10: Building Your Small but Mighty Team for Short-Term Rental Success

Hey, it’s Brittany! Welcome back to The Airbnb Roadmap! Today, I’m diving into one of the most crucial aspects of running a successful short-term rental: your team. These people are your lifeline, the ones who know your property better than you do, and they’re essential for keeping everything running smoothly. From cleaners to CPAs, I’m breaking down the key team members you need and sharing tips on how to find and work with them.

If you’ve been struggling to put together your dream team or want to learn how to work more effectively with your current crew, this episode is for you!

1. Cleaners:

   • Your cleaner is your number one team member—they are your eyes and ears on the property.
   • How to find cleaners: Utilize Facebook groups, word of mouth, or referrals from current cleaners.
   • Pro Tip: Do surprise audits once a quarter to ensure quality and address any overlooked issues. Use the “compliment, critique, compliment” approach to provide constructive feedback.

2. Handyman:

   • A reliable handyman is essential for handling maintenance issues quickly.
   • Tips: Use word of mouth or local contractors for referrals. Always ask for quotes upfront to avoid surprise bills.

3. Snow Removal (Seasonal):

   • Vital for properties in colder climates. Start searching for a snowplow service early in the fall to secure a spot on their list.
   • Pro Tip: Ask them to shovel paths to the front door for a better guest experience. Keep shovels at the property for emergencies.

4. Lawn Care:

   • Options include doing it yourself, hiring neighbors, or using a professional service.
   • Tip: Make sure the service adjusts mowing frequency based on the season to avoid unnecessary costs.

5. CPA (Certified Public Accountant):

   • Your CPA is a key player for managing taxes and ensuring you maximize your deductions.
   • Questions to ask: Do they have experience with short-term rentals or real estate investments? Can they help you plan purchases to optimize tax benefits?

Whether you’re starting your first short-term rental or scaling your portfolio, building the right team is critical for your success. In this episode, I share real-world tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you assemble a team that will keep your properties running smoothly and your guests happy.

• Hospitable: Save $30 when you sign up here. Automate guest communication and streamline your processes!
• Evolve Property Management: Want to be hands-off? Start exploring Evolve here.
• Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @theairbnbroadmap for more tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.

Who’s on your small but mighty team? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap to share your experiences, challenges, and tips for finding the perfect crew!

Are you a real estate agent looking to specialize in short-term rentals? Let’s chat! This niche is full of opportunities, and with the right guidance, you can dominate your market. Message me on Instagram, and let’s make it happen.

00:00 Welcome and Intro 02:16 The Role of Cleaners in Your STR Success 09:11 Why a Handyman is a Must-Have 13:55 Snow Removal Services for Winter STRs 22:18 The Importance of Lawn Care 28:47 How a CPA Can Save You Thousands

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap and share it with other hosts or agents who want to create their dream STR team. Let’s build smarter, more efficient businesses together!