🏠Today's Hot Property Picks | #038

Today’s Insights

• Top Investment Properties

• Knowledge Rundown: 3 Part Series on Creating a Guest Experience That Stands Out - Part 3: Surprising and Delighting Guests

• Hot News: This Hottest ZIP Code Will Pay You Up to $10,000 To Move There

• Productivity: 5 Short Term Rental Tools to boost your productivity for Navigating the Business Side of Short Term Rentals.

New Releases

2658 N Major Ave, Chicago, IL 60639

Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 3-full-bath home, where modern upgrades meet classic charm. The home boasts gleaming hardwood floors throughout and a brand-new kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances and soft-close cabinets and drawers. Each of the three bathrooms has been fully updated with new finishes and great tile work. The fully finished basement offers extra living space, perfect for a home office, gym, or entertainment area. With plenty of closet space, storage will never be an issue. The updated landscaping enhances the curb appeal, while the spacious 2-car detached garage provides ample parking and storage. Situated on a desirable corner lot, the large yard is ideal for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. This home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own!

🏠Quick Stats:

• $489,900

• 3 BR / 3 BA

• 1,389 sq/ft

💰Projections:

• Average Daily Rate: $309

• Occupancy Rate: 59%

• Projected Revenue: $67,100/yr

• Projected Operating Expenses: $20,900/yr

• Projected Net Operating Income: $46,200/yr

• Projected Gross Yield: 13.7%

Price Reduction

712 Moore Rd, Columbus, GA 31904

Charming 6-bed, 4-bath home in the Pritchett Acres neighborhood. This well-maintained and all updated property features a spacious living room with a cozy fireplace, a modern kitchen with updated appliances, granite countertops, deep sink, new fixtures and hardware, and a large backyard perfect for entertaining with a pool. The master suite includes an en-suite bathroom and ample closet space. Updated windows, paint (inside/out), and granite countertops. The downstairs could serve as a perfect MIL Suite with outdoor access. Enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and excellent schools. With easy access to major roads, this home offers both comfort and convenience. Don't miss this opportunity to own a delightful home in a desirable area. Come view your next home!

🏠Quick Stats:

• $494,900

• 6 BR / 4 BA

• 3,884 sq/ft

💰Projections:

• Average Daily Rate: $331

• Occupancy Rate: 65%

• Projected Revenue: $79,100/yr

• Projected Operating Expenses: $19,800/yr

• Projected Net Operating Income: $59,300/yr

• Projected Gross Yield: 16.0%

Over 90 Days + Price Reduction

6112 Wales Ct, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301

Located in the highly desirable community of Penn Estates. This custom built home checks all the boxes! Two unit rental capability. It has 4 bedrooms (with walk-in closets), 3.5 baths, 2 car garage (with insulated steel garage doors and openers), 2,749 square feet on .49 acre. Spacious open floor plan with 12 foot ceiling in the family room (oak stairs with metal balusters) and a beautiful gas fireplace. Gorgeous custom kitchen with 9 foot granite island, stainless steel vent hood, tiled backsplash, and walk-in pantry with custom shelving. Laminate wood flooring throughout. Separate laundry room with folding area and a slop sink. Recessed lighting and fan prep in all rooms (and covered deck area). The lower level has 9 foot finished ceilings, a full bath, kitchenette (possible in-law suite) and walk out basement. This home was built to last with (2) HVAC systems, 50 gallon water heater, 200 Amp service, 25 year roof shingles, energy efficient windows, vinyl siding with board and batten accents, custom moulding and doors. Propane forced air heating, public water and sewer. Air BnB’s are permitted in this community. Amenities Include: Swimming Pools, Playgrounds, Lakes & Beaches, Basketball, Tennis & More… THIS IS A MUST SEE HOME!!!

🏠Quick Stats:

• $545,000

• 4 BR / 3.5 BA

• 2,749 sq/ft

💰Projections:

• Average Daily Rate: $529

• Occupancy Rate: 40%

• Projected Revenue: $78,100/yr

• Projected Operating Expenses: $19,500/yr

• Projected Net Operating Income: $58,500/yr

• Projected Gross Yield: 14.3%

Knowledge Rundown

Creating a Guest Experience That Stands Out

Part 3: Surprising and Delighting Guests

The Secret to Making Your Airbnb Unforgettable

Alright, Airbnb hosts, let’s get into the juicy part of the hosting game—surprising and delighting your guests. Sure, anyone can provide a clean place to crash and a good Wi-Fi signal, but if you really want to stand out, you need to go beyond the basics. You’re not just offering a roof and four walls; you’re creating an experience. And the secret to that experience? Those unexpected little touches that make guests go, “Whoa, I didn’t see that coming!”

So how do you turn an ordinary stay into something memorable? Let’s dive into the art of surprising and delighting your guests.

Unexpected Amenities: The "I Didn’t Know I Needed That" Factor

Here’s the thing: guests come expecting the basics—clean sheets, towels, maybe some shampoo. But what they don’t expect are those little extras that make their stay easier, more fun, or just more thoughtful. And that’s where you swoop in and blow their minds.

Let’s start small. If your guests are coffee lovers, surprise them with a selection of local beans and a French press or pour-over kit. Or maybe throw in some artisanal tea for the non-coffee drinkers. And it doesn’t stop at drinks. How about a welcome basket filled with local snacks or even a bottle of wine? This isn’t just about feeding your guests—it’s about showing them that you’ve put thought into their stay.

But the real winners are the niche amenities. Beach house? Provide some sunscreen and a couple of beach towels. City apartment? Leave a couple of metro cards loaded with a few rides. Little things, right? But those little things are the difference between a stay that meets expectations and one that exceeds them.

Seasonal and Themed Stays: Keep It Fresh

Now, let’s talk about the magic of seasonal surprises. Is it the holiday season? Throw up some festive decor—nothing over-the-top, just enough to make it feel cozy and special. Maybe some holiday lights, a mini tree, or a basket of holiday cookies waiting for them when they arrive. It’s a subtle way to acknowledge the time of year and make your guests feel at home—even when they’re far from theirs.

In the summer, consider adding beach or pool items if your location calls for it. Sunglasses, sunscreen, maybe even a couple of floats for the pool or beach toys for families. Winter? Set up a hot chocolate station with marshmallows and some cozy blankets. These touches are seasonal, they’re fun, and they show that you’re thinking ahead to what your guests might enjoy based on the time of year.

And if there’s a local festival or event happening, include information about it and maybe even themed goodies. Hosting during a music festival? How about some earplugs and a playlist of local artists? These details create experiences, not just stays.

Leveraging Feedback: The Ultimate Guest Satisfaction Hack

Here’s a pro move: use guest feedback to anticipate and surprise your next visitors. Did a previous guest mention they wished there were more kitchen spices? Stock up and leave a little note for future guests saying, “We’ve added more cooking essentials based on guest suggestions. Enjoy!”

Or maybe someone said they’d love to have a few board games. Next thing you know, you’ve got a stack of fun games ready to go for your next group of guests. The message you’re sending is clear: you listen, and you care. And when guests feel like you’re actively improving based on feedback, it adds a layer of personalization that most Airbnbs can’t match.

Going the Extra Mile: Personalization with a Punch

If you want to really knock it out of the park, go the extra mile with some personalization. Got a guest celebrating a birthday or anniversary? Leave a handwritten note, a small gift like a box of chocolates, or a bottle of champagne. This isn’t just thoughtful—it’s the kind of stuff that gets guests raving in their reviews.

Even if it’s something as simple as writing “Welcome [Guest’s Name]” on a small chalkboard or card when they arrive, it shows that you see them as more than just another booking. It’s the small touches that turn first-time guests into repeat customers and loyal fans.

Putting It All Together

Surprising and delighting your guests doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—it’s about thoughtful details that show you’ve gone above and beyond. Whether it’s providing unexpected amenities, leaning into seasonal themes, or using guest feedback to improve the experience, these little surprises will make your Airbnb a place people remember.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about giving guests a place to stay—it’s about giving them a story to tell. And when you surprise and delight them, that story is going to have a five-star ending.

Hot News

This Hottest ZIP Code Will Pay You Up to $10,000 To Move There

If you’re looking for a city that will pay you to move there—look no further.

Simply head for beautiful Rochester, NY, where its ZIP code 14609 just ranked fifth on the Realtor.com® Hottest ZIP Code in America list.

So how much can you pocket once you box up your belongings and head to upstate New York?

Continue Reading → Here

Productivity

5 Short Term Rental Tools to Supercharge Your Productivity for Navigating the Business Side of Short Term Rentals

1. Guestly: This platform streamlines operations with features like automated messaging, dynamic pricing, and channel management.

2. QuickBooks: Efficiently manage income, expenses, taxes, and generate financial reports to understand your business's performance.

3. Smoobu: Streamline communication with guests, automate messages, and manage inquiries efficiently.

4. Beyond Pricing: Optimize your rental rates based on market demand, seasonality, and competitor pricing.

5. Jobber: Efficiently schedule cleanings, maintenance, and repairs, ensuring your property is always ready for guests.

Feedback