Comprehensive list for set up of 1st STR?

Question

Can anyone recommend a comprehensive on when is the best time to set up each item for our first STR? For example, when is the ideal time to hire a cleaning service and handyman? Take photos. List, as well all the other stuff I'm not mentioning here. To save sometime and obtain further knowledge I'd appreciate it. We plan on acquiring our first STR this Fall.
can’t wait, long time coming. Trying to scale as quick as possible so we can concentrate on this and walk away from our W2 jobs. Any info would be massive.
( Will and Audrey Blaker) 49 years old, bough 3 homes but this will be our first STR and can’t wait to begin our business. We’re all in.

Mike Grudzien · Answer

One tip for the end: when you think everything is set up and furnished, stay in it, live in it, for 2 days with a notepad.  Everytime you reach for something that should be there, but isn't: write it down.

Michael Baum · Answer

Hey @William Blaker, you should have a cleaner already by the time you close on your STR. That is your most important person. If the house is in good shape then handyperson is next up.

Photos should be done when the entire place is setup, not before.

Do you have the place yet? Where are you looking? Do you have a budget for setup?

There is a ton of things to get rolling on now. Do you have space to store items you find on sale that you can use in the house?

Lot's to do.

John Underwood · Answer

I agree with Michael. Get your cleaner lined up right before you need them. You may go through  a couple cleaners before you find the one that is a keeper. Your cleaner is the most important part of your team so you'll need a great one.

William Blaker · Answer

This is excellent. We plan on delving into all of this and rounding ZERO corners.

Jon Martin · Answer

Worrying about a handyman and cleaner is putting the cart before the horse. Whatever place you buy will likely need at least some minor repairs, so whoever you use for that can hopefully help as a handyman once you are up and running.

Then you will have several square yards of boxes of linens, towels, kitchen utensils, flatware etc that will need to go through the wash and be put away. Same concept above would apply to your cleaners. Look for some cleaners on Turno to help with that set up and get a feel for if they are a good fit.

Once you think you are ready to go, stay in the place for a few nights (as noted above) and make a list of what needs fine tuning. By doing so you will be well ahead of the competition.

Andrew Steffens · Answer

I recommend first identifying the property and focus on all it may (or may not need).  Once it passes inspection start focusing on building your team i.e. cleaner, handyman, and trades (HVAC, plumber, etc - all this needs to be quickly accessible once renting).

Josh Sedivy · Answer

When setting up your STR, it’s not just about having the right people in place, it’s about setting the right expectations. Start with a solid guest experience plan. Think about check-in and check-out times, how you'll manage guest inquiries, and whether you want to implement self-check-in with a smart lock. Also, consider adding personal touches that make your place stand out, like a welcome guide or local recommendations for guests. Having systems in place early for guest communication and cleaning schedules can help prevent stress later. And don’t forget, having a backup cleaner or handyman on standby can be a lifesaver when unexpected issues pop up.

William Blaker · Answer

Mike Grudzien,

excellent suggestion, obviously. Will do. My wife and I are pretty thorough people that are Uninterested in reinventing the wheel and only want to do it like the top properties. We'll figure out our little niches, if any, down the road. Apprciate al the advice folks, keep it coming please.

William Blaker · Answer

We don’t have a place yet. We’ll get one in the fall. Everything is ready to gi funding wise.

Comprehensive list for set up of 1st STR?

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