeaways
Life doesn’t slow down, you just build better systems
Automation isn’t optional if you want freedom
You don’t need chaos to scale short-term rentals
Hustle looks very different after kids (and that’s okay)
Pausing growth doesn’t mean quitting, it means prioritizing
ROI matters more than flashy renovations
The goal isn’t more properties, it’s more freedom
Building once, correctly, pays you over and over again
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever thought:
“I’ll start when life calms down”
“I don’t have the time right now”
“This feels overwhelming”
“How do people do this with kids?”
This episode is for you. I walk through what scaling actually looks like in real life — not the Instagram version, and how systems, boundaries, and clarity make growth sustainable.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about starting or scaling an Airbnb in 2026? 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
If you’re ready to:
Buy your first Airbnb
Scale smarter (not harder)
Build systems that give you your life back
Avoid expensive rookie mistakes
The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything I actually use — from finding the right property to launching, automating, and growing with confidence.
The 4-week Launch Party includes live access to me for questions, feedback, and real-time support.
Chapters
00:00 – Holiday chaos & daycare closures 02:30 – Reflecting on 2025 04:30 – Hustle vs motherhood 06:30 – Buying another Airbnb while pregnant 09:00 – Why systems became non-negotiable 10:30 – Traveling while payouts roll in 12:45 – Why we bought another property 15:30 – Choosing to pause growth 16:45 – Things never calm down — you just build smarter 19:00 – Why I created the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator 23:00 – What’s inside the course 26:00 – 4-week launch party details 29:30 – Growth, family, and priorities 30:45 – Looking ahead to 2026
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If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Your support means more than you know 🤍
54. Instagram-Worthy Airbnbs Aren’t the Goal… Profit Is
16 Dec 2025
00:20:40
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode, I’m sharing a real-time mindset shift I’ve been going through as an Airbnb owner, investor, and mom. After a year of podcasting, learning from top producers, academy students, and coaches, my expectations for what an Airbnb should look like quietly skyrocketed. And honestly? I had to reel it back in.
We’re talking about the pressure to make every Airbnb Instagram-worthy, why “quietly performing” properties are often the best ones, and how guests actually compare your listing (hint: it’s usually not to viral Airbnbs). I also share lessons learned from buying existing Airbnbs, backend organization mistakes I made early on, and why I’ve developed a new respect for property managers—especially in this season of life with baby Melanie.
This episode is part reflection, part reality check, and part permission slip to stop overcomplicating your Airbnb.
Key Takeaways
Following top producers and high-level investors can raise your standards—but it can also distort reality
Not every Airbnb needs luxury upgrades, hot tubs, cowboy tubs, or viral features to perform well
Guests are usually comparing your Airbnb to local listings or hotels, not Instagram-famous properties
Clean, comfortable, and accurate listings often outperform “over-designed” spaces
ROI, maintenance, and long-term sustainability matter more than wow-factor
Backend systems (utilities, logins, account numbers) matter more than you think
Property managers aren’t “giving up”—they’re choosing a different goal
Some Airbnbs are meant to be destination stays, others are meant to quietly cash flow
Instagram fame does not equal profitability
Simpler systems = less stress and more freedom
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever felt like:
Your Airbnb isn’t “good enough” compared to what you see online
You’re overthinking upgrades and design choices
You’re torn between self-managing and hiring a property manager
You’re scaling faster than your systems can keep up
This episode will help you reset expectations, refocus on what actually matters, and make smarter decisions based on your market—not social media pressure.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about simplifying your Airbnb, setting realistic expectations, or scaling without burnout? 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
If you want to learn how to set up systems that let you manage your Airbnb in 15–30 minutes a week, early bird access for my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator is coming soon.
This course walks you through:
Systems & automation
Guest communication
Backend organization
Scaling without chaos
And the best part? I keep it affordable because I believe your money is better spent buying your first Airbnb—not overpriced education.
I also have turnkey Airbnb retreats for sale in La Crosse, Wisconsin. If you want details, just reach out.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome & life update 02:30 One-year podcast reflection 05:00 Expectations rising from high-level exposure 08:30 What guests actually care about 12:00 Existing Airbnb inspection reality check 15:00 Instagram vs. real-world performance 18:00 Backend organization mistakes 21:00 Utility tracking lessons 23:00 Property management mindset shift 25:00 ROI vs. luxury upgrades 27:00 Course mention & closing thoughts
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If this episode gave you permission to stop overthinking your Airbnb, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who needs to hear this. It helps the podcast more than you know—and I truly appreciate you being here.
53. Current Airbnb Renovation Update
11 Dec 2025
00:29:21
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I’m taking you behind the scenes of our latest “turnkey” Airbnb… that turned out to be anything but low effort. 😅
I share why I had to re-record this entire episode (tech drama, zero audio, stomach-drop moment), how we partnered with our investor friends from Texas to buy a primary home with an in-law suite above the garage, and why “turnkey” still meant months of assembly, design tweaks, and problem-solving.
You’ll hear what happened with our Matterport disaster, the gap between interior design ideas and what’s actually realistic to install (looking at you, ceiling wallpaper and curtain rods), why paint is now my arch nemesis, and how we decided what to DIY vs. hire out. I also talk about doing all of this while baby Melanie started crawling mid-renovation, nearly giving Clay a concussion with a post driver (marriage is wild), and how our bodies are telling us we’re not 22 anymore.
We wrap up with a mini announcement about the brand-new Airbnb Roadmap website, the early bird deal on my course, and a shoutout for a fully turnkey Airbnb resort for sale in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Key Takeaways
“Turnkey” doesn’t mean done. Even when a property is move-in ready, there are still layers of Airbnb-specific work: wallpaper, assembly, decor, layout tweaks, amenity planning, and guest experience touches.
Interior design vs. real life can clash. Ceiling wallpaper, moving curtain rods, or fancy ceiling tiles sound fun… until you’re on a ladder fighting with them and questioning your life choices.
Matterport can save you… or annoy you. Not all Matterport plans include measurements, which designers actually need. Understanding the package level (or having a backup provider) matters.
Ordering furniture yourself vs. having a designer do it are two totally different systems.
You ordering = better discounts + control, but much more chaos, tracking deliveries, and out-of-stock surprises.
Designer ordering = less chaos for you, but returns are slower and you may not realize something is tiny/quirky until it shows up.
Label your paint cans. Slightly different shades on one wall are officially my villain origin story. Touch-ups without clear labeling are a nightmare.
Budgeting to hire help is worth it. Spraying garage ceilings, painting ceiling tiles, and doing special wall details were totally worth hiring out—especially as we’re juggling a baby and full-time work.
Renovating with a crawling baby changes everything. Time, energy, guilt, and logistics all hit differently when you’re trying to be both “present mom” and “project manager.”
Big picture: it was still a smoother renovation overall. It wasn’t a gut job, but it brought its own set of challenges that are shaping how we’ll plan the next one.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re dreaming of buying a “turnkey” Airbnb and think it’ll be a light lift… this episode is your reality check (in the best way).
You’ll get:
A real-life look at what actually happens between “closing day” and “Airbnb live.”
Insight into working with interior designers for STRs and how to avoid miscommunication.
Practical lessons from our paint, wallpaper, and furniture ordering mistakes so you don’t repeat them.
Encouragement if you’re trying to build your Airbnb portfolio while juggling kids, work, marriage, and limited time.
A sneak peek at our revamped website, course, and an incredible turnkey Airbnb resort opportunity in La Crosse, WI.
If you like honest, slightly chaotic, behind-the-scenes stories that still teach you something, this one’s for you.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about renovating your own “turnkey” Airbnb or juggling a reno with kids, work, and life? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. 💛
Work With Me
🎙 Listen to The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast Keep tuning in every week as I share real numbers, real stories, and real lessons from our own short-term rentals and my clients’ deals.
🏡 Buy or Sell an Investment Property in Wisconsin If you’re wanting to buy or sell an STR (or a primary home with Airbnb potential) in Wisconsin, I’d love to be your agent. I work under Front Porch Realty, brokered by Real Broker LLC, and I specialize in helping investors and “first-time Airbnb people” find smart, profitable properties.
📚 Airbnb Roadmap Course (Early Bird) Want everything I’ve learned—mistakes, systems, and shortcuts—all in one place? My brand-new course is live with a crazy early bird discount. It’s not in the show notes yet, so just reach out and I’ll send you the secret link.
🌲 Turnkey Airbnb Resort in La Crosse, WI If you’ve been wanting an already-recognized Airbnb resort/retreat that’s turnkey and cash flowing, I have one available in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The seller isn’t bailing because it’s failing—he’s just onto a new adventure. Message me for details.
Chapters
00:00 – Tech fail & why this is “round two” of the episode 02:15 – The “turnkey” property: how we found it and partnered with Texas investors 04:30 – Matterport drama: no measurements, subscription levels, and saving the day 07:30 – Interior design vs. reality: ceiling wallpaper, curtain rods, and ceiling tiles 11:00 – Two designers, two approaches: who orders furniture and what that changes 14:30 – The chaos of deliveries, missing lamp, and long lead times 17:30 – Tiny $50 decor, returns, and the difference between corporate vs. flexible designers 20:00 – Paint can nightmares, unlabeled colors, and touch-up disasters 23:30 – What we hired out vs. DIY: painters, ceiling tiles, and special wall details 25:30 – Fence install, post driver mishap, and almost concussing Clay 27:45 – Renovating with a crawling baby + grandparent help and mom guilt 29:30 – Sauna delivery saga and finally being “photo ready” 30:45 – What we created: movie theater, wellness garage, game garage, and backyard 31:30 – New website, early bird course info, La Crosse resort opportunity & wrap-up
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes renovation episode, follow/subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap so you don’t miss what we do with this property next.
Know someone who’s about to buy a “turnkey” Airbnb and thinks it’ll be easy? 😏 Send them this episode so they can go in prepared.
Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you in next week’s episode!
52. Hidden Secret about Airbnb Hot Locations
02 Dec 2025
00:18:08
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and in today’s episode I’m giving you a very real life update (hi, stress!) and then diving into one of the BIGGEST misconceptions about choosing the right location for your Airbnb. Everyone thinks the best rentals are smack-dab in the heart of a big city—near stadiums, shops, and all the hustle. But honestly? The most consistent and most profitable performers are almost always outside the big cities. I walk you through why regulations in major cities are risky, the psychology of why guests CRAVE peaceful spaces, and how looking just 10–20 minutes outside the hot spots gives you more freedom, better booking rates, and less competition. I also spill one of my biggest investor secrets: the difference between mailing address and municipality, and why that one detail can make or break your STR strategy. And of course… I share some behind-the-scenes chaos from renovating two Airbnbs at once, waiting on delayed neon signs, and trying to hit photo-day deadlines while losing my mind. 😅
Key Takeaways
Big cities look sexy… but they come with strict rules, sudden regulation changes, high taxes, and heavy competition. • Smaller surrounding townships often allow STRs with far fewer restrictions—and rarely change their rules. • Guests LOVE peaceful, quiet, memory-making stays: cabins, lakes, farmland, ski-hill cottages, tiny homes, etc. • Properties just 10–20 minutes outside a major city can outperform because they offer relaxation and convenience. • Wisconsin Dells, Madison, NYC—all have strict STR limitations, but townships right outside their borders are often STR-friendly. • Your mailing address ≠ municipality, and municipality is what determines your STR rules. • Many investors are completely overlooking township opportunities—giving you a massive leg-up. • You can still design your rural Airbnb with a “big city feel” to attract urban travelers. • Less competition outside the city means your calendar is more likely to stay booked. • My secret investor hack: always check the municipality FIRST before assuming a property’s STR rules.
Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
If you’ve been scrolling Zillow thinking, “I’ll never be able to get an Airbnb inside a major city,” you’re not wrong—but you also don’t need to. This episode shows you exactly where to look instead, how to strategize smart, and how you can get into STRs without fighting every investor in your area. Plus, if you’ve been overwhelmed with location decisions, this will simplify your search and give you clarity on what actually books year-round.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about buying an Airbnb outside the big city? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what areas you’re exploring! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Ready to find, launch, or scale your short-term rental? Whether you need help finding a property, analyzing a deal, or understanding regulations, I’ve got you. 👉 Message me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap or visit the newly updated website to get started.
Chapters
00:00 – Life update: sauna delays, neon sign drama & renovation chaos 02:30 – Website revamp + launch party teasing 05:50 – Why everyone assumes Airbnbs belong in big cities 07:20 – The hidden power of small towns and slower-paced areas 08:50 – The pressure + risk of investing inside major cities 10:20 – Why rural + lakeside getaways practically book themselves 11:30 – My challenge: look outside the big cities 13:39 – Phone call interruption 😂 14:05 – City vs. peaceful travel: what guests actually want 15:53 – Thinking outside the box when choosing location 17:22 – Another phone call (classic Brittany moment) 18:18 – NYC, Madison, Dells: examples of harsh city STR rules 19:10 – Less competition outside the city = more bookings 20:20 – The game-changing secret: mailing address vs municipality 22:00 – How to check municipality on your own 23:00 – A new Airbnb resort for sale in La Crosse 26:00 – Final thoughts + where to learn more
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If you loved today’s episode, hit subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s! And please share this with a friend who’s looking for an STR but doesn’t know where to start. It helps more than you know! 💛
51. Holiday Décor in Airbnbs: Yes or No?
25 Nov 2025
00:20:35
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and in today’s episode I’m breaking down a question I get every single November: Should you decorate your Airbnb for the holidays? The short answer is probably not, and I explain exactly why. From inclusivity to guest expectations to season-locked photos, I share my personal take on why holiday décor can actually hurt you more than help. I also chat about the itch to add Christmas magic, why neutral spaces serve everyone better, and how winter photos still matter and how I faked mine with AI.
Then, to wrap things up, I shift into a Thanksgiving gratitude moment. Whether you’re a seasoned host or launching your first short-term rental soon, I want you to fully recognize how far you’ve come, the memories you’re creating for others, and the ripple effect your STR has on cleaners, contractors, families and guests who choose your space. And of course, a big shoutout to my incredible marketing girl for helping me bring big projects to life.
Key Takeaways
Holiday décor can unintentionally exclude guests who don’t celebrate the same holidays. • Over-the-top seasonal decorating creates guest expectations you may not want to manage every year. • Holiday-themed photos can season lock your listing and confuse guests outside that timeframe. • Winter photos still matter, especially in Wisconsin, and you can update them using simple AI edits. • Your STR business impacts cleaners, contractors, guests and families more than you realize. • Thanksgiving is the perfect time to acknowledge your wins, both big and small, as a host or future host.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you're tempted to put up a Christmas tree in your Airbnb, or already have it in your Amazon cart, this episode will help you think through the long-term impact on guest experience, ROI and inclusivity. Plus, you’ll walk away feeling inspired, grounded and grateful for everything you've built in your short-term rental journey.
Mentioned in the Episode
How AI tools (like ChatGPT) can transform your exterior photos into realistic winter scenes • My current renovation updates and December 1st launch timeline • A behind-the-scenes mural painting update • Partner and wedding trip prep with Kyle and Anna • My marketing girl who is truly crushing a huge upcoming project
Let’s Connect
Thinking about holiday decorating in your Airbnb or avoiding it altogether? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re doing this year! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Ready to learn how to find, launch and run a profitable Airbnb with confidence? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course and save $50 with code 5STARPODCAST. 👉 https://brittany-wenninger.mykajabi.com
Chapters
00:00 Whispering intro and the audio fail 01:30 Renovation weekend and partner update 03:20 Seeing the project come together 04:35 Holiday season and the decorating question 05:10 Why I personally avoid Christmas décor 07:00 Inclusivity and guest comfort 08:45 Reviews and setting expectations 09:30 Season-locking your photos 11:45 Winter photos and using AI 14:30 My official take: skip the decorations 15:40 Cozy touches but only if not photographed 15:55 Shifting into Thanksgiving 16:40 Why hosting is something to be proud of 18:02 What you’re providing to guests 19:00 The ripple effect for cleaners, contractors and families 20:30 Gratitude for my marketing girl 21:30 Wrap up and final thoughts
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If this episode helped you rethink your holiday hosting plans, share it with a fellow Airbnb host and hit follow so you never miss a new episode of The Airbnb Roadmap.
50. Software We Use to Run Our Airbnbs for Us
18 Nov 2025
00:28:03
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how I manage our Airbnbs in about 30–45 minutes a week—while still keeping 5-star reviews rolling in. I share the very real side of setting up Airbnb #4 and #5 (aka: BOXES EVERYWHERE, neighbors texting about our “embarrassing” amount of packages, and my love–hate relationship with assembling furniture)… and then I walk you through the actual software stack that keeps our business running on autopilot.
From Hospitable as the main hub, to Schlage for keyless entry codes, PriceLabs for dynamic pricing, Turno for cleaners, QuickBooks for bookkeeping, and Blink cameras for security, I break down what we use, how it all connects, what I love, and where the hiccups are. I also share why “value” matters more than just charging sky-high nightly rates—and a fun New Zealand dive bar story that proves why personal recommendations still matter more than Google.
Key Takeaways
How I manage multiple Airbnbs in 30–45 minutes a week using automation and smart systems.
Why Hospitable is the “hub” of my STR tech stack and what we actually use it for.
How Schlage keyless entry codes auto-generate and make early check-ins feel like VIP treatment.
What PriceLabs does better than Airbnb’s “smart pricing” and how pricing ties into your value rating.
The pros and cons of using Turno for cleaners (and why it’s not truly “set it and forget it”).
How QuickBooks ties everything together on the financial side and keeps my CPA happy.
Why consistent security cameras (like Blink) matter—even if the batteries are annoying.
The power of personal local recommendations vs. generic “top-rated” spots on Google.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re tired of feeling glued to your phone managing guests, cleaners, pricing, and messages, this episode will show you what to automate, what to keep an eye on, and what tools are actually worth paying for. I’m not a techie or a numbers-nerd (that’s Clay’s department), so if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by software options, I break it down in normal-human language with real examples, mistakes, and what I’d do again.
Whether you’re about to launch your first Airbnb or you’re adding property #4 and #5 like we are, you’ll walk away with a plug-and-play software roadmap you can model.
Mentioned in the Episode
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about automating your Airbnb with software? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re using now! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Buy or Sell in Wisconsin Looking for an agent who actually understands short-term rentals, numbers, and guest experience? I help investors and homeowners buy and sell in Wisconsin through Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC.
Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Want step-by-step help launching your first (or next) Airbnb—from finding the property to automating it like I talk about in this episode? Use promo code 5STARPODCAST to save $50 on the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator:
Chapters
00:00 – Coffee, chaos, and prepping Airbnb #4 and #5
00:37 – Neighbors, packages, and growing up in a cul-de-sac community
03:00 – The pain of assembling furniture (and extra screws… always)
05:25 – Introducing my software stack + why Hospitable is the hub
07:50 – Schlage keyless entry, early check-ins, and “going above and beyond”
12:15 – PriceLabs vs. Airbnb pricing & why “value” matters more than maxing out rates
16:11 – Quick break: Airbnb resort listing outside La Crosse, WI
18:02 – Turno for cleaners: what works, what glitches, and settings you must change
22:51 – How QuickBooks, Airbnb, Vrbo, and Hospitable all connect behind the scenes
25:12 – Blink cameras, battery drama, and why we stick with one system
27:33 – Why I still like personal recommendations over software for local spots
28:30 – New Zealand dive bar story, hot springs fail, and being “that” tourist
29:54 – Final thoughts, freebie listing description, and how to reach out
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you see how much of your Airbnb can be automated, hit subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. 💛
49. The Day I Wanted to Sell Every Airbnb I Own
11 Nov 2025
00:18:19
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and today’s episode is a little different. I’m getting real and a bit vulnerable about what happens behind the scenes when you’re in the middle of renovating new Airbnbs, juggling family life, and trying to keep everything running smoothly.
From the easier-than-expected updates on our latest properties to the furnace fiasco that had me up at 4:30 AM in full panic mode, I’m sharing what self-managing really looks like, the good, the exhausting, and the “why am I doing this again?” moments.
If you’ve ever felt torn between your hustle and your personal life (hi, fellow parents and hosts!), this episode will definitely hit home.
Key Takeaways
Why this renovation season has been smoother, and what’s making it different from past projects.
The reality of balancing Airbnb projects with parenting and missing out on family moments.
What happens when you don’t take your own advice about winter prep.
The value of having backup heat sources (mini splits for the win).
A reminder that even seasoned hosts have “sell-it-all” days, and that’s okay.
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because burnout and balance are both real parts of the Airbnb journey. This isn’t a highlight reel, it’s an honest look at what happens when the furnace goes out, the baby’s waiting at home, and you start questioning if it’s all worth it. You’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and reminded that you’re not the only one trying to figure out how to do it all.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about renovating your own Airbnb (or maybe not renovating for a while)? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out!
Work With Me
Want to build, buy, or launch your own short-term rental in Wisconsin? 👉 Front Porch Realty 👉 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator
Chapters
00:00 Intro – Keeping it real about renovations 01:30 Lessons from past Airbnb projects 04:30 Missing family moments for renovation weekends 06:50 The 4:30 AM “we have a problem” wake-up call 09:30 Panic mode and troubleshooting the furnace 13:50 Taking your own winterization advice (ouch) 14:30 The truth about self-management burnout 16:30 The La Crosse Airbnb resort opportunity
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow The Airbnb Roadmap, rate the show, and share it with a fellow Airbnb host or real estate friend who needs a little real-life perspective (and a laugh).
48. How to Winterize Your Airbnb (Before It’s Too Late!)
04 Nov 2025
00:17:43
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and today we’re talking all things winter prep for your Airbnb or short-term rental. Wisconsin winters are no joke (and neither is falling off a ski lift, which I may or may not have done 🤦♀️). Whether your property is fully booked or sitting vacant, you need to protect your investment before the first freeze hits. In this episode, I share my funniest snowboarding fail, a near-disaster client story about frozen pipes, and my ultimate checklist to get your property ready for the cold season.
Key Takeaways
Turn off and drain outdoor water spigots before the first freeze and cover them with insulated faucet covers.
Keep gutters clear of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and slippery messes.
Never turn off the breaker or furnace during winter—it can lead to frozen pipes, cracked toilets, and major damage.
Replace furnace filters and consider scheduling a quick tune-up for peace of mind.
Install Wi-Fi thermostats to monitor temps remotely and receive alerts if the home drops below 50°F.
Line up your snow removal service early—and tell them it’s an Airbnb so guests don’t get plowed in.
Communicate snow removal times with guests so they don’t think someone is breaking in at 4 a.m. with a shovel.
Add cozy winter touches like blankets, cocoa, and cider for that warm welcome.
Swap your listing photos to feature winter scenes for better booking performance.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever dealt with frozen pipes, last-minute snow chaos, or guest complaints in the middle of a blizzard—this episode will save your sanity (and your 5-star rating). You’ll walk away with a clear plan to winterize your Airbnb and a few laughs about what not to do on a ski lift.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about getting your Airbnb winter-ready? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your winter prep questions or your funniest snow story! I’d love to cheer you on and help you protect your property this season.
Work With Me
Ready to find or launch your next short-term rental in Wisconsin? I’d love to help you analyze deals, understand local STR rules, and set up your investment for success. Learn more at frontporchrealtywi.com.
Chapters
00:01 – Brittany’s love-hate relationship with Wisconsin winters 02:14 – The ski lift disaster (aka the red snow pants story) 04:36 – Outdoor prep: shutting off spigots & clearing gutters 05:19 – Storytime: the frozen pipe nightmare 07:40 – Don’t turn off your breaker before winter! 08:41 – Indoor prep: furnace filters & tune-ups 09:17 – Smart thermostats that save your property 10:48 – The overlooked cost: snow removal plans 12:49 – Communicating with guests about snow crews 15:03 – Stocking cozy amenities for winter stays 17:00 – Updating your Airbnb photos for winter bookings 18:01 – Final thoughts: protect your investment & enjoy the season
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this episode, tap “follow” and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! And if you know another host who’s panicking about the first snowfall, share this episode with them—they’ll thank you later!
47. The Airbnb Change Happened! Ways to Take Action
28 Oct 2025
00:14:57
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Airbnb just dropped one of its biggest updates ever, and it impacts every single host. As of this week, Airbnb has officially shifted to a host-only service fee model, meaning guests no longer pay the platform fee at checkout… we do. In this episode, I break down what this new fee structure means, how it affects your payout, and what actions you need to take right now to protect your profits.
Oh, and yes, I share a quick life update involving paint, patience, and a soon-to-be movie-theater room that almost broke me.
Key Takeaways
🏠 Airbnb has moved from a split-fee model (guest + host) to a host-only model
💸 Hosts will now pay 15.5% in service fees, up from 3%
⚖️ You must adjust your nightly rates to maintain the same payouts
✏️ Add clear language to your listings like “No guest service fee – what you see is what you pay”
🧠 Guests will see cleaner pricing, but hosts must stay strategic to avoid losing income
⚙️ Pricing tools like PriceLabs or Hospitable can help automatically adjust rates
Why Listen to This Episode?
This change affects your revenue immediately. If you don’t raise your nightly rate or update your listing language, you’ll lose profit — plain and simple. In this episode, I help you understand the “why” behind Airbnb’s move, the ripple effect it’ll have across the platform, and how to get ahead of it before your competitors even realize what’s happening.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about how to adjust your pricing or update your listing strategy after this Airbnb change? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share how you’re handling it — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out!
Work With Me
Ready to turn your short-term rental goals into reality? ✅ Check out The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — my self-paced course designed to help you find, launch, and manage your first (or next) Airbnb with confidence. It’s under $500 and packed with step-by-step guidance for building real income through hosting.
Chapters
00:00 – Intro + life update (painting disasters & patience) 02:00 – The big Airbnb change: host-only fees 04:00 – What this means for your payouts 05:30 – How to adjust pricing strategically 08:00 – Updating your listing to say “No guest service fee” 13:00 – Why Airbnb made this move 16:00 – Competing with hosts who don’t update prices 20:00 – Example listing verbiage you can use 22:00 – Final thoughts + adapting quickly
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you understand Airbnb’s new pricing shift, follow the show and share it with another host who needs to hear this update. Let’s make sure every host stays profitable through these changes!
46. Life Update: New Airbnb + Appraisal Shenanigans
21 Oct 2025
00:18:24
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
This week’s episode is less “how-to” and more “real life.” I’m giving you a peek behind the scenes into one of the wildest weeks I’ve had in a while — juggling an AWS outage that shut down half my systems, onboarding my first assistant, and closing on our newest Airbnb property (technically two Airbnbs in one!). From appraisal headaches to cat pee clean-up, this episode is pure behind-the-scenes chaos — but in the best, most relatable way possible.
Key Takeaways
Tech reliance is real: The AWS outage reminded me just how much my business depends on automations and online tools.
First assistant milestone: I officially hired my first assistant to help with Front Porch Realty and all the moving parts (except my Airbnb babies — those are still all me).
Two-for-one Airbnb deal: We closed on our newest investment property — a main home plus an ADU above the detached garage — meaning two Airbnb listings from one purchase.
Financing curveballs: An AI lending review revoked our appraisal waiver last minute, creating chaos before closing — but persistence paid off.
Post-closing bliss (and cat pee): The house was spotless (thank you, seller!) but I still found myself under the stairs battling lingering pet smells — and learning the power of KILZ and safety goggles.
Future plans: The garages are being transformed into a game room, gym, and sauna combo. Goal: Launch Airbnb #4 and #5 by December 1st!
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of short-term rental investing — this is it. It’s messy, unpredictable, and full of lessons that make you laugh later. Sometimes success isn’t about strategy — it’s about staying calm (and maybe wearing a mask when using KILZ).
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about partnering on an Airbnb or wondering how to manage your own? 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
Ready to start or scale your own short-term rental? 👉 Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — my self-paced course that walks you through everything from finding the right property to launching with confidence.
Chapters
00:00 – Intro + Chaos of the AWS Outage 02:15 – Hiring My First Assistant 04:30 – Closing on the New Airbnb Property 06:40 – The Appraisal Waiver Drama 09:10 – Finding Comps and Finishing the Deal 11:30 – Post-Closing Wins and Clean-Up Realities 13:45 – The Cat Pee Chronicles 15:30 – Game Room + Sauna Design Plans 17:00 – Sneak Peek of Next Week’s Episode 19:00 – Wrapping Up and What’s Ahead
Subscribe and Share
If you enjoy hearing the real, unfiltered side of building an Airbnb business, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a good laugh (or a reminder that every investor has chaotic days).
45. Home Insurance 101: Must-Have Coverage for Airbnb Hosts
14 Oct 2025
00:41:11
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Insurance can feel like alphabet soup, until something goes wrong. In this interview, I sit down with Nick Sommer of Country Financial (and one of my buyers!) to break down exactly what short-term rental owners need: how to structure coverage for STRs vs. primary/secondary homes, must-have endorsements, loss-of-income realities, and why an umbrella policy can be the difference between a scare and a disaster. Nick also shares the personal house-fire story that led him into insurance and the simple annual habit that can save you months of headache during a claim.
Key Takeaways
Match the policy to the use. Don’t insure an STR like an owner-occupied or long-term rental—claims can be denied if the use doesn’t match the application.
Four core buckets: dwelling (rebuild cost ≠ market value), personal property (replacement cost, not garage-sale value), liability (aim higher than default limits), and loss of income (raise limits for STR-level revenue).
Critical endorsements for hosts:
Sump pump/sewer backup (not standard)
Service line coverage
Flood insurance is separate
Loss of income is evidence-based. Keep AirDNA/comps, booking statements, and P&Ls to substantiate payouts.
Umbrella = legal shield. Choose limits that reflect your net assets (homes, vehicles, retirement, cash, other properties). It covers defense costs and many personal-liability scenarios.
Document everything. Once a year, do a whole-home video walkthrough and maintain a furnishings spreadsheet with links, prices, and statuses.
Choose financially solid carriers. Check claim strength/ratings (e.g., AM Best) and prioritize service over “cheapest quote.”
Get it in writing. Confirm coverage answers via email; recordings aren’t yours, emails are.
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because “I have insurance” isn’t a plan. If you’ve ever wondered whether your STR is actually covered for what you do, hot tubs, guest injuries, burst pipes, tornadoes, income loss—this episode turns jargon into plain English and gives you a checklist to bring to your agent.
Mentioned in the Episode
Country Financial – Nick Sommer (Licensed in IL, WI, KS)
Email: nick.sommer@countryfinancial.com
Office: 815-633-9404
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about insurance 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 Me
Buy/Sell in Wisconsin with Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC).
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—parts of launching your Airbnb: photo-shoot day. From choosing the right photographer to creating scroll-stopping first images, I’m sharing my wins, mistakes, and all the tips I wish I’d known sooner. You’ll hear how every property teaches me something new, why lifestyle photos are worth the effort, and what small “wow” details make your listing stand out online.
Key Takeaways
Not all photographers are created equal—hire one who understands short-term rental lifestyle photography, not just MLS shots.
Your photos are your first impression and can make or break bookings.
Add emotion and storytelling: stage cozy moments, use props, and capture connection.
Eliminate distractions: smooth linens, no crumbs, cords tucked away, fans off, lights on.
Elevate visuals: put an image or logo on TV screens, add real flames in fireplaces, and include small “wow” touches.
Lifestyle shots with people (“models”) can dramatically boost connection and conversions.
Do a full walkthrough before shooting, review photos as you go, and treat photo day like your property’s wedding day.
Your first photo doesn’t have to be the exterior—choose the most scroll-stopping feature (game room, living room, kayaks, etc.).
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because you can have the most stunning Airbnb in the world—but if your photos don’t tell the story, you’re leaving money on the table. I’ll help you avoid rookie mistakes, guide your photographer like a pro, and give your listing the kind of images that turn browsers into bookings.
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Thinking about upgrading your Airbnb photos or planning your first photoshoot? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Ready to launch or relaunch your short-term rental the right way? Check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course at theairbnbroadmap.com for step-by-step guidance on finding, furnishing, and listing your property like a pro.
Chapters
00:00 – Intro & Life Update 01:30 – Why Photo Day Matters 03:10 – Not All Photographers Are Equal 06:30 – Real Estate vs Short-Term Rental Photography 08:00 – Prepping Your Home for Shoot Day 09:50 – Wow Factors That Pop (Flames, TV Images, Logos) 14:00 – Lifestyle Shots & Models 17:00 – Simple Staging Ideas Without People 20:00 – Treat Photo Day Like Your Wedding Day 24:30 – Choosing Your Scroll-Stopping Cover Photo 27:00 – Final Tips & Where to Grab the Checklist
Subscribe & Share
If this episode gave you fresh ideas for your next Airbnb photoshoot, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who’s ready to elevate their listing. Your support helps the show reach more people who are building beautiful, booked-out Airbnbs.
43. Rules and Regulations to Run a Airbnb
30 Sep 2025
00:32:34
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary In this episode, I break down Wisconsin’s short-term rental rules from the top down—statewide requirements (DATCP Tourist Rooming House license and inspections), the county layer (zoning, room tax, and when conditional use permits come into play), and the township layer (minimum night stays, resident agent requirements, occupancy limits, and other quirky rules). I also share our real-life CUP hearing story in Columbia County, why HOAs are risky, what “annexation” or jurisdiction changes can mean for you, and the #1 mistake that can get you shut down before you ever launch.
Key Takeaways
You must have a Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House (TRH) license through DATCP before listing—period.
County rules vary: some are light-touch, others require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) with hearings and neighbor notices.
Township rules can be the strictest: night-minimums, local resident-agent radius, spacing from other STRs, owner-occupancy, and bizarre self-management limitations.
Always confirm legal guest capacity (septic size, bedrooms, or square footage can control it).
HOAs can change the rules overnight—avoid if you plan to operate an STR.
If a small town is being annexed (e.g., to a nearby city), get “grandfathering” status in writing.
Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re eyeing a Wisconsin Airbnb, this is the playbook for staying compliant, avoiding fines, and protecting your investment before you hit “Publish.”
Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Let’s Connect Thinking about Wisconsin STR rules & permits? 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 step-by-step guidance? My self-paced Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator is under $500 and covers everything from setup to scaling. If you close on your first STR with an agent I connect you to, you’ll get a 100% refund at closing.
Chapters 00:00 Life update + property under contract 05:46 State level: DATCP Tourist Rooming House license (what it is, inspections) 12:39 County level: zoning, room tax, and when CUPs are required 15:35 CUP story time: neighbor letters, hearings, and outcomes (Columbia County) 24:46 Township level: night minimums, resident agents, spacing/ownership quirks 31:51 HOAs: why they’re risky for STRs 33:05 Annexation & grandfathering: small town becoming part of a city 35:28 Legal occupancy: how towns/counties calculate guest limits 36:50 Don’t list before permits; protecting your launch 38:10 Course + free-at-closing offer
Subscribe and Share If this helped, share it with a friend who’s eyeing a Wisconsin Airbnb and hit follow so you don’t miss the next episode!
42. Under Contract? Prep Your Airbnb Before Closing
23 Sep 2025
00:25:03
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In today’s episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of our newest “two-for-one” Airbnb deal — a primary home plus an ADU over the detached garage — and walking you step-by-step through exactly what to do the moment you go under contract on an STR. If you’ve ever thought escrow was a waiting period, think again. I break down inspections, appraisal, insurance, financing, and the overlooked prep that saves weeks and brings in revenue faster: design, ordering essentials, project planning, and lining up contractors. I’m literally doing all of this right now with Clay (hello color-coded spreadsheet!) so you can copy the plan and hit the ground running on day one.
Key Takeaways
Escrow ≠ downtime. Treat it like your launch runway to save weeks and protect cash.
Inspection strategy: General + specialists (well/septic, fireplace/chimney) to avoid 5-figure surprises.
Appraisal + financing: Know your numbers, keep credit quiet, confirm down payment, closing costs, and reserves.
Insurance for STRs: Homeowners ≠ STR coverage—get quotes and bind the right policy before closing.
Design early: Share capacity goals and inspo with your designer; use Matterport/accurate measurements to avoid costly misorders.
Order essentials now: Linens (2–3 sets/bed), kitchen packs, smart locks, routers, TVs, blackout curtains—“select all, add to cart.”
Project plan: Room-by-room scope, sequence (paint → floors), timelines, and 2–3 contractor quotes with price-match asks.
Real timeline: Accepted offer to close is often 30–45 days—use every one of them.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you want your STR live (and profitable) ASAP, this gives you a proven, copy-and-paste escrow checklist and launch plan. You’ll learn the exact moves I’m making on our new two-for-one ADU property so you can avoid delays, budget hits, and stressful “now what?” moments on closing day.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about launching during escrow? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me
Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (self-paced): My start-to-scale system with checklists, templates, and the full Escrow Checklist.
Buyer/Investor Representation (WI): Want help finding and underwriting STR-worthy properties? I’ve got you.
Launch & Design Support: Need a designer, cleaner, or vendor team? Ask me for intros.
In this personal, behind-the-scenes episode, I share how I went from a Six Flags kid in Gurnee, Illinois, to UW-Platteville grad, to wedding and hotel work, to a miserable janitorial sales job… to finally finding my lane as a real estate agent and short-term rental investor. I walk through the domino moments—meeting a Zillow agent who became my mentor, getting laid off during COVID, almost opening a paint-your-own-pottery studio, discovering Airbnbs, and how we bought our first, second, and third properties (plus a “two-for-one” partnership that’s in motion). If you’re curious how someone actually pivots into STRs without a trust fund or a $200k salary, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways
Your path won’t be linear—and that’s okay. Every “wrong” job taught me what I truly wanted (and what I didn’t).
Mentors matter. A single Zillow tour led to the agent who mentored me and changed my career trajectory.
Don’t chase money, chase fit. Long-term rentals weren’t our fit—hospitality was. STRs clicked.
Start imperfectly. Our first market wasn’t ideal, but it got us in the game and funded the next doors.
Momentum compounds. Property #1 led to #2, then #3—then partnerships for #4 and #5.
Niche = clarity. When I niched into STRs, the work got easier, more fun, and way more effective.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever thought, “I didn’t go to school for this—am I too late?” or “I don’t have a perfect plan or pile of cash,” this is your permission slip. You’ll hear what it really looks like to pivot industries, learn in public, and build an STR portfolio step by step—messy mic moments and all.
Mentioned in the Episode
Start your Airbnb Profile: Receive $48 back when starting your Airbnb profile and I'll have your back every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about getting into short-term rentals? 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
Buy or sell an STR in Wisconsin with me at Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC).
Invest anywhere in the U.S.—I’ll connect you with a vetted STR-savvy agent in my network.
Take my self-paced course, Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (under $500): step-by-step from deal finding to launch and systems.
Close on your first STR with an agent I connect you to, and you’ll get 100% of your course tuition refunded.
Want a warm intro to a local pro, lender, or CPA? Message me “INTRO” on IG.
Chapters
00:00 — Mic on (finally), what today’s episode is (and isn’t)
02:46 — Teaser: our new two-for-one STR deal with friends in Texas
04:30 — Growing up in Gurnee, Six Flags summers, loving thrills not lines
05:06 — College, weddings, events… and realizing weekends weren’t mine
07:12 — Hotel front desk: the spark for hospitality
09:29 — The toxic sales job that broke me (and taught me)
10:59 — Pottery studio dream, mentorship, and a near-miss lease
15:45 — COVID pivot: the blessing in disguise
18:09 — Buying our home, meeting the Zillow agent who changed everything
20:19 — Joining a team, getting laid off, and momentum begins
22:41 — BiggerPockets binge: LTR vs STR and choosing our lane
25:03 — Why STRs fit my skills and personality
25:59 — Writing our first offer at Dunkin before a wedding (we got it)
33:09 — Leaving the team, launching my own company
34:54 — Niching into STRs and never looking back
37:21 — Why I started this podcast: stop repeating answers, start scaling help
39:44 — The truth: first market wasn’t ideal—and that’s normal
42:11 — What’s next: scaling to properties #4 and #5, and the course offer
Subscribe and Share
If this gave you the nudge to start—or restart—your STR journey, hit Follow/Subscribe, drop a quick 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend who keeps saying “one day.” Your support helps more beginners find transparent, hype-free advice.
40. STR Tax Hacks: Depreciation, Deductions & Keeping It Legal
09 Sep 2025
00:55:15
How to Redeem the Offer
Text ROADMAP to 608-492-0260 (tell them you came from The Airbnb Roadmap) to get 1 free month off a 3-month accounting subscription and the STR Accounting & Tax Cheat Sheet.
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode, I sit down with my bestie, Kari—owner of BOOKED (Accounting & Tax), to demystify bookkeeping and taxes for first-time short-term rental investors. We get real about what matters on day one (hint: separate bank account!), when you actually need QuickBooks, how to track receipts without losing your mind, and the biggest tax levers for STRs (material participation, real estate professional status, and bonus depreciation). Kari also shares transparent pricing, an exclusive promo code: ROADMAP, and a free cheat sheet that recaps the episode. If you’ve ever wondered, “What should I be tracking, and how do I not overpay at tax time?”, this one’s your playbook.
Key Takeaways
Separate your money from day one. Open a dedicated business bank account for your STR. Keep every dollar in/out separate from personal spending.
You don’t have to start with software. A simple spreadsheet + a folder of receipts works for your first property. Scale into QuickBooks Online when transactions grow (BOOKED passes along firm-level discounts).
Save every receipt. Little expenses add up—and they matter during month-end, tax time, and if you’re ever audited.
Know where you land: Schedule E vs Schedule C. Most STRs file on Schedule E (rental). If you provide hotel-like services (meals, concierge during stays), that can push you toward Schedule C (business) with self-employment tax.
Material participation can be huge. If you actively manage and meet IRS tests, your STR losses (including depreciation) may offset other income.
Real Estate Professional Status (REPS). If you qualify, you may be able to apply STR losses against W-2/active income, game-changer for some hosts.
Bonus depreciation is back in a meaningful way. Eligible furnishings/appliances can be expensed in the year placed in service, talk to your accountant about what qualifies.
Mileage is money. Track business drives to/from your property. The QuickBooks mobile app can automate this.
Personal use complicates taxes. The more you use the property for yourself, the more expense allocations you’ll have to make, be intentional.
Cash flow is seasonal. Don’t blow your peak-season profits, budget for the quiet months.
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because you want clean books, maximum deductions, and fewer headaches. You’ll learn exactly what to track, when to outsource, and how to avoid the “I’ll fix it at tax time” premium. Kari’s firm is built for “baby businesses” and first-time hosts, fast replies, transparent pricing, and real-world guidance.
Mentioned in the Episode
BOOKED (Accounting & Tax) — full-service accounting, payroll, taxes, entity setup, ongoing support; transparent pricing and fast response times
Promo code: ROADMAP — text this keyword for 1 free month off a 3-month accounting subscription (month-to-month; no long-term lock-in)
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about bookkeeping and taxes 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 Me
Buy/Sell/Invest in Wisconsin: Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC) , I help investors and homeowners win smart.
Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (self-paced): Learn how to find, launch, and manage your first STR with confidence, systems, templates, and step-by-step guidance.
1:1 Guidance: Need strategy on a deal, setup, or regulations? Ask about consults and mentorship options.
Chapters
00:00 – Cold open, why we’re keeping the bloopers 😄
02:06 – Meet Kari + why BOOKED serves “baby businesses” and first-time hosts
07:32 – The real first step: separating finances (and why receipts matter)
10:50 – Entity basics & getting set up; simple spreadsheet vs software
15:23 – Tools: QuickBooks Online, discounts, and what makes reconciliations faster
If this episode helped you feel more confident about your numbers, follow/subscribe, drop a 5-star review, and share it with a fellow host who needs an accounting upgrade. Your shares help more first-time investors find this show. 💛
How to Redeem the Offer
Text ROADMAP to 608-492-0260 (tell them you came from The Airbnb Roadmap) to get 1 free month off a 3-month accounting subscription and the STR Accounting & Tax Cheat Sheet.
39. From 3% to 15.5%: How Airbnb’s New Fee Impacts Your Profits
02 Sep 2025
00:20:18
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary Big changes are coming to Airbnb’s fee structure—and hosts need to be ready. Starting October 27, 2025, Airbnb is scrapping the split-fee model and moving to a single host-only fee of 15.5%. In this episode, I break down exactly what this means for you as a host or future investor, how it impacts your nightly rates, and what adjustments you need to make to protect your bottom line. I also share my personal take on the pros and cons of this shift, how it stacks up against Vrbo and Booking.com, and practical steps you can take inside tools like Hospitable and PriceLabs to stay competitive.
Key Takeaways
Airbnb is moving from a split fee (3% host / 12–14% guest) to a 15.5% host-only fee.
Example: A $100/night listing will net hosts only $84.50 after October 27, 2025 (down from $97).
To protect profits, hosts should increase nightly rates by about 12.5%.
Competitor platforms: Vrbo is now the cheapest at 8%, Booking.com is 15%, and Airbnb jumps to 15.5%.
Expect market “chaos” for 6+ months as some hosts raise rates and others don’t.
Guests may perceive Airbnb as “more expensive,” not realizing it’s a fee shift.
Hosts using Hospitable/PriceLabs can automate price increases across platforms.
Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re an Airbnb host—or planning to invest in your first short-term rental—this fee change directly impacts your ROI, pricing strategy, and competitiveness in the market. This episode gives you a clear action plan to avoid losing profits and stay ahead while other hosts may be caught off guard.
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect Thinking about how Airbnb’s new fees will impact your property? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your pricing strategy! I’d love to cheer you on and help you adjust.
Work With Me Want step-by-step support in scaling your Airbnb business? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my course designed to help you confidently launch and manage your STR with the systems, tools, and strategies I use in my own business.
Chapters 00:01 Life update: Back issues + missed episode 04:45 The big Airbnb fee change explained 07:32 Real-world math: $100/night before vs. after fees 09:33 Market chaos: Competing with hosts who don’t update pricing 11:04 Comparing Airbnb to Vrbo & Booking.com 13:25 Direct booking movement and why Airbnb is cracking down 15:40 Why Airbnb might advertise this as “no more guest fees” 18:00 Homework: How to adjust your rates in Hospitable & PriceLabs 20:00 Final thoughts and prep for October 27
Subscribe and Share Enjoyed this breakdown? Make sure to subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this episode with a fellow host who needs to hear it before the new fees hit.
38. How to Negotiate When Buying an Airbnb in Today’s Market
19 Aug 2025
00:26:05
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey, it’s Brittany! Big news—Clay and I are officially searching for another Airbnb, this time with our close friends in Texas as our first capital partners. They’re diving into their first short-term rental, and we’re learning the ropes of partnerships together.
That update ties directly into today’s topic: the current real estate market and how to negotiate smart as an STR investor. From seller credits to creative escrow solutions, I’m sharing the exact strategies that help you keep cash in your pocket without scaring off sellers. If you’re thinking about making a move, this episode will help you play it smart in today’s buyer-friendly market.
🔑 Key Takeaways for STR Investors ● It’s a buyer’s market ○ Inventory is up, homes are sitting longer, and sellers are motivated. ○ Nationally, over half of homes are selling below asking price, with average discounts around $45K.
Seller credits are powerful ○ Instead of lowering price, ask for credits toward closing costs or prepaids. ○ Preserves your cash for renovations and setup.
Escrow extra credits ○ If credits exceed closing costs, escrow them for designers, painters, or contractors.
Negotiate cleaning ○ Add language requiring a professional deep clean before closing, saving you weekends of scrubbing.
Ask for sellers to cover property taxes ○ Even $5K saved in year one helps cash flow as your STR ramps up.
Anchor your offers ○ Start lower than your target. If you need $375K, offer $350K and let the seller “meet in the middle.”
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode? Because smart negotiations can save you thousands. From seller credits to strategic pricing, I’ll walk you through tested plays that keep cash in your pocket, protect your time, and set your STR up for success from day one.
📌 Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
🤝 Let’s Connect Thinking about buying an STR in today’s market? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or send me a property you’re eyeing. I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
🛠 Work With Me Want to start or scale your short-term rental business? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator to learn how to find, launch, and manage STRs with confidence.
⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Life Update, New STR Partnership in Texas 04:30 – Market Snapshot, Inventory, Discounts, Interest Rates 09:45 – Seller Credits 101 13:15 – Escrow Strategies for Extra Credits 18:00 – Negotiating Professional Cleaning Into the Contract 20:30 – Have the Seller Cover Year-One Property Taxes 24:50 – Offer Anchoring to Hit Your Target Price 27:40 – My Emotional Offer Story (and What It Cost Us) 30:30 – Smarter Deals in Today’s Market
🔁 Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a fellow investor who wants to nail their next deal!
37. Trash Talk for Your Airbnb: Waste Management Tips
12 Aug 2025
00:21:22
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey, it’s Brittany! Today we’re tackling one of the least glamorous—but most critical—parts of running a short-term rental: trash management. I know, it’s not the hot tub or the Instagram-worthy décor, but it’s a behind-the-scenes system that can make or break your guest experience and your reviews.
From knowing how local trash service works before you even buy a property, to setting up systems so guests never wonder where to toss a banana peel, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned (the hard way) about handling garbage like a pro.
You’ll hear real-world stories from my own properties and my clients’—including raccoon break-ins, maggot disasters, and the guest who tried to charge me $5 for taking out the trash. This episode will help you prevent avoidable complaints, keep your neighbors happy, and maintain a 5-star cleanliness rating.
🔑 Key Takeaways for STR Quality Control
Do your homework before buying
Is trash collection included in taxes or do you need a private vendor?
How often is trash picked up? Weekly or biweekly recycling?
Does the trash truck even service the property location?
Match capacity to your guest load
Large homes = more trash.
Add extra bins for properties with 8+ guests to avoid overflow and review dings.
Label your bins clearly
Not all towns use color-coded lids.
Guests appreciate clear recycling instructions.
Assign bin duty
Decide who will roll bins out and back—guests, cleaners, neighbors, or a trash service.
Budget for extra pay if cleaners handle it.
Set rules for what goes in the trash
Ban items like fish carcasses or large objects that attract pests or cause smells.
Consider signage on bins for clear guest guidelines.
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?
Because trash isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential. Getting it wrong costs you time, money, and 5-star reviews. Getting it right keeps guests happy, neighbors quiet, and your property running smoothly without last-minute scrambles.
📌 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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
🤝 Let’s Connect
Thinking about improving your Airbnb’s trash system? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your setup! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
🛠 Work With Me
Want to start or scale your own short-term rental business? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator to learn how to find, launch, and manage your STRs with confidence.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Why Trash Management Matters 01:36 – The Three Pre-Purchase Trash Questions 06:50 – City vs. Rural Trash Realities 11:12 – When Trash Service Isn’t an Option 13:50 – Matching Bin Capacity to Guest Count 15:50 – Labeling & Recycling Rules 17:20 – Who Rolls the Bins Out? 21:25 – Rural Property Trash Solutions 26:20 – What Can & Can’t Go in the Bins 29:20 – Trash Done Right vs. Trash Done Wrong 30:18 – Building Trash Costs Into Your STR Budget
🔁 Subscribe and Share
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a fellow host who needs a trash system upgrade!
36. Airbnb Quality Control Checklist for 5-Star Reviews
05 Aug 2025
00:24:48
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today I’m diving into something wildly underrated but absolutely essential to your short-term rental success: quality control.
We’re talking about the behind-the-scenes details that make or break your reviews—like burnt-out lightbulbs, gross trash cans, and remotes with dead batteries (yep, I’ve missed them all). I’m walking you through the exact five-part system my husband and I use to make sure our properties stay in top shape—even when life is chaotic and we’re juggling renovations, new properties, and baby snuggles.
If you’ve ever been blindsided by a guest complaint you thought you had covered, this episode is going to help you tighten things up and level up your guest experience.
🔑 Key Takeaways for STR Quality Control
Cleanliness: Don’t just rely on “looks clean”—check under beds, inside drawers, tops of fans, and even the bottom of trash bins. Guests will notice.
Functionality: Run the dishwasher, flush toilets, check faucets for leaks, and definitely test light switches (learn from my mistakes). Every detail matters.
Inventory: Keep a running list of everything that’s supposed to be in the unit—towels, coffee pods, working remotes—and make sure what’s listed on Airbnb is actually there.
Guest Touchpoints: Check your welcome book, scent diffusers, Wi-Fi instructions, and QR codes. The little things set the tone.
Curb Appeal: First impressions start in the driveway. Is the grass cut? Are the cafe lights working? Is the porch swept? Don’t let a messy yard tank your reviews.
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?
Because quality control isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. If you want fewer guest complaints, stronger reviews, and smoother operations, this checklist will give you a rock-solid foundation (plus a few laughs along the way).
📌 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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
🤝 Let’s Connect
Thinking about improving your STR quality control systems? 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 setting up or scaling your Airbnb? I offer coaching and services designed for new and growing hosts. Learn more here.
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Life update: Baby Melanie & Property #4 02:26 – The underrated importance of quality control 06:23 – Cleanliness: Where cleaners miss & what guests notice 08:45 – Functionality: My light switch mistake & what to test 15:37 – Inventory: What you say you have must match the listing 19:09 – Guest experience: QR codes, smells, and welcome books 20:45 – Curb appeal: Grass, lighting, keypads & more 23:39 – Creating systems: Google Forms & the Turno app 25:55 – Frequency of quality checks & final thoughts
🔁 Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you catch a few blind spots in your Airbnb, share it with a fellow host and leave a review! Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes that help you grow your short-term rental business with clarity and confidence.
35. Airbnb Weddings: The Untapped Income Stream
29 Jul 2025
00:21:14
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my own wedding—yes, we got married at a short-term rental—and how that experience opened my eyes to a whole new income stream for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts. Whether you’re planning a wedding or looking to boost your property’s revenue, I’m sharing all the tips, lessons, and wild stories from our wedding weekend at a $9M mansion in Lake of the Ozarks.
Key Takeaways
How to creatively turn a short-term rental into a wedding venue
My personal Airbnb wedding story (complete with pool jumps and party chaos!)
What hosts should know before allowing weddings at their property
Pricing strategies, rules, and insurance tips for hosting weddings
How to list your property as a venue on Airbnb, Vrbo, and The Knot
Why Listen to This Episode? Because weddings are big business—and your Airbnb might be the next best venue. From firsthand experience to pro insights (I was a wedding planner!), I’m sharing exactly how you can tap into this market and make weddings work for your STR.
Mentioned in the Episode
Start your Airbnb Profile: Receive $48 back when starting your Airbnb profile and I'll have your back every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect Thinking about turning your property into a wedding venue? 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 a short-term rental property that can double as a wedding venue? Or already have one and want to make it wedding-ready? Let’s talk. Head to theairbnbroadmap.com to work together or learn about my course.
Chapters 00:00 - Wedding season chaos & 9 weddings in one summer 02:25 - My background as a wedding planner 04:00 - Why we chose a short-term rental for our wedding 06:30 - How we found the perfect mansion on Lake of the Ozarks 09:15 - How we hacked our costs (our friends paid to stay!) 11:30 - The behind-the-scenes wedding planning chaos 13:00 - Pool party, wedding dress dive, and epic stories 16:00 - Why your Airbnb could be a wedding goldmine 17:40 - Setting your wedding rental rules & coordinator requirements 18:45 - How to list your STR on The Knot 20:00 - Final tips and encouragement to turn your Airbnb into a wedding venue
Subscribe and Share If this episode gave you a new perspective or idea, subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and leave a review! Share it with a friend who’s wedding planning—or thinking about turning their rental into a venue.
34. The ‘Holy Grail’ App for Finding Airbnb Deals – Meet STRIQ
22 Jul 2025
00:59:16
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I’m joined by Matt Sanderson, founder of STRIQ (aka “Strike”), to dive deep into how his platform is revolutionizing short-term rental investing. We talk about how STRIQ can help you analyze properties in minutes (not months), why AI and big data are your new best friends, and how even beginner investors can use this tool to find cash-flowing Airbnbs faster. Matt also shares his journey from farm boy to tech founder and reveals game-changing updates coming soon to STRIQ!
Key Takeaways
What STRIQ (or “Strike”) actually is and why it’s a game-changer
How STRIQ combines MLS, revenue data, and analysis in one app
Why design and amenities are critical to Airbnb success
How to use seller credits to fund upgrades and save upfront costs
AI-driven features that help optimize listings and boost revenue
Where to invest in Wisconsin for under-the-radar opportunities
The power of owning just one property to change your financial future
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you're tired of wasting time analyzing deals manually, this episode shows how STRIQ can streamline your process and help you find the most profitable short-term rentals faster. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, Matt’s insights will open your eyes to the opportunities waiting in markets like Wisconsin, and beyond.
Thinking about using STRIQ to analyze your next Airbnb deal? 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 to buy, sell, or optimize a short-term rental in Wisconsin or beyond? Check out www.frontporchrealtywi.com to see how I can help with your next STR investment!
Chapters
00:00 - Meet Matt Sanderson & the STRIQ Story 03:00 - What STRIQ Actually Does 07:00 - Why Properties Next Door Perform Differently 10:30 - Case Study: A Real Deal Found on STRIQ 13:00 - Why Design Matters More Than Ever 18:00 - Wisconsin’s Best STR Markets 26:00 - Why NOW Is Still a Good Time to Buy 32:00 - Seller Credits & Saving Cash Upfront 39:00 - Using STRIQ’s AI for Listing Optimization 46:00 - The Future of STRIQ: Free Tier, AI Tools & Selling Properties 55:00 - How to Connect with Matt
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to follow The Airbnb Roadmap wherever you get your podcasts and share it with your investor friends! Every share helps more people find the show. 🎧
33. My Biggest Airbnb Fear Came True! Let’s Talk About It.
15 Jul 2025
00:24:49
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
This one stings a little. In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the exact scenario I’ve dreaded since becoming an Airbnb host: a guest checked into a dirty cabin. Not once, but twice. 😬 Despite all the systems, automations, and bulletproof planning, it still happened—and it sucked. But I’m sharing it all with you so you can learn from my mistakes and avoid a total guest meltdown. I also break down how we use the cleaning app Turno (formerly TurnoverBnB), how we handle inventory, and how to bounce back with grace when crap hits the fan.
Key Takeaways
What Turno is and how it automates your STR cleaning schedule
The #1 reason our cleaner missed not one—but two cleans
Why relying only on automation can backfire
Real guest reactions (the good, the bad, and the absolutely screaming)
How I use unread messages and Amazon orders to stay on top of inventory
Why I send supplies to my cleaner’s house, not the property
What to do when a guest wants a refund—and how to avoid a bad review
Lessons learned and what I’m doing now to prevent this from happening again
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re relying on automation tools like Turno to run your Airbnb cleaning schedule (or you’re considering it), you need to hear this. I thought I had every duck in a row—and still had a total system failure. This episode is your behind-the-scenes look at what happens when things go wrong and how to stay calm, fix the issue, and keep your business running.
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Had a cleaning disaster of your own—or nervous it’ll happen to you? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your story or your questions. I’ll cheer you on (and share my sympathy!).
Work With Me
Want to avoid the Airbnb disasters I talk about on the pod? Enroll in the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — the step-by-step, self-paced course for launching, managing, and scaling your short-term rental. 🎉 Podcast listeners get $50 off! Click here to join
Chapters
00:00 – My biggest STR fear came true 01:00 – How Turno works and what it automates 03:00 – Pros and cons of using Turno 06:00 – Managing inventory and ordering supplies 08:45 – Why I ship everything to my cleaner’s home 11:00 – What went wrong (guest checks in to a dirty cabin) 13:30 – Dealing with Verbo guest rage & refund process 18:30 – It happened AGAIN?! 21:00 – How we handled a second missed clean 23:00 – Communicating with your business partner under stress 25:00 – Final thoughts + how I’m preventing this in the future 25:23 – Airbnb Accelerator Course promo + discount
Subscribe and Share
Love this episode? Even when it’s a little messy? 😉 Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this one with a fellow Airbnb host who’s navigating the ups and downs too. We’ve all been there—let’s grow from it together.
32. It Looked Like a Dream on Airbnb—Until I Dug Deeper
08 Jul 2025
00:13:30
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary: A full calendar and pretty photos don't tell the full story. In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly how to analyze an existing Airbnb before you make an offer—so you don’t get stuck with a dud that looked like a dream. From earning reports to guest reviews, occupancy rates, and team transitions, I’m sharing all the numbers and red flags to watch for. Plus, we talk about what makes a property a smart buy versus a sneaky liability (even if it looks like a turnkey investment).
Key Takeaways:
Why you should never trust the seller’s word alone—ask for proof
The specific financial docs to request (and how to read between the lines)
How guest reviews reveal hidden issues you can or can’t fix
Why occupancy rates matter more than revenue alone
What tools like AirDNA get wrong—and when to trust your gut
How to evaluate the location and legality of your short-term rental
Why inheriting a bad cleaner or noisy street can kill your guest experience
Why Listen to This Episode? If you're even thinking about buying an existing Airbnb, this episode will help you run the numbers, dodge the red flags, and decide if you’re walking into a win or a warning sign. It's everything I teach my buyers and students before they make an offer.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect: Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? 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 to confidently analyze, purchase, and manage your own Airbnb—even if it’s not “turnkey”? Take my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course for less than $500 and learn everything you need (without the fluff)
Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome + car buying analogy 1:45 – Don’t trust sellers—ask for these documents 3:30 – Gross vs. net income + the power of a P&L 4:30 – How to read reviews for red flags 6:00 – What you can and can’t fix in a listing 6:40 – AirDNA + other tools (with caution!) 8:30 – Understanding seasonality and month-to-month dips 9:50 – Cleaning crews, contacts, and team handoffs 12:15 – Location rules, regulations & grandfathered status 13:30 – Final gut check: is it worth it? 14:45 – Reminder: fall = STR listing season
Subscribe and Share: Loved this episode? Be sure to follow, rate, and leave a review! Share this with someone who’s shopping for their first short-term rental—they’ll thank you later.
31. Can You Really Buy an Existing Airbnb? Here’s the Catch
01 Jul 2025
00:18:26
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? It sounds like a shortcut—but there's a lot most people don’t tell you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens when you try to purchase a property that’s already operating as a short-term rental. From licensing delays to disappearing reviews to misleading listing agents (yes, really), you’ll learn exactly what to look out for before making an offer.
Key Takeaways:
Why people sell their Airbnb properties—and what it reveals
The #1 misconception about “buying” an Airbnb listing
How to legally transfer future guests (and why it’s tricky)
Wisconsin’s licensing requirements and delays
Red flags in listings and misleading descriptions
How outdated permits and local regulations can ruin your plans
Why Listen to This Episode? You’ll walk away knowing how to protect yourself, ask smarter questions, and avoid investing in a “turnkey” short-term rental that turns into a hot mess. Whether you're actively shopping or just curious, this episode is packed with advice I give to my own real estate clients.
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect: Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? 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 to confidently analyze, purchase, and manage your own Airbnb—even if it’s not “turnkey”? Take my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course for less than $500 and learn everything you need (without the fluff)
Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome + listener shoutouts 1:55 – Why sellers part ways with short-term rentals 4:45 – Is it really profitable, or are they burned out? 6:50 – What most buyers miss (and what I see as an agent) 8:20 – The truth about transferring Airbnb listings 10:30 – Future guests, cancellations & managing expectations 12:20 – Should you honor existing pricing? (Yes!) 14:00 – The licensing delay no one talks about 17:30 – Red flags & misleading agent descriptions 19:25 – Grandfathered-in properties vs. current rules 22:20 – Wrapping up: Do it smart, not fast
Subscribe and Share: Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review! Share this episode with someone thinking about buying a short-term rental—they need to hear this before they write that offer.
30. Airbnb Rental Agreements: Do You Really Need One?
24 Jun 2025
00:25:11
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary: Rental agreements might not be the flashiest part of hosting, but they can be your best protection when things go sideways. In this episode, I’m diving into the real reason you might want to consider having a custom agreement for your Airbnb—even if Airbnb already has built-in terms. I share exactly what we include in our own two-page rental agreement (yes, even the part about shooting cans in the woods 🙃), the legal gray areas, and why I ditched Hospitable’s signature portal. Plus, I spill the truth about what happens when guests don’t want to sign it, how it affects reviews, and when it’s worth the hassle.
Key Takeaways:
Why rental agreements aren’t required, but might still be worth it
What we include in ours (and why)—from quiet hours to pet policies
How to enforce a rental agreement if a guest breaks the rules
Airbnb’s current stance on outside agreements
When to avoid enforcing rules to protect your reviews
How to handle guests who don’t want to sign the agreement
Why Listen to This Episode? You’ll walk away with a better understanding of when a rental agreement is essential, how to build one that actually holds up, and the sneaky loopholes you should know about to keep both Airbnb and your guests happy.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Start your Airbnb Profile: Receive $48 back when starting your Airbnb profile and I'll have your back every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect: Thinking about adding a rental agreement to your Airbnb? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your current setup! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
Work With Me: 🎓 Want to learn how to set up your Airbnb the right way—with automations that save you time and sanity? Check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course for under $500
Chapters: 0:00 – Baby hiccups & intro 1:25 – When we use rental agreements (and when we don’t) 3:10 – Why Airbnb’s built-in terms aren’t always enough 4:30 – What’s actually in our rental agreement 10:00 – Can you enforce it? (and is it worth it?) 14:30 – How star ratings play into rule enforcement 18:30 – My Hospitable rental agreement experience 21:50 – Airbnb’s latest rules about extra agreements 23:00 – What to do if guests don’t want to sign 25:00 – Direct booking? You definitely need an agreement 27:00 – Final thoughts + bonus pep talk
Subscribe and Share: Loved this episode? Be sure to follow, rate, and leave a review! And don’t forget to send this to another host who needs help navigating the fine print.
29. From Accidental Host to Real Estate Powerhouse with Ashley Lang
17 Jun 2025
00:31:11
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Hey, it’s Brittany! In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I sit down with Ashley Lang—a powerhouse real estate investor with a diverse and thriving portfolio. Ashley shares how she stumbled into short-term rentals by accident and ended up scaling to over 30 furnished rentals, most of which are now midterm stays. We talk about the transition from vacation to midterm rentals, how she built a full team to support her, and the mindset shifts that helped her (and her husband) take the leap into real estate full time.
Whether you’re a first-time investor or dreaming of scaling your portfolio while working less, this episode is packed with lessons from someone who’s built it step-by-step—and done it with intention.
Key Takeaways from My Conversation with Ashley Lang
Getting Started by Accident Can Be a Good Thing Ashley’s first Airbnb was meant to be a weekend getaway—but high demand flipped the script.
Good Design = Bookings Even back in 2018, Ashley’s thoughtfully designed space stood out and stayed booked. Her advice? Don’t underestimate the value of great aesthetics and guest-ready amenities.
Midterm Rentals Are a Hidden Gem After starting with short-term rentals, Ashley found her groove in midterm stays—less wear and tear, lower management needs, and consistent income.
Scaling Requires Systems (and People) Ashley shares how she gradually built a “mini army” of VAs, assistants, revenue managers, and marketers to take tasks off her plate so she could grow the business.
Diverse Portfolios Provide Peace of Mind Ashley’s mix of long-term, midterm, short-term rentals—and flips—gave her stability and options during market shifts.
Mindset is Everything One of Ashley’s top tips? Surround yourself with people doing what you want to do—and work on your mindset like it’s your job.
Manifestation Isn’t Woo-Woo—It Works We talk about the power of believing in your goals, visualizing success, and stepping into the version of yourself who already has what you want.
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever wondered:
“Should I do short-term or midterm rentals?”
“How do I actually scale and not burn out?”
“Is it possible to quit my 9–5 with real estate?” Then this is your episode.
Ashley shares a behind-the-scenes look at how she grew her portfolio and team while staying aligned with her goals—and how you can too.
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about building a midterm or short-term rental portfolio? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.
00:00 – Intro & Ashley’s accidental start 02:30 – From one rental to two (and then thirty!) 05:00 – Design, demand, and why midterms won 11:00 – Building her dream team 14:00 – Scaling with intention 18:00 – Why they diversified the portfolio 23:00 – Buck’s journey from W2 to full-time investor 25:00 – Top advice for first-time STR investors 28:00 – Manifestation and mindset shifts 30:00 – Where to find Ashley
Subscribe and Share
If you found this episode helpful, hit that subscribe button and share it with a friend who’s thinking about diving into real estate investing. You never know who needs to hear it today!
28. The Fastest Way to Earn Superhost Status on Airbnb
10 Jun 2025
00:18:47
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Want to unlock Airbnb’s coveted Superhost status as soon as possible? In this episode, I walk you through the exact steps it takes to qualify—from your very first guest to your tenth glowing review. Plus, I share our personal story of how one guest complaint almost cost us our badge (spoiler: it got intense). Whether you're brand new or prepping for your first few bookings, this one is for you!
Key Takeaways
The 4 criteria you must meet to earn Superhost status
When and how Airbnb evaluates your hosting performance
Why one cancellation (even from a guest) can ruin your chances
Tips to automate communication and boost your response rate
How to stack 5-star reviews right from the start
The real benefits of Superhost—yes, it’s more than a badge
Why Listen to This Episode?
Because your reputation matters—and so does your search ranking. Becoming a Superhost early gives your listing instant credibility and can mean more bookings at higher prices. I’ll help you avoid the rookie mistakes, set expectations that wow, and build a foundation that puts your listing on page one.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about becoming a Superhost from day one? 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 to launch your first Airbnb without overspending or second-guessing every step? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator – a self-paced course that shows you how to find, furnish, list, and scale your short-term rental. 🎉 Launch Sale: 35% off for a limited time! 👉 Enroll now
Chapters
00:00 – Life update with a newborn 01:40 – What Superhost really means 03:30 – How to qualify: 4 key requirements 09:05 – How often Airbnb evaluates hosts 10:30 – Benefits of Superhost status 12:30 – Strategy: earn it from day one 14:30 – Why automation helps 16:15 – Does Superhost actually matter? 17:50 – The one time we lost it (and the drama behind it) 23:30 – Final tips + link to the course
Subscribe and Share
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify ✨ Enjoying the podcast? Leave a review and tag me @theairbnbroadmap on Instagram! 📩 Forward this episode to a friend who's just getting started with Airbnb!
27. Secrets to 5-Star Airbnb Reviews: What Guests Really Rate
03 Jun 2025
00:24:59
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Airbnb reviews can make or break your short-term rental—literally. In this episode, I break down how the Airbnb review system actually works, what guests are rating you on (it’s more than just stars), and how you can earn 5-star reviews without sounding desperate. Plus, I share my go-to tactics, personal stories (like my one and only 2-star review), and the sneaky Wi-Fi trick that’s helped us rack up over 375 five-star ratings.
Key Takeaways
Airbnb uses a double-blind 14-day review system to keep things honest
Guests rate you on 6 categories: cleanliness, communication, check-in, accuracy, location, and value
Even a 4-star review can hurt your average and Superhost eligibility
Reviews directly impact your visibility and revenue on Airbnb
Communication, proactive hosting, and addressing repeat feedback are key to consistent 5-star ratings
Clever touches like your Wi-Fi password can boost reviews in subtle ways
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’re managing or planning to launch an Airbnb, this episode gives you the full playbook on reviews—how they work, how to get better ones, and how to recover from the bad ones without losing your mind (or your Superhost badge).
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about how to get more 5-star reviews or fix a sticky guest experience? 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
💻 Ready to launch or scale your Airbnb with confidence? Check out my self-paced Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course designed for first-time investors: Enroll Now
👩🏫 Want more personalized guidance? Join my mentorship program, Roadmap Results, and work with me 1:1 to set up and scale your STR the smart way.
Chapters
00:00 – Life update: motherhood, automation, and real talk 01:11 – What guests really rate on Airbnb 04:30 – Breaking down the 6 Airbnb review categories 13:30 – How to earn 5-star reviews consistently 17:30 – How to handle bad reviews like a pro 21:50 – Reviews = Revenue: here's why 24:00 – The Wi-Fi password hack + asking for reviews the right way 26:09 – Final thoughts + free promo code reminder
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! And share it with a fellow Airbnb host who needs to hear this. The more hosts we help, the better guest experiences we all create 🙌
26. How to Hire an Airbnb Cleaner: Key Questions & Red Flags
27 May 2025
00:28:57
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
Episode Summary: In this episode, I walk you through the exact process I used to find, interview, and hire a cleaner for our newest Airbnb property. From where I posted the job to what questions I asked during the interview, I’m giving you the behind-the-scenes breakdown of what worked (and what didn’t). If you’re launching or scaling your short-term rental, this episode is packed with real-world tips to help you build your “small but mighty” team—starting with the person who matters most: your cleaner.
Key Takeaways:
Where to post and find Airbnb cleaners (especially in smaller towns)
Why off-site laundry and fixed pricing matter
Six questions I always ask before hiring a cleaner
How to avoid red flags and make confident hiring decisions
Why your cleaner is the backbone of your short-term rental business
Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re in the process of launching or managing an Airbnb, one of the most important hires you'll make is your cleaner. I share the exact steps I took—plus some lessons I learned the hard way—to help you find someone reliable, consistent, and invested in their work. Whether you're in a rural town or a busy city, this episode will help you avoid the guesswork.
Mentioned in the Episode:
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect: Thinking about hiring a cleaner for your Airbnb? 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: Ready to launch or scale your own short-term rental? Learn everything you need to know inside my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course. It's the same strategy and system I use—without the fluff. Click here to learn more.
Chapters: 00:00 – Life update: New Airbnb launch + pregnancy FOMO 03:00 – Landscaping struggles and exterior updates 05:00 – Where and how I found cleaner candidates 08:00 – My exact 6-question cleaner screening process 13:30 – Why fixed rates matter more than you think 17:00 – Phone call tips and what to ask next 20:00 – What happened during the in-person interviews 25:00 – Red flags and how I knew who not to hire 28:00 – How I knew I found “the one” 30:00 – Final steps + prepping for the first guest
Subscribe and Share: If this episode helped you, please follow The Airbnb Roadmap wherever you listen—and share it with a friend who’s launching an STR. Every follow, share, and review helps more hosts build a profitable Airbnb with confidence.
25. Airbnb Co-Hosting: How It Works, What It Pays, and If It’s Worth It
20 May 2025
00:20:38
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode, I’m diving into Airbnb’s latest feature that’s got everyone talking: the Co-Host Network. Whether you want to earn money managing someone else’s listing or you’re a host who needs help, this episode breaks down everything you need to know. Plus, I share my honest take on whether co-hosting is really worth it—and why you should consider learning to automate your own STR first.
Key Takeaways
What Airbnb’s Co-Host Network is and how it works
The difference between co-hosts and property managers
How much co-hosts earn (flat fee vs. percentage)
What co-hosts actually do for hosts
Whether you need to be local or experienced to qualify
Why I still recommend learning to automate before hiring help
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you're thinking about managing STRs without owning property, or if you're an overwhelmed host ready to hand off the work—this episode is for you. I cover everything from how co-hosts are matched, to how this platform could be a new income stream, to when it might not make sense for you (yet). Plus, I share how to save money with my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator before jumping into the deep end.
Mentioned in the Episode
Get Airbnb Help!: Start your Airbnb Profile: Receive $48 back when starting your Airbnb profile and I'll have your back every step of the way!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Curious about becoming a co-host or hiring one for your listing? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or story! I’d love to help you think through what’s best for your STR goals.
Work With Me
Before you hire a co-host, learn to do it yourself with the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I’ll teach you how to automate your listing in just 30 minutes a week—no expensive management fees required. Use promo code airbnbroadmappodcast for $50 off!
Chapters
00:00 – Life update: Baby girl is (almost) here! 02:30 – What is Airbnb’s Co-Host Network? 05:52 – The services co-hosts actually provide 11:22 – My take: Try automation before hiring a co-host 12:47 – Why my course is affordable (and how to save more) 15:01 – How much co-hosts earn & how they charge 17:25 – Flat fee vs. percentage: What’s better? 19:22 – Do you have to be local to co-host? 20:54 – Do you need hosting experience? 23:18 – How the co-host matching process works 25:20 – The huge difference between co-hosts and property managers 26:44 – Final thoughts: Should you co-host or hire one?
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed this episode? Hit subscribe and share it with a friend who’s exploring co-hosting or thinking about hiring one! Let’s keep building profitable short-term rentals—one smart decision at a time.
24. Where to Spend and Save in Your Airbnb for Better ROI
13 May 2025
00:27:02
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
This episode is raw, real, and packed with truth bombs. I’m pulling back the curtain on the mistakes I’ve made (and seen others make) when it comes to overspending on short-term rentals. We’re talking ROI—return on investment—and how to be smart with your money from the moment you close, all the way to guest checkout. From skipping unnecessary renos to investing where it actually matters, this one’s a must-listen if you want your STR to actually profit.
Key Takeaways
Why beautiful doesn’t always mean profitable
The biggest ROI mistakes new hosts make
Where to splurge vs. where to save
What guests actually care about
Why a million-dollar property doesn’t guarantee million-dollar returns
Why Listen to This Episode?
You’ve got design boards, Pinterest inspo, and a gut feeling that says “go big.” But before you overspend on custom cabinets or a $5K couch, hit play. This episode will help you stay grounded in strategy so you don’t blow your budget—and your profits.
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about remodeling your Airbnb or unsure if a purchase is worth it? 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
Ready to launch your first (or next) short-term rental the smart way? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my signature course that walks you through every step, from setup to success. Airbnb Roadmap listeners get $50 off with the promo code. Need 1:1 help? Check out my mentorship program!
Chapters
00:00 – Intro 01:53 – You closed! Now what? 03:11 – Fantasy design vs. business decisions 05:08 – Real talk: we almost renovated our kitchen 07:45 – The “buy too much house” mistake 08:33 – The upgrade spiral is real 09:39 – Guests don’t care about your trim 11:59 – What they do care about 13:06 – ROI must-haves: comfort, not cosmetics 17:03 – The mattress that haunts me 19:15 – Functional kitchens over fancy ones 22:27 – Spa-like bathrooms (without a reno) 23:31 – Tech, TVs, and touchpoints 27:10 – Lighting tips that matter 28:22 – Cleanliness & maintenance: don’t skip 29:54 – Communication is part of your ROI 31:54 – Is that upgrade for your guest—or for you? 33:52 – Pretty doesn’t mean profitable 34:32 – DM me your ROI questions
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be getting a little carried away on the spending. Let’s build profitable Airbnbs, not just pretty ones.
23. Should You Hire a Property Manager for Your Short-Term Rental?
06 May 2025
00:26:51
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I tackle one of the biggest questions every short-term rental host eventually faces: Should you hire a property manager, or take the reins and self-manage? While I’ve always gone the self-management route, I’ve learned a lot from friends and fellow hosts about both sides of this decision—and I’m breaking it all down for you. From the pros and cons to the red flags and must-ask questions, this episode is packed with real-world insight to help you decide what’s right for your short-term rental journey.
Key Takeaways
What a short-term rental property manager actually does
The biggest pros of hiring a property manager (hello, time savings!)
Major cons to watch out for—like losing your reviews if you ever switch
Real talk about costs, control, and communication gaps
Red flags and must-ask questions before hiring a manager
Why I believe automation can give you the best of both worlds
The one nationwide property manager that gets it (spoiler: it’s Evolve)
Why Listen to This Episode?
If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a property manager—or felt overwhelmed by the idea of doing it all yourself—this episode is your decision-making cheat sheet. You’ll walk away with the clarity you need to either confidently delegate or strategically automate. Plus, I share some personal stories (like a flooded basement and a board game night gone wrong) that’ll give you a real sense of what it’s like to be in the hosting trenches.
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about hiring a property manager or self-managing your Airbnb? 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 setting up or scaling your short-term rental? Let’s work together! Learn more about how I help investors and hosts build profitable, guest-loved properties—without the stress. 👉 frontporchrealtywi.com
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome + Today’s Topic 00:53 – What Property Managers Do 03:30 – Pros of Hiring a Property Manager 06:23 – Real-Life Emergency Story 08:49 – Property Managers & Reviews 10:29 – Costs, Communication & Control 12:12 – Major Cons to Consider 18:26 – Losing the Personal Touch 20:52 – Damage Fees & Review Risks 22:10 – Red Flags to Look For 26:15 – Smart Questions to Ask 28:58 – Evolve as a National Option 31:54 – Do YOU Need a Property Manager? 33:00 – Final Thoughts & Let’s Connect
Subscribe and Share
If this episode helped you out, I’d love it if you subscribed and left a review. Know someone debating between hiring or self-managing? Share this with them—it might be just what they need!
22. Airbnb & Motherhood: How Julia Launched Her STR While Pregnant
29 Apr 2025
00:43:05
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and fellow Airbnb host, Julia, who shares her honest experience of becoming a first-time mom and first-time short-term rental investor—at the same time. We’re talking about pregnancy, property launches, hot tub struggles, and what it's really like to manage an STR with a newborn in tow. Whether you're a mom, future mom, or just juggling a lot while trying to build your STR business, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways
What it’s like buying and launching an Airbnb while pregnant
Why Julia and her husband invested before buying a primary home
How to set up your STR to run smoothly during life transitions
The truth about hot tubs (and what it takes to maintain them)
Baby-friendly upgrades to consider for your property
Why Listen to This Episode?
This episode is raw, relatable, and packed with real-life tips for any host juggling a big life change. Julia keeps it honest about what’s hard, what’s possible, and what she wishes she knew when she started. If you're building a short-term rental business while also building your family—you’re not alone.
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcastfor behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect
Thinking about buying an STR while navigating a big life change too? 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
Ready to launch your first (or next) short-term rental the smart way? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my signature course that walks you through every step, from setup to success. Airbnb Roadmap listeners get $50 off with the promo code. Need 1:1 help? Check out my mentorship program!
Chapters
00:00 – Intro & how Julia and I met 01:02 – Julia’s background & first-time investor journey 03:36 – Why they invested before buying a primary home 07:54 – Surprise: pregnant after the offer was accepted! 12:09 – Launching an STR while 6 months pregnant 14:39 – Splitting responsibilities with a supportive partner 16:15 – The truth about hot tubs (and how they manage theirs) 21:35 – Balancing STR tasks with newborn life 24:48 – The reality of hosting during maternity leave 28:00 – How becoming a mom changed her STR setup 30:29 – Biggest struggles (and what helped the most) 35:13 – Plans for expanding and future use of their STR 36:10 – Final advice for first-time moms and first-time investors 41:45 – Where to find Julia online
Subscribe and Share
Know a mom, investor, or STR host who needs to hear this episode? Hit subscribe, leave a review, and send this to someone who’s navigating the same season. We’re all figuring it out—let’s do it together.
21. How to Buy an Airbnb in Wisconsin: Writing a Strong Offer
22 Apr 2025
00:38:59
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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
Subscribe and Share
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
15 Apr 2025
00:33:34
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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!
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
Subscribe and Share
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
08 Apr 2025
00:35:08
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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!
Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates.
Let’s Connect Thinking 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 Me Want expert guidance in setting up and optimizing your short-term rental? Let’s work together! Check out my services at Front Porch Realty.
Chapters 00:01 Life update – Our latest STR purchase 05:07 The unexpected mattress struggle 11:53 Designing your STR: DIY vs. hiring a designer 15:34 Understanding your target audience before furnishing 18:38 Budgeting tips for STR furniture 23:54 The must-have essential items for guests 32:05 Making your STR stand out with cohesive design 40:09 Cost-saving tips for kitchenware, linens, and decor 44:34 Lessons learned and final furnishing tips
Subscribe and Share If 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
01 Apr 2025
00:52:51
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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.
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 Dietrich 03:30 – Stephanie’s Background & Transition into STR Investing 10:00 – Why She Chose an Out-of-State Investment 15:30 – Managing a Short-Term Rental from 4 Hours Away 20:00 – Property Managers vs. Self-Managing 30:00 – Regulatory & Licensing Challenges 40:00 – The Unexpected Costs of Cleaning & Maintenance 50:00 – The Financial Upside of Short-Term Rentals 55:00 – 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
25 Mar 2025
00:34:47
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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 Me
Are 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 Crucial 02:21 Nightmare Guest Story – How One Guest Created a Four-Day Headache 08:09 Cleaning Best Practices – Bed Setup, Linens, and Early Check-Ins 12:50 Kitchen Maintenance – Appliance Care and Cabinet Organization 17:18 Living Room Cleaning – Nooks, Crannies, and Rug Considerations 23:39 Bathroom Essentials – Providing Amenities and Ensuring Cleanliness 28:25 Maintenance Audits – Room-by-Room Inspections and Guest Feedback 35:12 Automation Tips – Guides, QR Codes, and Guest Communication 41:12 Final Thoughts – Prioritizing Cleaning for Five-Star Reviews
Subscribe and Share Enjoyed 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
18 Mar 2025
00:26:46
Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY
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
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 Me
Are 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 Plans 02:08 Introduction – Picking the Right Property for Short-Term Rentals 03:14 Location Factors to Consider 05:28 Accessibility and Neighborhood Vibes 07:17 Layout Considerations – Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Common Areas 10:19 Outdoor Spaces – Backyards, Patios, and Balconies 13:01 Parking Concerns and Township Scrutiny 15:08 Red Flags in Property Inspections 20:48 Yellow Flags – Mold, Roofing, and Electrical Issues 24:05 Fixer-Uppers vs. Turnkey Investments 27:51 Essential Amenities – Kitchens, Laundry, and Wi-Fi 31:53 Final Thoughts – Key Takeaways for Touring Properties
Subscribe and Share Loved 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!