How to Start an Airbnb

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Get your Amazon Shopping Cart   In this episode, I’m sharing a real, honest breakdown of what I no longer buy for my Airbnb properties, and why. After getting hit with a massive 30-inch snowfall at our cabins and managing guest expectations in the middle of chaos, it reminded me just how important it is to have systems and smart decisions in place. I walk through the biggest purchasing mistakes I’ve made over the years, from cheap furniture that doesn’t last, to design choices that actually hurt guest perception. If you’re in the furnishing, upgrading, or scaling phase of your short term rental, this episode is your reality check. Not everything that looks good or feels like an upgrade will actually increase your bookings, your reviews, or your nightly rate. And if it doesn’t do at least one of those things, it’s probably not worth your money. Key Takeaways Cheap furniture will cost you more long term, you are better off investing in quality upfront White bedding builds trust with guests and signals cleanliness, darker colors can raise doubts Strong scents, candles, and plugins can negatively impact guest experience Fragile items, including wine glasses and decor, will break quickly and create safety risks Overly complicated smart home systems lead to confusion and more guest messages Every upgrade should serve a purpose, bookings, ADR, or reviews Some amenities sound great but do not perform based on your market or location Pinterest design does not always translate into a functional or guest friendly space Avoid anything controversial, including religious or political decor Furniture layout matters more than you think, flow impacts guest experience Do not cheap out on towels, guests notice comfort details immediately Why Listen to This Episode? If you are currently setting up your first Airbnb or thinking about upgrading your space, this episode will save you money, time, and frustration. I am sharing real mistakes I have made across multiple properties so you do not have to learn the hard way. This is also a great episode if you feel like you are constantly spending money on your property but not seeing a return. I will help you shift your mindset into making strategic, ROI driven decisions instead of emotional or aesthetic ones. Let’s Connect Thinking about what to buy or skip for your Airbnb? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you are ready to launch or scale your Airbnb the right way, my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything from property selection to full setup and systems. You will learn how to make smart investment decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a short term rental that actually performs. Chapters 00:00 Life update and upcoming guest interviews 02:00 30-inch snowstorm and managing guest expectations 06:00 Why this episode matters, stop wasting money 07:30 Cheap furniture mistakes 09:00 Bedding choices and guest perception 13:00 Strong scents and guest sensitivity 15:30 Fragile decor and wine glasses 18:00 Smart home technology pitfalls 20:30 ROI driven upgrades and amenities 22:30 When amenities are not worth it 23:30 Design mistakes and Pinterest traps 24:30 Avoiding controversial decor 25:30 Furniture layout and flow 26:45 Towels and guest comfort 28:30 Final thoughts and resource mention Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you rethink your Airbnb setup, share it with a friend who is in the process of furnishing their rental. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss upcoming guest episodes, especially the one dropping this April that I am so excited about 👀

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I’m diving into one of the biggest questions new short term rental investors ask me all the time. Should you buy your first Airbnb close to home or invest long distance in a stronger market? After a week of Airbnb chaos and dishwasher drama, I also share why I took a short break from the podcast and what that experience reminded me about time, systems, and running your rental like a business. I walk through the real pros and cons of both strategies, including why long distance investing can actually force you to build better systems, how a strong team becomes the backbone of your Airbnb business, and why investing close to home can sometimes create more work than you expect. If you’re trying to decide where to buy your first Airbnb property, this episode will help you think through the decision from a practical, real world perspective.   Key Takeaways Close by properties feel convenient, but they can pull you into doing everything yourself. Long distance properties force you to build systems and rely on your small but mighty team. Your cleaner, handyman, lawn care provider, and even neighbors can become critical partners in running your Airbnb. Property management software can automate guest communication and reduce your daily workload. Your time has value, driving hours to fix small issues may cost more than paying someone locally. For first time investors, owning a property nearby can help you learn the operations before scaling further away. Successful Airbnb businesses rely on systems, processes, and trusted people.   Why Listen to This Episode? If you are thinking about buying your first short term rental, location is one of the most important decisions you will make. In this episode I share real experiences from managing properties within a few hours of home, including the good, the frustrating, and the lessons learned along the way. You will learn how distance affects your systems, your time, and your mindset as an Airbnb host. Whether you plan to invest locally or across the country, understanding these differences can help you build a more sustainable Airbnb business.   Let’s Connect Thinking about where to buy your first Airbnb? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress. I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.   Work With Me If you want step by step guidance on finding, launching, and managing your own short term rental, check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course. Inside the course I walk you through: Finding the right Airbnb propertyRunning the numbers and evaluating ROIDesigning and furnishing your rentalBuilding your team and automating systemsLaunching and optimizing your listing Learn more here:https://theairbnbroadmap.com   Chapters 0:00 Life update and why I skipped last week3:00 The dishwasher chaos continues6:20 The big question, local vs long distance Airbnb investing7:30 Why long distance investing can actually work better11:00 Running your Airbnb like a business12:00 The convenience trap of nearby rentals14:30 Time vs money for Airbnb owners16:00 Who should be your local contact person18:30 Cleaners, handymen, and neighbors as your team21:30 Would I buy long distance for my first Airbnb23:30 Why local investing can still be valuable26:00 Final thoughts on choosing the right strategy   Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. And if you know someone who is thinking about starting their first Airbnb, send this episode their way. It might help them make one of the biggest decisions in their investing journey.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I am sharing a very real behind the scenes look at what the past week has looked like in our short term rental business. Between a dishwasher claim, rude guest messages, and review threats, it has felt like when it rains it pours. Instead of letting it spiral, I used these situations as a reminder of why being proactive instead of reactive is everything in this business. I walk you through two real guest scenarios, exactly what was said, how I handled it, and what I did behind the scenes to protect our listings, reviews, and sanity. If you have ever felt stressed by a guest, worried about a bad review, or unsure how to handle a tricky cancellation situation, this episode will help you think 3 steps ahead instead of constantly putting out fires. Key Takeaways Why proactive communication protects your reviews • How to handle guests who threaten bad reviews • When to call Airbnb and document everything • Why small refunds can protect long term revenue • How automation tools like Hospitable help create consistency • Why keeping communication inside Airbnb matters • How reviews shape your visibility and bookings • Why sometimes you have to spend $50 to protect thousands Why Listen to This Episode? Because hosting is not about avoiding problems. It is about having a plan before problems happen. I break down a situation where a guest refused to cancel and openly admitted he wanted to leave a bad review. Instead of panicking, I called Airbnb immediately, documented everything, and had a note placed on the reservation. If he leaves a retaliatory review, it gets removed. That is proactive hosting. I also share how I handled a dishwasher breaking mid bookings, what I did to soften the inconvenience, and how one guest still pushed back. These are the moments that test you as a host. We also talk about the power of reviews and where the whole review culture actually started, shoutout to Michelin for creating the original rating system that evolved into the Michelin Star system. Wild, right? This episode is equal parts strategy and real life hosting therapy session. Mentioned in the Episode Airbnb Vrbo Booking.com Hospitable Michelin Let’s Connect Thinking about how to protect your Airbnb reviews or handle difficult guests? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you want systems, scripts, automation, and proactive hosting strategies built out step by step, check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I teach you how to protect your time, your revenue, and your sanity while building a 5 star short term rental business. Chapters 00:00 Life update and guest chaos 05:00 Guest threatens bad review over cancellation 10:00 Calling Airbnb and documenting everything 15:00 Dishwasher drama and handling inconvenience 20:00 Why refunds can protect long term income 24:00 The origin of reviews and why they matter 27:00 Protecting your property with proof and photos 30:00 Final thoughts on proactive hosting Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you feel more confident as a host, make sure you subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another short term rental owner who needs to hear this. The more proactive you are, the less reactive you have to be.  

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website   Episode Summary In this episode, I am sharing exactly what I tell every first time investor who calls me wanting to buy a short term rental in Wisconsin. From understanding state, county, and township regulations to septic capacity, negotiations, inspections, and writing strong offers, I break down the full process step by step. If you have ever thought about buying a $600,000 cabin near Wisconsin Dells, Baraboo, or Castle Rock, this is your behind the scenes look at what actually happens from first phone call to closing day. And yes, there is a little life update in the beginning involving a dishwasher disaster and a flooded kitchen. Because real life still happens while building businesses. Key Takeaways How Wisconsin short term rental regulations work at the state, county, township, and neighborhood level • What a Tourist Rooming House license inspection includes • Why septic capacity can make or break your investment • Why I personally avoid properties in HOA neighborhoods • How I protect my buyers with strategic offer language • Why sellers do not need to know you are an investor • What happens during due diligence and inspections • The risks of negotiating too hard • Why three bedroom properties are my personal sweet spot • What experienced investors look for versus first timers Why Listen to This Episode? Because buying a short term rental is not just about finding a cute cabin in the woods. It is about understanding local regulations, septic ratings, conditional use permits, resident agents, and knowing how to structure your offer correctly so you do not get blindsided later. If you want to invest in Wisconsin and avoid expensive mistakes, this episode is your crash course. Let’s Connect Thinking about buying your first Airbnb in Wisconsin? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress. I would love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you are ready to buy a short term rental in Wisconsin, I cover anywhere in the state. I walk my clients through regulations, numbers, offer strategy, and everything in between. Want the full roadmap before you even start shopping? Check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course where I break down finding, analyzing, launching, and scaling your STR the right way. Chapters 00:00 Dishwasher disaster and life update 06:45 First call with a new STR buyer 08:30 Wisconsin state level licensing explained 12:00 County and township regulations 16:30 Septic capacity and occupancy limits 18:45 Running the numbers and cash flow expectations 21:00 How I preview properties for out of state buyers 23:30 Offer strategy and negotiation tactics 27:00 Due diligence and inspections 29:30 What happens after closing Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you understand the Wisconsin short term rental process, share it with someone who is thinking about investing.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Websitert Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I am breaking down Airbnb cancellation policies in real life terms, not just the fine print. This episode was inspired by a recent midterm guest who booked for 3 months and left after only 2 weeks, plus ongoing damage claim frustrations with Airbnb support. I walk through what actually happens when guests cancel short stays versus long stays, why rejecting an alteration can sometimes protect you financially, and how different cancellation policies impact both hosts and guests. I also share personal stories from my own properties, including extreme cold weather stress, property damage realities, and how distance from your rentals forces you to become a better manager instead of a reactive host. If you have ever been confused, frustrated, or blindsided by Airbnb cancellations, this episode will give you clarity and confidence moving forward. Key Takeaways Airbnb has different cancellation rules for short stays 27 nights or fewer and long stays 28 nights or more • All Airbnb listings include a 24 hour free cancellation window if the booking is made at least 7 days before check in • Flexible policies are guest friendly but offer the least protection to hosts • Moderate policies provide a balance between bookings and host protection • Limited and firm policies increase host protection but may reduce booking conversion • Long term stays function more like leases and can guarantee up to 30 nights of income • Rejecting an alteration does not penalize your host account • Never cancel on behalf of a guest or you risk losing Superhost status • Distance from your properties can actually help you scale and systemize better Why Listen to This Episode? If you host short term or midterm rentals and want to avoid losing thousands of dollars due to misunderstandings around cancellations, this episode is a must listen. I explain Airbnb policies using real numbers, real scenarios, and real outcomes so you can make smarter decisions for your listings. This episode is especially helpful if you are considering midterm rentals, traveling nurse stays, or longer bookings and want to understand how to protect your income while still staying guest friendly. Let’s Connect Thinking about Airbnb cancellation policies or midterm rentals? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your experience. I would love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you are looking to buy, sell, or scale a short term rental, or if you want access to my Airbnb Roadmap course and resources, reach out. I also connect investors with STR focused agents across multiple states because there is a huge difference between a regular agent and one who truly understands short term rentals. Chapters 00:01 Life update and recent guest damage 02:18 Temporary fixes and real world hosting decisions 04:40 Managing properties near vs far 07:05 Midterm guest cancellation story 10:29 Why Airbnb cancellations are confusing 12:50 Airbnb 24 hour cancellation rule 14:24 Flexible cancellation policy explained 19:12 Moderate cancellation policy explained 21:28 Limited cancellation policy explained 23:56 Firm and strict short stay policies 31:35 Airbnb policy changes in 2025 39:46 Choosing the right policy as a host 44:30 Long stay cancellation policies 46:53 Why rejecting alterations matters 51:02 Firm vs strict long term stays 54:03 Airbnb resort for sale opportunity 55:22 Courses, resources, and next steps Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you understand Airbnb cancellations better, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be confused or stressed about cancellations. I will see you in the next episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website This episode is a full vacation recap turned Airbnb reality check. I’m sharing what happened when I traveled with a baby, lost my voice, and still had to manage multiple Airbnbs from Mexico while dealing with extreme cold, frozen pipes, surprise early check ins, guest damage, and a very expensive plumbing bill. Normally my systems are automated and smooth, but this trip was back to back shenanigans that no amount of prep could have fully prevented. If you think owning Airbnbs means passive income with zero stress, this episode brings you right back to reality. Key Takeaways Owning Airbnbs does not mean nothing will ever go wrong, even with great systems Extreme cold can expose hidden issues in older properties You need backup contacts and solutions when contractors are unavailable Clear check in boundaries matter and early arrivals can create real problems Guest damage can happen fast, even with families and short stays Automations are helpful but can backfire if you forget they exist Vacations are still worth it, even when things go sideways Why Listen to This Episode? If you own or want to own short term rentals, this episode is a real behind the scenes look at what can happen when life, travel, weather, guests, and maintenance all collide at once. I walk through how I handled each issue, what frustrated me the most, and what I learned from it all. This is the honest side of hosting that rarely makes it to Instagram. Let’s Connect Thinking about managing Airbnbs while traveling or dealing with guest damage? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress. I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you want help building systems that actually support your lifestyle and not run it, check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I teach you how to set up, automate, and manage your short term rentals with confidence, even when things go wrong. Chapters 00:00 Losing my voice and recording anyway 04:00 Getting sick before vacation and traveling with a baby 06:00 Midterm guest issues and washer dryer expectations 08:45 Extreme cold and frozen toilet pipes 13:30 Plumber chaos and a $450 bill 20:45 Early check ins and cleaner boundaries 23:00 Guest damage and burned countertops 27:30 Unauthorized re entry after checkout 31:00 Airbnb reimbursement and review frustration 33:40 Dishwasher issues and wrapping up the trip Subscribe and Share If this episode felt real, relatable, or helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another Airbnb host who needs to hear that even the messy weeks are survivable. I’ll see you next week, hopefully with my voice back.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website In this episode, I’m getting real about something no one loves to talk about: Airbnb maintenance. Fancy amenities like hot tubs, arcade games, golf simulators, saunas, and movie theaters can absolutely boost your average daily rate—but they also come with nonstop upkeep, guest messages at inconvenient hours, and real risk to your reviews. I’m sharing real stories from my own Airbnbs—what broke, what I removed, what I kept, and why I now prioritize simple, durable, and low-maintenance setups over flashy features. If you’re deciding what amenities to add (or skip), this episode will save you money, stress, and late-night headaches. Key Takeaways High-end amenities can increase ADR, but they also increase risk Hot tubs and pools require constant attention—not occasional check-ins Arcade games and golf simulators break more often than you think Guests book based on amenities—and punish you in reviews when they don’t work “Set it and forget it” should be your Airbnb goal Lower maintenance = better lifestyle, fewer refunds, and more consistent 5-star stays Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re debating whether to add a hot tub, sauna, arcade game, or golf simulator—or you already have one and feel overwhelmed—this episode will help you think like an investor, not just a designer. I break down what actually works long-term and how to protect your time, sanity, and reviews.   Let’s Connect Thinking about Airbnb maintenance or amenities? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what features you’re debating! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.   Work With Me Want to build an Airbnb that actually makes money without owning a full-time tool belt? 🎯 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — step-by-step guidance to launch smart 🚀 Mentorship Program — hands-on support and strategy 🎉 Launch Party Bonuses — $100 off the course + mentorship discounts 👉 Bonus: Buy the course, purchase an Airbnb with one of my recommended agents, and get the course refunded 100% after closing. Yes—completely free. Links are in the show notes or DM me for details. Chapters 00:00 – Testing the mic + life update 02:30 – Why this episode exists 07:45 – Fancy Airbnbs vs. maintenance reality 11:00 – Hot tubs: the biggest offender 15:00 – Arcade games that didn’t last 18:30 – Saunas: worth it or risky? 22:45 – Games that don’t break 25:15 – Golf simulators gone wrong 27:30 – Movie theater & Roku issues 30:00 – Real maintenance from back-to-back bookings 33:00 – The lifestyle cost of “resort-style” Airbnbs 35:00 – Course launch party + refund bonus Subscribe and Share If this episode saved you from buying a hot tub (or validated your regret 😅), please subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a friend who’s designing their Airbnb right now. It helps more than you know.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I’m breaking down why Airbnb and Vrbo reviews are everything, especially when you’re launching a new property. I share real-life examples from our most recent Airbnb launches, including how we intentionally lowered pricing to stack reviews fast, why we accepted a 3-month midterm stay, and the pros and cons of sacrificing short-term reviews for guaranteed spring cash flow. We also dive deep into the psychology behind reviews, why asking for them isn’t awkward (or pushy), and the exact systems I use to consistently earn five-star feedback, even when small issues pop up. If you’ve ever stressed over a four-star review or felt weird asking guests to leave feedback, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Reviews are the lifeline of your Airbnb (right next to great cleaners) Sometimes lowering prices early helps you win long-term Midterm stays can stabilize slow seasons—but cost you review volume Asking for reviews is not awkward—it’s strategic Timing your review messages matters more than you think Subtle language like “hope you’re having a five-star stay” works A single four-star review can hurt a new listing more than you realize Airbnb and Vrbo handle reviews very differently behind the scenes Hospitality beats perfection every single time Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re launching a new Airbnb, struggling to recover from a less-than-perfect review, or unsure how to ask for reviews without sounding desperate, this episode gives you real-world strategies you can use immediately. I’m sharing exactly what’s worked (and what didn’t) across multiple properties—no fluff, no theory, just experience. Let’s Connect Thinking about Airbnb reviews or launching a new property? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Want the exact guest messages that have helped me earn hundreds of five-star reviews? The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything—from finding the property to launching it with systems that actually work. 🎉 Launch Party Bonus: Get $100 off for a limited time Seats are limited (because I still want time with baby Melanie—and daycare isn’t cheap 😅) Chapters 00:00 – Life update & launching two new Airbnbs 02:30 – Why we accepted a 3-month midterm stay 05:45 – The review vs. cash flow tradeoff 08:30 – Why reviews matter more than you think 10:45 – How (and when) to ask for reviews 14:00 – Subtle messaging that works 18:15 – WiFi password hack 20:30 – The danger of early four-star reviews 23:00 – Airbnb vs. Vrbo review systems 26:00 – Final thoughts & course invite Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another Airbnb host who needs to hear this. Reviews matter—on podcasts too 😉

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary This episode is a full zoom-out reflection on 2025, a year that completely reshaped how I look at short-term rentals, success, systems, and family. From having Baby Melanie, launching multiple Airbnbs, renovating while pregnant (yes, really), traveling, and still growing the business… this year forced me to stop hustling harder and start building smarter. I’m sharing what actually changed after becoming a mom, how automation became non-negotiable, why things never “calm down,” and how that realization led me to finally finish and refine the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. This one’s honest, personal, and very real. Key Takeaways Life doesn’t slow down, you just build better systems Automation isn’t optional if you want freedom You don’t need chaos to scale short-term rentals Hustle looks very different after kids (and that’s okay) Pausing growth doesn’t mean quitting, it means prioritizing ROI matters more than flashy renovations The goal isn’t more properties, it’s more freedom Building once, correctly, pays you over and over again Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever thought: “I’ll start when life calms down” “I don’t have the time right now” “This feels overwhelming” “How do people do this with kids?” This episode is for you. I walk through what scaling actually looks like in real life — not the Instagram version, and how systems, boundaries, and clarity make growth sustainable. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about starting or scaling an Airbnb in 2026? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you’re ready to: Buy your first Airbnb Scale smarter (not harder) Build systems that give you your life back Avoid expensive rookie mistakes The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything I actually use — from finding the right property to launching, automating, and growing with confidence. The 4-week Launch Party includes live access to me for questions, feedback, and real-time support. Chapters 00:00 – Holiday chaos & daycare closures 02:30 – Reflecting on 2025 04:30 – Hustle vs motherhood 06:30 – Buying another Airbnb while pregnant 09:00 – Why systems became non-negotiable 10:30 – Traveling while payouts roll in 12:45 – Why we bought another property 15:30 – Choosing to pause growth 16:45 – Things never calm down — you just build smarter 19:00 – Why I created the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator 23:00 – What’s inside the course 26:00 – 4-week launch party details 29:30 – Growth, family, and priorities 30:45 – Looking ahead to 2026 Subscribe and Share If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Your support means more than you know 🤍

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I’m sharing a real-time mindset shift I’ve been going through as an Airbnb owner, investor, and mom. After a year of podcasting, learning from top producers, academy students, and coaches, my expectations for what an Airbnb should look like quietly skyrocketed. And honestly? I had to reel it back in. We’re talking about the pressure to make every Airbnb Instagram-worthy, why “quietly performing” properties are often the best ones, and how guests actually compare your listing (hint: it’s usually not to viral Airbnbs). I also share lessons learned from buying existing Airbnbs, backend organization mistakes I made early on, and why I’ve developed a new respect for property managers—especially in this season of life with baby Melanie. This episode is part reflection, part reality check, and part permission slip to stop overcomplicating your Airbnb. Key Takeaways Following top producers and high-level investors can raise your standards—but it can also distort reality Not every Airbnb needs luxury upgrades, hot tubs, cowboy tubs, or viral features to perform well Guests are usually comparing your Airbnb to local listings or hotels, not Instagram-famous properties Clean, comfortable, and accurate listings often outperform “over-designed” spaces ROI, maintenance, and long-term sustainability matter more than wow-factor Backend systems (utilities, logins, account numbers) matter more than you think Property managers aren’t “giving up”—they’re choosing a different goal Some Airbnbs are meant to be destination stays, others are meant to quietly cash flow Instagram fame does not equal profitability Simpler systems = less stress and more freedom Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever felt like: Your Airbnb isn’t “good enough” compared to what you see online You’re overthinking upgrades and design choices You’re torn between self-managing and hiring a property manager You’re scaling faster than your systems can keep up This episode will help you reset expectations, refocus on what actually matters, and make smarter decisions based on your market—not social media pressure. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about simplifying your Airbnb, setting realistic expectations, or scaling without burnout? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you want to learn how to set up systems that let you manage your Airbnb in 15–30 minutes a week, early bird access for my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator is coming soon. This course walks you through: Systems & automation Guest communication Backend organization Scaling without chaos And the best part? I keep it affordable because I believe your money is better spent buying your first Airbnb—not overpriced education. I also have turnkey Airbnb retreats for sale in La Crosse, Wisconsin. If you want details, just reach out. Chapters 00:00 Welcome & life update 02:30 One-year podcast reflection 05:00 Expectations rising from high-level exposure 08:30 What guests actually care about 12:00 Existing Airbnb inspection reality check 15:00 Instagram vs. real-world performance 18:00 Backend organization mistakes 21:00 Utility tracking lessons 23:00 Property management mindset shift 25:00 ROI vs. luxury upgrades 27:00 Course mention & closing thoughts Subscribe and Share If this episode gave you permission to stop overthinking your Airbnb, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who needs to hear this. It helps the podcast more than you know—and I truly appreciate you being here.

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I’m taking you behind the scenes of our latest “turnkey” Airbnb… that turned out to be anything but low effort. 😅 I share why I had to re-record this entire episode (tech drama, zero audio, stomach-drop moment), how we partnered with our investor friends from Texas to buy a primary home with an in-law suite above the garage, and why “turnkey” still meant months of assembly, design tweaks, and problem-solving. You’ll hear what happened with our Matterport disaster, the gap between interior design ideas and what’s actually realistic to install (looking at you, ceiling wallpaper and curtain rods), why paint is now my arch nemesis, and how we decided what to DIY vs. hire out. I also talk about doing all of this while baby Melanie started crawling mid-renovation, nearly giving Clay a concussion with a post driver (marriage is wild), and how our bodies are telling us we’re not 22 anymore. We wrap up with a mini announcement about the brand-new Airbnb Roadmap website, the early bird deal on my course, and a shoutout for a fully turnkey Airbnb resort for sale in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Key Takeaways “Turnkey” doesn’t mean done. Even when a property is move-in ready, there are still layers of Airbnb-specific work: wallpaper, assembly, decor, layout tweaks, amenity planning, and guest experience touches. Interior design vs. real life can clash. Ceiling wallpaper, moving curtain rods, or fancy ceiling tiles sound fun… until you’re on a ladder fighting with them and questioning your life choices. Matterport can save you… or annoy you. Not all Matterport plans include measurements, which designers actually need. Understanding the package level (or having a backup provider) matters. Ordering furniture yourself vs. having a designer do it are two totally different systems. You ordering = better discounts + control, but much more chaos, tracking deliveries, and out-of-stock surprises. Designer ordering = less chaos for you, but returns are slower and you may not realize something is tiny/quirky until it shows up. Label your paint cans. Slightly different shades on one wall are officially my villain origin story. Touch-ups without clear labeling are a nightmare. Budgeting to hire help is worth it. Spraying garage ceilings, painting ceiling tiles, and doing special wall details were totally worth hiring out—especially as we’re juggling a baby and full-time work. Renovating with a crawling baby changes everything. Time, energy, guilt, and logistics all hit differently when you’re trying to be both “present mom” and “project manager.” Big picture: it was still a smoother renovation overall. It wasn’t a gut job, but it brought its own set of challenges that are shaping how we’ll plan the next one. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re dreaming of buying a “turnkey” Airbnb and think it’ll be a light lift… this episode is your reality check (in the best way). You’ll get: A real-life look at what actually happens between “closing day” and “Airbnb live.” Insight into working with interior designers for STRs and how to avoid miscommunication. Practical lessons from our paint, wallpaper, and furniture ordering mistakes so you don’t repeat them. Encouragement if you’re trying to build your Airbnb portfolio while juggling kids, work, marriage, and limited time. A sneak peek at our revamped website, course, and an incredible turnkey Airbnb resort opportunity in La Crosse, WI. If you like honest, slightly chaotic, behind-the-scenes stories that still teach you something, this one’s for you. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about renovating your own “turnkey” Airbnb or juggling a reno with kids, work, and life? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. 💛 Work With Me 🎙 Listen to The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast Keep tuning in every week as I share real numbers, real stories, and real lessons from our own short-term rentals and my clients’ deals. 🏡 Buy or Sell an Investment Property in Wisconsin If you’re wanting to buy or sell an STR (or a primary home with Airbnb potential) in Wisconsin, I’d love to be your agent. I work under Front Porch Realty, brokered by Real Broker LLC, and I specialize in helping investors and “first-time Airbnb people” find smart, profitable properties. 📚 Airbnb Roadmap Course (Early Bird) Want everything I’ve learned—mistakes, systems, and shortcuts—all in one place? My brand-new course is live with a crazy early bird discount. It’s not in the show notes yet, so just reach out and I’ll send you the secret link. 🌲 Turnkey Airbnb Resort in La Crosse, WI If you’ve been wanting an already-recognized Airbnb resort/retreat that’s turnkey and cash flowing, I have one available in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The seller isn’t bailing because it’s failing—he’s just onto a new adventure. Message me for details. Chapters 00:00 – Tech fail & why this is “round two” of the episode 02:15 – The “turnkey” property: how we found it and partnered with Texas investors 04:30 – Matterport drama: no measurements, subscription levels, and saving the day 07:30 – Interior design vs. reality: ceiling wallpaper, curtain rods, and ceiling tiles 11:00 – Two designers, two approaches: who orders furniture and what that changes 14:30 – The chaos of deliveries, missing lamp, and long lead times 17:30 – Tiny $50 decor, returns, and the difference between corporate vs. flexible designers 20:00 – Paint can nightmares, unlabeled colors, and touch-up disasters 23:30 – What we hired out vs. DIY: painters, ceiling tiles, and special wall details 25:30 – Fence install, post driver mishap, and almost concussing Clay 27:45 – Renovating with a crawling baby + grandparent help and mom guilt 29:30 – Sauna delivery saga and finally being “photo ready” 30:45 – What we created: movie theater, wellness garage, game garage, and backyard 31:30 – New website, early bird course info, La Crosse resort opportunity & wrap-up Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes renovation episode, follow/subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap so you don’t miss what we do with this property next. Know someone who’s about to buy a “turnkey” Airbnb and thinks it’ll be easy? 😏 Send them this episode so they can go in prepared. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you in next week’s episode!

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and in today’s episode I’m giving you a very real life update (hi, stress!) and then diving into one of the BIGGEST misconceptions about choosing the right location for your Airbnb. Everyone thinks the best rentals are smack-dab in the heart of a big city—near stadiums, shops, and all the hustle. But honestly? The most consistent and most profitable performers are almost always outside the big cities. I walk you through why regulations in major cities are risky, the psychology of why guests CRAVE peaceful spaces, and how looking just 10–20 minutes outside the hot spots gives you more freedom, better booking rates, and less competition. I also spill one of my biggest investor secrets: the difference between mailing address and municipality, and why that one detail can make or break your STR strategy. And of course… I share some behind-the-scenes chaos from renovating two Airbnbs at once, waiting on delayed neon signs, and trying to hit photo-day deadlines while losing my mind. 😅 Key Takeaways Big cities look sexy… but they come with strict rules, sudden regulation changes, high taxes, and heavy competition. • Smaller surrounding townships often allow STRs with far fewer restrictions—and rarely change their rules. • Guests LOVE peaceful, quiet, memory-making stays: cabins, lakes, farmland, ski-hill cottages, tiny homes, etc. • Properties just 10–20 minutes outside a major city can outperform because they offer relaxation and convenience. • Wisconsin Dells, Madison, NYC—all have strict STR limitations, but townships right outside their borders are often STR-friendly. • Your mailing address ≠ municipality, and municipality is what determines your STR rules. • Many investors are completely overlooking township opportunities—giving you a massive leg-up. • You can still design your rural Airbnb with a “big city feel” to attract urban travelers. • Less competition outside the city means your calendar is more likely to stay booked. • My secret investor hack: always check the municipality FIRST before assuming a property’s STR rules. Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve been scrolling Zillow thinking, “I’ll never be able to get an Airbnb inside a major city,” you’re not wrong—but you also don’t need to. This episode shows you exactly where to look instead, how to strategize smart, and how you can get into STRs without fighting every investor in your area. Plus, if you’ve been overwhelmed with location decisions, this will simplify your search and give you clarity on what actually books year-round. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about buying an Airbnb outside the big city? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what areas you’re exploring! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to find, launch, or scale your short-term rental? Whether you need help finding a property, analyzing a deal, or understanding regulations, I’ve got you. 👉 Message me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap or visit the newly updated website to get started. Chapters 00:00 – Life update: sauna delays, neon sign drama & renovation chaos 02:30 – Website revamp + launch party teasing 05:50 – Why everyone assumes Airbnbs belong in big cities 07:20 – The hidden power of small towns and slower-paced areas 08:50 – The pressure + risk of investing inside major cities 10:20 – Why rural + lakeside getaways practically book themselves 11:30 – My challenge: look outside the big cities 13:39 – Phone call interruption 😂 14:05 – City vs. peaceful travel: what guests actually want 15:53 – Thinking outside the box when choosing location 17:22 – Another phone call (classic Brittany moment) 18:18 – NYC, Madison, Dells: examples of harsh city STR rules 19:10 – Less competition outside the city = more bookings 20:20 – The game-changing secret: mailing address vs municipality 22:00 – How to check municipality on your own 23:00 – A new Airbnb resort for sale in La Crosse 26:00 – Final thoughts + where to learn more Subscribe and Share If you loved today’s episode, hit subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s! And please share this with a friend who’s looking for an STR but doesn’t know where to start. It helps more than you know! 💛  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and in today’s episode I’m breaking down a question I get every single November: Should you decorate your Airbnb for the holidays? The short answer is probably not, and I explain exactly why. From inclusivity to guest expectations to season-locked photos, I share my personal take on why holiday décor can actually hurt you more than help. I also chat about the itch to add Christmas magic, why neutral spaces serve everyone better, and how winter photos still matter and how I faked mine with AI. Then, to wrap things up, I shift into a Thanksgiving gratitude moment. Whether you’re a seasoned host or launching your first short-term rental soon, I want you to fully recognize how far you’ve come, the memories you’re creating for others, and the ripple effect your STR has on cleaners, contractors, families and guests who choose your space. And of course, a big shoutout to my incredible marketing girl for helping me bring big projects to life. Key Takeaways Holiday décor can unintentionally exclude guests who don’t celebrate the same holidays. • Over-the-top seasonal decorating creates guest expectations you may not want to manage every year. • Holiday-themed photos can season lock your listing and confuse guests outside that timeframe. • Winter photos still matter, especially in Wisconsin, and you can update them using simple AI edits. • Your STR business impacts cleaners, contractors, guests and families more than you realize. • Thanksgiving is the perfect time to acknowledge your wins, both big and small, as a host or future host. Why Listen to This Episode? If you're tempted to put up a Christmas tree in your Airbnb, or already have it in your Amazon cart, this episode will help you think through the long-term impact on guest experience, ROI and inclusivity. Plus, you’ll walk away feeling inspired, grounded and grateful for everything you've built in your short-term rental journey. Mentioned in the Episode How AI tools (like ChatGPT) can transform your exterior photos into realistic winter scenes • My current renovation updates and December 1st launch timeline • A behind-the-scenes mural painting update • Partner and wedding trip prep with Kyle and Anna • My marketing girl who is truly crushing a huge upcoming project Let’s Connect Thinking about holiday decorating in your Airbnb or avoiding it altogether? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re doing this year! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to learn how to find, launch and run a profitable Airbnb with confidence? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course and save $50 with code 5STARPODCAST. 👉 https://brittany-wenninger.mykajabi.com Chapters 00:00 Whispering intro and the audio fail 01:30 Renovation weekend and partner update 03:20 Seeing the project come together 04:35 Holiday season and the decorating question 05:10 Why I personally avoid Christmas décor 07:00 Inclusivity and guest comfort 08:45 Reviews and setting expectations 09:30 Season-locking your photos 11:45 Winter photos and using AI 14:30 My official take: skip the decorations 15:40 Cozy touches but only if not photographed 15:55 Shifting into Thanksgiving 16:40 Why hosting is something to be proud of 18:02 What you’re providing to guests 19:00 The ripple effect for cleaners, contractors and families 20:30 Gratitude for my marketing girl 21:30 Wrap up and final thoughts Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you rethink your holiday hosting plans, share it with a fellow Airbnb host and hit follow so you never miss a new episode of The Airbnb Roadmap.  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how I manage our Airbnbs in about 30–45 minutes a week—while still keeping 5-star reviews rolling in. I share the very real side of setting up Airbnb #4 and #5 (aka: BOXES EVERYWHERE, neighbors texting about our “embarrassing” amount of packages, and my love–hate relationship with assembling furniture)… and then I walk you through the actual software stack that keeps our business running on autopilot. From Hospitable as the main hub, to Schlage for keyless entry codes, PriceLabs for dynamic pricing, Turno for cleaners, QuickBooks for bookkeeping, and Blink cameras for security, I break down what we use, how it all connects, what I love, and where the hiccups are. I also share why “value” matters more than just charging sky-high nightly rates—and a fun New Zealand dive bar story that proves why personal recommendations still matter more than Google. Key Takeaways How I manage multiple Airbnbs in 30–45 minutes a week using automation and smart systems. Why Hospitable is the “hub” of my STR tech stack and what we actually use it for. How Schlage keyless entry codes auto-generate and make early check-ins feel like VIP treatment. What PriceLabs does better than Airbnb’s “smart pricing” and how pricing ties into your value rating. The pros and cons of using Turno for cleaners (and why it’s not truly “set it and forget it”). How QuickBooks ties everything together on the financial side and keeps my CPA happy. Why consistent security cameras (like Blink) matter—even if the batteries are annoying. The power of personal local recommendations vs. generic “top-rated” spots on Google. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re tired of feeling glued to your phone managing guests, cleaners, pricing, and messages, this episode will show you what to automate, what to keep an eye on, and what tools are actually worth paying for. I’m not a techie or a numbers-nerd (that’s Clay’s department), so if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by software options, I break it down in normal-human language with real examples, mistakes, and what I’d do again. Whether you’re about to launch your first Airbnb or you’re adding property #4 and #5 like we are, you’ll walk away with a plug-and-play software roadmap you can model. Mentioned in the Episode Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about automating your Airbnb with software? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re using now! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Buy or Sell in Wisconsin Looking for an agent who actually understands short-term rentals, numbers, and guest experience? I help investors and homeowners buy and sell in Wisconsin through Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC. Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Want step-by-step help launching your first (or next) Airbnb—from finding the property to automating it like I talk about in this episode? Use promo code 5STARPODCAST to save $50 on the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator: Chapters 00:00 – Coffee, chaos, and prepping Airbnb #4 and #5 00:37 – Neighbors, packages, and growing up in a cul-de-sac community 03:00 – The pain of assembling furniture (and extra screws… always) 05:25 – Introducing my software stack + why Hospitable is the hub 07:50 – Schlage keyless entry, early check-ins, and “going above and beyond” 12:15 – PriceLabs vs. Airbnb pricing & why “value” matters more than maxing out rates 16:11 – Quick break: Airbnb resort listing outside La Crosse, WI 18:02 – Turno for cleaners: what works, what glitches, and settings you must change 22:51 – How QuickBooks, Airbnb, Vrbo, and Hospitable all connect behind the scenes 25:12 – Blink cameras, battery drama, and why we stick with one system 27:33 – Why I still like personal recommendations over software for local spots 28:30 – New Zealand dive bar story, hot springs fail, and being “that” tourist 29:54 – Final thoughts, freebie listing description, and how to reach out Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you see how much of your Airbnb can be automated, hit subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes. 💛  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and today’s episode is a little different. I’m getting real and a bit vulnerable about what happens behind the scenes when you’re in the middle of renovating new Airbnbs, juggling family life, and trying to keep everything running smoothly. From the easier-than-expected updates on our latest properties to the furnace fiasco that had me up at 4:30 AM in full panic mode, I’m sharing what self-managing really looks like,  the good, the exhausting, and the “why am I doing this again?” moments. If you’ve ever felt torn between your hustle and your personal life (hi, fellow parents and hosts!), this episode will definitely hit home. Key Takeaways Why this renovation season has been smoother, and what’s making it different from past projects. The reality of balancing Airbnb projects with parenting and missing out on family moments. What happens when you don’t take your own advice about winter prep. The value of having backup heat sources (mini splits for the win). A reminder that even seasoned hosts have “sell-it-all” days, and that’s okay. Why Listen to This Episode? Because burnout and balance are both real parts of the Airbnb journey. This isn’t a highlight reel,  it’s an honest look at what happens when the furnace goes out, the baby’s waiting at home, and you start questioning if it’s all worth it. You’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and reminded that you’re not the only one trying to figure out how to do it all. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Cabins for Sale: Start your Airbnb Journey with a Bang! Purchase 3 successful Airbnbs right now and expand later! Reach out for more information. Link to Website: https://www.highpointretreats.net/ Let’s Connect Thinking about renovating your own Airbnb (or maybe not renovating for a while)? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out! Work With Me Want to build, buy, or launch your own short-term rental in Wisconsin? 👉 Front Porch Realty 👉 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Chapters 00:00 Intro – Keeping it real about renovations 01:30 Lessons from past Airbnb projects 04:30 Missing family moments for renovation weekends 06:50 The 4:30 AM “we have a problem” wake-up call 09:30 Panic mode and troubleshooting the furnace 13:50 Taking your own winterization advice (ouch) 14:30 The truth about self-management burnout 16:30 The La Crosse Airbnb resort opportunity Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, please follow The Airbnb Roadmap, rate the show, and share it with a fellow Airbnb host or real estate friend who needs a little real-life perspective (and a laugh).  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and today we’re talking all things winter prep for your Airbnb or short-term rental. Wisconsin winters are no joke (and neither is falling off a ski lift, which I may or may not have done 🤦‍♀️). Whether your property is fully booked or sitting vacant, you need to protect your investment before the first freeze hits. In this episode, I share my funniest snowboarding fail, a near-disaster client story about frozen pipes, and my ultimate checklist to get your property ready for the cold season. Key Takeaways Turn off and drain outdoor water spigots before the first freeze and cover them with insulated faucet covers. Keep gutters clear of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and slippery messes. Never turn off the breaker or furnace during winter—it can lead to frozen pipes, cracked toilets, and major damage. Replace furnace filters and consider scheduling a quick tune-up for peace of mind. Install Wi-Fi thermostats to monitor temps remotely and receive alerts if the home drops below 50°F. Line up your snow removal service early—and tell them it’s an Airbnb so guests don’t get plowed in. Communicate snow removal times with guests so they don’t think someone is breaking in at 4 a.m. with a shovel. Add cozy winter touches like blankets, cocoa, and cider for that warm welcome. Swap your listing photos to feature winter scenes for better booking performance. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever dealt with frozen pipes, last-minute snow chaos, or guest complaints in the middle of a blizzard—this episode will save your sanity (and your 5-star rating). You’ll walk away with a clear plan to winterize your Airbnb and a few laughs about what not to do on a ski lift. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about getting your Airbnb winter-ready? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your winter prep questions or your funniest snow story! I’d love to cheer you on and help you protect your property this season. Work With Me Ready to find or launch your next short-term rental in Wisconsin? I’d love to help you analyze deals, understand local STR rules, and set up your investment for success. Learn more at frontporchrealtywi.com. Chapters 00:01 – Brittany’s love-hate relationship with Wisconsin winters 02:14 – The ski lift disaster (aka the red snow pants story) 04:36 – Outdoor prep: shutting off spigots & clearing gutters 05:19 – Storytime: the frozen pipe nightmare 07:40 – Don’t turn off your breaker before winter! 08:41 – Indoor prep: furnace filters & tune-ups 09:17 – Smart thermostats that save your property 10:48 – The overlooked cost: snow removal plans 12:49 – Communicating with guests about snow crews 15:03 – Stocking cozy amenities for winter stays 17:00 – Updating your Airbnb photos for winter bookings 18:01 – Final thoughts: protect your investment & enjoy the season Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, tap “follow” and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! And if you know another host who’s panicking about the first snowfall, share this episode with them—they’ll thank you later!

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Airbnb just dropped one of its biggest updates ever,  and it impacts every single host. As of this week, Airbnb has officially shifted to a host-only service fee model, meaning guests no longer pay the platform fee at checkout… we do. In this episode, I break down what this new fee structure means, how it affects your payout, and what actions you need to take right now to protect your profits. Oh,  and yes, I share a quick life update involving paint, patience, and a soon-to-be movie-theater room that almost broke me. Key Takeaways 🏠 Airbnb has moved from a split-fee model (guest + host) to a host-only model 💸 Hosts will now pay 15.5% in service fees, up from 3% ⚖️ You must adjust your nightly rates to maintain the same payouts ✏️ Add clear language to your listings like “No guest service fee – what you see is what you pay” 🧠 Guests will see cleaner pricing, but hosts must stay strategic to avoid losing income ⚙️ Pricing tools like PriceLabs or Hospitable can help automatically adjust rates Why Listen to This Episode? This change affects your revenue immediately. If you don’t raise your nightly rate or update your listing language, you’ll lose profit — plain and simple. In this episode, I help you understand the “why” behind Airbnb’s move, the ripple effect it’ll have across the platform, and how to get ahead of it before your competitors even realize what’s happening. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about how to adjust your pricing or update your listing strategy after this Airbnb change? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share how you’re handling it — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out! Work With Me Ready to turn your short-term rental goals into reality? ✅ Check out The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — my self-paced course designed to help you find, launch, and manage your first (or next) Airbnb with confidence. It’s under $500 and packed with step-by-step guidance for building real income through hosting. Chapters 00:00 – Intro + life update (painting disasters & patience) 02:00 – The big Airbnb change: host-only fees 04:00 – What this means for your payouts 05:30 – How to adjust pricing strategically 08:00 – Updating your listing to say “No guest service fee” 13:00 – Why Airbnb made this move 16:00 – Competing with hosts who don’t update prices 20:00 – Example listing verbiage you can use 22:00 – Final thoughts + adapting quickly Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you understand Airbnb’s new pricing shift, follow the show and share it with another host who needs to hear this update. Let’s make sure every host stays profitable through these changes!  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary This week’s episode is less “how-to” and more “real life.” I’m giving you a peek behind the scenes into one of the wildest weeks I’ve had in a while — juggling an AWS outage that shut down half my systems, onboarding my first assistant, and closing on our newest Airbnb property (technically two Airbnbs in one!). From appraisal headaches to cat pee clean-up, this episode is pure behind-the-scenes chaos — but in the best, most relatable way possible. Key Takeaways Tech reliance is real: The AWS outage reminded me just how much my business depends on automations and online tools. First assistant milestone: I officially hired my first assistant to help with Front Porch Realty and all the moving parts (except my Airbnb babies — those are still all me). Two-for-one Airbnb deal: We closed on our newest investment property — a main home plus an ADU above the detached garage — meaning two Airbnb listings from one purchase. Financing curveballs: An AI lending review revoked our appraisal waiver last minute, creating chaos before closing — but persistence paid off. Post-closing bliss (and cat pee): The house was spotless (thank you, seller!) but I still found myself under the stairs battling lingering pet smells — and learning the power of KILZ and safety goggles. Future plans: The garages are being transformed into a game room, gym, and sauna combo. Goal: Launch Airbnb #4 and #5 by December 1st! Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of short-term rental investing — this is it. It’s messy, unpredictable, and full of lessons that make you laugh later. Sometimes success isn’t about strategy — it’s about staying calm (and maybe wearing a mask when using KILZ). Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about partnering on an Airbnb or wondering how to manage your own? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to start or scale your own short-term rental? 👉 Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — my self-paced course that walks you through everything from finding the right property to launching with confidence. Chapters 00:00 – Intro + Chaos of the AWS Outage 02:15 – Hiring My First Assistant 04:30 – Closing on the New Airbnb Property 06:40 – The Appraisal Waiver Drama 09:10 – Finding Comps and Finishing the Deal 11:30 – Post-Closing Wins and Clean-Up Realities 13:45 – The Cat Pee Chronicles 15:30 – Game Room + Sauna Design Plans 17:00 – Sneak Peek of Next Week’s Episode 19:00 – Wrapping Up and What’s Ahead Subscribe and Share If you enjoy hearing the real, unfiltered side of building an Airbnb business, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a good laugh (or a reminder that every investor has chaotic days).

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Insurance can feel like alphabet soup, until something goes wrong. In this interview, I sit down with Nick Sommer of Country Financial (and one of my buyers!) to break down exactly what short-term rental owners need: how to structure coverage for STRs vs. primary/secondary homes, must-have endorsements, loss-of-income realities, and why an umbrella policy can be the difference between a scare and a disaster. Nick also shares the personal house-fire story that led him into insurance and the simple annual habit that can save you months of headache during a claim. Key Takeaways Match the policy to the use. Don’t insure an STR like an owner-occupied or long-term rental—claims can be denied if the use doesn’t match the application. Four core buckets: dwelling (rebuild cost ≠ market value), personal property (replacement cost, not garage-sale value), liability (aim higher than default limits), and loss of income (raise limits for STR-level revenue). Critical endorsements for hosts: Sump pump/sewer backup (not standard) Service line coverage Flood insurance is separate Loss of income is evidence-based. Keep AirDNA/comps, booking statements, and P&Ls to substantiate payouts. Umbrella = legal shield. Choose limits that reflect your net assets (homes, vehicles, retirement, cash, other properties). It covers defense costs and many personal-liability scenarios. Document everything. Once a year, do a whole-home video walkthrough and maintain a furnishings spreadsheet with links, prices, and statuses. Choose financially solid carriers. Check claim strength/ratings (e.g., AM Best) and prioritize service over “cheapest quote.” Get it in writing. Confirm coverage answers via email; recordings aren’t yours, emails are. Why Listen to This Episode? Because “I have insurance” isn’t a plan. If you’ve ever wondered whether your STR is actually covered for what you do, hot tubs, guest injuries, burst pipes, tornadoes, income loss—this episode turns jargon into plain English and gives you a checklist to bring to your agent. Mentioned in the Episode Country Financial – Nick Sommer (Licensed in IL, WI, KS) Email: nick.sommer@countryfinancial.com Office: 815-633-9404 Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about insurance for your short-term rental? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Buy/Sell in Wisconsin with Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC). STR Coaching: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (self-paced) + Mentorship options. Agent Referrals: I’ll connect you with STR-savvy agents statewide. Chapters 00:00 Recording setup + why this topic matters 02:11 Nick’s background & the house-fire that changed everything 06:07 Home policy types (primary, secondary, rental/STR, condo) 08:14 STR must-haves: liability, rebuild cost, endorsements 11:25 Loss of income for STRs (how payouts are calculated) 14:03 Replacement cost for furniture & annual documentation 16:41 My furnishings spreadsheet system (order → received) 20:24 Get coverage answers in writing (E&O and why it matters) 21:20 “STR-specific” insurers vs. traditional carriers—what to compare 27:42 Umbrella policy explained (and how to size limits) 31:21 Real-life slip-and-fall & weather scare—why we upgraded 36:26 Annual reviews: as life changes, so should coverage 38:40 How to contact Nick + final tips  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—parts of launching your Airbnb: photo-shoot day. From choosing the right photographer to creating scroll-stopping first images, I’m sharing my wins, mistakes, and all the tips I wish I’d known sooner. You’ll hear how every property teaches me something new, why lifestyle photos are worth the effort, and what small “wow” details make your listing stand out online. Key Takeaways Not all photographers are created equal—hire one who understands short-term rental lifestyle photography, not just MLS shots. Your photos are your first impression and can make or break bookings. Add emotion and storytelling: stage cozy moments, use props, and capture connection. Eliminate distractions: smooth linens, no crumbs, cords tucked away, fans off, lights on. Elevate visuals: put an image or logo on TV screens, add real flames in fireplaces, and include small “wow” touches. Lifestyle shots with people (“models”) can dramatically boost connection and conversions. Do a full walkthrough before shooting, review photos as you go, and treat photo day like your property’s wedding day. Your first photo doesn’t have to be the exterior—choose the most scroll-stopping feature (game room, living room, kayaks, etc.). Why Listen to This Episode? Because you can have the most stunning Airbnb in the world—but if your photos don’t tell the story, you’re leaving money on the table. I’ll help you avoid rookie mistakes, guide your photographer like a pro, and give your listing the kind of images that turn browsers into bookings. Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about upgrading your Airbnb photos or planning your first photoshoot? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to launch or relaunch your short-term rental the right way? Check out my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course at theairbnbroadmap.com for step-by-step guidance on finding, furnishing, and listing your property like a pro. Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Life Update 01:30 – Why Photo Day Matters 03:10 – Not All Photographers Are Equal 06:30 – Real Estate vs Short-Term Rental Photography 08:00 – Prepping Your Home for Shoot Day 09:50 – Wow Factors That Pop (Flames, TV Images, Logos) 14:00 – Lifestyle Shots & Models 17:00 – Simple Staging Ideas Without People 20:00 – Treat Photo Day Like Your Wedding Day 24:30 – Choosing Your Scroll-Stopping Cover Photo 27:00 – Final Tips & Where to Grab the Checklist Subscribe & Share If this episode gave you fresh ideas for your next Airbnb photoshoot, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who’s ready to elevate their listing. Your support helps the show reach more people who are building beautiful, booked-out Airbnbs.