What’s the One Thing New STR Hosts Always Miss Until It’s Too Late?

[Renee Adams]

Hey BP Crew,

I help run short-term rentals and co-host for owners who want the cash flow without losing their minds. One thing I keep seeing — again and again — is brand new STR owners overlooking one critical thing that ends up draining their time, money, or both.

Sometimes it’s not screening guests well enough.
Sometimes it’s setting prices and never adjusting.
Sometimes it’s something as simple as not having a backup cleaner — or not knowing how to handle a 1-star review when it happens.

So here’s my question for the community — especially those of you who actually manage your own listings or co-host for others:
 What’s the ONE detail you wish you’d handled better when you started?
Or — what’s the one thing you still see hosts messing up all the time?

Not the obvious “have nice photos” or “get good reviews” — I’m talking about the behind-the-scenes stuff that sinks a listing or makes you hate being a host.

I’ll go first in the comments. Can’t wait to read what the seasoned hosts here say — bet it saves someone a headache this year.

[John Underwood]

I never screen guests.

I have nice places with high prices. This screens out the rif raf.

Hotels don't run background checks on people.

I also don't require a seperate signed contract. I have my rules and when you rent my places you digitally agree to them when you book.

15 years later and this still works flawlessly.