Best STR Hacks and Hosting Tools 🛠️

The exciting world of hosting — where creating unforgettable memories for guests is an art fueled by hospitality but also efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned host or just stepping into the world of hosting, these hosting tips and hacks will not only streamline your operations but will make your hosting journey more enjoyable, ensuring both you and your guests have an amazing experience.

Optimize Your Listing 🏘️

Picture-Perfect Magic: Transform your space into a visual delight with high-quality photos. Consider bringing in a professional photographer to capture the magic of your place. This can make a HUGE difference!

Storybook Descriptions: Craft a tasteful description of your space, emphasizing its unique features. Think of it as inviting guests to see the amenities they'll discover during their stay.

Price Magic: Use dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs or Wheelhouse to weave a pricing strategy that is in line with demand, local events, and the whims of the seasons.

Streamline Communication 📬

Messaging: Set up automated messages for everything from pre-arrival excitement to post-stay gratitude using tools like Hospitable or YourWelcome.

A Unified Inbox: Simplify your communication across platforms with a unified inbox, such as Hostaway or Lodgify, ensuring you respond promptly to guest inquiries and wishes. These are also great tools to use if you have listings on multiple platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com and need somewhere to manage it all in one place.

Create an Enchanting Guest Experience ✨

Smart Home Ideas: Infuse your space by incorporating smart home devices like keyless entry systems, smart thermostats, and voice-activated assistants for an enchanted and modern touch.

Digital Welcome Books: Provide a digital welcome book using apps like TouchStay or Hostfully. Share local wonders, house rules, and emergency contacts to ensure guests have everything they need during their stay.

Special Touches: Leave behind charming touches like welcome baskets, local treats, or personalized notes to ensure your guests feel like royalty during their stay.

Efficient Cleaning and Maintenance 🧼

Effortless Cleanings: Harness the power of cleaning services like Turno or Properly to effortlessly manage cleanings, ensuring your space is always ready for the next set of  guests.

Maintenance: Set up maintenance alerts using tools like Hosty to stay on top of repairs and keep your property in tip-top shape.

Spread the Joy with Marketing 📱

Social Media: Take advantage of marketing on social media platforms. Share photos, guest reviews, and local events to attract a broader audience.

Promos: Use promo codes for special offers during quieter seasons. Services like Beyond Pricing can help you create some great pricing strategies.

Financial Happiness 💵

Expense Tracking: Keep your finances in check with tools like QuickBooks or Hostfully. Simplify your bookkeeping, ensuring a stress-free tax season.

Secure Transactions: Choose payment processing platforms like Stripe to ensure secure and hassle-free transactions, leaving you with more time to enjoy the magic of hosting.

Leverage your STR & Travel For Free 🗺️

The obvious host hack… HOSTSHARE. A platform where hosts can share their last minute unbooked nights for 21 nights for free stays at other host’s STRs, just pay the cleaning fee. It doesn’t get much better than that, Am I right?! 🥂 Check out Hostshare today!