The Hosting Journey

The Hosting Journey is your weekly podcast for ALL things Airbnb and vacation rental. Evelyn, a successful Airbnb Superhost since 2010, has been working as a home sharing educator for years, presenting as Host Educator at Airbnb conferences and beyond. Now she’s sharing her wealth of knowledge with you. Whether you're a novice or an expert, get your tips, marketing ideas, and proven financial strategies to ensure you have a profitable home sharing-vacation rental business and successful Hosting Journey. HEADPHONES ON, and get ready to journey!

Black Friday Tips and Tricks

Black Friday is a great time to stock up on essentials for your Airbnb or short-term rental. Learn how to strategize and build a game plan for a successful Black Friday shopping spree!

11-24
08:54

Airbnb Updates 2021

Get the scoop on Airbnb’s 2021 Release. I’ll share the highlights on Airbnb’s winter update, including Aircover—free top-to-bottom protection for every host—both new and existing. It includes things like $1M liability insurance, $1M in damage protection, pet damage protection, and more. Plus, I’ll explain the Community Integrity Program that shares information between Airbnb & Vrbo to help identify & deal with “party house” offenders.

11-19
10:37

The Products NOT to Buy for your Airbnb

If you’re furnishing a short-term rental or an Airbnb, do you know what NOT to buy? Every host has a list of products they love, but after furnishing 4 STRs, I’ve gained tons of experience on what NOT to buy. Join me for “The Products I WIll NEVER Buy for My STR.

11-13
11:56

A Direct Booking Website for Your Airbnb

Do you need to create a website for your short-term rental? Airbnb & VRBO are a good way to start, but when guests rave about your place, do you want them to mention you, or Airbnb? Learn the reasons why I decided to create my own website to showcase my listings and learn what to consider if you’re making that decision for your property. I’m dropping some knowledge about website creation and where to go for help and resources. If you want to grow your vacation rental listing, don’t miss this one!

10-23
16:25

From Flipping Homes to Airbnb

Ever wonder if investing in short-term rentals can lead to financial freedom? There’s no straight line into the world of Airbnb and short-term rentals. Every host has a different story, and Kirby Atwell’s is full of twists and turns—from military service to rehabbing homes, and later from long-term to short-term rentals. Today Kirby’s an Airbnb host who has found his sweet spot, along with financial freedom, more time for family, and a business that’s built around the life he loves. Listen to “From Flipping Homes to Airbnb,” as I interview Airbnb host Kirby Atwell.  And start the journey to your own sweet spot with short-term rentals!

09-28
28:48

The 5 Essentials Emails You Need

Tired of staring at the screen and wondering what to say in an email to the guest you just booked? Join me for a review of the five emails you need to include in your guest communications. From the initial booking confirmation to the follow-up email after your guest leaves, there are only a total of 5 emails that are necessary for you to send.  I’ll explain each one and give you important tips about the wording, content, and timing. I’ll also show you step-by-step how to set up guest emails in Airbnb Automated Messages. Plus, I’ll show you how to link your account to the IGMS automated message platform. Communication is a beautiful thing, and automated emails are amazing. Join me to learn more.

09-13
19:22

Building Your Airbnb Team

You love hosting guests in your Airbnb, and you’re good at what you do, but it takes more than just a good host to succeed in the vacation rental business. In this episode, “How to Build Your Airbnb Team,” I explain the process—and it involves a lot more than just finding a good house cleaner!  I discuss what team members you’ll need, where to find them, and much more. If you’re new to hosting, join me to learn how to have your team in place before you open the door to your new Airbnb. And if you’ve been hosting for a while, learn how to make the most of the team you have! 

08-23
15:49

Surrender While Taking Action

In Surrender While Taking Action I talk about how Airbnb hosts have big goals and big dreams, but we also deal with many situations that are simply out of our control. Guest reviews...construction projects... impossible requests.  How do we manage the daily stresses & demands of hosting and remain positive & peaceful? By surrendering in action. In this podcast, I explain how important it is for us to view our current situation, take the actions we need to take, and surrender to the fact that we can’t control every angle. Breathe deeply and take a minute to listen. You’ll be glad you did.

07-07
18:05

Adapting Your Business with Heather Bayer

In Adapting your Business with Heather Bayer we discuss all the new changes and how she has pivoted her property management business.

06-23
39:35

Should you sell your Airbnb?

Should you sell your Airbnb/short-term rental?. There are lots of things to consider, including tax implications, selling costs & much more. Learn the questions you should ask before you sell.

06-02
15:04

From Tiny Homes to an Empire with Robuilt

Is hosting a tiny home in your future? Then join me at “From Tiny Homes to an Empire with Robuilt” as I talk with Rob Abasolo and learn how he created his Robuilt empire!  Rob started small by building a tiny home in his backyard but now has an impressive portfolio of 10 units, along with his popular Robuilt YouTube channel and Instagram page as well as a new course on how to host glamping. Rob talks about how his business has changed over the years and gives valuable advice to new hosts. Think tiny but dream big!

05-17
25:43

Hosting Pets at your Short Term Rental or Airbnb

Hosting pets can increase your income, move you ahead of your competition and help you get 5-Star reviews. In today’s episode, Hosting Pets at your Short-Term Rental or Airbnb, I talk about why I decided to allow pets in my short-term rentals. I’ll give you all the details on how to be a successful pet host by Planning ahead, Equipping your space, Taking charge, and Supplying the tools. With this PET plan, you’ll be ready to host FIDO and his humans in safety and comfort!

05-04
12:01

Five Key Questions, Everyone Should Answer

In 5 Key Questions, Everyone Should Answer, is the episode if you're starting out, thinking of selling, or are a Superhost.  In this episode, I talk with Michelle Himden from Cityami to find out.   Michelle’s guidance was invaluable as I began the journey of selling Eveland 1.0 and investing the proceeds to expand my rental portfolio. Listen in as we discuss all the angles to consider.

04-19
19:42

How much did La Casita made in 2020

2020 is in the rearview for Airbnb hosts, but it’s important to look back at where we’ve been. In “How Much Did La Casita Make in 2020?” I review my Puerto Rico vacation rental’s expenses & revenues and evaluate the financial wins and losses from this roller-coaster year. Listen for a dose of harsh reality blended with hope for the future

02-16
20:03

No heat, a Leak and Plan C

Airbnb hosting takes place in real life, and sometimes life changes our plans. I share a raw and honest look at my own shift to “Plan C” after a recent medical diagnosis. Humor, transparency, and courage shine through in this remarkable episode.

02-04
16:14

Following Your Dreams with Sue

Airbnb host Sue Brocker began following her dreams before she even knew she had them. From the early days of renting a room to owning multiple properties and renting to long-term guests, Sue’s hosting journey is a fascinating mix of curiosity, bravery, and a love of adventure. Join me for Following Your Dreams with Sue.

12-23
01:01:22

How to Prepare Your Airbnb for Long-Term Guests

If you’re planning a transition to hosting long-term guests, join me as I talk with guest Michelle Himden of Cityami about How to Prepare Your Airbnb for Long-Term guests. From managing guest expectations to offering additional cleaning services to utility bills and pricing for monthly stays, we’ll touch on all the important issues.

12-11
46:03

The Hosting Products that Saved my 2020

In The Hosting Products that Saved my 2020, I talk about everything from smart locks to video doorbells. I give you the scoop on the brands that work best. Make a plan for how to save on Black Friday sales and improve your Airbnb hosting game

11-25
09:54

How to Defer Your Capital Gains Taxes When You Sell Your Short Term Rental

If you’re selling your Airbnb, it’s possible to defer capital gains taxes through a 1031 exchange. Bill Exeter,  explains the process and shares valuable information for short term rental hosts to consider when selling or reinvesting.

11-17
52:23

Safety and your Airbnb with Justin Ford

What are the 2 most important safety items to have in a new Airbnb? In Safety and Your Airbnb Justin Ford of Breezeway shares the important safety measures every host should implement. We talk extension cords, BBQ grills & how to protect your property & your guests.

11-08
37:01

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