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Bonus: Airbnb’s New Off-Platform & Fee Transparency Rules: What Hosts Must Know by May 10 Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

Big changes are coming to Airbnb's terms of service—and hosts need to take action. In this bonus episode, we break down Airbnb’s updated Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy, which officially goes into effect May 10, 2025.

From mandatory fees and upsells to off-platform communication, security deposits, and software compliance, we walk through the biggest updates, what they mean for your short-term rental business, and how to stay compliant without panic.

You’ll learn:

What must be listed in your Airbnb description now (and why)
How to handle upsells the right way under the new policy
Whether you can still use services like Hostfully, StayFi, or other API tools
The gray areas (and why you should be cautious)
Our personal take on why this might be a good thing for hosts in the long run

This episode is not legal advice—we’re sharing what we know and what we’re hearing across the industry. Be sure to do your own research, talk to your tech partners, and reach out to Airbnb directly for your specific circumstances.

Resources:

Airbnb Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy Update
How to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

456. Hosting Hotline: Should I Bake My Airbnb Cleaning Fee Into the Nightly Rate? Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

This week on the Hosting Hotline, we're digging into a question from Penny, a host of two jaw-dropping luxury rentals in Hocking Hills, Ohio. With properties clocking in at over 10,000 and 13,000 square feet, a saltwater pool, and four separate apartments, Penny’s homes are stunning — but she's stuck on one big question: how should she charge her cleaning fee?

Should she bake the fee into the nightly rate or break it out as a separate line item? What’s the “right” way to do this, especially when hosting large groups or events?

In this episode, we walk through:

Why understanding your actual cost to clean is step one
How to assess guest perception of your fee and reduce sticker shock
Ways to use dynamic pricing software (like PriceLabs) to stay competitive and track market cleaning fees
Why breaking down booking feedback and sales data is critical
When it makes sense to blend cleaning fees into your nightly rate

Plus, we revisit a real-world case study from Episode 321 with Monique from PriceLabs, where she adjusted her pricing to recover cleaning costs and stay competitive in her market.

Whether you’re hosting luxury travelers or managing smaller STRs, this is a must-listen if you’ve ever wrestled with how to present your cleaning fee to guests.

Resources:

Follow these incredible Hocking Hills properties:

Follow our land journey in Hocking Hills:

@richhollowretreat

Check out Penny’s luxury homes:

@woodland_retreats

Listen to Episode 321 – PriceLabs Dynamic Pricing vs. Airbnb Cleaning Fees

Start using PriceLabs (our preferred pricing tool): https://pricelabs.co/users/sign_up?referral=RTj8a0

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | 5 Red Flags Your Airbnb Cleaner Isn't Doing Their Job

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

455. The Spring Maintenance Checklist for Hosts Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time to give your short-term rental a seasonal refresh. In today’s episode, we're walking you through a host-focused maintenance checklist to ensure your property is not only clean and cozy but also safe and guest-ready as the temperatures rise.

If you want to prevent emergency repairs, avoid guest complaints, and extend the life of your property’s key features, this list is for you. It’s also an opportunity to show your guests that every detail matters—which goes a long way toward 5-star reviews.

From deep cleaning windows and testing AC units to preparing your patio furniture and swapping out winter blankets, we're digging into all the must-do maintenance tasks for spring and summer success.

In this episode, we cover:

How to assess and refresh your windows and screens
The importance of routine HVAC maintenance (and why spring is the ideal time to schedule it)
Why your "Forgot Something" basket needs a seasonal update
Outdoor furniture and patio safety tips (including an important reminder from our friend Justin Ford)
What to review with your landscaping and lawn care vendors
How to prepare for storm season and emergency access
Why you should swap seasonal amenities (like heavy bedding and outdoor gear)

Whether you manage your own cleanings or you’re working with a team, use this checklist to ensure your STR is set up for safe, successful hosting this season.

Resources:

Check out Justin Ford – International Short-Term Rental Safety Expert
Watch: How to Set Up Your “Forgot Something” Basket | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

454. Hosting Hotline: Are your Airbnb bookings down? Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

Are your Airbnb bookings slower than usual… or does it just feel that way?

This week, Courtney calls in with a question we’ve heard from more and more hosts: “Is it just me, or are bookings down and cancellations up?”

We’re digging into that exact question—because while it’s easy to blame the economy or the season, the truth might be hiding in your data (or your photos… or your minimum night stay settings).

Resources:

Want to join us live and learn how to price your property like a pro? Get on the waitlist here: thanksforvisiting.com/bootcamp
Our Favorite Dynamic Pricing Tool | Click here to try PriceLabs
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel |This Secret Airbnb Setting That Can Improve Your Listing by 300%
Read: 2025 Short-Term Rental Trends from AirDNA | AirDNA Blog Article

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

453. The 5 Biggest Tax Mistakes STR Hosts Make Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

It’s tax time, and if you're a short-term rental host, this episode is a must-listen.

We’re breaking down the five biggest tax mistakes we see STR hosts make—and how to avoid them so you can keep more of what you earn. From understanding the seven-day rule to knowing how your cleaning schedule could trigger self-employment tax, we’re unpacking how STR income is classified and what actually qualifies for those juicy tax deductions.

We’re also sharing actionable tips on how to track your time, understand depreciation, and avoid missteps with personal use and local tax rules. Plus, we’ll introduce you to a tax pro we trust if you need expert guidance.

Quick disclaimer: We are not CPAs or tax professionals—just experienced hosts sharing what we’ve learned and linking you to the right resources. Always talk to your own tax pro!

Resources :

Connect with Amanda Han — Tax advisor specializing in STR and real estate investors
Download our STR Host Tax Cheat Sheet
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | 6 Ways to Use ChatGPT in Your Airbnb Business

Mentioned in this episode:

Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

452. Hosting Hotline: How Should I Collect Payment for Airbnb Upsells Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Today’s question comes from Melody, and it is all is all about upsells: specifically, how should hosts collect payment for add-ons like early check-in and late checkout?

In this episode, we cover:

What qualifies as an upsell
The pros and cons of using Airbnb’s Resolution Center
Alternatives like Venmo, PayPal, QuickBooks, and property management software
Why proper tracking is critical (especially as your team grows)
How to keep things easy and professional with tools like Hostfully guidebooks
Real host results: thousands in additional revenue from upsells alone!

Whether you’re using Airbnb, Vrbo, direct booking, or a combination of all three, we’ll help you choose the right path for boosting your income—without complicating your systems.

Resources mentioned:

Get on the waitlist for our next Bootcamp
Try Hostfully Guidebooks
3 Genius Ways to Make Your Airbnb Stand Out & Get More Bookings! (YouTube) |Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

451. Spring Cleaning Secrets: Are You Missing These Airbnb Deep Clean Must-Dos? Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

Spring cleaning isn't just for your own home—your short-term rental deserves a deep refresh too. In this episode, we're giving you seven essential tips to help you roll up your sleeves and bring your Airbnb back to life after winter. From deep cleaning overlooked appliances to inventorying kitchen essentials, and refreshing outdoor spaces, we walk through a full-property plan to get your place sparkling clean and guest-ready.

Need help getting started? We’re sharing what to clean, what to replace, and how to budget the time and energy needed for a successful spring reset.

Resources:

Shop with Us | Round-Up of our Favorite Cleaning supplies
When to FIRE your Airbnb Cleaner! | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

StayFi | Go to www.stayfi.com and enter TFV to get 50% off your first three months.

450. Hosting Hotline: Is My PMS Blocking Me From Airbnb Features? Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Your property management system (PMS) is supposed to make hosting easier—but what happens when it feels like it's limiting what you can do on Airbnb?

In this Hosting Hotline episode, we answer Leslie’s question about using HostAway and navigating PMS limitations when trying to run last-minute promotions or access Airbnb’s categories (like treehouse, cabin, or OMG stays).

We break down:

Why some Airbnb features may not be visible through your PMS
How to troubleshoot and get direct support from both your PMS and Airbnb
The truth about Airbnb categories and how listings actually get included
Tips for using office hours and chat support to get unstuck faster

If you've ever felt unsure whether your PMS is helping or holding you back, this episode is for you.

Resources:

How to Create a Direct Booking Site for Your Airbnb Business | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Hostfully | Get $500 off with code TFV500
Pricelabs | Sign up for your free 30-day trial today!

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

449. 5 Mistakes Airbnb Hosts Are Making (And How to Fix Them) Mar 27, 2025

Show notes

5 Mistakes Airbnb Hosts Are Making (And How to Fix Them)

Many Airbnb hosts are unknowingly making mistakes that are costing them bookings, revenue, and guest satisfaction. In this episode, we’re breaking down the five most common mistakes we see over and over again—and more importantly, how to fix them fast.

Mistake 1: Chasing Hacks Instead of Focusing on Guests

Are you joining wishlist groups or hiring VAs to remove bad reviews? Hacks might seem like quick wins, but they won’t fix the real problem—your guest experience.

Mistake 2: Poor Quality Photos

Bad, outdated, or cluttered listing photos are killing your conversion rate. We’ll walk you through why professional, realistic photos matter more than ever.

Mistake 3: Rigid Calendar Management

Are unnecessary rules and blocked dates limiting your bookings? We’ll show you how minimum stays, check-in restrictions, and cleaner availability might be hurting your revenue.

Mistake 4: Emotional Pricing

If you're pricing based on feelings instead of data, you’re leaving money on the table. We discuss how to use market-driven pricing to maximize revenue.

Mistake 5: Operating Out of Fear Instead of Strategy

Are strict house rules, excessive guest screening, and an overprotective mindset keeping you from welcoming great guests? We talk about why trust is key to running a successful Airbnb.

These simple fixes can increase your bookings, boost guest satisfaction, and help your business thrive—so don’t miss this one.

Resources Mentioned:

Beginner’s Guide to Dynamic Pricing Software (PriceLabs) | Subscribe to our YouTube channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Minoan | Visit MinoanExperience.com and tell them TFV sent you!

Fido | Visit getfido.com/tfv & get your first month free!

Hostfully | Go to https://www.hostfully.com/tfv and use TFV500 to get $500 off your subscription.

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

448. Hosting Hotline: How Do I Know if a Guest is Scamming Me? Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Hosting Hotline: How Do I Know If a Guest Is Scamming Me?

In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, we're diving into a tough but important topic: how to handle guest claims that may not be true—specifically bed bug accusations. Francesca from Puerto Rico calls in to ask about a troubling trend she's noticing among fellow hosts: guests claiming bed bugs without evidence.

Sarah shares her personal experience of dealing with bed bugs in New York City and breaks down the realities of what these pests are, how they spread, and what it really takes to get rid of them. She and Annette also offer advice for how hosts can prepare, respond quickly and professionally to guest claims, and protect their reputation and revenue in the process.

Whether it’s a true infestation or a potential scam, this episode will help you feel more confident handling high-stress guest situations with professionalism and care.

Resources:

How to Respond to Negative Airbnb Reviews | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Make More Money This Year | Join our LIVE Workshop!

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today