46. Life Update: New Airbnb + Appraisal Shenanigans
Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course
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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
- 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).
