There are many moving pieces to operating a short-term rental (especially when you have more than one property) and so we need a lot of help! Fortunately we have lots of top-notch tools and software available and new ones coming all the time. There are some of my favorites that I have either used personally or that come highly recommended from colleagues of mine with big STR operations.
Check them out below 
Gain valuable insights into the performance of over 10 million vacation rentals across 80,000 cities worldwide. Study the critical trends in your market over the past three years to understand exactly how the short-term rental industry is evolving
Leading Property Management Platform
Guesty automates and streamlines every aspect of your growing & changing rental business.
Virtual Workers
OnlineJobs.ph is just the marketplace. You’ll find countless options as you search for virtual help to support your business. You recruit and hire on your terms. Your staff works from home at the most affordable rates in the world.
Save time and increase income with our dynamic pricing tool and data solutions. Works with Airbnb, VRBO, Vacation Rentals, BnB’s, Apart-hotels, Serviced Apartments! Available globally! No geographical constraints. 1000’s of owners and property managers use PriceLabs!
Direct Bookings Today
Hostfully provides an open and innovative technology platform for vacation rental management companies. Share beautiful guidebooks with your guests
White-Glove Care
Automate personalized human-sounding conversations. Notify your team about new tasks automatically. Synchronize your calendar across platforms.
Go beyond borders! A complete solution for freelancers and services providers with clients worldwide. Easily get paid by leading marketplaces including Upwork, Fiverr, Onlinejobs.ph and more or get paid by clients like a local. We provide multiple ways for you to withdraw your earnings via ATM or to your local bank account at low rates.
revenue management solution
Build Your Dream. Beyond is a revenue management solution for short-term rental managers and owners to get, grow, and keep revenue.
Competitive Rate Data for the Vacation Rental Industry
RateClarity is the Vacation Rental Industry and Hosted Accommodation Industry’s first true competitive data aggregation tool. Property Managers, Owners and Hosts can build a competitive set for each of their Vacation Rental Properties. RateClarity aggregates.
Language learning that’s worth the effort. We’ll admit it: language learning takes time and effort. We make sure you get the most of every minute you invest.
BUYING GROUP FOR HOSTS
HostGPO is the first international Group Purchasing Organization (“GPO”) for the short-term rental industry. We help our members save time and money by offering access to exclusive deals on furniture, supplies, and more from the best vendors.
automate workflows
Easy automation for busy people. Zapier moves info between your web apps automatically, so you can focus on your most important work.
Hostaway Vacation Rental Software makes running your property management business easy and more profitable. You will spend less time on repetitive activities and more time building your business.
brings your whole team together
One platform for your team and your work. It brings your whole team together.
Vacation Rental Accounting Simplified
Leave accounting to the professionals and get more time back for you and your team to focus on growing your portfolio and serving your guests.
From obtaining licenses to filing and paying your tax returns, MyLodgeTax has your lodging taxes covered. Starting at $27 / month. MyLodgeTax also simplifies lodging tax for property managers and commercial operators.
Trusted real-time vacation rental data
Key Data aggregates historical and forward-looking data in real-time providing the hospitality industry’s leading performance analytics & comparative data dashboards for professional vacation rental managers, tourism organizations, and investment funds.
Password Management from Anywhere
Life is happening online. Work. Play. Family and friends. LastPass puts your digital life at your fingertips, simply and securely. Secure every one of your passwords and store them across all of your devices. Protect every access point while seamlessly connecting employees to their work.
Havenly is a convenient, personal and affordable way to redecorate your home room by room. Collaborate with professional interior designers and customize your design according to your needs and style on their website.
Online Interior Design
See your exact room, expertly designed in 3D with furniture and decor you can buy on the spot. You’ll get to work with an expert interior designer to see your room redesigned in stunningly realistic 3D images, all from your computer or phone.
Amazon Showroom
Mix and match furniture to your liking. Amazon Showroom is a visual design tool that allows you to place furniture into a virtual living room, customize the décor, and then purchase the items straight from Amazon.
Breezeway’s property care and operations platform helps coordinate, communicate, and verify detailed work, and deliver the best service experience to clients.
Notion
Whether you’re a seasoned investor with a large portfolio or a newcomer to the short-term rental market, Notion’s flexible and customizable features adapt to your needs. Its collaborative platform also makes team coordination a breeze, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
StayFi
Create your own custom branded WiFi splash page, boost your marketing with automated email & text marketing, and reduce WiFi issues with Smart Monitoring – all with StayFi.
Great for creating invoices, tracking cash flow, and managing customer interactions. With its cloud-based accessibility, property managers can effortlessly handle financial tasks, ensuring optimal operation and profitability of their rentals, anytime and anywhere.
Get 30% off for 6 months by using the link below!
Smart Home Monitoring Noise, occupancy, motion and temperature monitoring. Peace for your neighbors. Privacy for your guests. Security for you. Minut makes short term rental work for everyone.
NoiseAware smart noise monitoring solutions
Be there without being there. NoiseAware sits quietly in the moments where problems arise, giving you insight into places that weren’t possible before, and the tools to solve issues before they go too far.
Zmodo outdoor security cameras
(wired cameras)
Zmodo cloud recording with 1-month free trial – Instead of receiving just pictures, you’ll be notified with video clips in Zmodo App when motion is detected. Motion video clips are saved in the cloud. They have a low monthly fee for cloud storage.
Wire-Free and Solar Powered cameras with low monthly fee. Free cloud plan provides 1GB cloud storage for one Reolink security camera so you can see what’s happened for the past 7 days for free. The encrypted cloud service secure data storage. Local SD card storage is also available.
RemoteLock: Wifi Smart Locks for
Business and Rentals
Secure one door or hundreds, and manage access from anywhere. RemoteLock supports both hardwired and smart-lock solutions, from main entries to parking garages to residential doors. Gain complete visibility of who has access to your property — when and where. Send and revoke self-expiring access codes for improved security and greater efficiency.
This professional grade formula specifically targets all types of smoke (including marijuana and campfires) leaving a crisp, clean scent behind.
Zinus 12 Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
If your dreams had dreams. Meet Zinus Memory Foam Mattresses It conforms to your coziest sleeping positions– flat on your back, rolled up in a ball, or spread out like a starfish with your face smooshed in a pillow.
TCL Roku Smart TV
with built-in Netflix and YouTube
Smart Functionality offers access to over 5,000 streaming channels featuring more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes via Roku TV. The super-simple Roku TV remote has only 20 buttons to make navigating easier. With around half the buttons of a traditional TV remote, you won’t have to struggle to find the button you need.
Ozone removes and neutralizes smells from, smoke, cooking, pets, and other odors. This makes the MA10K-PRO especially useful for use in new houses, kitchens, vehicles, pet shops, hotels, and restaurants.
3-Chamber Shampoo and Soap Dispenser
The EURO series of soap and shower dispensers offer a contemporary solution to the messy problem of shower bottle clutter. With their ability to mount either in the corner or flat on a wall, the EURO Dispensers are also some of the most versatile shower dispensers around! Choose either an UNO, DUO, or TRIO Dispenser; each is available in White, Chrome, and Satin Silver finishes.
SofaMania - SofaMania.com
Great website with a wide selection of couches, sofas, and chairs plus fast shipping!
Direct source for hotel supplies like linen, towels, and cleaning supplies.
It boasts practical features like two built-in USB charging ports for convenient device charging and a 3-way smooth dimmable touch control for adjustable brightness, making it ideal for any activity from sleeping to working.
Space Saving Ironing Board
Space-saving, and lightweight ironing solution perfect for small spaces, measuring 13”x43”. It features extra thick padding with a 100% cotton, scorch and stain-resistant cover that suits contemporary decor. The sturdy steel construction and steel mesh design allow for heat dissipation, with 8 adjustable heights for comfortable ironing.
Steamer for Clothes, Portable, Handheld
This steamer features a detachable 8.79-ounce water tank for up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming, a leak-proof design for versatile vertical or horizontal use, and a quick 30-second heat-up with 1200 watts of power for efficient dewrinkling. It’s safe for all fabric types and ideal for a variety of items, including clothes, curtains, and furniture, and comes with three attachments—a lint brush, a soft brush, and a creaser—for multiple steaming needs.
This durable luggage rack, capable of holding up to 154 lbs, offers a convenient off-the-floor solution for suitcases with its strong, X-shaped steel tube design and an additional shelf for extra storage. It’s foldable for space-saving, accommodates various suitcase sizes, and includes rubber feet to prevent floor scratches, all with easy assembly thanks to the included instructions and Allen key.
QuickTouch Programming buttons make it easy to set the 24-hour auto brew feature. Other useful features include Sneak-A-Cup Technology, the 12-cup Duralife glass carafe, and a washable brew basket.
BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Toaster
With six timed shade settings and special functions for bagels and frozen items. Plus, the extra-wide toasting slots accommodate bagels and thick cuts of bread, and the extra lift lever puts hot toast safely in reach.
Speed-Boil Electric Kettle For Coffee & Tea
The electric water kettle heats up quickly with its 1,500 watts power and OTTER controller, and features an auto-shutoff function for safety, a cool handle, and a hidden heating element to prevent toxins from leaching into the water. Its ergonomic design includes a 360° rotating base, cordless off-base operation, a built-in mesh filter, easy-to-open top, and a wide mouth for refilling and cleaning.
The Home kitchen oven mitts are extra-long, waterproof, and made from eco-friendly, heat-resistant silicone with a non-slip grip, complemented by a durable and absorbent dishtowel, ensuring maximum protection and convenience in the kitchen.
Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware 8-Piece Set
This 8-piece cookware set includes 8-inch fry pan, 10-inch fry pan, 1.5-quart sauce pan with lid, 2-quart saucepan with lid, and 3-quart casserole pan with lid.
Nonstick coating for easy cooking and cleaning – BPA-free
nuovva Professional Kitchen Knife Set with Block
The set includes a knife sharpener, peeler, and scissors, ensuring your tools remain in prime condition for years to come. Additionally, it comes with a specialized pizza knife and cheese knife, as well as paring, utility, and chef knives, along with a santoku knife for versatile cooking options. To complete the ensemble, there are six steak knives, perfect for those special family dinners or gatherings.
With a large capacity, it can store up to 15 utensils, helping to keep your kitchen tidy and saving valuable counter space. Made from durable, rust-resistant steel with a matte black finish, it complements a range of kitchen decor styles. The open frame design and sinking bottom make it easy to clean and ensure fast drying.
Hicoup Wine Opener - Professional Corkscrews for Wine Bottles w/Foil Cutter and Cap Remover
It combines a sleek wooden handle and sturdy stainless steel body for a comfortable and secure grip, making cork removal as easy as 1, 2, 3. The specially designed corkscrew effortlessly removes both natural and synthetic corks in five twists or less, without the hassle of hand cramps or cork breakage. The double-hinged fulcrum provides extra leverage and maximum efficiency, while the built-in, serrated foil cutter ensures seamless cork removal.
Home Essentials 12-Piece Galaxy Glassware Set
This 12-piece glassware set includes four 17oz hiball glasses, four 13oz DOF glasses, and four 7oz juice glasses, all made from durable glass material.
This cutting board set includes three boards in different sizes (9.5 x 13, 8.5 x 11, and 6 x 8 inches), catering to a range of food prep tasks.
Kitch Ice Trays, Easy Release
Ice cubes release easily with just a twist. Each tray makes 16 nice-sized ice cubes for a total of 32.
Can Opener Manual
Easily opens cans, lifts lids, and opens bottles without injuring your hands, thanks to its 3-IN-1 design. The ultra-sharp cutting edge and innovative tooth on wheels provide a smooth and clean opening, while the rust-proof body ensures longevity. Made with premium-quality food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free plastic.
You will get 3 17oz shower bottles, 2 paste Tools, 3 auxiliary stickers, 3 wall mount brackets, 6 labels, and 1 Extra Pump Head to prevent damage during use.
Conair Hair Dryer
This well balanced and lightweight hair dryer features 1875 watts of power and 2 heat/speed settings delivers powerful airflow for faster drying and longer dryer life.
ALYVIA SPRING Waterproof Fabric Shower Curtain
Soft yet 100% waterproof due to its premium waterproof coating, durable with a reinforced header and rustproof grommets, and features a magnet-weighted hem to minimize billowing.
Constructed of high quality stainless steel, they come with all the hardware screws accessories, are very easy to install and can bear up to 5kg.
Tension Curtain Rod
For shower or windows with heavy duty tension spring and 1-inch diameter rod. Adjustable length, extends from 54 to 90 inches.
Toilet Plunger and Bowl Brush
Space saving stylish design and convenient storage, keep your bathroom neat, clean and well organized, it’s a must-have accessory for your bathroom cleaning.
The upgraded long handle broom and dustpan set features a 52” handle for comfortable, bend-free cleaning and is designed with 4-layer reinforced bristles for efficient sweeping of large areas and corners.
can help you save up to $168 yearly in rental fees, replacing your modem and WiFi router. It supports Spectrum speeds up to 300Mbps, Xfinity up to 200Mbps, and Cox up to 150Mbps. The WiFi performance reaches up to 1500 square feet with AC1600 speed, connecting up to 25 devices simultaneously.
2 Pack Surge Protector Power Strip
Offers a surge protection rating of 900 joules to safeguard your electronics, featuring 6 AC outlets and 2 USB ports with smart charging capabilities. It includes a 5-foot heavy-duty cord with a space-saving right-angle plug.
Universal Swivel TV Stand
This universal swivel TV stand is designed to offer a sturdy and reliable alternative to wall-mounting, eliminating the need to drill holes in your wall. It is constructed with a heavy-duty steel pole and an 8mm thick tempered glass base, ensuring the safety and stability of your TV set. This stand is compatible with TV sizes ranging from 32 to 70 inches and supports VESA patterns from 100x100mm to 600x400mm, with a maximum load capacity of 88 pounds.
This TV wall mount is compatible with brands like Samsung, Sony, and LG, fitting TVs from 13 to 42 inches and up to 44 lbs with max VESA of 200 x 200mm. It offers full motion with tilt, swivel, and rotation, extending up to 14.59 inches from the wall. It’s suitable for both TVs and large computer monitors and comes with an easy single-stud installation process. The package includes all necessary hardware and a user-friendly manual. Built from robust steel, it comes with a 5-year customer support guarantee.
Get our FREE report to help find the best properties in the best markets. We’ll show you where to look, how to narrow down a sub market, and how to analyze it!
RESILIENCE
Turning Your Setback into a Comeback
Powerful stories from Entrepreneurs, Professionals, Real Estate Syndicators, Speakers, Authors, NFL Players and Mentors, a 2x US Memory Champion, PGA Tour Mentor and more.
Rich Dad Poor Dad, Robert Kiyosaki
(Real Estate)
The #1 personal finance book of all time―Robert Kiyosaki has challenged and changed the way tens of millions of people around the world think about money.
Jeff Olson has built multimillion-dollar sales and marketing organizations, hosted seminars in every major city in the U.S. and has produced over 900 television programs.
The E Myth Revisited, Michael Gerber
(Operations & SOP's)
The E-Myth, Michael Gerber dispels the myths surrounding starting your own business and shows how commonplace assumptions can get in the way of running a business.
The Four Hour Work Week,
Tim Ferriss
#1 New York Times bestselling author, and angel investor/advisor, best known for his rapid-learning techniques.
Bestselling author and neuroscientist Sam Harris argues that we can radically simplify our lives and improve society by merely telling the truth in situations where others often lie.
The Happiness Advantage,
Shawn Achor
INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER • The happy secret to greater success and fulfillment in work and life—a must-read for everyone trying to flourish in a world of increasing stress and negativity
The ABC’s of Property Management,
Ken McElroy (Real Estate)
The unofficial, but totally necessary, sequel to The ABC’s of Real Estate Investing and The Best Kept Secrets of Real Estate Investing, THE ABC’S OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT will fill an important slot in both the Rich Dad’s Advisor series, as well as in the general business marketplace.
How a Dirt-Poor Landscaper Cracked the Code to Emerging Market Real Estate Investing—and Built a Financial Empire.
Tax Strategies
(Real Estate)
Not sure how to maximize deductions for your real estate business? CPAs Amanda Han and Matthew MacFarland share the practical information you need to not only do your taxes this year, but to also prepare an ongoing strategy that will make your next tax season that much easier.
Short Term Rental Due Diligence Checklist
If you are planning on acquiring property to operate as a short-term rental (Airbnb) there are a number of additional due diligence items you will not want to overlook! Some items are not requirements but are good to keep in mind because they will make your rental easier to operate. Download this sheet to easily keep track of all the things you NEED to accomplish!
Check out my CPA Amanda Han’s webinar on short-term rental tax strategies, designed to empower property owners and hosts with the knowledge they need to optimize their financial outcomes. You’ll learn from tax experts who specialize in the short-term rental industry.
There are lots of options for financing out there but not all lenders are open to financing your short-term rental! Lending Home IS. Find out more info here
Visio Lending
Fast. Simple. Dependable.
Financing for Our Nation’s Rental Home Investors
Host Financial
Like many businesses, Host Financial started as a solution to a growing problem. Many owners and investors were jumping into the short term vacation rental market, taking advantage of the growing segment of travelers who utilize platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.com
We’re here to help you with all your mortgage goals. With competitive rates and fees, we have a mortgage solution to fit your individual needs.
The leading source of short-term rental insurance.
Click the button to get my Proper Insurance Discount Page
STR House Rules
Please feel free to copy and paste these rules but make sure to edit them first so that they are applicable to your property and needs.
If you are planning on acquiring property to operate as a short-term rental (Airbnb) there are a number of additional due diligence items you will not want to overlook.
Sign Up to get the FREE Checklist!