If you’re here, it means you’re passionate about short-term rentals, and you’ve already taken the first step by following along our journey. Maybe you already own a property of your own and have taken the plunge, or maybe you’re planning for the future and in the knowledge-gathering stage. Regardless of where you are in your journey, we’re thrilled to have you here!

This PWD Academy lesson is for the non-property owners out there who are looking to get more involved in the STR world and might not know exactly where to start. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get involved, earn money, and build expertise in the STR space without the financial burden of property ownership. 

Here are some smart ways to enter the industry:

 

1. Become a Short-Term Rental Co-Host

Many property owners want to list their homes on Airbnb but don’t have the time to manage bookings, guest communication, and maintenance. That’s where co-hosting comes in. As a co-host, you handle day-to-day operations and earn a percentage of the rental income (typically 10-30%).

How to Get Started:

• Join Airbnb’s Co-Host Marketplace (if available in your area)
• Network with local property owners
• Offer services like guest communication, check-ins, and cleaning coordination

Note: Co‑hosts can help with one thing or everything, and many other things in this blog can also fall under this umbrella, if you feel confident in providing these services yourself.

For more information on what it takes to be a good host, read How to Hire a Property Management Company (Ft. Blackbird Hospitality).

 

2. Start an STR Cleaning Business

Cleaning is one of the most critical aspects of a successful STR. Guests expect spotless spaces, and many hosts are willing to pay a premium for reliable cleaners who understand the quick turnaround time between bookings.

Steps to Launch:

• Create a cleaning checklist specific to short-term rentals
• Offer deep cleaning, linen services, and restocking amenities
• Partner with local Airbnb hosts and property managers

 

3. Offer STR Photography Services

Great photos can make or break a listing’s success. If you have a knack for photography, you can help STR hosts optimize their listings by providing professional photos.

How to Attract Clients:

• Build a portfolio showcasing before-and-after transformations
• Reach out to Airbnb hosts with low-quality listing photos
• Offer an affordable starter package to gain experience

Bonus: Check out the Photographer Resource Center on Airbnb for more useful information on how to get started!

 

4. Provide STR Consulting Services

If you have knowledge of hospitality, design, or property management, you can offer consulting services to new or struggling Airbnb hosts. This can include pricing strategies, guest experience optimization, and property design.

Ways to Market Yourself:

• Write blog posts or create social media content about STR best practices
• Offer free initial consultations to build credibility
• Specialize in a niche, like luxury rentals or themed properties

Bonus Tip: A great way to immerse yourself in the STR world and gain this knowledge is by connecting with experts who are already in the space. Pink Wall Designs frequently collaborates with other STR professionals, both on the design side and in other niches within the industry. Browsing these collaborations and studying our network is a great place to start gaining knowledge! Check out our Press/Media page for more, and be sure to sign up for the PWD Academy for more insider tips like this delivered to your inbox on a quarterly basis. 

 

5. Become a Virtual Airbnb Assistant

Many Airbnb hosts operate multiple listings and need help managing their businesses remotely. As a virtual assistant (VA), you can handle guest inquiries, booking management, and even pricing adjustments based on market trends.

Skills Needed:

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with Airbnb’s platform and automated messaging tools
• Ability to manage multiple properties efficiently

For more, read: Essential Tech to Manage & Scale Your STR Business.

 

6. Start an STR Supply & Restocking Service

Hosts frequently need to replenish essentials like toiletries, coffee, and cleaning supplies. A restocking service can be a lucrative side hustle, especially in busy markets. 

Bonus: If you connect with a property owner before they launch their Airbnb, there may be an opportunity to help with setup and receiving deliveries (especially for out of town investors). There are so many little details that go into setting up and designing an Airbnb from the ground up, and offering this service is a win-win.

How to Offer This Service:

• Partner with local Airbnb hosts for regular supply runs
• Offer bulk ordering discounts
• Consider a subscription-based model for recurring deliveries

 

Getting Started:

• Research common supplies STR hosts need and create a pricing list
• Set up an efficient supply chain by working with wholesale suppliers
• Advertise your services through local STR Facebook groups, Airbnb meetups, and networking events

 

Additional Resources:

• Join short-term rental forums to understand host pain points
• Use tools like Turno (formerly TurnoverBnB) to connect with hosts in need
• Explore platforms like Faire or Alibaba for bulk purchasing options

7. Launch an STR Social Media & Marketing Agency

Many Airbnb hosts struggle with marketing their properties beyond the listing platforms. If you have skills in social media, SEO, or paid advertising, you can help them attract direct bookings and maximize occupancy rates.

Services to Offer:

• Instagram and Facebook marketing
• SEO optimization for Airbnb listings
• Email campaigns for returning guests

For some inspiration, check out The Rosé House and The George in Broken Bow on Instagram.

 

8. Get Into STR Arbitrage

If you’re comfortable with leasing a property but don’t want to own it, rental arbitrage is an option. This involves renting a property from a landlord, furnishing it, and subletting it on Airbnb with permission.

How to Approach Landlords:

• Highlight benefits like guaranteed rent payments
• Offer to maintain the property to hotel-level standards
• Provide a profit-sharing agreement to build trust

 

Final Thoughts

The short-term rental industry offers a wide range of opportunities beyond property ownership. Whether you excel in hospitality, marketing, cleaning, or logistics, there’s a place for you in this growing market. By leveraging your strengths and building connections with STR owners, you can establish a profitable niche and gain valuable industry experience.

Everyone starts somewhere, and there’s always room to expand into new areas over time. When the time comes to invest in your own short-term rental, Pink Wall Designs will be here to help!

Our team specializes in transforming short-term rentals into stunning, high-performing spaces. Book a complimentary consultation with us to learn how we can help position your property in the top 1% of the market!

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