All Forum Posts by: Josh Sedivy

It depends on how many listings you have, but using a property management tool like Guesty can make a big difference. We use it for our properties, and it does a great job of syncing calendars, managing bookings, and automating communication across multiple platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. If you have multiple listings, it’s a time-saver and helps prevent double bookings.

I didn’t get the email either, but I’m glad you mentioned it!

If you've got a great property and the experience to mentor, that could be a great setup for someone trying to break into the business. Try posting in local STR Facebook groups. Just be real about what you're offering and the kind of person you're looking for. Someone out there is probably looking for exactly this kind of opportunity. The Airbnb co-host directory is another option, though it's a bit hit or miss.

If you’ve been in the business before, check in with past contacts. Sometimes the right person comes through a simple referral.

The biggest thing is making sure expectations are clear. Co-managing can work, but only if both sides know who’s doing what and there’s trust. It helps to talk through everything upfront and put the key points in writing so there’s no confusion later.

It depends on whether your listing is integrated with third-party software or not. If it’s integrated, you’re responsible for collecting and remitting taxes. If it’s not, VRBO may handle tax collection and remittance for you in certain areas, but it varies by location. It can definitely be a bit more complex than Airbnb, but once you get the setup done and understand your local tax requirements, it becomes easier to manage. It’s worth the effort if you’re looking to expand your reach and bookings.

If you only have one or two properties, you can stick with Airbnb and VRBO for now. They sync calendars and have basic tools.

We use Guesty and it works well once you have more properties or want to save time. It helps with messaging and keeps everything in one place.

The transition to full-time STR management can be rewarding but demanding. It's all about organization—having a good team and systems in place for cleaning, maintenance, and guest support. Don't underestimate the importance of being proactive in your communication and always staying transparent with property owners.

Great question! This always sparks a lively discussion! Personally, I’m open to renting to friends or family only if they understand and respect that this is a business, not a casual favor. For me, it all comes down to boundaries and mutual respect.

If they can follow house rules, treat the property like it’s their own, and understand that things like payment, deposits, and contracts still apply, then I’m all for it. I might offer a small discount out of goodwill, but not to the extent that it compromises the standards I set for every guest. What matters most to me is that they respect the house, the neighborhood, and the rules just like any other guest would.

At the end of the day, I’ve found that when expectations are clearly communicated up front, and everyone treats it like a professional arrangement, renting to family or friends can work well.

Lock the thermostat to prevent damage and high bills. Just add a quick note in the guide so guests know it’s set for comfort and system health. Most people will understand.

Thank you for bringing up such an important topic! I definitely see the potential benefits of AI on real estate websites, offering 24/7 assistance, matching visitors to listings, and helping with lead capture could really streamline the initial client experience. It’s impressive how much AI has improved in minimizing errors, too.

That said, from our experience, we find that clients or guests usually prefer interacting with a real person, especially when it comes to making decisions as personal and significant as choosing a home or vacation rental. We prioritize making sure they feel personally welcomed and settled in, which builds trust and creates a much stronger relationship right from the start, something AI, no matter how advanced, still struggles to fully replicate.

I think AI can definitely be a helpful tool to support client engagement, but in our case, it would need to complement personal communication rather than replace it.

That’s a great question! White kitchen cabinets definitely have their pros and cons in a rental. They do make the space feel bigger, cleaner, and more modern, which can really appeal to renters and make the property stand out in listings. However, you’re right! They do show dirt, scuffs, and wear much more easily.

If you go with white, using a durable, wipeable finish (like a semi-gloss) can make cleaning much easier.