Blog
Video guides and articles from James Svetec
Airbnb Property Analysis: How to Run the Numbers Right
Running a proper Airbnb property analysis is the difference between a profitable STR investment and a costly mistake. This breakdown walks through the exact numbers — from purchase price to projected cash-on-cash return — using a real property example in Asheville, NC.
September 29, 2022 · 11 min read
How to Make Money in Any Real Estate Market with STRs
When property values drop and interest rates climb, most real estate investors panic. This blog video explains why cash flow — not appreciation — is the key to surviving any market, and why short-term rentals are the most powerful tool for generating it.
September 27, 2022 · 8 min read
Remote Airbnb Investing: How to Buy & Launch STRs Hands-Off
Buying and launching an Airbnb property without living nearby sounds impossible — but it's not. This blog video walks through the exact remote STR investing process James Svetec used to buy, renovate, furnish, and list a property with just two site visits.
September 22, 2022 · 9 min read
Buying an Airbnb Property Sight Unseen: How to Do It Right
Buying a short-term rental property without ever visiting it sounds risky—but with the right systems, it's not only possible, it's smart. Here's the exact approach used to purchase an Airbnb property sight unseen, from inspection strategy to closing remotely.
September 20, 2022 · 8 min read
Adding a Hot Tub to My Airbnb: Is It Worth It in 2026?
Adding a hot tub or sauna to your Airbnb can dramatically boost bookings and nightly rates — but only if you do it right. Here's exactly when it makes sense, what it costs, and which amenity wins on Airbnb's platform.
September 15, 2022 · 10 min read
The top 6 things I learned from almost getting scammed by Student Works…
James Svetec nearly dismissed Student Works as a scam. Instead, it became one of the best decisions of his life. Here are the 6 lessons that shaped his path to entrepreneurship.
September 14, 2022 · 8 min read
Sunken Cost Bias in Real Estate
Sunk cost bias is one of the most expensive psychological traps a real estate Airbnb host can fall into. Here's how it plays out in short-term rental investing — and how to make sure it doesn't derail your portfolio.
September 13, 2022 · 10 min read
When to Walk Away from an STR Deal: Blog Video Breakdown
Knowing when to walk away from a deal is more important than knowing which properties to buy. This blog video breaks down the exact criteria STR investors should use to stay disciplined and protect their capital.
September 8, 2022 · 8 min read
Investing vs. Spending: The STR Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
One of the most common mistakes STR investors make has nothing to do with numbers — it's a mindset problem. When personal enjoyment clouds investment logic, returns suffer. This breakdown explains how to draw the line clearly.
September 6, 2022 · 7 min read
Top 3 Must-Have Airbnb Tech Tools for STR Hosts in 2026
The right tech tools can mean the difference between a stressful Airbnb operation and one that practically runs itself. Here are the three must-have tools every serious STR host should install in 2026.
September 1, 2022 · 9 min read
Best Types of Properties for Airbnb: What Actually Performs
Condos seem like an easy starting point, but they're often the worst Airbnb investment. This breakdown covers which property types actually generate strong returns — from large homes to unique auxiliary dwelling units — and why size and uniqueness are the two factors that matter most.
August 30, 2022 · 9 min read
Top 3 High-ROI Airbnb Amenities to Add in 2026
Not all Airbnb upgrades are created equal. These three amenities consistently deliver the highest return on investment — boosting bookings, improving reviews, and helping properties outperform the competition year-round.
August 25, 2022 · 6 min read