How to Start an Airbnb

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I sit down with Carlos Saavedra, a cleaning expert who operates a high standard Airbnb cleaning company, and we get into the REAL behind the scenes of what makes or breaks your short term rental. We talk about everything from why your cleaner is actually the backbone of your business, to the small details guests notice that can tank your reviews, to how to properly vet and hire a cleaner who actually understands hospitality, not just “cleaning.” We also go deep into systems, communication, linens, staging expectations, and the biggest mistakes I see investors make when setting up their Airbnb for success. If you have ever struggled with a cleaner, questioned your setup, or want to avoid costly mistakes from day 1, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Your cleaner is not just a cleaner, they are protecting your income • Hospitality cleaning is VERY different than residential or office cleaning • Small details like hair, linens, and supplies can make or break reviews • You should always interview multiple cleaners before hiring • Ask about pricing structure, experience, and consistency systems • White linens win every time for cleanliness perception and sanitation • 3 full linen sets per bed is the sweet spot for operations • Over staging your Airbnb can create unnecessary workload and inconsistency • Systems and communication between you and your cleaner are everything • Not all cleaners are built for short term rentals, and that is okay Why Listen to This Episode? If you are building or scaling an Airbnb, this episode will save you time, money, and headaches. I am not kidding when I say your cleaner can either elevate your business or completely destroy your guest experience. This conversation will help you hire smarter, set better expectations, and build systems that actually support long term success. Whether you are brand new or already hosting, this is one of those foundational episodes you do not want to skip.   Let’s Connect Thinking about hiring a cleaner or setting up your Airbnb the right way? 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 launch your Airbnb the RIGHT way without all the trial and error? Inside my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator, I walk you through everything from finding the right property to setting up systems like cleaning, pricing, and guest experience so you can actually make money and not feel overwhelmed. Use code 5STARPODCAST for a special discount Chapters 00:00 Intro and guest welcome 02:00 How Carlos got into Airbnb cleaning 05:00 What most cleaners are doing wrong 08:00 Going above and beyond as a cleaning company 12:00 3 must ask questions when hiring a cleaner 18:00 Real life cleaner interview horror story 22:00 Staging vs reality in Airbnbs 26:00 Linen strategy and why white wins 33:00 King vs queen bedding debate 37:00 When to fire your cleaner 41:00 Final thoughts and business shoutouts Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you think differently about your Airbnb setup, take a screenshot and share it on Instagram. Tag me so I can reshare and support you. And if you have not already, make sure you are subscribed so you never miss an episode of The Airbnb Roadmap 🎙️  

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Get your Amazon Shopping Cart   In this episode, I’m sharing a real, honest breakdown of what I no longer buy for my Airbnb properties, and why. After getting hit with a massive 30-inch snowfall at our cabins and managing guest expectations in the middle of chaos, it reminded me just how important it is to have systems and smart decisions in place. I walk through the biggest purchasing mistakes I’ve made over the years, from cheap furniture that doesn’t last, to design choices that actually hurt guest perception. If you’re in the furnishing, upgrading, or scaling phase of your short term rental, this episode is your reality check. Not everything that looks good or feels like an upgrade will actually increase your bookings, your reviews, or your nightly rate. And if it doesn’t do at least one of those things, it’s probably not worth your money. Key Takeaways Cheap furniture will cost you more long term, you are better off investing in quality upfront White bedding builds trust with guests and signals cleanliness, darker colors can raise doubts Strong scents, candles, and plugins can negatively impact guest experience Fragile items, including wine glasses and decor, will break quickly and create safety risks Overly complicated smart home systems lead to confusion and more guest messages Every upgrade should serve a purpose, bookings, ADR, or reviews Some amenities sound great but do not perform based on your market or location Pinterest design does not always translate into a functional or guest friendly space Avoid anything controversial, including religious or political decor Furniture layout matters more than you think, flow impacts guest experience Do not cheap out on towels, guests notice comfort details immediately Why Listen to This Episode? If you are currently setting up your first Airbnb or thinking about upgrading your space, this episode will save you money, time, and frustration. I am sharing real mistakes I have made across multiple properties so you do not have to learn the hard way. This is also a great episode if you feel like you are constantly spending money on your property but not seeing a return. I will help you shift your mindset into making strategic, ROI driven decisions instead of emotional or aesthetic ones. Let’s Connect Thinking about what to buy or skip for your Airbnb? 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 If you are ready to launch or scale your Airbnb the right way, my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything from property selection to full setup and systems. You will learn how to make smart investment decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a short term rental that actually performs. Chapters 00:00 Life update and upcoming guest interviews 02:00 30-inch snowstorm and managing guest expectations 06:00 Why this episode matters, stop wasting money 07:30 Cheap furniture mistakes 09:00 Bedding choices and guest perception 13:00 Strong scents and guest sensitivity 15:30 Fragile decor and wine glasses 18:00 Smart home technology pitfalls 20:30 ROI driven upgrades and amenities 22:30 When amenities are not worth it 23:30 Design mistakes and Pinterest traps 24:30 Avoiding controversial decor 25:30 Furniture layout and flow 26:45 Towels and guest comfort 28:30 Final thoughts and resource mention Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you rethink your Airbnb setup, share it with a friend who is in the process of furnishing their rental. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss upcoming guest episodes, especially the one dropping this April that I am so excited about 👀

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I am sharing a very real behind the scenes look at what the past week has looked like in our short term rental business. Between a dishwasher claim, rude guest messages, and review threats, it has felt like when it rains it pours. Instead of letting it spiral, I used these situations as a reminder of why being proactive instead of reactive is everything in this business. I walk you through two real guest scenarios, exactly what was said, how I handled it, and what I did behind the scenes to protect our listings, reviews, and sanity. If you have ever felt stressed by a guest, worried about a bad review, or unsure how to handle a tricky cancellation situation, this episode will help you think 3 steps ahead instead of constantly putting out fires. Key Takeaways Why proactive communication protects your reviews • How to handle guests who threaten bad reviews • When to call Airbnb and document everything • Why small refunds can protect long term revenue • How automation tools like Hospitable help create consistency • Why keeping communication inside Airbnb matters • How reviews shape your visibility and bookings • Why sometimes you have to spend $50 to protect thousands Why Listen to This Episode? Because hosting is not about avoiding problems. It is about having a plan before problems happen. I break down a situation where a guest refused to cancel and openly admitted he wanted to leave a bad review. Instead of panicking, I called Airbnb immediately, documented everything, and had a note placed on the reservation. If he leaves a retaliatory review, it gets removed. That is proactive hosting. I also share how I handled a dishwasher breaking mid bookings, what I did to soften the inconvenience, and how one guest still pushed back. These are the moments that test you as a host. We also talk about the power of reviews and where the whole review culture actually started, shoutout to Michelin for creating the original rating system that evolved into the Michelin Star system. Wild, right? This episode is equal parts strategy and real life hosting therapy session. Mentioned in the Episode Airbnb Vrbo Booking.com Hospitable Michelin Let’s Connect Thinking about how to protect your Airbnb reviews or handle difficult guests? 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 If you want systems, scripts, automation, and proactive hosting strategies built out step by step, check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. I teach you how to protect your time, your revenue, and your sanity while building a 5 star short term rental business. Chapters 00:00 Life update and guest chaos 05:00 Guest threatens bad review over cancellation 10:00 Calling Airbnb and documenting everything 15:00 Dishwasher drama and handling inconvenience 20:00 Why refunds can protect long term income 24:00 The origin of reviews and why they matter 27:00 Protecting your property with proof and photos 30:00 Final thoughts on proactive hosting Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you feel more confident as a host, make sure you subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another short term rental owner who needs to hear this. The more proactive you are, the less reactive you have to be.  

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Websitert Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast, I am breaking down Airbnb cancellation policies in real life terms, not just the fine print. This episode was inspired by a recent midterm guest who booked for 3 months and left after only 2 weeks, plus ongoing damage claim frustrations with Airbnb support. I walk through what actually happens when guests cancel short stays versus long stays, why rejecting an alteration can sometimes protect you financially, and how different cancellation policies impact both hosts and guests. I also share personal stories from my own properties, including extreme cold weather stress, property damage realities, and how distance from your rentals forces you to become a better manager instead of a reactive host. If you have ever been confused, frustrated, or blindsided by Airbnb cancellations, this episode will give you clarity and confidence moving forward. Key Takeaways Airbnb has different cancellation rules for short stays 27 nights or fewer and long stays 28 nights or more • All Airbnb listings include a 24 hour free cancellation window if the booking is made at least 7 days before check in • Flexible policies are guest friendly but offer the least protection to hosts • Moderate policies provide a balance between bookings and host protection • Limited and firm policies increase host protection but may reduce booking conversion • Long term stays function more like leases and can guarantee up to 30 nights of income • Rejecting an alteration does not penalize your host account • Never cancel on behalf of a guest or you risk losing Superhost status • Distance from your properties can actually help you scale and systemize better Why Listen to This Episode? If you host short term or midterm rentals and want to avoid losing thousands of dollars due to misunderstandings around cancellations, this episode is a must listen. I explain Airbnb policies using real numbers, real scenarios, and real outcomes so you can make smarter decisions for your listings. This episode is especially helpful if you are considering midterm rentals, traveling nurse stays, or longer bookings and want to understand how to protect your income while still staying guest friendly. Let’s Connect Thinking about Airbnb cancellation policies or midterm rentals? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your experience. I would love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me If you are looking to buy, sell, or scale a short term rental, or if you want access to my Airbnb Roadmap course and resources, reach out. I also connect investors with STR focused agents across multiple states because there is a huge difference between a regular agent and one who truly understands short term rentals. Chapters 00:01 Life update and recent guest damage 02:18 Temporary fixes and real world hosting decisions 04:40 Managing properties near vs far 07:05 Midterm guest cancellation story 10:29 Why Airbnb cancellations are confusing 12:50 Airbnb 24 hour cancellation rule 14:24 Flexible cancellation policy explained 19:12 Moderate cancellation policy explained 21:28 Limited cancellation policy explained 23:56 Firm and strict short stay policies 31:35 Airbnb policy changes in 2025 39:46 Choosing the right policy as a host 44:30 Long stay cancellation policies 46:53 Why rejecting alterations matters 51:02 Firm vs strict long term stays 54:03 Airbnb resort for sale opportunity 55:22 Courses, resources, and next steps Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you understand Airbnb cancellations better, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be confused or stressed about cancellations. I will see you in the next episode of The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website In this episode, I’m getting real about something no one loves to talk about: Airbnb maintenance. Fancy amenities like hot tubs, arcade games, golf simulators, saunas, and movie theaters can absolutely boost your average daily rate—but they also come with nonstop upkeep, guest messages at inconvenient hours, and real risk to your reviews. I’m sharing real stories from my own Airbnbs—what broke, what I removed, what I kept, and why I now prioritize simple, durable, and low-maintenance setups over flashy features. If you’re deciding what amenities to add (or skip), this episode will save you money, stress, and late-night headaches. Key Takeaways High-end amenities can increase ADR, but they also increase risk Hot tubs and pools require constant attention—not occasional check-ins Arcade games and golf simulators break more often than you think Guests book based on amenities—and punish you in reviews when they don’t work “Set it and forget it” should be your Airbnb goal Lower maintenance = better lifestyle, fewer refunds, and more consistent 5-star stays Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re debating whether to add a hot tub, sauna, arcade game, or golf simulator—or you already have one and feel overwhelmed—this episode will help you think like an investor, not just a designer. I break down what actually works long-term and how to protect your time, sanity, and reviews.   Let’s Connect Thinking about Airbnb maintenance or amenities? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what features you’re debating! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.   Work With Me Want to build an Airbnb that actually makes money without owning a full-time tool belt? 🎯 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — step-by-step guidance to launch smart 🚀 Mentorship Program — hands-on support and strategy 🎉 Launch Party Bonuses — $100 off the course + mentorship discounts 👉 Bonus: Buy the course, purchase an Airbnb with one of my recommended agents, and get the course refunded 100% after closing. Yes—completely free. Links are in the show notes or DM me for details. Chapters 00:00 – Testing the mic + life update 02:30 – Why this episode exists 07:45 – Fancy Airbnbs vs. maintenance reality 11:00 – Hot tubs: the biggest offender 15:00 – Arcade games that didn’t last 18:30 – Saunas: worth it or risky? 22:45 – Games that don’t break 25:15 – Golf simulators gone wrong 27:30 – Movie theater & Roku issues 30:00 – Real maintenance from back-to-back bookings 33:00 – The lifestyle cost of “resort-style” Airbnbs 35:00 – Course launch party + refund bonus Subscribe and Share If this episode saved you from buying a hot tub (or validated your regret 😅), please subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a friend who’s designing their Airbnb right now. It helps more than you know.

Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary This episode is a full zoom-out reflection on 2025, a year that completely reshaped how I look at short-term rentals, success, systems, and family. From having Baby Melanie, launching multiple Airbnbs, renovating while pregnant (yes, really), traveling, and still growing the business… this year forced me to stop hustling harder and start building smarter. I’m sharing what actually changed after becoming a mom, how automation became non-negotiable, why things never “calm down,” and how that realization led me to finally finish and refine the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator. This one’s honest, personal, and very real. Key Takeaways Life doesn’t slow down, you just build better systems Automation isn’t optional if you want freedom You don’t need chaos to scale short-term rentals Hustle looks very different after kids (and that’s okay) Pausing growth doesn’t mean quitting, it means prioritizing ROI matters more than flashy renovations The goal isn’t more properties, it’s more freedom Building once, correctly, pays you over and over again Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever thought: “I’ll start when life calms down” “I don’t have the time right now” “This feels overwhelming” “How do people do this with kids?” This episode is for you. I walk through what scaling actually looks like in real life — not the Instagram version, and how systems, boundaries, and clarity make growth sustainable. 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 Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about starting or scaling an Airbnb in 2026? 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 If you’re ready to: Buy your first Airbnb Scale smarter (not harder) Build systems that give you your life back Avoid expensive rookie mistakes The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator walks you through everything I actually use — from finding the right property to launching, automating, and growing with confidence. The 4-week Launch Party includes live access to me for questions, feedback, and real-time support. Chapters 00:00 – Holiday chaos & daycare closures 02:30 – Reflecting on 2025 04:30 – Hustle vs motherhood 06:30 – Buying another Airbnb while pregnant 09:00 – Why systems became non-negotiable 10:30 – Traveling while payouts roll in 12:45 – Why we bought another property 15:30 – Choosing to pause growth 16:45 – Things never calm down — you just build smarter 19:00 – Why I created the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator 23:00 – What’s inside the course 26:00 – 4-week launch party details 29:30 – Growth, family, and priorities 30:45 – Looking ahead to 2026 Subscribe and Share If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Your support means more than you know 🤍

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode of The Airbnb Roadmap, I’m taking you behind the scenes of our latest “turnkey” Airbnb… that turned out to be anything but low effort. 😅 I share why I had to re-record this entire episode (tech drama, zero audio, stomach-drop moment), how we partnered with our investor friends from Texas to buy a primary home with an in-law suite above the garage, and why “turnkey” still meant months of assembly, design tweaks, and problem-solving. You’ll hear what happened with our Matterport disaster, the gap between interior design ideas and what’s actually realistic to install (looking at you, ceiling wallpaper and curtain rods), why paint is now my arch nemesis, and how we decided what to DIY vs. hire out. I also talk about doing all of this while baby Melanie started crawling mid-renovation, nearly giving Clay a concussion with a post driver (marriage is wild), and how our bodies are telling us we’re not 22 anymore. We wrap up with a mini announcement about the brand-new Airbnb Roadmap website, the early bird deal on my course, and a shoutout for a fully turnkey Airbnb resort for sale in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Key Takeaways “Turnkey” doesn’t mean done. Even when a property is move-in ready, there are still layers of Airbnb-specific work: wallpaper, assembly, decor, layout tweaks, amenity planning, and guest experience touches. Interior design vs. real life can clash. Ceiling wallpaper, moving curtain rods, or fancy ceiling tiles sound fun… until you’re on a ladder fighting with them and questioning your life choices. Matterport can save you… or annoy you. Not all Matterport plans include measurements, which designers actually need. Understanding the package level (or having a backup provider) matters. Ordering furniture yourself vs. having a designer do it are two totally different systems. You ordering = better discounts + control, but much more chaos, tracking deliveries, and out-of-stock surprises. Designer ordering = less chaos for you, but returns are slower and you may not realize something is tiny/quirky until it shows up. Label your paint cans. Slightly different shades on one wall are officially my villain origin story. Touch-ups without clear labeling are a nightmare. Budgeting to hire help is worth it. Spraying garage ceilings, painting ceiling tiles, and doing special wall details were totally worth hiring out—especially as we’re juggling a baby and full-time work. Renovating with a crawling baby changes everything. Time, energy, guilt, and logistics all hit differently when you’re trying to be both “present mom” and “project manager.” Big picture: it was still a smoother renovation overall. It wasn’t a gut job, but it brought its own set of challenges that are shaping how we’ll plan the next one. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re dreaming of buying a “turnkey” Airbnb and think it’ll be a light lift… this episode is your reality check (in the best way). You’ll get: A real-life look at what actually happens between “closing day” and “Airbnb live.” Insight into working with interior designers for STRs and how to avoid miscommunication. Practical lessons from our paint, wallpaper, and furniture ordering mistakes so you don’t repeat them. Encouragement if you’re trying to build your Airbnb portfolio while juggling kids, work, marriage, and limited time. A sneak peek at our revamped website, course, and an incredible turnkey Airbnb resort opportunity in La Crosse, WI. If you like honest, slightly chaotic, behind-the-scenes stories that still teach you something, this one’s for you. 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 Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about renovating your own “turnkey” Airbnb or juggling a reno with kids, work, and life? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. 💛 Work With Me 🎙 Listen to The Airbnb Roadmap Podcast Keep tuning in every week as I share real numbers, real stories, and real lessons from our own short-term rentals and my clients’ deals. 🏡 Buy or Sell an Investment Property in Wisconsin If you’re wanting to buy or sell an STR (or a primary home with Airbnb potential) in Wisconsin, I’d love to be your agent. I work under Front Porch Realty, brokered by Real Broker LLC, and I specialize in helping investors and “first-time Airbnb people” find smart, profitable properties. 📚 Airbnb Roadmap Course (Early Bird) Want everything I’ve learned—mistakes, systems, and shortcuts—all in one place? My brand-new course is live with a crazy early bird discount. It’s not in the show notes yet, so just reach out and I’ll send you the secret link. 🌲 Turnkey Airbnb Resort in La Crosse, WI If you’ve been wanting an already-recognized Airbnb resort/retreat that’s turnkey and cash flowing, I have one available in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The seller isn’t bailing because it’s failing—he’s just onto a new adventure. Message me for details. Chapters 00:00 – Tech fail & why this is “round two” of the episode 02:15 – The “turnkey” property: how we found it and partnered with Texas investors 04:30 – Matterport drama: no measurements, subscription levels, and saving the day 07:30 – Interior design vs. reality: ceiling wallpaper, curtain rods, and ceiling tiles 11:00 – Two designers, two approaches: who orders furniture and what that changes 14:30 – The chaos of deliveries, missing lamp, and long lead times 17:30 – Tiny $50 decor, returns, and the difference between corporate vs. flexible designers 20:00 – Paint can nightmares, unlabeled colors, and touch-up disasters 23:30 – What we hired out vs. DIY: painters, ceiling tiles, and special wall details 25:30 – Fence install, post driver mishap, and almost concussing Clay 27:45 – Renovating with a crawling baby + grandparent help and mom guilt 29:30 – Sauna delivery saga and finally being “photo ready” 30:45 – What we created: movie theater, wellness garage, game garage, and backyard 31:30 – New website, early bird course info, La Crosse resort opportunity & wrap-up Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes renovation episode, follow/subscribe to The Airbnb Roadmap so you don’t miss what we do with this property next. Know someone who’s about to buy a “turnkey” Airbnb and thinks it’ll be easy? 😏 Send them this episode so they can go in prepared. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you in next week’s episode!

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey friends, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and in today’s episode I’m breaking down a question I get every single November: Should you decorate your Airbnb for the holidays? The short answer is probably not, and I explain exactly why. From inclusivity to guest expectations to season-locked photos, I share my personal take on why holiday décor can actually hurt you more than help. I also chat about the itch to add Christmas magic, why neutral spaces serve everyone better, and how winter photos still matter and how I faked mine with AI. Then, to wrap things up, I shift into a Thanksgiving gratitude moment. Whether you’re a seasoned host or launching your first short-term rental soon, I want you to fully recognize how far you’ve come, the memories you’re creating for others, and the ripple effect your STR has on cleaners, contractors, families and guests who choose your space. And of course, a big shoutout to my incredible marketing girl for helping me bring big projects to life. Key Takeaways Holiday décor can unintentionally exclude guests who don’t celebrate the same holidays. • Over-the-top seasonal decorating creates guest expectations you may not want to manage every year. • Holiday-themed photos can season lock your listing and confuse guests outside that timeframe. • Winter photos still matter, especially in Wisconsin, and you can update them using simple AI edits. • Your STR business impacts cleaners, contractors, guests and families more than you realize. • Thanksgiving is the perfect time to acknowledge your wins, both big and small, as a host or future host. Why Listen to This Episode? If you're tempted to put up a Christmas tree in your Airbnb, or already have it in your Amazon cart, this episode will help you think through the long-term impact on guest experience, ROI and inclusivity. Plus, you’ll walk away feeling inspired, grounded and grateful for everything you've built in your short-term rental journey. Mentioned in the Episode How AI tools (like ChatGPT) can transform your exterior photos into realistic winter scenes • My current renovation updates and December 1st launch timeline • A behind-the-scenes mural painting update • Partner and wedding trip prep with Kyle and Anna • My marketing girl who is truly crushing a huge upcoming project Let’s Connect Thinking about holiday decorating in your Airbnb or avoiding it altogether? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re doing this year! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to learn how to find, launch and run a profitable Airbnb with confidence? Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course and save $50 with code 5STARPODCAST. 👉 https://brittany-wenninger.mykajabi.com Chapters 00:00 Whispering intro and the audio fail 01:30 Renovation weekend and partner update 03:20 Seeing the project come together 04:35 Holiday season and the decorating question 05:10 Why I personally avoid Christmas décor 07:00 Inclusivity and guest comfort 08:45 Reviews and setting expectations 09:30 Season-locking your photos 11:45 Winter photos and using AI 14:30 My official take: skip the decorations 15:40 Cozy touches but only if not photographed 15:55 Shifting into Thanksgiving 16:40 Why hosting is something to be proud of 18:02 What you’re providing to guests 19:00 The ripple effect for cleaners, contractors and families 20:30 Gratitude for my marketing girl 21:30 Wrap up and final thoughts Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you rethink your holiday hosting plans, share it with a fellow Airbnb host and hit follow so you never miss a new episode of The Airbnb Roadmap.  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Hey, it’s Brittany Wenninger with Front Porch Realty powered by Real Broker LLC, and today’s episode is a little different. I’m getting real and a bit vulnerable about what happens behind the scenes when you’re in the middle of renovating new Airbnbs, juggling family life, and trying to keep everything running smoothly. From the easier-than-expected updates on our latest properties to the furnace fiasco that had me up at 4:30 AM in full panic mode, I’m sharing what self-managing really looks like,  the good, the exhausting, and the “why am I doing this again?” moments. If you’ve ever felt torn between your hustle and your personal life (hi, fellow parents and hosts!), this episode will definitely hit home. Key Takeaways Why this renovation season has been smoother, and what’s making it different from past projects. The reality of balancing Airbnb projects with parenting and missing out on family moments. What happens when you don’t take your own advice about winter prep. The value of having backup heat sources (mini splits for the win). A reminder that even seasoned hosts have “sell-it-all” days, and that’s okay. Why Listen to This Episode? Because burnout and balance are both real parts of the Airbnb journey. This isn’t a highlight reel,  it’s an honest look at what happens when the furnace goes out, the baby’s waiting at home, and you start questioning if it’s all worth it. You’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and reminded that you’re not the only one trying to figure out how to do it all. 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 Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Cabins for Sale: Start your Airbnb Journey with a Bang! Purchase 3 successful Airbnbs right now and expand later! Reach out for more information. Link to Website: https://www.highpointretreats.net/ Let’s Connect Thinking about renovating your own Airbnb (or maybe not renovating for a while)? DM me on Instagram @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share what you’re working on — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out! Work With Me Want to build, buy, or launch your own short-term rental in Wisconsin? 👉 Front Porch Realty 👉 Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Chapters 00:00 Intro – Keeping it real about renovations 01:30 Lessons from past Airbnb projects 04:30 Missing family moments for renovation weekends 06:50 The 4:30 AM “we have a problem” wake-up call 09:30 Panic mode and troubleshooting the furnace 13:50 Taking your own winterization advice (ouch) 14:30 The truth about self-management burnout 16:30 The La Crosse Airbnb resort opportunity Subscribe and Share If you enjoyed this episode, please follow The Airbnb Roadmap, rate the show, and share it with a fellow Airbnb host or real estate friend who needs a little real-life perspective (and a laugh).  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Airbnb just dropped one of its biggest updates ever,  and it impacts every single host. As of this week, Airbnb has officially shifted to a host-only service fee model, meaning guests no longer pay the platform fee at checkout… we do. In this episode, I break down what this new fee structure means, how it affects your payout, and what actions you need to take right now to protect your profits. Oh,  and yes, I share a quick life update involving paint, patience, and a soon-to-be movie-theater room that almost broke me. Key Takeaways 🏠 Airbnb has moved from a split-fee model (guest + host) to a host-only model 💸 Hosts will now pay 15.5% in service fees, up from 3% ⚖️ You must adjust your nightly rates to maintain the same payouts ✏️ Add clear language to your listings like “No guest service fee – what you see is what you pay” 🧠 Guests will see cleaner pricing, but hosts must stay strategic to avoid losing income ⚙️ Pricing tools like PriceLabs or Hospitable can help automatically adjust rates Why Listen to This Episode? This change affects your revenue immediately. If you don’t raise your nightly rate or update your listing language, you’ll lose profit — plain and simple. In this episode, I help you understand the “why” behind Airbnb’s move, the ripple effect it’ll have across the platform, and how to get ahead of it before your competitors even realize what’s happening. 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 Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about how to adjust your pricing or update your listing strategy after this Airbnb change? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share how you’re handling it — I’d love to cheer you on and help you out! Work With Me Ready to turn your short-term rental goals into reality? ✅ Check out The Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator — my self-paced course designed to help you find, launch, and manage your first (or next) Airbnb with confidence. It’s under $500 and packed with step-by-step guidance for building real income through hosting. Chapters 00:00 – Intro + life update (painting disasters & patience) 02:00 – The big Airbnb change: host-only fees 04:00 – What this means for your payouts 05:30 – How to adjust pricing strategically 08:00 – Updating your listing to say “No guest service fee” 13:00 – Why Airbnb made this move 16:00 – Competing with hosts who don’t update prices 20:00 – Example listing verbiage you can use 22:00 – Final thoughts + adapting quickly Subscribe and Share If this episode helped you understand Airbnb’s new pricing shift, follow the show and share it with another host who needs to hear this update. Let’s make sure every host stays profitable through these changes!  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary Insurance can feel like alphabet soup, until something goes wrong. In this interview, I sit down with Nick Sommer of Country Financial (and one of my buyers!) to break down exactly what short-term rental owners need: how to structure coverage for STRs vs. primary/secondary homes, must-have endorsements, loss-of-income realities, and why an umbrella policy can be the difference between a scare and a disaster. Nick also shares the personal house-fire story that led him into insurance and the simple annual habit that can save you months of headache during a claim. Key Takeaways Match the policy to the use. Don’t insure an STR like an owner-occupied or long-term rental—claims can be denied if the use doesn’t match the application. Four core buckets: dwelling (rebuild cost ≠ market value), personal property (replacement cost, not garage-sale value), liability (aim higher than default limits), and loss of income (raise limits for STR-level revenue). Critical endorsements for hosts: Sump pump/sewer backup (not standard) Service line coverage Flood insurance is separate Loss of income is evidence-based. Keep AirDNA/comps, booking statements, and P&Ls to substantiate payouts. Umbrella = legal shield. Choose limits that reflect your net assets (homes, vehicles, retirement, cash, other properties). It covers defense costs and many personal-liability scenarios. Document everything. Once a year, do a whole-home video walkthrough and maintain a furnishings spreadsheet with links, prices, and statuses. Choose financially solid carriers. Check claim strength/ratings (e.g., AM Best) and prioritize service over “cheapest quote.” Get it in writing. Confirm coverage answers via email; recordings aren’t yours, emails are. Why Listen to This Episode? Because “I have insurance” isn’t a plan. If you’ve ever wondered whether your STR is actually covered for what you do, hot tubs, guest injuries, burst pipes, tornadoes, income loss—this episode turns jargon into plain English and gives you a checklist to bring to your agent. Mentioned in the Episode Country Financial – Nick Sommer (Licensed in IL, WI, KS) Email: nick.sommer@countryfinancial.com Office: 815-633-9404 Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about insurance for your short-term rental? 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 Buy/Sell in Wisconsin with Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC). STR Coaching: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (self-paced) + Mentorship options. Agent Referrals: I’ll connect you with STR-savvy agents statewide. Chapters 00:00 Recording setup + why this topic matters 02:11 Nick’s background & the house-fire that changed everything 06:07 Home policy types (primary, secondary, rental/STR, condo) 08:14 STR must-haves: liability, rebuild cost, endorsements 11:25 Loss of income for STRs (how payouts are calculated) 14:03 Replacement cost for furniture & annual documentation 16:41 My furnishings spreadsheet system (order → received) 20:24 Get coverage answers in writing (E&O and why it matters) 21:20 “STR-specific” insurers vs. traditional carriers—what to compare 27:42 Umbrella policy explained (and how to size limits) 31:21 Real-life slip-and-fall & weather scare—why we upgraded 36:26 Annual reviews: as life changes, so should coverage 38:40 How to contact Nick + final tips  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this episode, I break down Wisconsin’s short-term rental rules from the top down—statewide requirements (DATCP Tourist Rooming House license and inspections), the county layer (zoning, room tax, and when conditional use permits come into play), and the township layer (minimum night stays, resident agent requirements, occupancy limits, and other quirky rules). I also share our real-life CUP hearing story in Columbia County, why HOAs are risky, what “annexation” or jurisdiction changes can mean for you, and the #1 mistake that can get you shut down before you ever launch. Key Takeaways You must have a Wisconsin Tourist Rooming House (TRH) license through DATCP before listing—period. County rules vary: some are light-touch, others require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) with hearings and neighbor notices. Township rules can be the strictest: night-minimums, local resident-agent radius, spacing from other STRs, owner-occupancy, and bizarre self-management limitations. Always confirm legal guest capacity (septic size, bedrooms, or square footage can control it). HOAs can change the rules overnight—avoid if you plan to operate an STR. If a small town is being annexed (e.g., to a nearby city), get “grandfathering” status in writing. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re eyeing a Wisconsin Airbnb, this is the playbook for staying compliant, avoiding fines, and protecting your investment before you hit “Publish.” 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 Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes Let’s Connect Thinking about Wisconsin STR rules & permits? 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 Want step-by-step guidance? My self-paced Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator is under $500 and covers everything from setup to scaling. If you close on your first STR with an agent I connect you to, you’ll get a 100% refund at closing. Chapters 00:00 Life update + property under contract 05:46 State level: DATCP Tourist Rooming House license (what it is, inspections) 12:39 County level: zoning, room tax, and when CUPs are required 15:35 CUP story time: neighbor letters, hearings, and outcomes (Columbia County) 24:46 Township level: night minimums, resident agents, spacing/ownership quirks 31:51 HOAs: why they’re risky for STRs 33:05 Annexation & grandfathering: small town becoming part of a city 35:28 Legal occupancy: how towns/counties calculate guest limits 36:50 Don’t list before permits; protecting your launch 38:10 Course + free-at-closing offer Subscribe and Share If this helped, share it with a friend who’s eyeing a Wisconsin Airbnb and hit follow so you don’t miss the next episode!  

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary In this personal, behind-the-scenes episode, I share how I went from a Six Flags kid in Gurnee, Illinois, to UW-Platteville grad, to wedding and hotel work, to a miserable janitorial sales job… to finally finding my lane as a real estate agent and short-term rental investor. I walk through the domino moments—meeting a Zillow agent who became my mentor, getting laid off during COVID, almost opening a paint-your-own-pottery studio, discovering Airbnbs, and how we bought our first, second, and third properties (plus a “two-for-one” partnership that’s in motion). If you’re curious how someone actually pivots into STRs without a trust fund or a $200k salary, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways Your path won’t be linear—and that’s okay. Every “wrong” job taught me what I truly wanted (and what I didn’t). Mentors matter. A single Zillow tour led to the agent who mentored me and changed my career trajectory. Don’t chase money, chase fit. Long-term rentals weren’t our fit—hospitality was. STRs clicked. Start imperfectly. Our first market wasn’t ideal, but it got us in the game and funded the next doors. Momentum compounds. Property #1 led to #2, then #3—then partnerships for #4 and #5. Niche = clarity. When I niched into STRs, the work got easier, more fun, and way more effective. Why Listen to This Episode? If you’ve ever thought, “I didn’t go to school for this—am I too late?” or “I don’t have a perfect plan or pile of cash,” this is your permission slip. You’ll hear what it really looks like to pivot industries, learn in public, and build an STR portfolio step by step—messy mic moments and all. Mentioned in the Episode Start your Airbnb Profile: Receive $48 back when starting your Airbnb profile and I'll have your back every step of the way! Link: https://www.airbnb.com/r/brittanyb15480?s=6&t=061n0g Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates. Let’s Connect Thinking about getting into short-term rentals? 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 Buy or sell an STR in Wisconsin with me at Front Porch Realty (powered by Real Broker LLC). Invest anywhere in the U.S.—I’ll connect you with a vetted STR-savvy agent in my network. Take my self-paced course, Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator (under $500): step-by-step from deal finding to launch and systems. Close on your first STR with an agent I connect you to, and you’ll get 100% of your course tuition refunded. Want a warm intro to a local pro, lender, or CPA? Message me “INTRO” on IG. Chapters 00:00 — Mic on (finally), what today’s episode is (and isn’t) 02:46 — Teaser: our new two-for-one STR deal with friends in Texas 04:30 — Growing up in Gurnee, Six Flags summers, loving thrills not lines 05:06 — College, weddings, events… and realizing weekends weren’t mine 07:12 — Hotel front desk: the spark for hospitality 09:29 — The toxic sales job that broke me (and taught me) 10:59 — Pottery studio dream, mentorship, and a near-miss lease 15:45 — COVID pivot: the blessing in disguise 18:09 — Buying our home, meeting the Zillow agent who changed everything 20:19 — Joining a team, getting laid off, and momentum begins 22:41 — BiggerPockets binge: LTR vs STR and choosing our lane 25:03 — Why STRs fit my skills and personality 25:59 — Writing our first offer at Dunkin before a wedding (we got it) 28:18 — Property #2: funding, chaos, and lessons 30:44 — Property #3 during pregnancy, simple loan structure, smooth launch 33:09 — Leaving the team, launching my own company 34:54 — Niching into STRs and never looking back 37:21 — Why I started this podcast: stop repeating answers, start scaling help 39:44 — The truth: first market wasn’t ideal—and that’s normal 42:11 — What’s next: scaling to properties #4 and #5, and the course offer Subscribe and Share If this gave you the nudge to start—or restart—your STR journey, hit Follow/Subscribe, drop a quick 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend who keeps saying “one day.” Your support helps more beginners find transparent, hype-free advice.