Episodes
Looking to expand your short-term rental business and attract more properties in 2025? In this episode, industry experts Thibault Masson (Founder of Rental Scale-Up and Head of Product Marketing at PriceLabs), Mahwushh Alam (CEO of One Perfect Group, overseeing hundreds of units in Dubai), and Brooke Pfautz (CEO of Vintory and founder of Comparent) share practical, data-backed strategies to add high-quality inventory and build a resilient portfolio that withstands market changes. ☑️ Learn...
Published 11/21/24
Published 11/21/24
In this episode, we break down Airbnb’s Co-Host Network to see if it’s a true game-changer for property managers or a hidden threat. With co-hosts averaging a 4.86 guest rating—higher than traditional managers’ 4.62—and offering their services at a lower commission, is this a new era of competition? Or are these ‘local’ co-hosts simply professional managers under a new label? We’ll uncover the real impact on the vacation rental industry, discuss visibility ranking factors, and share how...
Published 11/15/24
In this video, Uvika Wahi from Rental Scale-Up breaks down Airbnb’s Winter 2024 release, highlighting the launch of the Co-Host Network, new tools for hosts, and enhanced personalization features for guests. Airbnb’s Co-Host Network allows homeowners who want the benefits of Airbnb without the hassle of managing properties to partner with experienced co-hosts. But what does this mean for professional property managers? We discuss the opportunities and challenges this new platform...
Published 10/25/24
Which short-term rental regulations are sweeping across Europe and how could they impact your business? From Athens to Budapest, governments are cracking down on short-term rentals with new laws, taxes, and restrictions. But don't worry—this isn't just about challenges, it's about opportunities too. Join me, Uvika Wahi from Rental Scale-Up, as I break down the key changes, highlight why they matter, and share actionable tips on how you, as a short-term rental manager, can stay compliant...
Published 10/18/24
How Dale Smith scaled Host & Stay to 1,400+ properties with smart tech and strategic acquisitions! In this second episode of the Property Manager/Founder Interview Series, Uvika Wahi sits down with Dale Smith, founder of Host & Stay, one of the fastest-growing property management companies in the UK. With over 1,400 properties under management, Dale shares the secrets behind Host & Stay’s rapid expansion. Key Takeaways: ● How Dale transitioned from the automotive industry to...
Published 10/11/24
In this episode, we discuss Airbnb’s latest updates for 2025, including the new ranking systems and the increasingly important Guest Favorites badge. Learn how these changes impact your listing’s visibility and discover real-world optimization tips from experienced property managers who are successfully navigating today’s competitive short-term rental market. Featuring: - Thibault Masson (Founder, Rental Scale-Up, and Head of Product Marketing,  @PriceLabs-DynamicPricing ), who breaks...
Published 10/06/24
In this episode, Uvika sits down with Sean Landreth, Chairman and Founder of Property Valet managing over 130 properties across Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Sean is also the CEO of Seasonal Properties, overseeing 50+ seasonal properties in The Blue Mountains, Collingwood, Mont-Tremblant, and Florida. Key Highlights💡 • The importance of having a strong team behind you and making hard decisions to grow. • How to assess demand, property density, and proximity to manage operational...
Published 09/27/24
In this episode, Thibault explains the concept of dynamic pricing for property managers and how to keep it fair and transparent. He also highlights the recent Oasis concert Ticketmaster controversy and how dynamic pricing in short-term rentals operates differently. 💡 Key Takeaways: • Ticketmaster’s Fiasco: Oasis fans saw prices skyrocket during their 2025 reunion tour, leading to accusations of price gouging. • Fair Play in Rentals: Short-term rental managers use dynamic pricing based on...
Published 09/19/24
In this latest episode, Uvika Wahi dives into the latest  @vrbo  ad campaigns and what they mean for professional short-term rental managers like you. With a focus on privacy, host-free stays, and the One Key rewards program, Vrbo is positioning itself as the go-to platform for guests looking for uninterrupted, seamless vacations. But how does this stack up against  @airbnb 's approach, and how can you use these insights to stay ahead in a competitive market? Key takeaways: 🔑 Why privacy...
Published 09/13/24
In this episode, Uvika Wahi dives into the fierce competition between the biggest players in the short-term rental industry, Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo, as they ramp up efforts to recruit more hosts. 💡Key Takeaways: From celebrity endorsements and stress-free hosting promises to targeted ad campaigns, these platforms are pulling out all the stops to become the top choice for hosts. Booking.com’s ‘Open The Door’ campaign targets new hosts with bold ads, including a focus on...
Published 09/06/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up Podcast, Thibault Masson dives into one of Airbnb’s most significant updates yet—the Re-launch of its Experienced Co-Hosting Platform. This new marketplace is poised to impact the vacation rental industry, offering both seasoned property managers and aspiring co-hosts an opportunity you simply can’t afford to overlook 💡 Key Takeaways: 💼 Discover what Airbnb’s Co-Hosting Marketplace is all about and how it operates 💰 Explore the potential...
Published 08/28/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up Podcast, host Thibault Masson dives into the secrets behind building and scaling a winning team culture in the property management industry. Using the inspiring success story of Prague Days, a company that grew from managing just one unit in 2016 to nearly 200 units with a team of over 70 people by 2024. 💡Key Takeaways: Actionable Steps to Build Your Culture: This episode breaks down the steps to defining and implementing a scalable...
Published 08/22/24
In this episode, Uvika Wahi from Rental Scale-Up breaks down Airbnb’s Q2 2024 financial results, revealing a market that's beginning to cool off and what this shift means for professional short-term rental managers. 💡Key Takeaways Is Airbnb’s Q2 2024 financial report a warning sign for short-term rental managers? The latest results highlight critical shifts in the market that could impact your business. Airbnb's revenue growth is slowing, signaling a cooling market,...
Published 08/20/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up podcast, Thibault Masson dives deep into Airbnb’s innovative use of AI. From enhancing property visibility and automating responses to introducing AI-powered concierge services, we explore how Airbnb is leveraging AI. 💡Key Takeaways Uncover What's Behind Airbnb’s Ranking Algorithm: Learn how AI determines which listings get top visibility and what you can do to boost your property’s ranking. Maximize Revenue with AI-Driven Smart Pricing:...
Published 08/15/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up podcast, host Thibault Masson delves into the incredible journey of One Perfect Stay, a UAE-based property management company that grew from managing just 25 units to a staggering 2,500 in only nine years. 💡5 Major Takeaways: 1. Diversification as a Growth Strategy: Learn how spreading investments across different property types, locations, and business models can protect your portfolio from risk while unlocking new opportunities. 2....
Published 08/13/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up Podcast, host Thibault Masson explores proven strategies for attracting high-end rental properties and securing relationships with premium property owners. Drawing on the expertise of Simon Tolson, who shared his invaluable insights at the Scale Show in Barcelona. 💡Key Takeaways: 1. Understand Premium Properties: Learn what sets high-end rentals apart and why they are crucial for maximizing your profits. 2. Tailor Your Approach: Discover...
Published 08/06/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up Podcast, Thibault Masson dives into Airbnb’s latest ad campaign, breaking down what the company is really selling in its newest commercials. 👉🏻 5 Key Takeaways: Group Travel Focus: Airbnb is emphasizing the benefits of group travel, making it clear that they can cater to larger groups and families just as well as their competitor Vrbo. Airbnb vs. Hotels: Airbnb’s ads are positioning their properties as a superior alternative to...
Published 08/01/24
In this riveting episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up podcast, host Thibault Masson delves into the dramatic conviction of Konrad Bicher, the self-proclaimed "Wolf of Airbnb." Uncover how Bicher orchestrated an elaborate illegal subletting scheme that defrauded landlords and exploited government relief programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn about the courtroom drama that culminated in Bicher’s sentencing to over four years in prison, a $1.7 million forfeiture, and $2.2 million in...
Published 07/24/24
In this episode, host Thibault Masson discusses the important updates to Vrbo’s Premier Host Partner Program for 2024. If you’re a vacation rental manager or host, you’ll want to know about these changes. We’ll cover the end of the Boost visibility program and the new criteria for becoming a Premier Host, providing insights to help you navigate these updates. 👉🏻 Key Takeaways: End of the Boost Program: Vrbo has discontinued the Boost visibility program due to its complexity and...
Published 07/24/24
In this episode, host Thibault Masson delves into the insights from Will Guidara’s book “Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect.” We understand the everyday challenges of running a vacation rental and making each guest’s stay special. That’s why we’re sharing practical, real-world strategies to help you create unforgettable guest experiences, inspired by the principles of high-end hospitality. 👉🏻 Key Takeaways: 1. Adopt Personalization At...
Published 07/19/24
This shocking announcement has left every short-term rental owner and property manager stunned and concerned in Barcelona. In this episode, host Thibault Mason delves into the major policy change announced by Barcelona’s mayor Jaume Collboni to revoke all tourist apartment licenses by 2028. ⚡Key Takeaways: Policy Change Announcement and Reasons Discover the major policy change announced by Barcelona’s mayor Jaume Collboni to revoke all tourist apartment licenses by 2028. EU and...
Published 07/17/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up podcast, host Thibault Masson breaks down what AI is and how it can revolutionize your vacation rental business. Using ChatGPT and PriceLabs as examples, Thibault explains the practical benefits of AI tools for vacation rental managers. Learn how these technologies can streamline operations, optimize pricing, and enhance guest experiences. 👉 Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding AI in Vacation Rentals: Get a clear explanation of AI and its...
Published 07/11/24
In this episode of the Vacation Rental Scale-Up podcast, host Thibault Masson delves into the launch of The Sirreti List by the Sirreti Group. Learn about this accreditation system designed and claimed to set new standards in the luxury vacation rental market. Key Takeaways: The Sirreti Group: Discover the background and mission of the Sirreti Group, established by Wolf Wörster to support the international luxury vacation rental sector. Purpose of The Sirreti List: Understand the aim...
Published 07/09/24
With the 4th of July preparations in full swing, are you feeling ahead of the game or not quite there yet? Check out this latest podcast episode hosted by Thibault Masson to get a fair idea of where you stand with the current US market trends and uncover insights. Key Takeaways: 1. Analyze Airbnb's list of Trending Destinations: Discover Airbnb’s top 10 trending destinations for the 4th of July weekend in 2024 based on search activity data and understand what this means exactly. 2....
Published 07/03/24