Thanks For Visiting

Airbnb Superhosts Annette Grant & Sarah Karakaian
Thanks For Visiting

Get actionable advice and the essential fundamentals of running a profitable 5-star Airbnb side-hustle or full on business. Annette’s extensive background in business operations and Sarah’s experience in high-end hospitality management and interior design make them a powerhouse duo that will deliver high impact content. With almost a decade of combined hosting experience they will not only share their own stories welcoming thousands of guests from around the world but also those of other Superhosts to deliver you a wide array of stories, insights, and profitable and creative ideas to make your listing rise to the top. Whether you’re experienced, new, or nervous to start your own Airbnb this podcast promises to be informative, fun, and from the heart.

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    423. The Best Investment You Can Make as an Airbnb Host

    The Best Investment You Can Make as an Airbnb HostWelcome back to Thanks for Visiting, where we dive into the heart of what it takes to be a successful short-term rental host. In this solo episode, we explore a topic that often gets overlooked: the best investment you can make as a host—investing in yourself. 🎯 From personal growth to professional development, this episode unpacks why prioritizing yourself is the key to unlocking your potential as a host, business owner, and individual. Episode Highlights[00:01:00] Listener Spotlight: Onyx Oasis We highlight Onyx Oasis, a beautifully curated property with a stunning Instagram feed featuring pinned posts that inspire hosts to elevate their social media game. [00:03:00] Why Investing in Yourself Matters Discover why self-investment isn’t selfish but essential for long-term success in hosting and life. [00:04:00] Lessons Learned: Annette’s Journey Annette reflects on the shift from investing in others to making herself a priority—and the hard lessons that came with it. [00:06:00] Overcoming the Guilt of Self-Investment Sarah and Annette discuss cultural pressures and common misconceptions around putting yourself first. [00:08:00] The Ripple Effect of Growth Learn how personal growth positively impacts your business, relationships, and community. [00:11:00] Financial Growth: Managing Your Personal Finances Practical tips for tracking spending, working with financial experts, and gaining clarity on your financial health. [00:14:00] Physical and Mental Wellbeing The connection between health, productivity, and avoiding burnout. Annette shares her experience with coaching, while Sarah emphasizes finding practices that work for you. [00:18:00] Business Development as Personal Development A deep dive into masterminds, courses, and retreats that Sarah and Annette have invested in—and why it’s worth every penny. [00:24:00] Building Community and Relationships How nurturing personal connections and giving back to your community enhances your hosting journey. [00:37:00] Bootcamp Announcement! Join our first-ever January Bootcamp! Learn to audit your listings for success with expert-led sessions and actionable analytics. Sign up here. Resources MentionedOnyx Oasis: Follow on Instagram @OnyxOasisRocket Money App: Personal budget tracking made simpleUnreasonable Hospitality: A must-read book on going above and beyond in servicea...

    46 min
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    422. Hosting Hotline: Do You Need a Landline for Your Remote Rental

    Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your most pressing questions about short-term rentals! This week, Carol asks about whether a landline is necessary for remote vacation rentals. If your property is in a rural or remote location, this episode is packed with important safety insights and expert advice. In this episode, we dive into: Episode Highlights (00:01:00) Listener Question: Do I Need a Landline in My STR? Carol asks about landlines for remote properties, and we explore the importance of emergency communication. (00:02:00) Why Landlines Are Crucial for Remote Rentals We discuss guest safety, connectivity issues, and how a landline can help protect your property and guests. (00:03:00) Expert Tip: Engage Local Emergency Services Learn why connecting with your local fire marshal and emergency services is a proactive step for rural property owners. (00:04:00) Personal Experience with Remote Hosting Sarah shares lessons from managing a remote property and working with safety expert Justin Ford. (00:05:00) Final Thoughts and Recommendations Why investing in safety infrastructure like a landline is worth it for peace of mind and guest safety. Resources Mentioned:Justin Ford: Short Term Rental Safety ExpertHow to Buy Land for your Airbnb Glamping Business Got questions you want answered? Submit your question at HostingHotline.com! Mentioned in this episode: Breezeway | Get Breezeway’s full guidebook, messaging, and operations tools for just $19.99 per unit per month! StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

    8 min
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    421. 2024’s Most Loved Episodes: Profitable Strategies, Listener Favorites & Major Wins

    Welcome back to Thanks for Visiting! As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the most loved episodes of the year and the incredible takeaways they’ve provided for our community of hosts. These episodes have sparked important conversations, inspired profitable strategies, and highlighted major wins from listeners just like you. From mastering pricing strategies to embracing themed properties, advocating for hosting rights, and optimizing operations, these episodes reflect the topics that matter most to short-term rental hosts everywhere. Episode Highlights:(00:01:00) #STRShareSunday: Mileaway Stowe We’re featuring this stunning farmhouse in Stowe, Vermont, and its gorgeous direct booking site. (00:02:00) Year in Review: Gratitude and 2024 Reflections Looking back on an election year, how hosting evolved, and what we learned as an industry. (00:05:00) Top 7 Episodes of 2024 A rundown of the most loved episodes and the profitable strategies they uncovered: Dynamic Pricing vs. Cleaning Fees (Episode 321)How To Make Facebook & Instagram Ads That Drive Bookings for Your Short-Term Rental (Episode 333)Pet-Friendly Airbnb Listings: Welcoming Dogs to Your Short-Term Rental (Episode 335)We Fought Restrictive Local Hosting Laws (and Won) (Episode 339)Optimize Your Supply Inventory as an Airbnb Co-Host in 2024 (Episode 347)Revenue Management 101: How to Track Growth & Optimize Your Strategy (Episode 391)Simple Strategy to Add Thousands to Airbnb Revenue (Episode 405) (00:25:00) The Land Journey & Personal Growth Sarah and Annette reflect on their long-term project of purchasing land and building unique properties. (00:30:00) YouTube Adventures & Stepping Out of Comfort Zones How Thanks for Visiting expanded to YouTube with video-specific content to serve the hosting community. (00:33:00) Member Success Stories Celebrating HBM member wins, including: Katie’s $30K revenue increase with two properties.Michelle’s launch of 19 properties as a Co-host.Heatherly’s pivot to long-term insurance bookings. (00:36:00) 2025 Bootcamp Announcements Introducing Bootcamp Intensives to help you focus on specific aspects of your hosting business. (00:40:00) Final Thoughts & Community Reflections Sharing our gratitude for the incredible hosting community and setting the stage for 2025. Resources:#STRShareSunday: @mileawaystoweSubmit Your Property: strshare.comDynamic Pricing Tools: PriceLabsSubscribe to our YouTube Channel!Hosting Business Membership: Get on the...

    48 min
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    420. Hosting Hotline: What Does Airbnb’s 15% Fee Mean for You?

    Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This is your go-to space to ask questions about Airbnb, short-term rentals, real estate, and everything in between. Shannon asks: I’ve been listening to your podcast and am inspired to create a direct booking site for my short-term rentals. However, I didn’t realize Airbnb charges a 15% fee when using property management software (PMS). How do I adjust for this? Also, do you have any tips for encouraging guests to leave reviews without being too pushy? (00:00:00) Introduction Sarah and Annette explain how Hosting Hotline works and welcome today’s question from Shannon. (00:02:00) Understanding Airbnb’s 15% Fee Learn why Airbnb’s fee structure has changed, how it impacts your profitability, and strategies to adjust your rates using tools like PriceLabs or your PMS. (00:06:00) Encouraging 5-Star Reviews Sarah and Annette share proactive tips for inspiring guests to leave reviews during and after their stay, including creative messaging strategies and visual reminders in your property. (00:10:00) Practical Examples and Resources Hear real-world examples of hosts who have successfully increased reviews and maintained competitive pricing while navigating Airbnb’s 15% fee. Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. To hear your voice on the show and send a question to Sarah and Annette, visit hostinghotline.com. Resources: Click Here for Full Show NotesWatch: How to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb BusinessWatch: How to Respond to Negative Airbnb ReviewsHosting Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.comPricelabsHostfully

    13 min
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    419. From Viral Listings to Booked Calendars: The Power of Niche Airbnb Design

    In this episode of Thanks for Visiting, we’re diving into the world of themed short-term rentals and how niche design can transform properties into viral sensations. From Taylor Swift-inspired Airbnb listings to managing high-turnover calendars, we chat about turning creativity into profitability. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights on leveraging unique designs to stand out in a competitive market. Episode Highlights (00:01:00) STR Share Sunday: Lavender Haze PlayceWe feature this Taylor Swift-inspired property and its incredible Instagram-worthy design.(00:04:00) Collaboration Dynamics: Owner and Co-HostDiscover how Kelly Straka and Wendy Doris built a successful partnership that balances creative vision with operational excellence.(00:10:00) Designing for Viral SuccessLearn how Kelly’s attention to detail transformed a basic rental into a social media phenomenon.(00:22:00) Leveraging Marketing and Themed DesignWendy shares how marketing and direct booking strategies took their properties to the next level.(00:33:00) Managing High-Turnover PropertiesStrategies for maintaining impeccable standards while hosting daily Swiftovers.(00:40:00) Expanding with IntentionThe duo discusses creating additional themed properties while maintaining uniqueness and profitability. Resources: Click here for full show notesSave your seat for the Listing Audit Bootcamp | Booked & Profitable#STRShareSunday: @lavenderhazeplayceSubmit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.comVideo: Design your Airbnb the RIGHT way! DO NOT Follow Popular Interior Design Advice!Mostess HostLux-LivingKelly StrakaSee all the incredible Swiftie-inspired properties here Mentioned in this episode: Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you! Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind! Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

    56 min
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    418. Hosting Hotline: Dynamic Pricing in Rural Areas: Should You Use It?

    Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your most pressing short-term rental questions. Today’s question comes from Jenny, who asked via our YouTube channel: "Do you still recommend dynamic pricing even if you're in a rural area without lots of activities?" In this episode, we dive into the nuances of dynamic pricing for rural short-term rentals. Whether you're in a small town with limited attractions or hosting in an area without high guest turnover, we unpack how tools like PriceLabs can help you price competitively, maximize revenue, and even uncover hidden demand in your market. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why dynamic pricing can benefit rural properties just as much as urban rentals.The importance of competitor analysis, even if you only have one or two local competitors.How to identify events or peak seasons you may not know about—and price accordingly.Practical tips to make the most of dynamic pricing tools during your free trial period.Why we recommend dynamic pricing as the #1 software tool for STR hosts starting out. Resources Mentioned:PriceLabs Free TrialThe Ultimate Airbnb Tool Kit: What We Use to Keep Things Running Seamlessly Got questions you want answered? Submit your question at HostingHotline.com! Mentioned in this episode: Breezeway | Get Breezeway’s full guidebook, messaging, and operations tools for just $19.99 per unit per month! StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

    13 min
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    417. From Branding to Revenue Management: Proven Strategies for STR Profitability with Kenny Bedwell

    In this episode, we’re excited to share a special reshare of our guest appearance on the Cashflow Positive Podcast with host Kenny Bedwell, founder of STR Insights. Known for his data-driven approach to short-term rental success, Kenny invited us to discuss how we combine the art and science of hosting to elevate guest experiences, optimize revenue, and grow a thriving STR business. From personal branding tips to actionable revenue management strategies, this episode is packed with insights to help hosts of all levels. Episode Highlights (00:00:00) Introduction and #STRSHARESUNDAY We highlight this week’s #STRShareSunday property: Montague on Magnolia. Discover how their bold, colorful interiors and shoppable design elevate their guest experience. (00:05:00) Guest Introduction: Kenny Bedwell Kenny introduces us and dives into our hosting journeys, from house hacking to co-hosting, showcasing the diversity in hosting approaches. (00:15:00) Beating Market Trends in Revenue We share how our properties consistently outperform local market trends, detailing strategies like proactive revenue management and leveraging historical data. (00:20:00) The Role of Inspectors Learn how our property inspector role has become a game-changer, ensuring every detail is guest-ready and preventing negative feedback. (00:29:00) Elevating Guest Experiences Discover creative ways to surprise and delight guests with personalized touches like handwritten cards and “forgot something” baskets. (00:37:00) Branding Your STR for Success We discuss how thoughtful branding—like unique theming and naming—sets properties apart and attracts ideal guests. (00:46:00) Final Takeaways and Tips Sarah’s Tip: Track historical data to identify trends and continually improve your performance.Annette’s Tip: Set aside dedicated time monthly to review and forecast your STR performance. Mentioned in this episode: Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with Tailwind! Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV100 to get $200 off your subscription.

    54 min
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    Hosting Hotline: Turn One Property into Two Listings on Airbnb

    Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline! This is an Ask Me Anything where each week we’ll answer your questions on Airbnb, STRs, real estate, and everything in between.Chrissy asks: Hi Annette and Sarah. This is Chrissy, the host of the Costelli Corner, a Scandinavian themed Airbnb in East Nashville. First, I want to thank you both for the thanks for visiting podcast. You both were huge help in our first year as hosts, helping us hit milestones. Like superhero status and ranking in the top 1 in our area. So, our question stems from a remodel we are doing in our Airbnb finishing this space to include a second room, which we're outfitting with a twin bed, a trundle, and an office setup. This allows us to market the property as a two-bedroom, one bath space, ideal for small families or workers or musicians. We're thinking of offering the space as a flexible parent child model where the full two-bedroom parent listing and a one-bedroom child listing for smaller groups. This way we could prioritize booking the two-bedroom but still open up availability for the one-bedroom option if we see fewer bookings coming in the full space. So, our question is about the best way to approach this change on the Airbnb platform. Should we update our current listing to the two-bedroom layout so we can retain our reviews and momentum and create a brand-new listing for the one-bedroom option? Is there a best practice for transitioning a listing like this while maximizing flexibility and maintaining a momentum to yield the best results? We'd love your advice. Thanks. (00:00) Introduction (01:27) Listener's Question (02:42) Understanding Parent-Child Listings (04:16) Advice on Listing Strategies (07:54) Maximizing Revenue with Bed Configurations (09:13) Conclusion Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. To hear your voice on the show and send a question to Sarah and Annette, submit your burning hosting questions at: hostinghotline.com. Resources: • Click here for full show notes • PriceLabs • Video: How to Get Your Airbnb Listing Seen by More Guests (And Earn More!) • Airbnb Essentials Checklist: hostchecklist.com Mentioned in this episode: StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months. Quiz | Take our quiz to reveal your hosting personality style!

    13 min

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Get actionable advice and the essential fundamentals of running a profitable 5-star Airbnb side-hustle or full on business. Annette’s extensive background in business operations and Sarah’s experience in high-end hospitality management and interior design make them a powerhouse duo that will deliver high impact content. With almost a decade of combined hosting experience they will not only share their own stories welcoming thousands of guests from around the world but also those of other Superhosts to deliver you a wide array of stories, insights, and profitable and creative ideas to make your listing rise to the top. Whether you’re experienced, new, or nervous to start your own Airbnb this podcast promises to be informative, fun, and from the heart.

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