Newsletter March 17 2024

Legal Landscape – Local and State activities

Virginia Beach has two Conditional Use Permits that are pending approval in there formal meeting on Tuesday March 19th. Yet, they continue to kick the can down the road when it comes to the STR Enforcement Task Force by rescheduling the appointments. This was done by consensus, so we will just have to wait and see when this will happen.

Owner Spotlight – This week, I am spotlighting Jordan Howlett!

experience, and applying those foundational values to his new venture.

Launching his STR was a strategic move made as he was leaving for California. Opting for a genuine "lived-in" experience for his guests, Jordan decided to keep his personal belongings in the home. This decision not only simplified his transition but also added a personal touch to his guests' stay. The ability to manage his property remotely offered him unprecedented freedom and the opportunity for much-needed relaxation.

In our conversation, Jordan highlighted the autonomy his STR business affords him as its most rewarding aspect. He relishes the freedom it grants him, not requiring constant work to maintain his lifestyle. Furthermore, the interactions with guests have been particularly fulfilling. He recounted a memorable incident with guests from Denmark, demonstrating his commitment to guest satisfaction by replacing a malfunctioning TV in the middle of the night. Such gestures, alongside his willingness to share unique local experiences, set Jordan apart in guest relations.

Another memorable experience Jordan shared was from his stay in a European STR, where he enjoyed fresh fruits and vegetables from the owner's garden, emphasizing the memorable and personal aspects of STR stays.

Jordan's approach to guest relations is proactive and customer-focused. He emphasizes quick resolution of issues and is willing to go the extra mile to ensure guest satisfaction, including offering refunds and requesting the removal of unsatisfactory guests from Airbnb.

The evolution of the STR industry towards automation has significantly enhanced Jordan's operational efficiency, allowing him to manage tasks with minimal effort once set up. However, navigating the regulatory landscape remains a challenge, with changing laws posing hurdles for STR operators. Jordan advocates for collective action to form a coalition, strengthening the STR community's voice.

Jordan's advice to aspiring STR owners is to conduct thorough due diligence and remain adaptable to change, while also highlighting the rewarding nature of the business in building enriching experiences.

Achieving a harmonious balance between personal life and work, Jordan finds peace and satisfaction in his STR business. His passion and pride in his work serve as an inspiration within the STR community.

For those interested in sharing their STR experiences or learning more, we invite you to connect for inclusion in our next newsletter.

Political Pulse

continue to have more conversations through the many months as things start progressing to the election.

I also spoke with Cash Green, who is running in District 7. When asked about his positions, I was never able to get a clear answer from him. Instead he spent a lot of time trying to avoid a real answer and just gave me a bunch of word salad. While he never appeared to pick a side, that is something that I have a hard time getting behind.

We still have many months to go and one thing that I feel would benefit us is to have a candidate forum. This would be very beneficial in that we can put the candidates on the spot and get them to see us as a group that is working to build up our impact. As we get closer to August, look for information to come out on this moving forward.

Q&A Corner

Q1: How can I maximize occupancy rates for my STR?

A: Maximizing occupancy rates is a critical aspect of running a successful STR. Here are a few strategies:

• Optimize your listing: Ensure high-quality photos and detailed, engaging descriptions of your property. Highlight unique amenities and experiences your property offers.

• Leverage social media: Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to promote your STR. Sharing guest reviews, special promotions, and local attractions can attract more bookings.

• Offer competitive pricing: Implement dynamic pricing strategies to adjust rates based on demand, season, and local events. Tools like AirDNA and PriceLabs can help analyze market trends.

• Enhance guest experience: Offer amenities and personalized touches that stand out. Consider creating a guidebook with local recommendations to enhance guests' stay.

• Encourage repeat bookings: Implement a guest loyalty program or offer discounts for repeat stays. Excellent guest communication and experience are key to encouraging repeat business.

Q2: How should I handle negative reviews to maintain my STR's reputation?

A: Negative reviews, while challenging, offer an opportunity to showcase your commitment to guest satisfaction. Here's how to handle them effectively:

• Respond promptly and professionally: Acknowledge the review quickly and address the guest's concerns without becoming defensive. Express your commitment to improving the guest experience.

• Offer a resolution: If the complaint is valid, offer to make it right. This could be a partial refund, a discount on a future stay, or a direct remedy to the issue raised.

• Take feedback constructively: Use negative reviews as feedback to improve your service. If there's a recurring issue, take steps to address it before it affects more guests.

• Encourage positive reviews: Proactively ask satisfied guests to leave a review. A higher volume of positive reviews can dilute the impact of negative ones.

Q3: Why is dynamic pricing important for my STR, and how can I implement it?

A: Dynamic pricing adjusts your rental rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events, ensuring your pricing is competitive and maximizes revenue.

• Understand your market: Analyze your local STR market, including peak seasons, local events, and average prices. Tools like AirDNA provide insights into market trends and pricing.

• Use pricing tools: Implement dynamic pricing tools like Beyond Pricing, Wheelhouse, or PriceLabs. These platforms automatically adjust your prices based on algorithms and market data.

• Set minimum stays: Adjust minimum stay requirements for peak times or events to maximize occupancy and revenue.

• Regularly review your strategy: Dynamic pricing is not set-it-and-forget-it. Regularly review your pricing strategy and adjust based on market changes and your occupancy goals.

Feel free to send in your questions to [email protected]. I’m here to help you navigate the complexities of the STR market and succeed in your ventures. Stay tuned for more insights and answers in our next issue!

Services Spotlight - HostGPO

HostGPO offers STR operators significant benefits, including access to industry-leading products and exclusive discounts ranging from 30-75%, with average savings of $12,292 annually for members. They leverage the collective purchasing power of their members to negotiate these unparalleled deals, guaranteeing the best discounts in the STR industry. Additionally, members enjoy access to products usually reserved for large corporations, along with customized support to select the right products for their properties. Engaging with SkyRun as a partner in STR operations opens the door to these HostGPO benefits, enhancing operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Industry News

We also had a lengthy discussion about the current makeup of the City Council and what my personal perception is. They are committed to helping get more information and they are going to become more involved in the area as the general assembly winds down in the next few months.

Tips and Advice

Tip 1: Create a Memorable First Impression with a Welcome Basket

A welcome basket can significantly elevate the guest experience from the moment they step into your short-term rental. This doesn't have to break the bank but should be thoughtful and reflective of the local area. Consider including a small selection of local snacks, a bottle of wine or local craft beer (where appropriate), and a few essentials that travelers might have forgotten, such as toothpaste or travel-sized toiletries. Additionally, include a personalized welcome note with your contact information and a guidebook that highlights your favorite local attractions, restaurants, and tips for navigating the area. This small gesture not only delights guests but can also lead to glowing reviews and repeat bookings. I would personally recommend speaking with Please and Thank you as they make custom gift baskets and the assortment of what can be provided is very diverse. https://pleaseandthankyou.com/

Tip 2: Enhance Your STR's Appeal with Smart Technology

In today's digital age, integrating smart technology into your STR can set you apart from the competition and improve operational efficiency. Start with smart locks for keyless entry, allowing for secure and convenient check-ins and check-outs without the need for physical key exchanges. Consider installing smart thermostats to optimize energy consumption and provide guests with the convenience of adjusting the temperature to their comfort levels remotely. Smart speakers can offer guests the convenience of voice-controlled information and entertainment, while smart security cameras (placed in public areas and disclosed in your listing) can enhance the safety of your property. Implementing these technologies not only improves the guest experience but can also streamline your management tasks and potentially save on utility costs.

If you're ready to transform your STR business or streamline your operations with cutting-edge automation solutions, don't hesitate to reach out. Let me help you navigate the complexities of automation, ensuring your business not only keeps up with the times but sets new standards in efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Upcoming Events

• Speak up at the Planning Commission

  • Norfolk – Mar 28^th

    • Meeting 1 PM

    • Public Hearing 2:30 PM

• Concerts

  • Chartway Arena

    • Alabama Apr 25th

    • Sum 41 May 19th

  • Norva

    • Owl City Mar 23rd

    • Blue October Mar 27th

• Highlighted

  • Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo Apr 13-14

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Contact Me: [email protected]

This newsletter was paid for by SkyRun Virginia Beach.