All Forum Posts by: Jake Knight

@Sterling Cox I could see that being an easy target for complaints. The container is hard to miss! Well hopefully you get some traction soon with finding a location that better suits the use.

 Do you still have it rented out? I'm curious about what type of location you had it at, and what process you had to go through with any permits, etc. 

I would post the job on Thumbtack. If not, go to Yelp or BBB and look for contractors with high ratings. Lots of GCs out there but also lots of them that are busy. Pound the phone until you get what you're looking for.

For insurance you'll need to go with a company like Proper or CBIZ, who provide commercial liability in addition to dwelling coverage. Their policies are built for vacation rentals. Expect to pay a little more of course.

Hi Alon,

Welcome to BP. A google search on "airbnb restrictions in SF" will quickly give you the information you need. Lots of changes happening in the city.

I haven't been to any city meetings and don't have property there but from what I understand you would need to live in the home if you want to rent it out year-round. Otherwise you are limited to 60 or 90 days per year. Maybe there are some workarounds... not sure. You might be better off targeting corporate renters (30 days+) or getting a place somewhere in the surrounding area that's less restrictive. 

Thank you for the tips, @Michael Kugler. We're two weeks away from closing on our first STR and currently shopping for all of the amenities, making it a point to deliver on things like sheets/towels, TV, and silverware/dishes. I am buying a DVD player and will be going to walmart to stock up on cheap DVDs from those bins they have. Easy way to create value at a small cost. I am going to have professional photos taken but will tell the photographer to not touch them up. Good angles, good lighting but make sure they're honest shots. Great tip.

@Ariel Smith Nice setup! I hadn't thought of using Apple TV as a bridge. I'm going to research it some more and compare the other hubs. Thanks!

@Gonzalo Escobar You could get one of the smart locks and issue passwords to the residents. You're right- that is the easier part. I am not sure how to configure one buzzer system to go to 4 people. Seems like it would have to be separate buzzers.

Hi Ariel, which hub are you using with the August lock? I was looking at a Schlage lock with the Smartthings hub from Best Buy but am undecided.

I'm up in the Bay Area and don't know anyone looking to buy in that area unfortunately.

Sounds like an excellent opportunity, Jared. Crazy how things like a back injury can ultimately lead to a business venture. Hope you're able to find the right partner and bring this to fruition. Also, good to hear that you were able to get help without having to go through surgery.