24. Where to Spend and Save in Your Airbnb for Better ROI

Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb? Join the Launch Party and get 20% off of all products! Promocode: LAUNCHPARTY Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website Episode Summary This episode is raw, real, and packed with truth bombs. I’m pulling back the curtain on the mistakes I’ve made (and seen others make) when it comes to overspending on short-term rentals. We’re talking ROI—return on investment—and how to be smart with your money from the moment you close, all the way to guest checkout. From skipping unnecessary renos to investing where it actually matters, this one’s a must-listen if you want your STR to actually profit. Key Takeaways Why beautiful doesn’t always mean profitable The biggest ROI mistakes new hosts make Where to splurge vs. where to save What guests actually care about Why a million-dollar property doesn’t guarantee million-dollar returns Why Listen to This Episode? You’ve got design boards, Pinterest inspo, and a gut feeling that says “go big.” But before you overspend on custom cabinets or a $5K couch, hit play. This episode will help you stay grounded in strategy so you don’t blow your budget—and your profits. Mentioned in the Episode Sign up with Hospitable: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $30 when you sign up under the link below! Save time and money today! Link: https://hospitable.com/?grsf=brittany-qvwa2r   Evolve, Property Management Company: Want to be hands off on your business and still make money? Start exploring Evolve today using the link below! Link: evolve.com/refer/realtorBrittanyWenninger       Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates. Let’s Connect Thinking about remodeling your Airbnb or unsure if a purchase is worth it? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out. Work With Me Ready to launch your first (or next) short-term rental the smart way?Check out the Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator—my signature course that walks you through every step, from setup to success. Airbnb Roadmap listeners get $50 off with the promo code. Need 1:1 help? Check out my mentorship program! Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:53 – You closed! Now what? 03:11 – Fantasy design vs. business decisions 05:08 – Real talk: we almost renovated our kitchen 07:45 – The “buy too much house” mistake 08:33 – The upgrade spiral is real 09:39 – Guests don’t care about your trim 11:59 – What they do care about 13:06 – ROI must-haves: comfort, not cosmetics 17:03 – The mattress that haunts me 19:15 – Functional kitchens over fancy ones 22:27 – Spa-like bathrooms (without a reno) 23:31 – Tech, TVs, and touchpoints 27:10 – Lighting tips that matter 28:22 – Cleanliness & maintenance: don’t skip 29:54 – Communication is part of your ROI 31:54 – Is that upgrade for your guest—or for you? 33:52 – Pretty doesn’t mean profitable 34:32 – DM me your ROI questions Subscribe and Share Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another host who might be getting a little carried away on the spending. Let’s build profitable Airbnbs, not just pretty ones.