Tag: Short Term Rentals

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Short Term Rentals

STRs: How Short-Term Rentals Can Handle a Recession

Photo from Pexels.

As the months of uncertainty go on, one thing that keeps Airbnb owners up at night is the potential for a looming recession. And it’s not a questionable concern, especially when Americans have been constantly told since mid-2022 that a recession is just around the corner.

In fact, as of May 2023, the New York Fed recession probability indicator suggests a 68.2% chance of a recession happening in the US in the next 12 months—the highest reading in over four decades. That in itself is already a great reason for distress.

So, before you frantically search for a panic room, let’s navigate how you can best leverage your property investments and make them recession-proof.

Airbnb in a Recession

During a recession, it’s common for travel patterns to shift as people adjust their spending habits. While luxury travel may experience a decline, the short-term rental industry, including Airbnb, has shown some resilience in previous economic downturns. For example:

  • In the travel industry’s post-2020 recovery, big hotel chains, like Hilton, only started to see positive earnings in the fourth quarter, with revenue per room increasing by 60.4% from the previous year—still nowhere near pre-pandemic levels. In contrast, Airbnb exceeded pre-pandemic sales with a fourth-quarter revenue of $1.5 billion, a 38% increase from the same period in 2019.
  • A report by Airbnb showed that long-term stays of 28 days or more have become more popular as it doubled in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period of 2019. The reason cited was growing work flexibility and the rise of remote working.

While short-term rentals may demonstrate relative resilience during recessions, market dynamics can vary based on location, local regulations, and individual property factors.

For instance, short-term rental investors must be informed about the local market during an economic downturn, because some travel destinations may experience an unwelcome shock from traveler elasticity.

How to Recession-Proof Your Airbnb

If your property is in a tourism destination, you will likely stay profitable during an economic downturn. But, if you’re located in an area saturated with STRs and limited tourism attractions, staycationers are spoilt for choice—making staying afloat challenging.

But worry not. You’re not alone. After all, no company or industry is 100% safe from an economic recession.

Here are five ways you can navigate a recession:

1. Accept Medium and Longer-Term Guests

Think about embracing monthly and extended stays to maintain high occupancy and a steady flow of income. Doing so prevents you from keeping your calendar empty for days and keeping your property consistently booked.

Plus, you can encourage more guests to book longer stays if you offer a discount on monthly bookings—it’s always good to strive for customer retention.

2. Offer Flexible Pricing Options

In an economic recession, you have to factor in that demand might become more price-sensitive, and competition within the short-term rental market could intensify. Often, most property owners will bring prices down, and you can also do that and see if it brings you good results. If not, you can do the exact opposite by charging higher than your local competition. A bit ironic, but this capitalizes on the concept of “perceived value.”

You have to let your customers recognize your property’s value so they’ll be more willing to pay your asking price. On top of exceptional property and service, you can add a few more amenities, like:

  • Bikes or scooters if your property is in the suburbs
  • Dog-walking services for pet-friendly places
  • Fast and reliable wifi to attract co-working

Just to name a few.

3. Focus on Exceptional Guest Experiences

Delight your guests with experiences they’ll remember. As we mentioned earlier, adding amenities that guests want will help you capture more customers. According to Airbnb, most travelers say amenities are their top priority for a great trip—which is more crucial if you want guests to stay longer.

So, pay attention to interior design & cleanliness, provide essential amenities, and add thoughtful touches that make your guests feel special. Word-of-mouth and positive reviews are priceless. In fact, 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.

4. Build Relationships with Local Businesses

Form alliances like the Avengers!

Partner with local attractions, restaurants, and shops to offer exclusive deals to your guests. This will enhance your customers’ experience and strengthen your ties within the community.

Remember, collaboration is vital in tough times.

5. Leverage the Power of Social Media

Maximize the power of social media to boost your property’s visibility, engage with potential guests, and drive bookings. Here are three ways social media can help you recession-proof your Airbnb:

  • Showcase your property: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to visually highlight your Airbnb property’s unique aspects. Share high-quality photos and videos that show your amenities, decor, and local attractions to entice potential guests.
  • Engage with followers: Respond promptly to comments, messages, and inquiries on your social media platforms. Engage in conversations, provide helpful information, and address potential guests’ concerns. Active engagement builds trust and shows your commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience.
  • Provide local insights: Share tips, recommendations, and insights about your location. Be a valuable resource for travelers and staycationers by sharing information about local attractions, events, restaurants, and hidden gems that potential guests might appreciate. Position yourself as a trusted source of local knowledge and build customer relationships to get repeat bookings.

Thriving Beyond A Recession

No one can predict the future with certainty, but historical data and trends indicate that the short-term rental industry, including Airbnb, has shown resilience during previous recessions. As travelers seek cost-effective options and prioritize domestic leisure travel, STRs offer an attractive alternative.

However, staying informed, monitoring market conditions, and adjusting your approach to cater to evolving guest demands is vital to stay afloat.

Remember, it’s crucial to remain prepared and proactive to navigate any economic climate successfully. So, keep a positive mindset and adapt your Airbnb business to thrive even during challenging times.

Join a REIA of Oakland meeting for more tips on managing your property investments.

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Short Term Rentals

Should You Invest in Airbnbs? 2023 Short-Term Rental Real Estate Forecast in Detroit, MI

Beautifully decorated short-term rental studio unit
Source: Andrea Davis on Unsplash

What accommodation did you book for your last vacation?

We’ll bet $100 that you Googled something like “tiny home” or “farm stay” instead of the usual hotel room!

The US real estate market is filled with short-term rental market opportunities, where people gravitate towards cozy, picturesque rentals instead of cold, clinical hotel rooms. Millions of listings sell an excellent guest experience, and the market for unusual Airbnbs grew tenfold during the pandemic.

Still, some hotspot, short-term housing markets like the City of Detroit remain overlooked. Many investors focus on the likes of San Francisco, California, and miss out on the goldmine that’s largely still untapped in Michigan.

So, in this article, we’ll go through market trends and statistics that prove the potential of the Detroit short-term rental property market in 2023 and beyond.

Short-Term Property Statistics in the City of Detroit

Let’s start with the numbers. How is the Detroit real estate market performing in 2022?

Understanding the data behind the average Detroit property investment will give you an idea of the city’s short-term rental capabilities, so you’ll know what returns to expect. Besides handling renters and maintaining the property, financial viability will always be the driving factor in every good investment.

So, here’s a snapshot:

  • Affordable properties: The median price is $85,000 with 7.6% increases year-over-year, making it an affordable city. And with a price per square foot of $75 (less than half of the $222 national average), you’ll easily find Detroit properties that fit your investment budget.
  • Excellent cash flow: The rent-to-price ratio is roughly 1% to 1.5%, depending on which Detroit neighborhood you choose to invest in. With this range of ratios, you’ll easily generate strong cash flows that’ll help pay off the initial investment and start pocketing returns.
  • Profitability with short-term rentals: The average rental income for short-term rental investing is $2,246, which is a huge difference from the already-profitable traditional Detroit investing where rental income is around $979.
  • High occupancy rate: Average Airbnb occupancy rate is 50%, whereas most US markets have an average of roughly 20% to 40%.
Source: AllTheRooms

Still, be aware that the City of Detroit only allows short-term rentals in your primary residence or owner-occupied properties with two to four units. You can read more about this rule from the local government’s website to ensure that you comply accordingly.

2023 Forecast for Short-Term Rentals in the City of Detroit

As an investor, looking at market forecasts is almost as crucial as checking historical trends. So let’s take a closer look at the forecast for short-term rental properties in the City of Detroit, to help you decide if renting a Detroit home in 2023 is worth your time and money.

According to Zumper, 302 short-term rental properties are currently listed in the city. This figure may seem small compared to the literal thousands of long-term rentals you’ll see on Zillow, but it still indicates a growing short-term rental market in Detroit neighborhoods, as we’ll see in the statistics below.

1. Growing Average Rent Prices

Average rents dipped in major cities across the nation recently. But Metro Detroit as a whole is faring well, where the fastest growing rent year-on-year in the area is in Ann Arbor, where average rent has gone up 23.5% since last year—that’s a 16.1% rent increase.

The chart below shows a 20% rent increase for three-bedroom rentals in the past year:

Source: Zumper

Increasing rent means increasing cash flow for you as the investor. Combine rent increases with the impressive 50% average occupancy rate we mentioned, and you’re looking at excellent returns in the City of Detroit.

2. Increasing Property Values and Appreciation Rates

Detroit properties are increasing in value, which means you’ll get to reap excellent equity gains if you hold onto them for the long haul. Zillow reported that Detroit home values are is at $69,330 (very affordable), and Norada said the values increased by 23.7% in the past year (very valuable):

Source: Zillow

The latest forecast announces that Detroit median home prices will rise by 2.1% from 2022 to 2023.

The city’s real estate also appreciated 89.7% in the past decade, placing it in the top 30% of all cities nationwide for property appreciation. In the last 12 months, its rates have remained among the highest in the country, which explains why short-term rental investors continue to find success in the city.

3. Improving Tourism in the City of Detroit

Michigan’s Motor City has had a unique culture, distinctive architecture, and revitalization renewal efforts for the past years The city is now a prominent tourist destination, called by Time Magazine a “newfound glory,” where travelers are playing a role in its vibrant economic growth.

Eating alone is becoming a real treat in the city, where one can experience Indian cuisine in the Midnight Temple near the Eastern market, immerse themself in Chef Maxel Hardy’s rosemary-filled Rosemary cafe then stray into the adjacent cigar lounge, Byrd. Or, chow down fresh seafood boils straight from the Great Lakes at What’s Crackin’.

The city has dramatically been revitalized from “dangerous” to vibrant and impressive. Today, people are saying, “I didn’t expect the city to be like it is, it’s really amazing!” and “We got the chance to see the city and I really would recommend [coming] here.”

Owner of Multilingual Detroit Motown Tour, Dildora Damisch, shares, “This year, I cannot believe, I am booked every single day! And people coming from all over the world! Unbelievable.” And why wouldn’t she, with more than 2 million international visitors in one year alone?

Accommodations are wildly increasing in the City of Detroit to serve the influx of travelers. There are over 500 new hotel rooms currently in development, including the 158-room Cambria Hotel opening in late 2022 (with golf simulators, Bluetooth mirrors, and the  Detroit Taco Company Bodega), and ROOST Apartment Hotel is set to open in early 2023 in Book Tower, a restored iconic Detroit building.

Your short-term rental could easily leverage the city’s growing tourism industry.

2023 is a Great Year for Detroit Short-Term Rentals

Without a doubt, 2023 is an excellent year to either expand your portfolio or start investing in the City of Detroit’s short-term rental property market. With growing average rent prices, increasing property values, and improving tourism in the city, impressive historical trends will likely continue their upwards direction for years to come.

Want to learn more about Detroit real estate? Join as a member, subscribe to our newsletter, and attend our upcoming meetings! We’re doing everything we can to ensure that you’re prepared, equipped, and confident enough to reap great returns from Metro Detroit.

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Short Term Rentals

STRs: 5 Things to Consider When Turning Your Rental into an Airbnb

In times when rental markets are skyrocketing, landlords can still profit from their rental property by listing it on Airbnb as an alternative to long-term tenancies.

Converting your long-term rental property into a short-term rental (STR) can offer exciting revenue growth opportunities.

For example, a single-bedroom apartment renting for $1,395 in downtown Detroit can fetch $110 to $150 per night as an Airbnb listing. That’s a 200% to 300% bump, assuming it has a high occupancy rate. STRs can generate higher income, because they charge a premium for flexibility and convenience.

But before taking the plunge and converting, it’s important to consider some key factors to ensure you’re making a smart investment decision that aligns with your goals and maximizes your returns.

Here are five things to take note of before switching your rental into an Airbnb.

1. Local Laws and Regulations

When you consider converting your rental unit into an Airbnb, the first step is to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations, including tax implications. Different states have specific rules governing short-term rentals, and you don’t want to find yourself on the wrong side of the law—that will cost you money instead of earning money.

For example, short-term rental units in the City of Detroit can only host for no more than 90 days per calendar year, while Los Angeles allows up to 120 days per calendar year.

If operating a short-term rental property in your area is illegal, it’s best to avoid it altogether.

You can learn more about the City of Detroit’s short-term rental laws and regulations here.

2. Risk Tolerance

Short-term rentals come with their own set of risks, including potential damage to your property and financial instability. Of course, a long-term tenant can accidentally burn your property as quickly as a short-term guest. That’s because they’re guests and may not treat your home with the same level of care as an owner does—even with background checks.

What’s important is that you consider how you’ll handle any damages or repairs that may arise and whether you have the financial means to cover these costs. With Airbnb Host Guarantee Program, you can get up to $1 million in protection against theft and damages, but it doesn’t protect valuables like artwork and jewelry.

You can also review your homeowner’s insurance (get one if you don’t have it yet) to see if you have the liability and damage coverage before taking in guests.

3. Net Operating Income & Cashflow

Crunch the numbers and determine whether converting to an STR will increase your property’s profitability. Consider the potential rental income you can generate, factoring in seasonal fluctuations and any expenses associated with running a vacation rental.

Here’s a simple equation to calculate your net operating income:

Gross Monthly Income – Operating Expenses = Net Operating Income (NOI)

If you determine that you’ll get a significant increase in your NOI, then we highly recommend you convert to an STR. That’s because if you have a stronger cash flow, you can reinvest your profits to grow your real estate portfolio and make more money.

Meanwhile, converting to an STR may not be worthwhile if the value is almost the same as your long-term rental income or a trivial increase.

4. Time

Another crucial aspect to consider is your time. Managing a short-term rental can be more time-intensive than a long-term rental. Consider the additional responsibilities involved, such as planning a marketing strategy for your property, handling guest inquiries, cleaning, and maintenance.

Assess whether you have the bandwidth to dedicate the necessary time. Your time is valuable, so ensure the investment aligns with your availability and lifestyle.

5. Management Fees

If you realize you don’t have enough time to manage an STR, you can hire a property manager to do all the heavy lifting. Short-term rental managers do more than collect rent and solve tenant problems. They also do the following on your behalf:

  • Furnish your property
  • Manage online presence
  • Optimize pricing strategies
  • Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of your property
  • Ensure you have a full stock of essential supplies

Hiring property managers makes listing your properties as STR so much easier. They can alleviate some of the crucial workload of an STR, but it’s also essential to understand the associated costs and how they will impact your overall return on investment. To start, you can research multiple property management companies to compare their services and pricing structures.

Of course, you can opt out of outsourcing property managers, but be ready for the challenge of finding reliable cleaners, maintenance technicians, and other maintenance partners you’ll need.

Convert with Confidence and Embrace STR Success

Converting your long-term rental property into a short-term rental is an exciting opportunity that can bring more money into your pockets, but it’s important to proceed with caution. It’s still an investment property that inevitably comes with risks, so it requires careful consideration.

Make sure that you understand and check all the key factors mentioned above to help you make an informed investment decision that maximizes your returns.

Join a REIA of Oakland Country, MI to acquire more insights from fellow investors in Detroit.

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Short Term Rentals Shortterm Rentals

Should You Invest in Airbnbs? 2023 Short-Term Rental Real Estate Forecast in Detroit, MI

Beautifully decorated short-term rental studio unit
Source: Andrea Davis on Unsplash

What accommodation did you book for your last vacation?

We’ll bet $100 that you Googled something like “tiny home” or “farm stay” instead of the usual hotel room!

The US real estate market is filled with short-term rental market opportunities, where people gravitate towards cozy, picturesque rentals instead of cold, clinical hotel rooms. Millions of listings sell an excellent guest experience, and the market for unusual Airbnbs grew tenfold during the pandemic.

Still, some hotspot, short-term housing markets like the City of Detroit remain overlooked. Many investors focus on the likes of San Francisco, California, and miss out on the goldmine that’s largely still untapped in Michigan.

So, in this article, we’ll go through market trends and statistics that prove the potential of the Detroit short-term rental property market in 2023 and beyond.

Short-Term Property Statistics in the City of Detroit

Let’s start with the numbers. How is the Detroit real estate market performing in 2022?

Understanding the data behind the average Detroit property investment will give you an idea of the city’s short-term rental capabilities, so you’ll know what returns to expect. Besides handling renters and maintaining the property, financial viability will always be the driving factor in every good investment.

So, here’s a snapshot:

  • Affordable properties: The median price is $85,000 with 7.6% increases year-over-year, making it an affordable city. And with a price per square foot of $75 (less than half of the $222 national average), you’ll easily find Detroit properties that fit your investment budget.
  • Excellent cash flow: The rent-to-price ratio is roughly 1% to 1.5%, depending on which Detroit neighborhood you choose to invest in. With this range of ratios, you’ll easily generate strong cash flows that’ll help pay off the initial investment and start pocketing returns.
  • Profitability with short-term rentals: The average rental income for short-term rental investing is $2,246, which is a huge difference from the already-profitable traditional Detroit investing where rental income is around $979.
  • High occupancy rate: Average Airbnb occupancy rate is 50%, whereas most US markets have an average of roughly 20% to 40%.
Source: AllTheRooms

Still, be aware that the City of Detroit only allows short-term rentals in your primary residence or owner-occupied properties with two to four units. You can read more about this rule from the local government’s website to ensure that you comply accordingly.

2023 Forecast for Short-Term Rentals in the City of Detroit

As an investor, looking at market forecasts is almost as crucial as checking historical trends. So let’s take a closer look at the forecast for short-term rental properties in the City of Detroit, to help you decide if renting a Detroit home in 2023 is worth your time and money.

According to Zumper, 302 short-term rental properties are currently listed in the city. This figure may seem small compared to the literal thousands of long-term rentals you’ll see on Zillow, but it still indicates a growing short-term rental market in Detroit neighborhoods, as we’ll see in the statistics below.

1. Growing Average Rent Prices

Average rents dipped in major cities across the nation recently. But Metro Detroit as a whole is faring well, where the fastest growing rent year-on-year in the area is in Ann Arbor, where average rent has gone up 23.5% since last year—that’s a 16.1% rent increase.

The chart below shows a 20% rent increase for three-bedroom rentals in the past year:

Source: Zumper

Increasing rent means increasing cash flow for you as the investor. Combine rent increases with the impressive 50% average occupancy rate we mentioned, and you’re looking at excellent returns in the City of Detroit.

2. Increasing Property Values and Appreciation Rates

Detroit properties are increasing in value, which means you’ll get to reap excellent equity gains if you hold onto them for the long haul. Zillow reported that Detroit home values are is at $69,330 (very affordable), and Norada said the values increased by 23.7% in the past year (very valuable):

Source: Zillow

The latest forecast announces that Detroit median home prices will rise by 2.1% from 2022 to 2023.

The city’s real estate also appreciated 89.7% in the past decade, placing it in the top 30% of all cities nationwide for property appreciation. In the last 12 months, its rates have remained among the highest in the country, which explains why short-term rental investors continue to find success in the city.

3. Improving Tourism in the City of Detroit

Michigan’s Motor City has had a unique culture, distinctive architecture, and revitalization renewal efforts for the past years The city is now a prominent tourist destination, called by Time Magazine a “newfound glory,” where travelers are playing a role in its vibrant economic growth.

Eating alone is becoming a real treat in the city, where one can experience Indian cuisine in the Midnight Temple near the Eastern market, immerse themself in Chef Maxel Hardy’s rosemary-filled Rosemary cafe then stray into the adjacent cigar lounge, Byrd. Or, chow down fresh seafood boils straight from the Great Lakes at What’s Crackin’.

The city has dramatically been revitalized from “dangerous” to vibrant and impressive. Today, people are saying, “I didn’t expect the city to be like it is, it’s really amazing!” and “We got the chance to see the city and I really would recommend [coming] here.”

Owner of Multilingual Detroit Motown Tour, Dildora Damisch, shares, “This year, I cannot believe, I am booked every single day! And people coming from all over the world! Unbelievable.” And why wouldn’t she, with more than 2 million international visitors in one year alone?

Accommodations are wildly increasing in the City of Detroit to serve the influx of travelers. There are over 500 new hotel rooms currently in development, including the 158-room Cambria Hotel opening in late 2022 (with golf simulators, Bluetooth mirrors, and the  Detroit Taco Company Bodega), and ROOST Apartment Hotel is set to open in early 2023 in Book Tower, a restored iconic Detroit building.

Your short-term rental could easily leverage the city’s growing tourism industry.

2023 is a Great Year for Detroit Short-Term Rentals

Without a doubt, 2023 is an excellent year to either expand your portfolio or start investing in the City of Detroit’s short-term rental property market. With growing average rent prices, increasing property values, and improving tourism in the city, impressive historical trends will likely continue their upwards direction for years to come.

Want to learn more about Detroit real estate? Join as a member, subscribe to our newsletter, and attend our upcoming meetings! We’re doing everything we can to ensure that you’re prepared, equipped, and confident enough to reap great returns from Metro Detroit.

Categories
Short Term Rentals

6 Must-Have Decor Trends to Attract Short-Term Rental Guests this 2023

Source: TheJournal.ie

The rental industry isn’t always rainbows and butterflies. Political, economic, and health climates all take their toll. And as any STR (short-term rental) owner knows, the competitive landscape combined with the realities of the off-peak season can leave you—how shall we put it?—stressed out about your listing. 

So we’ve analyzed a company that’s consistently kept its name in the game, rain or shine. To this day, Airbnb has maintained over 4 million hosts and over 6 million active listings worldwide.

A good chunk of their success is hidden in the details—like the throw rug, wall art, and silverware. Looks aren’t everything, but in this industry, it’s certainly something to put you ahead of the competition.

We’ve gathered the latest decor trends to enhance your property’s appearance without sacrificing comfort and functionality. Incorporating any of the following ideas into your short-term rental property will keep your reservation book filled and protect your cash flow through the ebb and flow of the local market.

Top Decor Trends for Short-Term Rentals

From subdued neutrals to bold statements, these are the top decor trends for 2023 that will encourage guests to book with you. Whether you’re looking to overhaul your entire space or just give it a little sprucing up, use this guide to get inspired and create a rental that’ll smackdown competition.

1. Over-the-Top Textured Accents

Texture. It’s the interior design style people are into nowadays.

Besides exuding fun and playful vibes, textured accents bring a welcoming surprise to the space. You don’t have to invest in big statement pieces—a tufted rug or simple ribbed vase is enough to give an exciting twist to a generic-looking space.

Interior designer Joshua Smith predicts textural design trends this year to add “architectural interest while injecting an earthy texture” and to texturize natural light splashing with cloth details. He mentions specific designs like tongue and groove-boarded ceilings and light-filtering curtains.

2. The Maximalist–Minimalist Sweet Spot

There’s the maximalist design, wherein the decors are overdone and overwhelming. Then there’s the minimalist design, which means “the less, the better”. Which one should you lean toward?

All-out minimalism has the tendency to be blah and boring for short-term rentals, so designers this year recommend finding the sweet spot between maximalist and minimalist to create the perfect cozy rental. For example, look for ways to integrate fleece, knit blankets, and candles without going overboard.

3. Nostalgic Design Elements

If the pandemic gave you a hankering for the good old’ days, then you’re in luck because the 1980s are back! Design elements that were once popular are making a comeback this year, including disco-inspired and psychedelic decor. Millennials and members of Gen Z are embracing this trend, even showing off their whimsical pieces on social media.

Renowned interior designer Kellie Burke recommends coordinating vintage treasures with fabric rugs and wall coverings. “The ’80s are calling: they want their mauve gray geometrics back in fashion!” she says.

Even if completely retrofitting your rental unit isn’t your thing, don’t shy away from incorporating a few design elements to ode the decade. You’ll be surprised how many people find bold colors and patterns “modern” and appealing in this day and age.

4. Curved Furniture Pieces

This year, expect to see a lot of rounded furniture—chairs with curved backs, ottomans, and sofas with sloped arms. According to interior design experts, this unique design element creates a soft and feminine vibe, making it a go-to option if you want your space to exude a homey atmosphere.

“Furnishings of white oak with curves bring a fresh and soft wavy feeling,” recommends boutique lifestyle design firm Michelle Harrison Design. “From curved corners within walls and cabinets to curved backs of sofas, dining chairs, and arched cabinets, the angular line of furnishing is softening.”

Stray from straight lines and edges and consider curves to take your rental property design to the next level. “Things like rounded furniture allow for a different, bold style without looking garish or unsightly,” Diesel shared to Insider.

Following this design trend doesn’t mean investing in big pieces of furniture—rather, go for curved accent pieces, such as figurines and flower vases. Every small thing counts!

5. Unique Thrifts That Tell a Story

“Out with the old and in with the new,” they say—but we say “out with that adage.” Thrifting furniture and art pieces can give your rental place a special touch that stands out from the rest of the market. One-of-a-kind thrifted pieces add character to your space and even tell a story. Add to that, thrifting is better for the environment, and the cheaper price tags are more respectful of your pocket.

“A trend that will continue to grow is buying used, vintage, or antique furniture,” recommends Insider Interior Designer Jen Dallas. “It is an amazing way to add character to your home and so much better for the environment when we do.”

But be careful! Going all vintage can turn your property into a thrift store—which leads us to our next and last tip for you: mix and match.

6. Mix and Match

Enough with the furniture sets. Those get outdated quickly. Instead, mix and match your furniture.

You can personalize your rental space and add charm and character by carefully choosing pieces that complement each other. Get creative by mixing and matching new and old pieces. You don’t have to worry about things looking the same, but try to create a cohesive balance of multiple styles.

Don’t be afraid to have fun with it or even show your personality through these pieces!

Increase Your Property’s Appeal with Decor

Most landlords are tempted to save money on decorating their rental properties by doing the bare minimum. But ignoring the details won’t attract guests or help you stand out from the competition—you’ll only lose out on long-term investment gains.

So spend a couple of dollars on your property’s decor this year. You’ll give yourself the opportunity to earn thousands in increased bookings, earning back your expenses in a jiffy.

Join as a member of REIA today and attend our upcoming meeting if you’re ready to learn more, and sign up for our newsletter so you never miss any important tips to become a successful house flipper!

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Landlords

Your Essential Guide for STR Investing—With Video Tutorials!

Photo by Karsten Winegeart

As of 2023, there are more than 4 million Airbnb hosts worldwide and more than 6 million active listings on the website. Airbnb covers over 100,000 cities in the world, where 150 million users have booked over 1 billion stays on the platform.

With how much money the short-term rental (STR) industry is currently making, it’s no wonder that it’s a highly competitive market.

If you plan to enter the STR industry, you need to have a strategy to stand out. STRs are a dime-a-dozen in most tourist traps and high-traffic areas. If you don’t have a well-thought-out plan, you’ll end up with higher vacancy rates and high turnover—resulting in less cash in your pocket.

To help you set up the STR of your dreams, we’ve listed out all the steps you need to take and some extra videos to watch to learn more. Let’s get started! 

Step 1: Manage Your Finances

Before anything, you need to get your finances in order. And unless you’re planning to buy a property out-of-your-pocket, you’re going to need financing.

Ideally, you’re going to want to have a credit score of at least 620 to qualify for a property loan with reasonable terms. With your credit score in order and your loan secured, you can move on to the next step of the process.

For more detailed info, check out this video: Financing For Rental Properties 2020

Step 2: Find Your Location

With your finances secured, you can now start scouting for a location.

Above your property, location is the most important factor that determines success. Establishing an STR in a guaranteed market can reap good rewards. Take, for example, Lansing, Michigan, which is one of the top locations for STRs:

  • Average Property Price: $102,100
  • Average STR monthly income: $2,678 (the average STR host earns $924 monthly)
  • Average Cash-on-Cash Returns: 11% (you want to target between 8-12%)
  • Average Occupancy Rate: 64% (which is above the US average of 44%)

As with any big purchase, you want to have as much information about the area you intend to invest in. You can use tools like Mashvisor to find out these details.

For more detailed information on finding the best places, check out this video: Where to Airbnb  –  How to find the Best Airbnb Cities in 2021

Step 3: Learn the Laws on STRs

Depending on the area of your choice, local laws might have restrictions in place for STRs.

Take Detroit, MI, as an example. Currently, the local government is looking to heighten restrictions on STRs, but the federal government is against the proposition.

Now I know what you’re thinking: What about being unique? You want your STR to stand out of competition to attract more guests, but there are limitations to how “unique” you can be. You can offer cool features like workout equipment or an air fryer in your property, but you can’t go against local regulations, like establishing your STR in residential areas or near airports or highways.

Learn the laws on STRs in your area, and work with them instead of against them.

For reference: Michigan Abolishes Local Laws That Limit Short Term Rentals

Step 4: Buying Your Property

Now that you know the location and you have studied the laws, it’s time to look for your investment property. You can use the MLS to look up properties within your price range and ideal size. You can also look through sites like Zillow or Redfin to scout for properties.

You can also choose to work with wholesalers if you’re willing to go through the process of heavy renovations.

Another option available for you is to rent a property that you can turn into an STR. You’ll work with a landlord that’s willing to sublease their property. After coming to terms with the landlord, you can use their property as an STR.

Check out 7:03 to 8:43 of this video for more info: How To Buy Your First Airbnb Property | Beginner’s Guide

Step 5: Redecorate Your Property

It’s highly unlikely that the property you just bought is great for an STR right out of the box. So, you’re going to need to make some adjustments to attract tenants.

A good tip would be to paint rooms a neutral color. You want to appeal to the biggest audience possible, and to do that, your property has to give off a homey feel. Neutral colors can help achieve this. Another way to accomplish this is by fixing the property lighting. No one enjoys harsh lights, so setting up dimmer switches for lights can be a way to set mood lighting.

These are just some general tips for redecorating your property; feel free to give your personal touch.

Take a look at this video to see how to revamp your STR: Airbnb Hosting: 4 Interior Design Tips to Make Your Airbnb Standout! 🔥(2018)

Step 6: List Your Property on STR Sites

Now it’s time to list your property.

But before you do that, you need to take care of some things first. First‌, you can use Mashvisor again—or similar tools—to run comps on similar STR prices  within a one-mile area. You need to keep your rates within a reasonable margin of your competition.

The next step is to take attractive pictures of your property. For example, use paintings or artwork as background pieces to a listing photo. Also, make sure to thoroughly clean rooms when taking photos. Dust can make or break a tenant’s decision to book.

Lastly, highlight your STR’s amenities. A 2019 survey showed that a deciding factor for bookings is amenity availability; 74% of people are more likely to book your STR if it has Wi-Fi.

Once you have accomplished these 3 things, you can list your STR.

We recommend watching this video for more tips: How to make an airbnb listing LIKE A PRO (step-by-step tutorial)

Use this Guide to Navigate the Waters of the STR Market

Investing in STRs can be a scary prospect. You’re up against a lot of competition, and it might be challenging to stand out. With no guidance, it can be daunting to invest in the market.

But, with our online syllabus, you don’t need to worry. If you follow our guide, you won’t find yourself lost. We will guide you through every step of investing in an STR.

Do you have any expert advice for STR management? Let us know below!

Categories
Short Term Rentals

What Are Airbnb Guests Dreaming of in 2023 & How can You Benefit?

Checking out Airbnbs for an upcoming trip.
Source: Pexels (cottonbro)

In recent years, short-term rentals (STR) like Airbnb have become a popular choice for travelers. What began as a small start-up has turned into a global phenomenon, with millions of people booking rooms on the platform—especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, where everybody avoided hotels.

But what exactly are people looking for when it comes to their Airbnb accommodations? Just because travelers are back doesn’t mean it’s the same as pre-pandemic times. You need to know what’s trending and if people are after something luxurious or more relaxed and homey experiences.

Knowing that is crucial because it will help you create an Airbnb that guests will want to revisit repeatedly, decreasing your vacancy rate and ensuring that profits keep coming in. So let’s take a look!

6 Trends That’ll Make You the Ultimate Airbnb Host in 2023

Here are six trends to boost your bottom-line profits and increase your occupancy rate. If you’re an Airbnb host or an STR owner, make sure your rental has all the amenities guests are looking for to stand out.

1. Business Travelers Are Back: Make the Space Work-Friendly

Given the COVID-19 pandemic, the business travel industry took a big hit and left it uncertain. Luckily, things are opening up, and business travels are expected to increase this 2023. There’s also anticipation for an increase in business travel spending. This increase means you could receive an influx of professional guests hoping to find comfortable workspaces.

So consider offering amenities that business travelers appreciate, such as multiple plugs and ports for easy charging, fast Wi-Fi, and a spacious desk. You might also want to include a safe where they can store their valuables—anything to make the space feel like a work-home hybrid spot.

2. Travel Is 24/7: Don’t Force Guests to Stick to a Strict Schedule 

People travel around the clock and frequently encounter unexpected situations along the way, so make your check-in time flexible. They can’t control what life may throw at them, so they’ll surely appreciate it if their accommodations can flex along with them.

For instance, suppose a guest’s flight was due to arrive at 9 p.m., but because of aircraft maintenance, they were delayed by two hours. If you listed your Airbnb check-in time as until 10 p.m. with no exceptions, then you’re making everyone’s lives difficult—especially given that 20% of US flights at airports saw delays last year.

So put up a lockbox so that guests can self-check in. Offering options make your listing more appealing to those trying to limit contact with others and increases convenience and safety for all parties.

3. First Impressions Matter: What Will Guests Think?

What will your guests think when they walk through your short-term rental door? Will they notice the badly-lit hallway with peeling paint and crooked frames or the cozy space that feels like a home away from home?

Guests likely won’t spend much time in the entrance area, but this serves as their first impression of your property—don’t miss the chance to wow them right from the start.

Some Airbnb hosts repaint their front door every season, while others opt for more sophisticated features, such as outdoor lights with motion detectors. The goal is to ensure that the “wow factor” is there when the guests arrive, and that the feeling will stay with them throughout their stay.

4. Hotels Aren’t Cool: Turn Your Airbnb Into a Home

People book an Airbnb because they want to feel right at home, as some studies have found. Even when exploring places they’ve never been to before, guests wish for a quiet space to relax. So, to make their stay homey and enjoyable, consider providing these amenities:

  • Toiletries (e.g., shampoo and conditioner)
  • Bath towels and fresh linens
  • Local snacks and drinks (including drinking water)
  • Simple office supplies
  • Don’t forget coffee & tea!

Additionally, you can invest in a Smart TV so they can stream their favorite films and shows, similar to how they probably spend their extra time at home. Moreover, you can go the extra mile and provide a local guidebook to help them explore the area, especially if you get many out-of-town travelers.

5. Minibars Are Useless: Stock the Kitchen with Essentials 

Like most travelers, Airbnb guests will most likely order delivery or grab some take-out for their meals. But one advantage that most short-term rental properties have over hotels is a fully working kitchen, where guests can opt to cook as they do at home.

Of course, they won’t expect your property to have cupboards filled with fresh groceries and a refrigerator stocked with milk and cheese. But there are certain things they hope they won’t have to buy, such as cooking utensils (e.g., pots and pans) and pantry basics (e.g., salt, pepper, sugar, and cooking oil).

Providing a kitchen with all the essentials ensures that your guests have a positive experience in your Airbnb, where they get the comforts of a home beyond that of a hotel room.

6. More Than a Place to Stay: Offer an Experience

You can offer more than a place to stay by offering an experience, too. Add value to your listing and leave your guests with a special memory by sharing a talent or passion of your own. You might decorate with a collection you’ve built over the years or paint the home like your bright, Latin American childhood house.

Integrate activities into your rental house by focusing on one of the 3 categories of Airbnb Experience: culture & history, food, or nature & outdoor. For example, you might focus the vibe of your rental on how to cook like a local, guided hike, or yoga. Whatever activity you choose to focus your style on, ensure its hands-on. Airbnb also has rules for these experiences to be approved, so don’t forget to check them out.

Leaving your guests with a lasting memory (not just that they booked a place to sleep) makes them more likely to recommend and return, which means a chance to earn more cash.

Give Guests Their Dream Airbnb Stay

Airbnb isn’t going anywhere. And with the travel industry starting to return to its pre-pandemic levels, you’ll likely see more and more guests booking your property. Ensure it has everything they’re dreaming of—whether that’s a homey space or world-class amenities—so your rental property investment is always booked. The more you offer, the more they’ll return!

Looking for someone to handle your Airbnb property? Our team of expert property managers are here to help you out. With more than two decades of experience, they’ll take your listing to the next level.

Get in touch with us today to find your perfect partner.

Categories
Short Term Rentals

Top 3 Tools to Price Your Short-Term Rental Perfectly, Maximizing Attraction and Profits

A small home made out of dollar bills
Source: Kostiantyn Li on Unsplash

Pricing your rental property perfectly is a complicated dance.

Price it too high, and you’ll reduce the number of bookings dramatically; price it too low, and you’ll leave money on the table and not make enough profits to cover the inevitable expenses.

So what do you do?

The task defeats most humans, but it’s nothing too tricky for technologies to figure out. So read ahead to learn the top three tools to price your short-term rental perfectly, finding that sweet spot price that attracts enough renters without undercutting your profits.

Criteria for Finding the Perfect Tool for Pricing Short-Term Rentals

There are different ways to price your rental, depending on the type of rental property it is. For example, a vacation rental will be priced differently than an urban apartment rental. And within each category, some subcategories will also change the price (i.e., a luxury condo in New York City will go for more than a standard one-bedroom in Tucson).

The perfect tool for pricing your rental should consider all of these factors and give you a competitive estimate based on comparable properties in your area. It should also allow you to adjust the price according to your goals and objectives, whether you’re looking to maximize profit or occupancy.

So, here are four key things to look for in a rental pricing tool:

  • Ease of Use: The best pricing tools are easy to use and don’t require a lot of data input.
  • Accuracy: The tool should be based on real-time data and accurate market trends.
  • Flexibility: You should be able to adjust the price according to your own goals and objectives.
  • Integration Ability: The ideal tool can integrate with other vacation rental software (e.g., channel managers, property management systems, and property listing sites).

We’ve used these criteria to provide you with five of the best pricing tools in the market today.

Top 3 Short Term Rental Pricing Tools

As a property management company, we’ve used nearly all the tools you’ve heard about. Based on our experience, these are the top five pricing tools we’ve found to be easy to use, accurate, flexible, and integrate with other software easily.

1. Airbtics: Get Ahead of the Pricing Competition

Source: Airbtics

Airbtics is a dynamic vacation rental pricing tool that allows users to filter daily prices of similar rentals based on trends. The tool will recommend pricing based on its machine learning algorithm that uses real-time booking data, so all its suggestions are accurate and considers spikes in supply and demand. You can also integrate it with any property management system or tech solutions you’re currently using.

Source: Airbtics

Moreover, Airbtics charges a fixed rate—unusual for pricing tools that usually takes a 1-2% commission from the user. There’s also a 15-day trial period for property managers with at least 5 properties.

2. Beyond Pricing: Optimize Your Pricing Opportunities

Source: Beyond Pricing

Beyond Pricing is an advanced short term rental pricing software that considers changes in demand on a daily basis, all to help you maximize your short-term rental occupancy and revenue. It even rates your properties with a Health Score to ensure that you’re aware of your opportunities for optimization.

Moreover, you’ll see detailed insights with every price recommendation, so you understand the reason for every suggested price. And it’s not just for the current landscape, as Beyond Pricing will provide forecasts and recommendations for pricing your rental next year.

Source: Beyond Pricing

Beyond Pricing comes with a free insights package, but you can take it a bit further with their paid plans. It also offers custom plans for unique portfolios, and can connect to popular property management systems and channel managers.

3. PriceLabs: Customize According to Market Movements

Source: PriceLabs

PriceLabs is a customizable, data-driven pricing tool to boost your revenue. Its price recommendations are based on the market’s supply and demand, seasonalities, short-term rental trends, special events and holidays, and lead time. It’ll pinpoint the dates where demand is high by checking the data of nearby listings, analyze historical data, and evaluate your listing’s performance to give the best pricing possible.

PriceLabs’ customization features include setting dynamic minimum stays, enabling occupancy-based pricing adjustments, and more. Plus, the tool can easily connect to more than 30 property management systems and channel managers.

Source: PriceLabs

Its pricing structure works as you scale your business, which is perfect for growing portfolios. There’s also a 30-day free trial before a contract that you can cancel anytime, and it charges a flat monthly fee.

Price Your Short-Term Rental for Maximum Occupancy and Revenue

All three of the dynamic pricing solutions above are excellent choices for optimizing your short-term rental prices. They use different methods for price recommendations, but they’re all accurate to your market. And, most importantly, they integrate well with other software solutions you’re currently using.

Of course, the alternative to using technology is to hire an expert property management company that knows the local market inside out. If you’re investing in the Metro Detroit area, give us a call! We have the experience and knowledge to manage your rentals for maximum occupancy and revenue.

Sign up as a REIA member, subscribe to our newsletter, and join our upcoming meeting to get insider knowledge on real estate investing. This is your opportunity to network and become a better short-term rental landlord and investor as fast as possible.

Categories
Short Term Rentals

Modern Management: 6 Best Tools for Short-Term Rentals (And How They Can Boost Your Profits)

Source: Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

There are more than 2 million vacation rental properties up for grabs—and that’s just in the United States alone! You already know that the competition is strong. Plus, you have to constantly deal with:

  • Responding to inquiries from potential guests
  • Updating your property’s availability on multiple platforms
  • Managing the schedules of your cleaning staff
  • Handling check-ins and guest demands

With all these tasks to consider, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—even if you only have one short-term rental property. Luckily, there are a ton of great apps and digital tools to help you automate your most tedious tasks. Not sure where to begin? Read on!

How Will My Short-Term Rental Property Benefit From Apps and Digital Tools?

Generally, people embrace automation when they want to quickly and easily complete tasks. It’s no different in the short-term rental industry, where landlords like you must deal with repetitive chores.

Not only do apps and digital tools clear up your to-do list, but they also allow you to boost your occupancy rates and dominate the competition. Here’s a list of how tools help you manage your short-term rental:

  • Save time: You can automate tasks that are repetitive and time-consuming yet critical to the success of your rental. Apps and digital tools can save you time on listing properties, answering guest inquiries, and managing booking requests.
  • Improve communication with guests: Your guests’ experience in your short-term rental unit is enhanced by messages and reminders that they automatically receive to their phone. Using digital tools to communicate with your guests also helps in avoiding misunderstandings.
  • Increase efficiency: You’re enabled to manage multiple short-term rental units from one central location. Some apps and digital tools even track and analyze data, which allows you to make informed decisions about your business. 
  • Increase revenue: Potential guests receive quicker responses to their general inquiries and booking requests when you automate your messages to them. This can help increase your occupancy rate, which, in turn, boosts your overall revenue.

Clearly, automation allows you to enjoy the benefits of being a short-term rental landlord without having to deal with its associated burdens. But there are so many apps and digital tools out there, that it can be hard to figure out which one is right for your business.

No worries—we have you covered! Here are several tools that we believe will increase your occupancy rates and make your business a huge success. 

6 Best Tools for Short-Term Rentals

From automated reminders to tracking data, there are apps available for every aspect of managing a short-term rental unit. These are our top recommendations:

For Scheduling Cleaners: Breezeway

Managing a cleaning schedule isn’t as easy as you think. To ensure that your guests will always be greeted by a spick-and-span vacation rental, you must have a system in place that allows you to seamlessly coordinate with your turnover service providers.

Enter Breezeway—a platform that features innovative scheduling and quality assurance tools for both cleaning and maintenance staff. It even analyzes how productive staff members are, which allows you to assign the right task to the right person at the right time.

For Synchronizing Your Listings: iGMS

If you want to list your properties across multiple websites, invest in a good channel manager. Aside from increasing your short-term rental unit’s exposure, list synchronization eliminates the risk of accidentally double-booking dates.

iGMS is a challenge manager that allows you to seamlessly list properties on some of the industry’s most popular websites, including Airbnb, Booking.com, and VRBO. It features a world-class dashboard, too, which allows you to easily keep an eye on everything.

For Managing Your Property: Tokeet

Want a fairly hands-off approach to managing your short-term rental properties? Tokeet is your best bet. Its core features include a direct booking website builder, which allows you to easily create your own page for direct reservation management. No more paying hefty commission fees to Airbnb or Booking.com!

Tokeet also offers a dynamic pricing tool called Rate Genie, which automatically updates your rates across multiple channels. It’s powered by data-driven algorithms that determine the best prices for your properties, allowing you to increase your rental revenue by as much as 30%.

For Messaging Guests: Duve

Communicating with guests is a labor-intensive task that takes up a lot of your time. From patiently answering their inquiries to confirming their bookings, you might just find yourself spending hours on your booking platform’s chat function.

Duve allows you to genuinely and smartly manage every single aspect of your guest communications. Send automated messages, provide contactless check-ins, and collect important information before your guests arrive. The single smart platform even offers a customizable welcome app that will enhance their experience and ultimately increase your revenue.

For Turning Your Property Into a Smart Home: Operto

In the short-term rental industry, going above and beyond to provide guests with an excellent stay is key to keeping bookings full. Nowadays, most guests are tech-savvy and work remotely, so giving them a positive experience can be as easy as investing in smart technology.

Operto offers exactly that. It’s an integrated suite of smart home solutions that allows you to streamline your operations and create a contactless guest experience. For instance, Operto implements smart locks and sensors. It can even regulate the property’s thermostat, which saves you big time on energy costs.

For Welcoming Guests: HelloHere

Most—if not all—travelers want to experience new places like true locals. So, if you want to avoid being bombarded with messages about which restaurants to eat at, consider investing in HelloHere, a “digital guestbook” that caters to their every need.

HelloHere offers a destination guide containing every answer to your guest’s inquiries, from fantastic local restaurants to sights that shouldn’t be missed. It also features a live chat function, so you’ll no longer have to worry about guests calling you in the middle of the night!

Automation: A Foolproof Way to Boost Your Business

With countless apps and digital tools available, embracing automation for your short-term rental business is no longer an insurmountable challenge. By investing in these nifty software solutions, you’ll reduce your workload without sacrificing your occupancy rates and revenue!

If you’re a short-term landlord in Oakland, streamline your daily rental tasks and boost your guest interaction today with these top-recommended technologies. We’d love to have you in our community!

Join as a REIA member today to attend our meetings and sign up for our newsletter.

Categories
Landlords

5 of the Most Important Clauses Your Lease Agreement Should Have

: A beautiful single-family residence along E Kirby St., Detroit
Source: Zillow

We’ve seen many poorly written leases – and the legal implications can be devastating. That’s why it’s important to avoid cookie-cutter leases that fail to give you the protection you need as a landlord.

Because the truth is this.

No matter what kind of property you’re leasing, you need to have a great, not just a good, lease agreement. This document will protect you and your tenant by outlining the lease terms, including the rent amount, length of tenancy, and rules for using the property.

To help you create a strong lease agreement, we’ve compiled a list of 5 critical clauses that every lease should have, in addition to term, lease payments and other basics.

1. Use Clause

The first clause in your lease agreement should be the use clause. This clause outlines how the tenant may use the property. For example, if you’re leasing a commercial space, the use clause might specify that it can only be used for retail purposes. If you’re renting a residential property, the use clause might determine that it can only be used as a primary residence.

2. Subletting Clause

The second clause in your lease agreement should be the subletting clause. This clause outlines whether or not the tenant is allowed to sublet the property. If you ‌allow subletting, include provisions about how it must be done (e.g., the tenant must get your approval first).

3. Maintenance and Repair Clause

The third clause in your lease agreement should be the maintenance and repair clause—this clause outlines who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the property. In most cases, the landlord handles major repairs, and the tenant is responsible for minor repairs and routine maintenance.

4. Utility Clause

The fourth clause in your lease agreement should be the utility clause—outlining who pays for utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and trash service. In most SFR residential leases, the landlord is responsible for paying for trash service, while the tenant is responsible for paying for electricity gas and water.

5. Security Deposit Clause

Your lease agreement’s fifth and final clause should be the security deposit clause. This clause outlines the security deposit amount and how it will be used. For example, the security deposit can be used to cover damages to the property or unpaid rent at the end of the tenancy. Be sure to include provisions about how the security deposit will be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease.

Don’t Make Mistakes with Your Clauses

Including these 5 crucial clauses in your lease agreement can help ensure that you and your tenant are protected throughout the tenancy. And don’t forget that these aren’t the only clauses you should include in the agreement! Several other clauses are commonly included, such as a late payment fee clause, a pet policy clause, and a no smoking clause.

Do you need help drafting a strong lease agreement? We can help!

Join as a member today and get in touch with us. You can also sign up to our email newsletter so you never miss any important information like this.

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