31. Can You Really Buy an Existing Airbnb? Here’s the Catch

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 Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? It sounds like a shortcut—but there's a lot most people don’t tell you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens when you try to purchase a property that’s already operating as a short-term rental. From licensing delays to disappearing reviews to misleading listing agents (yes, really), you’ll learn exactly what to look out for before making an offer. Key Takeaways: Why people sell their Airbnb properties—and what it reveals The #1 misconception about “buying” an Airbnb listing How to legally transfer future guests (and why it’s tricky) Wisconsin’s licensing requirements and delays Red flags in listings and misleading descriptions How outdated permits and local regulations can ruin your plans Why Listen to This Episode? You’ll walk away knowing how to protect yourself, ask smarter questions, and avoid investing in a “turnkey” short-term rental that turns into a hot mess. Whether you're actively shopping or just curious, this episode is packed with advice I give to my own real estate clients. Mentioned in the Episode: Aloha Protein Bars: Receive 20% off your first order when clicking on the link below. Trust me, you will love them! Link: https://aloha.com/THEAIRBNBROADMAP Want to learn how to launch an Airbnb?: Every dollar counts when it comes to investing. Save $50 with the Promo-code: 5STARPODCAST Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course Connect with Me on Instagram: Follow me @airbnbroadmappodcast for behind-the-scenes content, tips, and updates. Let’s Connect: Thinking about buying an existing Airbnb? 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: 🎓 Want to confidently analyze, purchase, and manage your own Airbnb—even if it’s not “turnkey”? Take my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator course for less than $500 and learn everything you need (without the fluff) Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome + listener shoutouts 1:55 – Why sellers part ways with short-term rentals 4:45 – Is it really profitable, or are they burned out? 6:50 – What most buyers miss (and what I see as an agent) 8:20 – The truth about transferring Airbnb listings 10:30 – Future guests, cancellations & managing expectations 12:20 – Should you honor existing pricing? (Yes!) 14:00 – The licensing delay no one talks about 17:30 – Red flags & misleading agent descriptions 19:25 – Grandfathered-in properties vs. current rules 22:20 – Wrapping up: Do it smart, not fast Subscribe and Share: Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review! Share this episode with someone thinking about buying a short-term rental—they need to hear this before they write that offer.