Exciting News!

In an effort to further serve the growing rental space industry and bring you more in-depth information on the world of hosting and property management, I have enlisted the help of an expert in the realm of property management and hospitality services.

I am thrilled to introduce the first in a new series of guest blog posts by Ryan Spurgeon, a successful Hospitality Extraordinaire and a true authority in his field.

Ryan is the owner of Level Up Hosting, a property management and consulting firm here in Fort Wayne. Ryan is also an accomplished author, blogger, and Air BnB Superhost, managing the serene short-term rental, The 07 Oasis, in Fairfield Flats, just south of downtown. With a passion for providing top-tier experiences to guests, Ryan has honed his expertise in the realm of hospitality, perfecting the art of guest satisfaction.

In this guest blogging series, The Hospitality Hub, Ryan will share his invaluable knowledge, from property management tips to the secrets of hosting success.

Stay tuned for valuable insights, tips, and advice from Ryan that could take your property ventures to the next level.

HI! I’M RYAN

…and life has taken me on an
interesting path. As a human
resources manager for the last six years,
I’ve cultivated a deep understanding
of what makes people and
workplaces thrive.

My journey took an unexpected turn when I ventured into the world of Airbnb hosting, and in just six months, I proudly earned the title of Superhost. Beyond the office and the hospitality scene, my heart belongs to my wife and three children who constantly inspire me to embrace balance and connection.

As a Marine Corps veteran, I’ve carried the values of discipline and commitment into every endeavor, fostering an unwavering dedication to excellence. When I’m not orchestrating seamless work environments or crafting memorable guest experiences, you’ll find me out among nature’s beauty – hiking trails and spending time with friends on the golf course. These moments provide the clarity and rejuvenation that drive my passion in all areas of life.

From curating stays that feel like home to cultivating workplaces that feel like family, my diverse experiences have shaped my approach to every challenge.

EXCUSES ARE ENDLESS, BUT TIME IS NOT

Today, I want to take you on a little journey – my journey
– hosting on Airbnb, specifically at my own property,
The 07 Oasis. As far back as I can remember, I wanted
to be an entrepreneur, but like so many of us, society
told me a thousand times over that life would be easier
in the corporate space. So that’s where I lived, for
almost 20 years. In fact, I am still an HR Manager full-time (it’s hard to walk away from security, right?).

I knew I wanted to do something incredible and create
a unique space that could be used as a tool to grow
and share with like-minded people. My first-ever
business idea was a bar-cade. I had the space, I had
meetings with the necessary people to get it moving,
but it never worked itself out, or maybe I never pulled
the trigger.

Years went by, but I always had an interest in real
estate. At first, I wanted to purchase land and just sit on
it. Then I started looking at multifamily investments. But
I wanted something I could build right now. Something
that could turn into a business that allowed my wife
and I to retire early. That is when I found short-term
rentals.

Like any new adventure, I have faced many challenges and learned many lessons, so let’s break it down:

Challenges Faced

The Learning Curve:

Initially, I had to navigate the learning curve of Airbnb hosting. From crafting the perfect listing description to setting competitive rates, it was all new territory.

Guest Expectations:

Meeting guest expectations while maintaining a sense of privacy and comfort for them and myself was sometimes a delicate balancing act.

Maintenance:

Staying on top of maintenance and ensuring that every guest arrived at a spotless, well-equipped, and safe space required dedication. But, as they say, with great challenges come even greater rewards, and my journey with “The 07 Oasis” has been nothing short of rewarding.

Lessons Learned

Communication is Key:

I quickly realized that clear and prompt communication was the foundation of positive guest experiences. It fostered trust, answered questions, and
helped manage expectations.

Flexibility:

Adapting to guest needs and feedback was crucial. Whether it was adjusting check-in times or adding amenities based on suggestions, flexibility led to happier guests.

The Power of Reviews:

Positive reviews from satisfied guests became my property’s best marketing tool. A job well done leads to glowing reviews, which, in turn, attract more bookings.

Success Achieved!

Today, The 07 Oasis has become not just a property but a place where travelers find comfort, relaxation, and a little piece of home away from home. It’s a hub of memories, stories, and smiles, not just for my guests but for me as well. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting people from all corners of the world, and their stories have enriched my life in ways I never imagined. The success of “The 07 Oasis” isn’t just in the revenue it generates but in the connections made, the friendships formed, and the knowledge gained.

So, whether you’re already on your own hosting journey or just considering it, I want to leave you with this: Embrace the challenges, absorb the lessons, and relish the success because hosting, my friend, is an adventure worth taking.

If you have any questions about hosting or anything else related to Airbnb, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help!

Watch monthly for more Real Estate Investing and Property Management Tips with Ryan of Level Up Hosting in his new guest blogging series: “The Hospitality Hub”

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