Turn Your Airbnb into a Money-Making Machine with These Upgrades | Mark Lumpkin

SmartStay Show - Short Term Rental Counsel + Coaching | Airbnb Hosting Tips

What makes a short-term rental truly unforgettable? In this episode of SmartStayShow, we uncover the secrets behind top-performing vacation rentals with Mark Lumpkin, sales director at STRCRIBS. From bachelorette-themed escapes in Nashville to hidden speakeasies and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, Mark shares expert tips on designing spaces that attract guests—and boost revenue.

We dive into bold colors, eye-catching murals, and Instagrammable moments that make listings pop. Whether you're a new host or a seasoned investor, this episode is packed with game-changing insights to help you stand out.

Things we discussed in this episode:

• Evolving Guest Expectations – How short-term rental guests expect more than they did 10 years ago, making amenities and design essential for success.
• Defining Your Guest Avatar – Understanding your ideal guest (families, couples, bachelor/bachelorette groups) and tailoring the rental experience accordingly.
• Themed Rentals & Market-Specific Design – Examples like bachelorette-themed homes in Nashville, Disney-themed rentals in Orlando, and ski-lodge aesthetics in Colorado.
• High-Impact Amenities – Features that increase bookings, such as hot tubs, barrel saunas, coffee bars, and even pickleball courts.
• Balancing Niche vs. Broad Appeal – The risk of hyper-themed rentals (like college football houses) and finding the right level of specialization.
• Bold Design & Color Psychology – How vibrant colors, murals, and statement pieces help listings stand out in crowded markets.
• Photography & Staging Strategies – Using professional photos, lifestyle images, and seasonal shots to capture attention and increase bookings.
• Budget-Friendly Upgrades – Small investments like blackout curtains, high-quality bedding, and unique wall art that enhance guest experience.
• Financing for Rental Upgrades – STR Cribs' 0% financing option to help hosts afford high-impact improvements without upfront costs.
• Innovative & Unique Amenities – Creative installations like speakeasies, indoor mini-golf, and hidden game rooms to create unforgettable stays.

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Get in touch with Mark:

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumpkin-84b173142

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/strcribs

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/strcribs_/

Website - https://strcribs.com/

#SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbHosting #STRCribs #VacationRentals #RentalProperty #AirbnbDesign #PassiveIncome #PropertyManagement #TravelExperience

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SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!