165k/year Boutique STR Launch in Austin!

[Devin Dang]

Hey BP fam!! Wanted to share a recent STR launch here in Austin that our team had a blast bringing to market.

We made a very intentional call not to go the direction we’ve seen dominate a lot of Airbnb listings lately — color rainbow explosion + big neon signs. Nothing wrong with that at all becaue it does work with the bachelorette parties here, but our team has strong conviction that the market’s shifting what people actually want is something that feels more like a boutique hotel — thoughtful, elevated, rooted in place.

So on this we leaned into a “Southwest modern” style to page homage to Austin's culture and heritage while still making it sophisticated and fun. Layered textures, warm wood tones, some vintage pieces, and subtle references to Austin’s roots.

So it’s currently pacing around $165k/year in revenue, even with the recent STR supply surge and the house being in secondary area of Austin.

Quick stats on the home:

• 1. 4 bed / 2.5 bath
• 2, ~2,300 sq ft
• 3. Light renovations + furnishings + design fee = ~$60,000
• 4. Sleeps 16 people
• 5. Amenities: Pool, cold plunge, volleyball, ping pong, and gameroom/pool table

Anyone else seeing a shift in STR guest preferences away from the ultra-bright, kitschy stuff? What design or layout trends are working in your market right now?

[Michael K Gallagher]

wow really love the design, and more than anything I love that you went in with "intention" those are always the projects that seem to do the best.