In this episode of the Hosting Hotline, Sarah and Annette tackle a question from a Canadian host managing a property in Maui. How can you simplify payment options for direct bookings when popular platforms like Zelle or Venmo aren’t available to you? Whether you're an international host or just exploring ways to level up your direct booking experience, this episode has you covered!

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] Listener Question: A Canadian host asks about streamlining direct booking payments for their Maui property.
• [00:02:30] The Decline of Checks: Why checks are becoming obsolete and how switching to digital payments benefits both you and your guests.
• [00:03:00] Exploring Stripe: What you need to know about using Stripe for credit card payments—even as a Canadian host managing a U.S.-based property.
• [00:05:00] Relay to the Rescue: Learn how Relay banking supports international hosts by offering easy, secure payment solutions.
• [00:07:00] Relay’s Expert Insight: Hear directly from the Relay team about how to use their platform to accept payments through ACH, wires, and more.
• [00:08:30] Practical Next Steps: Tips on setting up your business for seamless payments, including whether to establish a U.S. entity for hosting.

Resources Mentioned:

• Relay Banking: Get $50 when you fund a Relay Account
• Stripe Customer Service
• The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up Your Airbnb Business the RIGHT way (banking, taxes, LLC, profits) | Subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Mentioned in this episode:

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

Welcome back to our latest land update! In this episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of building Rich Hollow Retreat. From navigating septic system decisions to firing and rehiring construction teams, this update is packed with insights, challenges, and small wins. Plus, we share our ambitious goal to open early summer 2025—fingers crossed!

[00:01:00] Sharing Rich Hollow Retreat Progress

Annette and Sarah discuss why it’s important to market your property before it’s live and encourage followers to document their journey on social media.

[00:02:00] The Journey So Far

Catch up on what’s been happening since our last land update. If you’re new, check out previous episodes (links below!) to follow the story from the beginning.

[00:03:00] Septic Systems: Lessons Learned

The unexpected joys of septic planning! We share how preparing for a fourth unit now changes our long-term plans and financial projections.

[00:10:00] Construction Team Updates

We fired one team, hired another, and are finally making progress! Learn how we’re setting clear payment terms and timelines with our new crew.

[00:13:00] Budgeting and Facebook Marketplace Hacks

Our GC found creative ways to save money on construction materials, including leveraging Facebook Marketplace. Annette shares tips for tracking purchases to maintain clean financial records.

[00:17:00] Financing with a HELOC

Sarah explains why we chose a HELOC over private or hard money lending, and how it’s helping bridge the funding gap for phase one.

[00:20:00] Design Decisions and Debates

From floating shelves to dishwasher placement, we’re diving into the details of what makes a short-term rental functional and beautiful.

[00:24:00] Setting Goals for Summer 2025

We share our realistic timeline and reflect on how weather, team availability, and progress meetings are shaping our plans.

Follow our journey and get sneak peeks of Rich Hollow Retreat!

Instagram: @RichHollowRetreat

Have questions about buying land, building a retreat, or working with partners? DM us on Instagram @thanksforvisiting_ or leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts. We’d love to hear from you!

• Part 1: We Bought Land
• Part 2: Laying a Foundation for Long-Term Partnership
• Part Reality Check on Glamping Site Timelines, Financing & Construction
• Part 4: Why We Stopped Construction & How We’re Pivoting Our Strategy
• How to Buy Land for your Airbnb Glamping Business | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

Proper Insurance | Book Your Risk Assessment Today

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

Extenteam | Receive 20% off the first 2 months with...

Welcome back to the Hosting Hotline, where we answer your pressing hosting questions! Today’s caller, Shannon, asks two great questions: How do you handle Airbnb’s 15% service fee adjustment? And more importantly, how can she get her guests to leave reviews?

We’re diving deep into actionable strategies to help you encourage reviews without overwhelming or annoying your guests. From leaving subtle breadcrumbs throughout their stay to crafting the perfect review request, this episode will help you elevate your hosting game.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] What Is Airbnb’s 15% Service Fee?
• Sarah explains how Airbnb’s simplified pricing impacts hosts, why it varies by region and software, and how to adjust your pricing to cover the difference using PriceLabs or your PMS.
• [00:05:00] The Power of Breadcrumbs:
• Discover how to plant subtle cues throughout your guest experience that emphasize your commitment to a five-star stay.
• [00:07:00] Messaging That Resonates:
• Learn how to craft review requests that feel personal and genuine, including the secret to mentioning five-star reviews without sounding pushy.
• [00:08:00] The “Five-Star WiFi Password” Trick:
• A clever hack to subtly remind guests about five-star reviews every time they connect to the WiFi.
• [00:09:00] When to Ask for a Review:
• Timing is everything. We share the perfect moment to make your ask—and how to frame it for the best results.
• [00:11:00] Educating Guests on Reviews:
• Not all guests know how the Airbnb review system works. Simple ways to educate them and ensure they understand the impact of their feedback.

Resources Mentioned:

• Hosting Hotline: Ask your hosting questions at HostingHotline.com.
• Dynamic Pricing Tools: Learn more about PriceLabs.
• How to Respond to Negative Airbnb Reviews: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Mentioned in this episode:

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

Get More Bookings in 2025! Join us for a Listing Audit Boot Camp!