Host Planet: Expert Insights for Short-Term Rentals

Dynamic pricing is a must-have for every short-term rental host and property manager – but not everyone knows how to use it effectively.In today's Host Planet Podcast, Shreeja Jamdar from PriceLabs shares five tips to help hosts leverage dynamic pricing to boost revenue and occupancy.Key takeaways:• It is vital to understand your market• You must set the correct base price• Having a minimum stay strategy is a must0:52 Tip 1: understand your market4:49 Tip 2: get your base price right9:48 Tip 3: set a strategic minimum rate11:55 Tip 4: adapt minimum stays accordingly15:15 Tip 5: track performanceUse code HOSTPLANET15 for 15% off PriceLabs: https://pricelabs.co/users/sign_up?referral=HOSTPLANET15Links:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Shreeja Jamdar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shreejajamdar/PriceLabs: https://pricelabs.co/users/sign_up?referral=HOSTPLANET15Episode to check next:Airbnb does not want you to listen to Mark Simpson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4B7VBSExRkU&t=11sThe Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley – a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including almost a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 organising committee.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HolidayLets #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #SelfCatering #Property #PropertyInvestment #PropertyManagement #Airbnb #BookDirect #DirectBookings #JamesVarley #Bookingcom #Vrbo #DynamicPricing #RevenueManagement #PriceLabs #ShreejaJamdar

Kay Walten is a hospitality and AI expert who has merged her two passions to create a growing business: Smart Pineapple.On today's episode of Host Planet Bitesize, sponsored by Hostfully, Kay explains how short-term rental hosts and managers can utilise AI to create marketing content for their properties.Key takeaways:• Your prompts must be clear, direct, and full of detail• Try various AI platforms to see which is the best fit for your business• You must review and edit the content1:25 Be clear and direct2:39 Add detail7:07 Keep the conversation going9:06 Review and edit12:57 Try different AI platforms14:34 The AI platforms Kay recommends trying15:42 Smart Pineapple: https://www.smartpineapple.ai/Links:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Kay Walten: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaywalten/Smart Pineapple: https://www.smartpineapple.ai/Episode to check next:Airbnb do not want you to listen to Mark Simpson: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6AW5aNPaOWvtoizOA9Rd1UThe Host Planet Mortgage Podcast is presented by James Varley – a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including almost a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 organising committee.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#AI #Content #ChatGPT #SmartPineapple #HolidayLets #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #SelfCatering #Property #PropertyInvestment #PropertyManagement #Airbnb #BookDirect #DirectBookings #JamesVarley #Bookingcom #Vrbo

In this episode of the Host Planet Playbook – powered by Hospitable – we sit down with Jeremy Rosen, a full-time nurse who has built a 20-property short-term rental portfolio in San Antonio, Texas.Jeremy shares how he balances nursing with hosting, scaled his business while working full-time, and the systems and people that help him deliver a standout guest experience. From co-hosting tips and staff training to the biggest lessons he’s learned along the way, this episode is packed with practical insights for hosts at every stage.The Host Planet Playbook series is your guide to mastering the short term rental industry. This series features 30 top property managers discussing what drives success in vacation rentals and how to achieve business growth. Learn their key lessons and the technology they use to ensure guest satisfaction, helping you to grow your vacation rental business. If you're serious about your real estate investment, this series is for you.1:48 20 rentals in San Antonio, Texas2:05 A full-time nurse invests in real estate 3:40 Balancing nursing and hosting 4:54 Scaling to 20 properties 6:51 Tips to people who want to co-host while working a full-time job8:37 The San Antonio market 10:42 How Jeremy stands out 14:08 How to deliver a great guest experience 15:47 How to train staff to align with your methods 18:04 Biggest lesson learned: who not how19:14 What Jeremy loves most about hosting20:46 Quickfire questions Jeremy Rosen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yhamllc/Your Home Away Management: https://yham.host/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: https://hospitable.com/partners/hostplanetDownload a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, we’re joined by Andy Fenner, Chief Executive of the Short Term Accommodation Association, to unpack the biggest policy and pressure points facing the short-term rental sector right now.From the proposed visitor levy and how it should be administered, to the realities of tourism capacity, infrastructure investment, and the short-term lets registration scheme, Andy shares a clear industry perspective. We also explore the 182-day threshold in Wales, the value of industry events like the Host Planet Roadshow and Short Stay Summit 2026, and finish with Andy’s New Year resolution for the sector.Host Planet Roadshow: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-roadshowShort Stay Summit '26: https://www.shortstaysummit.org/1:06 The potential visitor levy2:22 How much more can tourism take?5:26 Lobbying the levy7:58 How should the levy be administered?11:59 Tourism infrastructure needs investment14:16 Short-term lets registration scheme 15:59 Why the registration scheme is a good idea19:30 The 182-day threshold in Wales 24:32 What people can expect from the Host Planet Roadshow 26:08 The value of attending industry events 29:50 Short Stay Summit 202633:30 Andy’s new year resolution for the industry Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Andy Fenner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfenner2025/Short Term Accommodation Association: https://ukstaa.org/Episode to check next: Your Personal Brand Is Worth More Than Your Company Logo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nR2UxICG0e8&t=3sHost Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #STAA #VisitorLevy #ShortStaySummit #HostPlanetRoadshow

Why should short-term rental hosts make time for in-person events in 20In this Host Planet Bitesize episode – powered by Hostfully – Lisa Roads from the Women in Short Term Rentals Community shares five key reasons to attend the Host Planet Roadshow, starting in Cornwall on 5 February.From hyperlocal content and a boutique, high-impact format to collaborative roundtables and creating more space for women to shape the future of the STR industry, this episode explains why the Roadshow is designed differently – and who it’s really for.Get your ticket for the Host Planet Roadshow: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-roadshow2:05 Hyperlocal content for each location3:23 Convenient for hosts in key holiday let regions5:11 A boutique event – built for high-impact networking6:32 A collaborative and engaging roundtable format7:55 Encourage more women to shape the narrative of the short-term rental industryLooking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Lisa Roads: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaroads/Episode to check next: 5 Reasons Your STR Needs AI Right Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GM-zt2OvS3kHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #LisaRoads #WomenInShortTermRentals #Cornwall #Devon

Holiday let regulation is changing fast – and confusion is costing owners time, money, and peace of mind.In this episode of Holiday Let Insider, we’re joined by Ben Spier from Sykes Holiday Cottages to unpack the latest UK Budget reaction, proposed tourism levy, business rates changes, and the growing list of compliance requirements facing holiday let owners across the UK.We cover what owners really need to know about safety regulations, insurance, registration schemes, EPC ratings, and why rules vary so widely by region – plus how the industry can work together to thrive.A must-watch for holiday let owners who want clarity, not headlines.Disclaimer from Ben Spier: None of what I say should be taken as legal, planning, tax, health and safety or other kind of advice, rather as a prompt of the issues involved for further consideration. It shouldn't be relied upon as advice. Neither I nor Sykes will be responsible, or assume liability, for any loss or damage suffered due to reliance on it.1:58 Budget reaction – including the proposed tourism levy3:46 Message to mayors in favour of the tourism levy4:50 How a tourism levy should be administered5:49 Get your ticket for the Host Planet Roadshow: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-roadshow7:21 Changes to business rates 11:26 What owners need to know about regulation 12:48 Business rates13:35 Fire and gas safety regulations 16:27 Make sure you take out the right insurance policy17:12 The impact of the 182-day business rates threshold in Wales 19:43 Registration scheme for short-term rentals 24:04 Talk of EPC minimum ratings for holiday lets 27:37 Planning permission rules vary across the UK29:46 The biggest misconceptions about holiday letting 34:57 How Sykes helps owners keep up to date with rules and regulation 36:57 How people can help the industry to prosper Ben Spier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-spier-099a503/Work with Sykes Holiday Cottages to let your property: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/letyourcottage/Call: 01244 356 666Visit: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/letyourcottage/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Episode to check next: Holiday Let Pricing Secrets & Hot Tub Hype: Maximise Your Revenue with Sykes Holiday Cottages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fu3kkR90-8&t=1sHoliday Let Insider is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #SykesCottages #JamesVarley #BenSpier #STAA #PASCUK #ASSC

Welcome to the Host Planet Playbook, your guide to mastering short-term rentals. This series features top property managers sharing their success stories, key lessons, and the technology they use to deliver five-star guest experiences and ensure guest satisfaction. If you're serious about growing your short term rental business, and improving your overall hospitality, you're in the right place.Starting a short-term rental business can feel overwhelming – especially when you’re juggling it alongside a full-time job.In today's Host Planet Playbook feature – powered by Hospitable – I’m joined by Brendan McNeal, Founder of NoMi Stay, to talk about his journey into short-term rentals in Michigan. From getting started, overcoming analysis paralysis, and building a co-hosting model, to delivering great guest experiences and planning for long-term growth.If you’re thinking about running short-term rentals as a side hustle – or scaling beyond your first few properties – this one’s for you.1:39 Nomi Stay based in Michigan 2:28 How Brendan got involved in short-term rentals4:34 The journey 7:27 Analysis paralysis 9:42 Tips to people who want to manage rentals as a side hustle12:04 Challenges and opportunities in Michigan 16:03 How to deliver a great guest experience19:56 Co-hosting22:56 Providing great experiences for guests 23:41 Quickfire questions27:54 Ultimate goalNoMi Stay: https://www.nomistay.com/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: https://hospitable.com/partners/hostplanetDownload a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

In this edition of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – we’re joined by Andy Easton, Managing Director of Beach Retreats, to talk candidly about selling a holiday let business.Andy shares what it felt like to sell Beach Retreats, how the sale process unfolded, and the lessons he learned from due diligence, buyer conversations, and building a strong brand that delivered 97% direct bookings. He also offers practical advice for business owners considering an exit.We also discuss the first leg of the Host Planet Roadshow, which kicks off in Cornwall on Thursday 5 February 2026, with Beach Retreats as Event Partner. Andy explains why events matter, the challenges facing short-term rental businesses in Cornwall, and what attendees can expect from the Roadshow.0:45 What it felt like to sell Beach Retreats1:46 The sale process4:05 Reaching out to potential buyers4:43 The due diligence process 7:09 Advice to business owners who want to sell7:58 Strong brand and marketing8:59 How to achieve 97% direct bookings10:32 Attend events to build relationships 11:39 Andy’s feelings as he prepares to exit Beach Retreats12:22 What’s next for Andy13:15 Host Planet Roadshow kicks off in Cornwall on 5 February 202614:48 Sticking up for the industry16:15 The challenges short-term rental businesses are facing in Cornwall 17:26 What Roadshow attendees will benefit from19:39 Expect actionable tips, major brands, and a local focus at the RoadshowGet your ticket for the Host Planet Roadshow: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-roadshowLooking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Andy Easton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyeaston/Beach Retreats: https://www.beachretreats.co.uk/Episode to check next:Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #BeachRetreats #AndyEaston #Cornwall #HostPlanetRoadshow

On this week's Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – James Varley welcomes Nick Massey from Proper Insurance to discuss essential insights for buying and managing short-term rental properties.They tackle five common myths about vacation rental insurance and provide crucial information every host needs to hear. This episode is packed with tips to help you understand Airbnb insurance and protect your investment property effectively.1:59 Myth number one: regular home insurance is substantial enough4:08 Myth number two: free insurance from my OTA is enough protection5:36 Myth number three: my property management company will have me covered7:13 Myth number four: umbrella insurance covers everything10:37 Myth number five: I cannot be held liable for the negligence of my guest14:28 The examples Nick shares to encourage hosts to get the right cover18:47 Proper Insurance: https://www.proper.insure/Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Nick Massey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nmassey1/Proper Insurance: https://www.proper.insure/Episode to check next: The 5 Automations Every STR Host Needs to Scale: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nszD2cXYM8Host Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #Insurance #STRInsurance #VacationRentalInsurance #ProperInsurance #NickMassey

In this Host Planet Playbook feature, sponsored by property management software, Hospitable, we’re joined by Mina Saastad from Cabin Living in Norway.Mina shares how Cabin Living got started, the realities of hosting in Norway, and what it takes to deliver a standout guest experience – from direct bookings to keeping owners happy.1:39 Cabin Living – based in Norway1:56 How Cabin Living got started 2:28 The challenges and opportunities in Norway 4:14 Target guests 4:48 Domestic and international guests 5:08 Delivering a great guest experience 6:08 How to keep owners happy6:52 What makes Cabin Living stand out7:35 Details matter 8:07 What Mina loves most about hosting8:46 The regulatory situation in Norway 9:27 Using social media to drive direct bookings10:38 The most effective direct booking tactics 11:37 Growth plans12:23 Learning from the industry13:12 Quickfire questionsCabin Living: https://cabinliving.no/en/vacation-home-rental/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: https://hospitable.com/partners/hostplanetDownload a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

Kristina Castellina, the Founder of Empress Hall in Blackpool, is the special guest on today's Host Planet Podcast, sponsored by Hostfully.Kristina's advice for business owners: don't hide behind a logo. Instead, focus on building your personal brand across social media. She shares the story of the 10-bedroom Empress Hall, including how she documented every step of the refurbishment on social media – a tactic which achieved significant press coverage and helped to drive direct bookings.Learn about Kristina's entrepreneurship journey and the valuable business tips for anyone looking to make their mark. Discover how to build a brand that resonates with your audience and cultivates a strong business mindset.0:13 Hosting by the seaside in Blackpool1:35 Setting up Empress Hall and Kristina’s initial goals3:38 Marketing – including documenting every step of the refurbishment on social media 4:42 How to get press coverage: contact journalists 5:45 The amenities which sell Empress Hall 7:08 Guest communication, including outsourcing 8:03 Find the gap in the market 11:37 How to attract tourists all-year-round13:26 How to grow on Instagram: build a personal brand and don’t hide behind a logo17:07 The opportunities social media has created for Kristina 19:25 Website, Instagram, Facebook20:54 Favourite brand: Charles Alexandar Short Stay22:10 Individual shout-out: Swish Apartments 23:00 Biggest lesson learned: it’s not for the faint hearted Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook?You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Kristina Castellina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinacastellina/Empress Hall: https://www.empresshall.co.uk/Episode to check next: Hosting in Paradise with Robin Bass (Hold the Rum!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTEkLHIzef8&t=4sHost Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer

In this edition of Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – Carlos Castillo from Direct BookMe shares practical insights on how hosts can build trust, understand their ideal guest, and communicate with impact.Carlos reveals why communication is your superpower, how automation should support (not replace) hospitality, and what every host must do to make guests feel confident booking directly. We also explore the balance between tech and human touch, plus simple ways to elevate your guest experience.1:52 Build trust 2:07 Get to know your ideal guest 2:27 Communication is your superpower 2:38 Automate where you can 2:52 It’s hospitality – act like it!3:46 How to make sure guests trust your business4:28 The importance of understanding your target guest5:25 Automation and guest communication 6:50 Remember, it’s hospitality 7:50 Direct BookMeLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Carlos Castillo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-castillo-73732a36b/Direct BookMe: https://directbookme.co/Episode to check next: Beyond’s Guide to Profitable Slow Periods: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLIi2ftGzSs&t=4sHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #CarlosCastillo #DirectBookMe

In this episode of Host Planet Playbook – powered by property management software, Hospitable – we’re joined by Greg Lupone, Founder of Stingray Villa in Cozumel, Mexico.Greg shares his journey into short-term rentals – from a career in the US Navy, to running restaurants, and ultimately building a standout vacation rental brand in one of Mexico’s most popular island destinations. We explore what makes Stingray Villa unique, how Greg uses blogging and photography to build an online presence, and why guest experience sits at the heart of his hosting strategy.This episode is packed with practical insights for hosts looking to stand out in destination markets, attract the right guests, and build a brand that lasts.1:36 Stingray Villa in Cozumel, Mexico1:56 Getting involved in short-term rentals3:05 From the US Navy to restaurants and eventually short-term rentals3:59 How Stingray Villa stands out in Cozumel 5:03 Building an online presence with blog posts 5:57 The location and target guests 6:34 Great photography is key7:12 How to deliver a great guest experience 8:00 The power of blog posts 11:02 What makes your brand stand out 11:46 Challenges and opportunities in Cozumel 12:49 What Greg loves about hosting13:28 Biggest lesson learned 13:54 Quickfire questionsGreg Lupone / Stingray Villa, Cozumel: https://stingrayvilla.com/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: https://hospitable.com/partners/hostplanetDownload a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

What happens when you stop treating property like real estate – and start treating it like hospitality?Real estate investor Frank Iglesias joins the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – to explain why vacation rentals outperform traditional property strategies, and what investors need to understand to build a five-star, guest-first business.1:08 The lightbulb moment 6:07 Step one: look for properties in vacation areas 8:58 Vacation rentals compared to other types of property investment 12:31 Understand you’re buying a business – this is hospitality 15:38 How to deliver a great guest experience 19:14 The tech you need when starting out: start by leveraging Airbnb and Vrbo22:06 How to achieve five-star reviews24:12 Favourite brands: Amazon and Walmart25:29 Shout-out 27:19 Biggest lesson learnedLooking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Frank Iglesias: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-iglesias-755415b9/Episode to check next: Budget Hits Holiday Let Owners | Here's What Changed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5frnO4oY20Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #FrankIglesias

Tired of manual check-ins, missed cleaning notifications, and utility bills going through the roof? It's time to automate your short-term rental business!In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize – powered by Hostfully – we welcome Dipen Gala from Lynx, the leading smart home automation software for property managers. Dipen shares the five essential automations that will free up your time, cut operating costs, and dramatically enhance your guest experience.These automations are the secret to running a true hands-off, scalable STR business.2:08 Door locks2:37 Text the guest the moment they arrive3:21 Personalise the TV screen4:11 Temperature control for energy saving5:15 Upselling 10:15 Lynx Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Dipen Gala: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dipengala/Lynx: https://www.getlynx.co/Episode to check next: How Short-Term Rental Hosts Can Utilise AI Today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJCr2Aq47v0&t=1183sHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #STRAutomation #SmartHome #VacationRental #LynxAutomation #PropertyManagement #AirbnbHost #DipenGala #HospitalityTech #Lynx

In this Host Planet Playbook episode, powered by Hospitable, James sits down with Allison Craft, Founder of Crafty Hosting, who scaled from a single rental to 16 listings in Tampa, Florida.Allison shares her journey from corporate finance into vacation rentals, how she built a family-oriented brand, the systems that keep owners happy, and what it really takes to deliver a great guest experience at scale.She also breaks down the opportunities in Florida, the realities of regulation, her biggest lessons learned, and her advice for anyone dreaming of leaving their job to become a co-host.1:42 Crafty Hosting – 16 listings in Tampa, Florida 2:16 From the first rental to co-hosting 3:23 Scaling to 164:43 From corporate finance to vacation rentals 7:40 How Allison stands out with a family-oriented brand9:09 How to keep owners happy10:31 How to deliver a great guest experience 13:23 Opportunities in Florida14:29 Regulation15:37 Biggest lesson learned 18:51 What Allison loves most about hosting: creating the systems 20:21 Advice for people who want to leave their jobs and start co-hosting21:47 Quickfire questionsAllison Craft / Crafty Hosting: https://craftycohost.com/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: https://hospitable.com/partners/hostplanetDownload a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn:Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

On today's Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – Matt Jeffery from Zeal Tax explains how a client with 15 holiday lets was able to save thousands in tax by claiming previously overlooked capital allowances.This case highlights the importance for furnished holiday let owners to stay informed on UK business tax strategies. Ensure you're not missing out on crucial savings – reach out to Zeal for expert advice today.0:51 Key takeaways from the budget 7:39 The impact of higher taxes on dividends (it might be more than you think)9:23 People with jobs and property income are likely to suffer from stealth taxes – because personal allowances are not moving10:33 Should people with property in their personal name incorporate it into a limited company?14:16 Stamp duty implications for investors incorporating into a limited company15:51 Was there any positive news from the budget? Business rates, perhaps?20:39 The government’s Making Tax Digital campaign28:13 Capital allowances – why holiday let owners need to claim now20:25 The deadline for claiming capital allowances Looking for a great property management software or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Matt Jeffery: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-jeffery-156a8245/Zeal Tax: https://gozeal.co.uk/services/industries/hch-furnished-holiday-lets/Episode to check next: Holiday Let Pricing Secrets & Hot Tub Hype: Maximise Your Revenue with Sykes Holiday Cottages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fu3kkR90-8Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #ZealTax #HolidayLetTax #FHL #MattJeffery

In this Host Planet Bitesize episode, sponsored by Hostfully, Thomas Tewolde from Charge Automation shares five powerful automation tips that every short-term rental host should implement.Thomas breaks down how to automate everything before arrival, keep the check-in flow short, personalise the guest journey, provide instant access, and reduce guest effort at every stage.If you want to streamline operations, save time, and improve guest satisfaction, these insights are essential.1:56 Automate everything before arrival2:18 Keep the check-in flow short3:15 Personalise the journey for each guest5:41 Give instant access7:15 Reduce guest effort8:37 Charge AutomationLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Thomas Tewolde: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-tewolde-22098a30/Charge Automation: https://chargeautomation.com/Episode to check next: 5 Reasons Your STR Needs AI Right Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GM-zt2OvS3kHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #ChargeAutomation #Automate #ThomasTewolde

Discover how Amy O’Sullivan built Wild Hideaways – a collection of six luxury lodges with an on-site spa in the heart of south-west Ireland – and turned it into one of the region’s most memorable five-star escapes.In this inspiring Host Planet Playbook episode – powered by property management software, Hospitable – Amy shares her journey from Somerset to Cork (with stopovers in Manchester and Australia), her leap from music and drama teacher to hospitality entrepreneur, and the passion behind creating a space guests instantly fall in love with.We explore how Wild Hideaways generated direct bookings from day one, why guests keep coming back, what makes the brand stand out, and the biggest challenges and opportunities facing rural luxury accommodation. Amy also reveals her top tips for delivering an unforgettable guest experience, the power of upselling, and the importance of community in Cork.1:39 Wild Hideaways: six luxury lodges + on-site spa2:12 The journey to south-west Ireland, from Somerset, via Manchester and Australia2:50 Sharing a special space 3:38 Music and drama teacher to five-star hotel in a field5:50 Direct bookings from day one7:29 Repeat bookings from happy guests 9:15 What makes Wild Hideaways stand out11:09 Challenges and opportunities12:30 Tips for delivering an outstanding guest experience15:32 Upselling17:33 Community is huge in Cork19:20 Biggest lesson learned21:04 Loving those five-star reviews21:51 Quickfire questionsAmy O'Sullivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-o-sullivan-540909302/Wild Hideaways: https://wildhideaways.ie/The Host Planet Playbook was created in collaboration with Hospitable. Interested in using a PMS which will help you manage your rentals on autopilot? Get 25% off Hospitable for the first three months: Download a free copy of the Host Planet Playbook: https://www.hostplanet.club/host-planet-playbookThe Host Planet Playbook series is presented by James Varley, Founder and CEO of Host Planet. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/

The lines between hotels and short-term rentals are dissolving. In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – powered by Hostfully – we sit down with Rebecca Hollants Van Loocke, COO EMEA of Frasers Hospitality, one of the world's largest serviced apartment operators.Rebecca shares key strategies on:Corporate and extended stays: how to attract and manage reliable, long-term corporate bookings (the most stable revenue stream).The luxury of space: why spacious, home-like functionality is now non-negotiable for high-end guests.Scaling quality: lessons on using smart technology and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent, hotel-level service across a global portfolio.If you want to professionalise and secure long-stay revenue, this episode is essential viewing.0:49 Why serviced apartments are the future 1:56 How the pandemic supercharged serviced apartments3:34 Nomadic young people who work remotely6:14 Lack of seasonality and high corporate demand7:45 The non-negotiables for serviced accommodation9:16 Revenue management 11:33 Blended portfolio helps to avoid some regulation13:19 Distribution channels, including 70% direct bookings13:48 Business development, including direct sales management 15:02 Loyalty programme16:28 How to attract more corporate bookings17:45 Essential tech stack for serviced accommodation19:53 Delivering a local experience22:40 Favourite brand24:22 Another favourite brand: Kayak24:57 Key learning from serviced apartment spaceLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://tinyurl.com/3ay8bhtkKeen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://tinyurl.com/Hostfully-DemoEmail Frank: frank@hostfully.com Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Rebecca Hollants Van Loocke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccahollants/Frasers Hospitality: https://www.frasershospitality.com/en/Episode to check next: Hosting in Paradise with Robin Bass (Hold the Rum!): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTEkLHIzef8&t=4sHost Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: info@hostplanet.club#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer