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Tips, Insights, and Tools for Smarter Hosting

Whether you’re a new Airbnb host or a seasoned property owner looking to maximize ROI, you’ll find expert insights, industry trends, and actionable tips to help you succeed.

We cover it all—from short-term rental marketing strategies and guest experience hacks to pricing optimization and property design ideas. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to run a thriving, hands-free rental business.

How I Built a Cohosting Business in Just 1 Month: Lessons Learned

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Starting a Cohosting Business: A Whirlwind Journey of Growth and Learning

If you had told me two months ago that I would go from owning and operating a single short-term rental to cohosting three additional properties, I would have thought you were crazy! But here I am, just one month into this wild ride, and what an exhilarating journey it has been. Starting my cohosting business has ignited my entrepreneurial spirit, taught me countless lessons, and shown me just how rewarding the short-term rental industry can be.

From One Property to Three in Two Months​

It all started with the idea of expanding beyond managing my own property. Like many investors, I began my journey by purchasing and managing a vacation rental. After learning the ropes, understanding the market, and building a trusted network of cleaners, maintenance people, and property managers, I felt ready for more.​

Enter 
Cohosting.

Cohosting is essentially property management for short-term rentals, where you manage the operations for owners who might not have the time or expertise to handle the day-to-day. I knew that with my experience, I could help others while scaling my own business. What I didn't expect was how quickly things would move! In just two months, I went from managing one property to cohosting three additional ones—and the growth hasn't stopped.

Creating the Business
Starting the business was a whirlwind in itself. From deciding on a name, setting up the legal framework, and defining my service offerings, there was so much to do. But each step felt like a piece of the puzzle falling into place. This was my first real foray into entrepreneurship, and I loved every moment of it.
Finding Clients
Once the business was up and running, the next challenge was finding clients. I knew I could provide value, but getting others to see that was another thing. I began by tapping into my network and spreading the word about my services. I worked on my business website and the SEO behind the scenes. This brought organic traffic to my site, and I started getting inquiries. I also created a Thumbtack profile, and to my surprise, the leads started coming in quickly!
Multiple Leads, Closing Deals, and Onboarding Properties
The excitement of multiple leads turning into clients was surreal. Closing each deal felt like a milestone, but it wasn’t just about signing contracts; it was about building relationships and trust with each property owner. They were trusting me with their investments, and I was determined to deliver exceptional service. Onboarding properties, while exciting, was another learning curve. Each property came with its own unique challenges—whether it was setting up operations, optimizing the listing, or finding the right local team to support the property’s needs. But with every property, my confidence and skill set grew.

The Rollercoaster of Operations

With the properties onboarded, it was time to roll up my sleeves and get to work. Managing guest communications, coordinating with cleaners and maintenance teams, monitoring reviews, and ensuring smooth check-ins and check-outs are just the beginning. The day-to-day operations can be intense, but I thrive in this fast-paced environment. Every problem that arises becomes an opportunity to fine-tune processes and learn more about the business.

Scaling the Business

Now, two months in, I’m looking ahead to the future. My entrepreneurial spirit is in full force, and I’m ready to scale this business even further. I want to help as many investors in the short-term rental space as I can, offering them the peace of mind that their properties are in good hands. I’ve realized that this business is not just about managing properties—it’s about creating value, building relationships, and helping others succeed.

Final Thoughts

"Starting a cohosting business has been an incredible learning experience. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, forced me to think on my feet, and allowed me to connect with amazing people along the way. If you’re thinking about getting into cohosting or starting your own business, my advice is simple: jump in with both feet. It’s going to be a whirlwind, but the rewards are more than worth it. Here’s to the next phase of growth and success!"
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Allison Craft
Allison@craftycohost.com

Investing in Design and Amenities: The Key to Standing Out in the Short-Term Rental Market

In the ever-evolving landscape of short-term rental properties, standing out from the competition is paramount. With platforms like Airbnb and_VRBO gaining popularity, travelers have a myriad of options to choose from. To ensure your property isn’t just another listing but a top choice for potential guests, investing in the right design and amenities is crucial.

Here’s how to elevate your rental property to attract more bookings and generate higher returns:

1. First Impressions Matter: Invest in Curb Appeal

The exterior of your property is the first thing guests see, so make it count. A well-maintained garden, clean walkways, and an inviting entrance can significantly enhance your property’s curb appeal.

Consider:

* Landscaping: A well-manicured lawn, colorful flowers, and tasteful garden ornaments can create a welcoming atmosphere.
* Lighting: Adequate lighting around the entrance and pathways not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also ensures safety.
* Exterior Decor: A fresh coat of paint, modern house numbers, and a stylish front door can make a lasting impression.

Your property’s interior design should reflect comfort, style, and functionality.

Here’s how to create an unforgettable stay:

* Theme and Cohesion: Choose a cohesive theme that reflects the local culture or a specific style, such as coastal, rustic, or modern. This creates a unique identity for your property.
* Quality Furniture: Invest in durable and comfortable furniture. Guests appreciate quality, and it reduces the need for frequent replacements.
* Color Scheme: Opt for neutral colors with pops of color to add vibrancy. Neutral tones appeal to a wider audience, while accent colors can enhance the overall aesthetic.
* Personal Touches: Include local artwork, unique decor items, and books or guides about the area. These elements add personality and make guests feel at home.

In a competitive market, providing top-notch amenities can set your property apart.

Consider investing in:

* Wi-Fi and Entertainment: High-speed internet and smart TVs with streaming services are essentials for most travelers.
* Fully Equipped Kitchen: A modern kitchen with quality appliances, cookware, and utensils allows guests to enjoy home-cooked meals.
* Comfortable Bedding: Invest in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens. A good night’s sleep is a top priority for travelers.
* Climate Control: Ensure your property has reliable heating and cooling systems. Consider providing fans or space heaters for added comfort.
* Laundry Facilities: A washer and dryer in the unit can be a significant selling point for longer stays.

Small details can leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Here are some extra touches that can elevate their experience:

* Welcome Pack: Provide a welcome basket with snacks, local treats, and a handwritten note. It’s a small gesture that shows you care.
* Guidebook: Create a guidebook with recommendations for local restaurants, attractions, and activities. Include maps and contact information for emergency services.
* Eco-Friendly Options: Offer recycling bins, reusable shopping bags, and eco-friendly toiletries to appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.
* Smart Home Features: Consider smart locks for easy check-in, smart thermostats for comfort, and voice-controlled assistants for convenience.

A clean and well-maintained property is non-negotiable. Guests expect a high standard of cleanliness, especially in the post-pandemic era.

Ensure regular:

* Cleaning: Hire professional cleaners who adhere to strict cleaning protocols. Pay attention to high-touch areas and provide disinfectants for guests.
* Maintenance: Regularly inspect the property for any issues and address them promptly. This includes plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances.

Reach out to Allison@craftycohost.com for all your hosting/management needs!

Investing Out of State: A Floridian's Journey to the Poconos

Investing in real estate can be a rewarding venture, but for many, the challenge lies in finding properties within their budget that also promise positive cash flow. This was the case for me, a Florida resident, who turned to the picturesque Poconos in Pennsylvania to find a lucrative investment opportunity. Here’s my journey and the pros and cons I’ve encountered along the way.

Why the Poconos?

The Poconos, renowned for their serene landscapes and recreational activities, presented a unique investment opportunity. Located within a short drive from major cities like New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania, the Poconos is a prime vacation destination. Families from these bustling urban areas flock here for weekend getaways, ensuring a steady demand for vacation rentals. This high demand, coupled with relatively affordable property prices, made the Poconos an ideal market for my out-of-state investment.

The Pros of Investing Out of State

  • Affordability
  • Diversification
  • High Demand Vacation Market
  • Potential for Appreciation
  • Learning and Growth
Affordability:
One of the most significant advantages of investing out of state is the ability to find properties that fit your budget. In Florida, finding a property that would cash flow was challenging. In contrast, the Poconos offered affordable properties with excellent potential for rental income.
Diversification:
Investing in different geographical locations helps diversify your portfolio, mitigating risks associated with local economic downturns. By having properties in various markets, you can ensure a more stable income stream.
High Demand Vacation Market:
The Poconos' appeal as a vacation spot guarantees a consistent flow of renters. The proximity to major cities means that there is always a demand for short-term rentals, especially during holidays and weekends.
Potential for Appreciation:
While cash flow is essential, property appreciation is another critical factor. The Poconos has shown promising trends in property value appreciation, offering long-term financial benefits.
Learning and Growth:
Investing out of state forces you to learn about new markets, regulations, and property management practices. This knowledge can be invaluable as you expand your investment portfolio.

The Cons of Investing Out of State

  • Distance and Management Challenges
  • Finding Trusted Local Partners
  • Regulatory Differences
  • Market Knowledge
  • Travel Costs
Distance and Management Challenges:
Being physically distant from your investment property can pose management challenges. Handling maintenance issues, tenant complaints, or emergencies can be more complicated when you’re not nearby.
Finding Trusted Local Partners:
Initially, it can be daunting to find reliable cleaners, maintenance folks, and property managers. However, once you establish a trusted network, this concern diminishes significantly.
Regulatory Differences:
Different states have varying regulations regarding property management, taxes, and rental rules. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these to avoid legal complications.
Market Knowledge:
Investing in an unfamiliar market requires thorough research. Understanding local trends, property values, and the rental market is essential to making informed investment decisions.
Travel Costs:
Regular visits to check on your property or handle issues can add up in travel expenses. These costs should be factored into your overall investment strategy.

Making It Work

Despite the challenges, investing out of state has been a rewarding experience.

The key to success lies in thorough research, due diligence, and building a reliable local team.

  • Here’s what worked for me:
  • Research
  • Local Network
  • Regular Communication
  • Technology
Research:
Before purchasing, I spent considerable time researching the Poconos market, understanding the demand, property values, and rental rates.
Local Network:
I focused on finding trustworthy local partners. Reliable cleaners and maintenance folks became my boots on the ground, ensuring the property remained in excellent condition and my guests were satisfied.
Regular Communication:
Maintaining open lines of communication with my local team helped address issues promptly and effectively.
Technology:
Utilizing property management software and remote monitoring tools made managing the property from afar more manageable.

Here is my listing link: airbnb.com/h/walk-to-beach-house

Reach out to Allison@craftycohost.com for all your hosting/management needs!

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