💼 Welcome to the STR Sisterhood! Today, we have an insightful conversation with Kirsten Lucia, a remarkable entrepreneur balancing short-term rentals, family, and full-time work. Her journey from accidental rental owner to managing multiple properties and becoming a co-host provides valuable takeaways for anyone looking to dive into this business.
How Kirsten Got Started
Kirsten’s journey began when her husband bought a short-term rental in Orange Beach, AL, in 2018. At first, Kirsten was hesitant. “I was terrified,” she admits. But over time, managing rentals became a passion. Now, they’re not only building a business but also passing on financial lessons to their two boys. “We’re teaching them about investing and travel,” she says with pride.
Expanding the Rental Portfolio
Starting small, they sold their original rental due to high HOA fees and moved on to larger properties. They now manage homes in Tennessee and Texas—one that even sleeps 15 guests and boasts a 24-foot pool!
A key part of their strategy is diversifying income streams. They co-host properties for other owners to generate steady revenue while growing their own portfolio. As Kirsten explains, co-hosting allows them to “offset costs while ensuring guests enjoy their vacations.”
Marketing with a Twist: The Power of Koozies and Magazines
Kirsten and her husband employ some truly creative marketing techniques. Rather than standard business cards, they hand out custom-branded Koozies at events. “Business cards get lost, but a Koozie? Everyone keeps those,” she laughs.
Additionally, they create personalized magazines featuring their rental properties, recipes, and lifestyle content. “Every property we manage gets featured, and we distribute the magazines everywhere we go,” she explains. This unique approach ensures guests and potential clients keep their rentals top of mind.
Balancing Family and Business
Kirsten runs a home daycare while managing rentals, and her husband juggles a full-time job with hosting responsibilities. “It’s hectic,” she admits, “but we’ve developed a system where he manages inquiries at night, and I handle them during the day.”
Their goal? Freedom to enjoy life without missing out on their children’s milestones. “We’re building this business so we never have to miss a baseball game.”
Pro Tips for Aspiring Co-Hosts
Kirsten offers these nuggets of wisdom for anyone entering the co-hosting business:
- Know the Owners: “Ensure they respect your direction.”
- Research Markets Carefully: Choose locations you love visiting to avoid burnout.
- Prioritize Quality Control: “We have a quality control specialist inspect properties weekly to catch any issues.”
Building Community and Confidence
Kirsten’s participation in women-only mastermind groups has been transformative. “Being heard in a community of women is powerful,” she says. It’s given her the confidence to grow and manage the business more effectively.
A Final Note of Gratitude
In a heartwarming moment, Kirsten reflects on what drives her. “It’s all for my boys. Their smiles remind me every day to keep going.”
📌 Ready to Learn More?
Connect with Kirsten on Facebook via Short-Term Stays or Instagram at @YourTallGirlHost. She’s always available to answer questions, day or night.
MonsterKong.marketing 
Leave a comment