This week let’s meet 😊
Jacob Paul Turner is a multifaceted individual hailing from Kalamazoo, Michigan, a place known for its unique distinctions including Tweety Bird, the Checkered Cab, and its renowned celery growers. Jacob began his journey in hosting in February of 2019, managing a friend’s property post-lava flow. With a passion for real estate and a keen eye for management, he now manages five properties and eight units.
Let’s hear his story! 🔊
So Jacob, tell us, how long have you been hosting? How and why did you start? How many properties do you manage?
I started hosting in February of 2019. A friend of mine lived abroad but needed someone to manage his rental after the 2018 lava flow subsided. From a very young age, I knew real estate was THE thing. I now manage 5 properties and 8 units!
Are you an owner or a manager? Is this a part-time or full-time occupation for you?
I am an owner and a manager. I am also a carpenter, realtor, accountant, and avid taxpayer. It’s a passive, part-time thing. I’m an aspiring farmer and engineer, author, and pianist.
What is the best thing about hosting, and what are the biggest problems you face?
Meeting people from around the world with incredible stories and providing a top-notch experience. Honolulu hotels are fighting an annoying battle against Short Term Vacation Rentals. The association of Apartment Owners is also problematic, as how does one get 40 or 933 people to agree on things?
What is one thing you wish you knew when you started hosting?
I wish I knew how to automate accounting tasks. I’m still wishing to know this! Please send suggestions.
What is the most important advice/tip you would give someone interested in becoming a short-term rental host?
Last-minute one-night stays often attract interesting guests…
Besides Hosthub, are there any tools, devices, or software (eg. Remote keylocks, cameras, local guide apps, power meters, etc) you use? What is your experience with them?
I use PriceLabs and love the length of stay controls to better fill up the calendar. I also use Turno to find, manage, and schedule cleaners. Turno can be buggy, but it’s getting better.
Which channels do you list on? How much has your revenue increased since listing on multiple channels?
Airbnb.com, booking.com, vrbo.com, and misterbandb.com I think we’re at an interesting time when supply in Hawaii is increased but demand maybe not.
Besides listing on multiple channels, what other things can a host do to increase his/her bookings and revenue?
Update your listing frequently on all channels, and apply promotions that make sense financially. Get spectacular pictures that stand out!
You can find out more about Jacob’s properties here:
Airbnb
Booking. com
Here are some photos to give you a better vision of Jacob’s properties (click for larger versions) 🧐
