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IQInvestment Strategy

Short-Term Rental

A short-term rental (STR) is a furnished property rented to guests for brief stays—typically less than 30 days—through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. You operate more like a hospitality business than a traditional landlord, earning premium nightly rates in exchange for active management.

IQ's Take

"STRs can generate 2-3x the revenue of long-term rentals—but they're a business, not a passive investment. The winners obsess over guest experience and pricing optimization. InvestIQ shows you exactly what revenue to expect before you buy."

2-3x
Higher Revenue vs Long-Term
5-Star
Guest Experience Focus
Dynamic
Pricing Optimization

Why Short-Term Rentals Matter

Short-term rentals have democratized the hospitality industry, allowing individual investors to compete with hotels. In the right market with the right property, STRs can produce extraordinary cash flow. But make no mistake—this is an active business, not passive income. Your success depends on guest experience, marketing savvy, and operational excellence. For those willing to build the systems, STRs offer a path to financial freedom that few other investments can match.

IQHow It Works

The STR Revenue Cycle

1

SETUP

Furnish and photograph property professionally

2

LIST

Create optimized listings on Airbnb/VRBO

3

BOOK

Guests discover and reserve your property

4

HOST

Provide 5-star guest experience

5

TURNOVER

Clean and reset between guests

6

OPTIMIZE

Adjust pricing, improve reviews, repeat

IQ

InvestIQ Reveals STR Potential

I analyze comparable properties, occupancy rates, and seasonal patterns to project realistic revenue. No more guessing what a property could earn—get data-driven projections in seconds.

IQIQ's Playbook

Your Guide to Success

1

Verify Regulations Before Buying

STR regulations vary wildly by city, county, and HOA. Some areas ban them entirely; others require permits, limit rental days, or mandate owner-occupancy. Research zoning laws, obtain necessary permits, and confirm HOA rules BEFORE purchasing.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Call the city planning department directly. Online information is often outdated. Get permit requirements in writing and factor costs into your acquisition plan.

2

Choose the Right Market & Property

Success in STR depends heavily on location and property match. Beach towns, mountain resorts, urban centers, and unique destinations each have different demand patterns. Study occupancy rates, average daily rates, and seasonality.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Properties with unique features—hot tubs, views, game rooms—command premium rates. 'Instagram-worthy' is a real competitive advantage in this business.

3

Furnish for Function and Photos

Budget $10,000-30,000+ for furnishing depending on property size. Prioritize quality mattresses, ample seating, fully-stocked kitchens, and reliable WiFi. Every item should photograph well and withstand heavy use.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Hire a professional photographer—it's the highest-ROI investment you'll make. Listings with professional photos earn 40% more and book faster.

4

Build Your Operations System

Create processes for guest communication, check-in/check-out, cleaning, restocking, maintenance, and emergency response. Use property management software to automate messaging and coordinate your team.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Your cleaning team is your most important hire. Pay them well, give bonuses for quality, and always have a backup. A missed turnover destroys your calendar and reviews.

5

Master Dynamic Pricing

STR income varies dramatically based on pricing strategy. Use dynamic pricing tools that adjust rates based on demand, local events, seasonality, and competitor pricing. Never set static prices.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Price slightly below comparable listings when launching to build reviews quickly. After 10+ five-star reviews, you can command premium rates.

6

Obsess Over Guest Experience

Reviews determine your visibility and booking rate. Respond to inquiries within an hour. Provide clear check-in instructions. Include welcome touches. Address issues immediately. Every interaction earns five stars.

IQ
IQ's Pro Tip

Create a digital guidebook with house rules, local recommendations, and FAQ. Proactive communication prevents problems and earns raving reviews.

IQ

Ready to Analyze STR Potential?

Point your camera at any property and get instant Short-Term Rental projections. I'll show you exactly what it could earn.

IQAnalyze a Property Now