Happy Friday!
As the cold of winter recedes and the warm promise of spring starts to emerge, March marks an exhilarating time of renewal and growth in our industry. Let’s recap what happened this week.
This past Thursday, Pamela Bogaczyk, and Steve Clark from our Engagement Team attended the vibrant 2025 Poconos Short Term Rental Conference, where the atmosphere buzzed with energy and anticipation. Pamela and Steve engaged in lively conversations with new and familiar faces. The conference offered a treasure trove of intriguing insights and innovative ideas, leaving OwnerRez inspired and eager for the exciting opportunities ahead in the coming year.
Here are five Airbnb market trends to expect in 2025. The Airbnb market is expected to change significantly this year due to evolving traveler priorities. Sustainability will become a central focus, with eco-friendly accommodations emerging as a key selling point. Extended stays will continue to grow as remote work blurs the lines between travel and living. Additionally, there will be an increased demand for pet-friendly properties as more travelers choose to bring their furry companions along. Flexible booking policies will be a top priority for guests seeking reassurance during uncertain times. To remain competitive, listings that offer premium amenities—such as high-speed Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces, and unique experiences—will attract more bookings.
Lisa Roads, a short-term rental business growth strategist, sheds light on investment inequality in the STR industry and women's challenges in securing funding and property ownership. Women often encounter systemic barriers in accessing capital and breaking into male-dominated investment networks, limiting their ability to build wealth through short-term rentals. A Women in Short-Term Rentals Community survey revealed that 83% of respondents felt that a lack of investment was hindering their business growth, with only 16% having successfully secured any form of external funding. Lisa Roads suggests that female entrepreneurs can overcome these hurdles by tapping into community networks, alternative financing options, and advocacy initiatives. As conversations around investment inequality grow, more efforts are emerging to create a more inclusive and equitable STR industry.
Airbnb is partnering with the Tejano Center for Community Concerns to launch Houston’s first-ever Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy. The academy will offer an introduction to hosting and highlight the economic opportunities that come with it. Participants will also gain access to experienced Airbnb hosts, who will share their knowledge, best practices, and valuable lessons learned. According to a 2023 Airbnb survey, more than half of Houston, Texas, hosts use the money they earn to manage increasing living expenses, and over 40% say hosting has helped them remain in their homes. This initiative aims to empower individuals with the skills needed to succeed in the short-term rental market, offering a unique opportunity to grow local businesses.
A Tokyo vacation rental, Geisha House Koume, has won the Best of Minpaku Award for its stunning design blending traditional Edo-era geisha house aesthetics with modern comfort. Minpaku refers to Japan’s short-term rental market, where private spaces are rented out to travelers. Located in a vibrant neighborhood just minutes from Tokyo’s top attractions, it offers a unique cultural experience in a compact one-room space. Despite its size, it accommodates up to three guests and is close to public transport, making it a popular choice for visitors.
