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

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. . 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 Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM 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!