Host Planet

• How AI & Automation Can Help STR Hosts Win Back Time

  In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast, we dive into the world of automation, AI, and practical tech tools that help short-term rental (STR) hosts reclaim their time and streamline operations.Our guest is Adam Buckmaster, Director, Product Marketing & Strategic Solutions at eviivo, a leading property management system (PMS) known for empowering hosts through smart, integrated technology. From instant messaging tools to smart guest communications and forward-thinking features, Adam shares invaluable insights into the future of frictionless hosting.Whether you're managing one property or a growing portfolio, this episode covers the must-know tech tips that can dramatically reduce your daily admin. Adam also shares his thoughts on where the industry is heading in 2025, how eviivo is carving out a niche in the competitive PMS space, and why direct bookings still matter more than ever. For hosts who want to stay ahead of the curve without burning out, this episode is a must-listen.Key takeaways:1. Embrace automation, but stay human. Automation can save STR hosts hours every week – but Adam stresses that it's most powerful when it enhances rather than replaces the guest experience. Think smart messaging tools that deliver helpful info at the right time, without sounding robotic.2. Direct bookings still matter. While OTAs are important, Adam highlights that building your direct booking pipeline remains crucial for long-term success. eviivo offers tools to help hosts market directly, reduce commission costs, and build brand loyalty.3. Adopt AI – even if you’re sceptical. For hosts hesitant about using AI, Adam offers reassurance: start small, use trusted tools, and don’t let fear hold you back. AI isn’t just the future – it’s already helping thousands of hosts save time and delight guests today.0:11 How can hosts save time with automation and AI6:35 The best times to communicate with guests10:31 Keep a close eye on guest messages13:07 Message to reluctant AI adopters16:48 Airbnb Experiences 20:28 2025 trends23:10 How eviivo stands out in the PMS space28:03 Direct bookings32:09 Favourite brand: Key Data 32:54 Individual shout-out: Ana Harrison 34:03 Top tips to hosts who want to save timeLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: [email protected] Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Adam Buckmaster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adambuckmaster/eviivo: https://eviivo.com/Episode to check next: Stop Building on Someone Else's Land: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbADM2DROtM&t=6sThe Host Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: [email protected]#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #eviivo #AdamBuckmaster

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• Master Your Minimum Stay Strategy with PriceLabs

  In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, powered by Hostfully, we’re joined by Karishma Lunawat, Programme Operations Manager at PriceLabs, who breaks down five data-driven tactics short-term rental (STR) hosts can use to optimise their minimum stay strategies. Whether you're struggling to fill last-minute gaps or looking to avoid locking in bookings too far in advance, Karishma shares actionable insights that can help hosts protect revenue, boost occupancy, and maximise flexibility.From dynamic adjustments based on seasonality to automation tips that remove guesswork, this conversation is packed with expert advice rooted in data and practical experience. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your minimum stay rules work smarter, not harder, this episode is for you.Key takeaways:1. Use data to guide decisions. Don’t guess your minimum stay rules – let your historical data, demand patterns, and booking windows lead the way.2. Mind the gaps. Use shorter minimum stays to fill those awkward booking gaps in your calendar and drive additional occupancy.3. Protect far-out dates. Avoid setting short minimums too early – longer stays should dominate far in advance, with shorter stays introduced closer to the check-in date.1:55 Data, data, data3:19 Fill the gaps!5:54 Protect your far-out bookings7:41 Reflect the season, not just the calendar9:09 Automate everything with a tool like PriceLabs10:43 Give PriceLabs a try: https://hello.pricelabs.co/?utm_source=hostplanet&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hostplanet&utm_term=hpLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: [email protected] Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Karishma Lunawat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karishmalunawat-5a6a7b113/PriceLabs: https://hello.pricelabs.co/?utm_source=hostplanet&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=hostplanet&utm_term=hpEmail: [email protected] to check next: Dynamic Pricing Tips For Airbnb Hosts From PriceLabs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eg4aRn9pF64&t=462sHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: [email protected]#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #PriceLabs #DynamicPricing #RevenueManagement

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• Holiday Let Mortgages Explained: What You Need to Know

  Getting the financial side right is the foundation of any successful holiday let investment – and our special guest knows exactly how to help you do that. Joe Stallard, Director at House and Holiday Home Mortgages, joins the Host Planet Mortgage Podcast to break down what hosts and property investors really need to know when financing a short-term rental. From understanding lender expectations to why working with a specialist broker makes a huge difference, Joe shares practical advice to help you make confident, well-informed decisions.In this episode, Joe also highlights some key trends in the mortgage market, including increasing flexibility from lenders and the importance of property condition, location, and long-term planning. Whether you're buying your first holiday let or expanding your portfolio, this is essential listening for anyone serious about building a sustainable and profitable STR business.Key takeaways:Finance first. It might not be the most exciting topic, but sorting your mortgage early – with expert guidance – can make or break your investment.Brokers know best. A specialist broker will understand the nuances of STR lending and help you navigate the complexities of holiday let mortgages.Location matters. Lenders are scrutinising property locations more than ever. Choosing a strong area with proven demand is crucial for securing approval.1:31 Finance might be boring – but you must get it right2:21 Why it’s important to work with a broker5:04 Lenders are starting to get more flexible with their products6:23 The current headline rates for holiday let mortgages7:08 Lenders are looking carefully at the location of your property9:42 Understand the property condition and readiness11:22 Understand planning, usage restrictions, and regulationHost Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Joe Stallard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-stallard-9b462429/House and Holiday Home Mortgages: https://www.hhhmortgages.com/host-planetEpisode to check next: Top 5 Holiday Let Mortgage Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuCsJ_reAXw&t=2sHost Planet Mortgage Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: [email protected]#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #HolidayLets #HolidayLetMortgage #Mortgages #JoeStallard #JamesVarley

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• Is Your Direct Booking Website Useless?

  In this episode of the Host Planet Podcast – sponsored by Hostfully – we sit down with Louis Andrews, Director and President of OVO Network, a leading direct booking brand with a portfolio of high-performing chalets in the French Alps. Louis doesn’t hold back on what most short-term rental operators are getting wrong when it comes to their direct booking websites. From poor UX to wasted marketing efforts, he shares what it really takes to turn browsers into bookers.Whether you're DIY-ing your site, relying on your PMS, or considering outsourcing, this conversation is packed with actionable advice. Louis also offers a blueprint for building trust, driving conversions, and developing a website that actually supports your business goals. If you’ve ever questioned whether your direct booking site is worth the effort, this is one episode you can’t afford to miss.Key takeaways:1. Don’t just build it – optimise it. Most direct booking websites fail because they’re not built with the guest in mind. A flashy homepage means nothing if it doesn’t convert visitors into bookings.2. Pick the right tool for the job. There’s no one-size-fits-all: DIY, PMS-powered sites, or fully custom builds each have pros and cons. Know your resources, your target audience, and your conversion goals.3. Marketing is non-negotiable. If you’re not prioritising marketing, your direct booking site is just an expensive business card. Invest in a funnel that drives traffic, builds trust, and delivers results.1:03 Why are most direct booking websites useless?7:33 Where do you start when building a direct booking website?16:42 DIY, PMS, or trust an expert?20:20 How to turn lookers into bookers 24:00 How to emulate OVO Network 32:10 Can having a direct booking website be a waste of time?36:31 Message to property managers who don’t prioritise marketing39:19 Airbnb doubling down on experiences and services43:25 Favourite brand: Airbnb47:56 Individual shout-out: Humphrey Bowles49:51 No. 1 lesson learned50:51 PotatoLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: [email protected] Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Louis Andrews: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-jacques-andrews/OVO Network: https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/homeEpisode to check next: The Smart Way To Price Your Vacation Rental: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsHYwAUreLsHost Planet Podcast is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: [email protected]#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #LouisAndrews #OVONetwork

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• Design Tips for Stunning Short-Term Rentals

  Design is more than just aesthetics – it’s how your space makes guests feel, how it connects to the surroundings, and how well it stands the test of time. In this episode of Host Planet Bitesize, award-winning architect Peter Markos shares five essential design principles every short-term rental host should consider before breaking ground or revamping their property.From integrating natural elements to understanding bigger is not necessarily better, Peter’s advice is rooted in both practicality and creativity. Whether you're designing a cabin in the woods or a coastal retreat, this episode is packed with insights to help your rental stand out — thoughtfully and sustainably.Key takeaways:1. Design with nature, not against it. Properties that embrace natural materials, views, and light feel more welcoming and memorable.2. Let the location lead. A well-designed STR should reflect and respond to its setting – urban, rural, coastal, or mountainous.3. Think long-term. Design choices should be durable, timeless, and low-maintenance – saving money and headaches down the line.1:54 Integrate nature into the design4:48 Bigger is not necessarily better6:43 A design which responds to the location8:53 Build a brand around the structure10:49 Design for the long-term14:09 Peter’s ideal rental16:10 Markos Design WorkshopLooking for a great PMS or digital guidebook? You need Hostfully!Check out these special offers:Property Management Software: Get $500 off onboarding by using the code PLANET500.Digital Guidebooks: Get 30% off for life by using the code HOSTPLANETGB.Click here to sign up for Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1Keen to book a Hostfully demo? Click here to connect with Frank Bosi: https://cal.mixmax.com/frankbosi/demo?re=IiY1x2YuQXZuFGbwR3cvhGQzVWbhpmI&rn=ISelxmchZFIzVWbhpkI&messageId=UjWJnyJQ1a9zxhP2CEmail Frank: [email protected] Host Planet: https://www.hostplanet.club/James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/Peter Markos: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-markos-riba-40281bab/Markos Design Workshop: https://www.markosdesignworkshop.com/Episode to check next: 10 Tips To Boost Your Airbnb Listing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLBGxHFSSo4&t=516sHost Planet Bitesize is presented by James Varley, a holiday let investor and property manager who is also the Founder of Host Planet. Before founding Host Planet, James spent 20 years in the media, including a decade leading corporate communications for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.Contact the show: [email protected]#HostPlanet #HostPlanetPodcast #HostPlanetBitesize #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #HolidayLets #Airbnb #BookDirect #PropertyManagement #PropertyInvestment #BookingCom #Vrbo #JamesVarley #Hostfully #PMS #DigitalGuidebooks #SpecialOffer #PeterMarkos

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