Airbnb/Short Term Rental investors - I'm helping a client with global sourcing experience validate a business idea and wondering if this would actually move the needle for you...The concept: A done-for-you supply chain service that sources your recurring STR supplies (towels, toiletries, linens, etc.) directly from vetted factories in China, adds your custom branding, and ships everything consolidated to save you 20-30% vs. retail.So instead of multiple Amazon/Costco runs or risky Alibaba orders, you'd get:Branded amenities (your logo on shampoo bottles, towels, etc.)Bundled shipments every 30-60 daysQuality control and inspection handledBoutique guest experience at wholesale pricesExample: One operator projected $20K+ annual savings on 50+ units just by switching their towel and toiletry sourcing.The tradeoff: 30-day lead times vs. same-day pickup, and you'd need to plan inventory ahead.Honest question for operators with 10+ units: Are you spending $200-500+ per unit annually on supplies, or constantly dealing with inconsistent quality/stockouts?

Despite global and domestic tensions, rents remained stable.Rentals - Availability by MonthThe number of homes for rent decreased slightly MoM in August, bucking the usual seasonal trend.Rentals - Median Time to RentTime to rent increased marginally MoM (from 23 days to 24 days), but remained healthy.Rentals - Months of SupplyThere are only 1.4 months of supply for our target rental property profile.

Supply is Tightening • After record deliveries in 2023–24, new construction is dropping 60–70% in 2025. • That slowdown + strong demand = more stability for landlords in the next few years. 

Until some of the supply comes off the market (if ever) you are going to either have to live with lower prices or more vacancy.

I think the issue is money supply, coupled with low-locked mortgage rates.

There is no shortage of furnished housing supply in the offseason.

do I need to supply appliances?

As Jon mentioned seasonality will be a challenge but also overall supply and demand. 

Hope I’m wrong, but everything I’m seeing is pointing to over supply of STRs in the area.

Yet the demand is massive, and the model combines consistent cash flow with real community impact.A few quick points:Demand far outpaces supply in most cities.Homes are leased or operated with long-term stability.Many states offer certification programs that build credibility.Done right, it’s a win-win: investors see returns while residents rebuild their lives.I’ve developed and worked with operators across multiple states, and the success stories are incredible.