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🛠️ What’s Your Plan B? Backup Systems That Save STR Hosts from Disaster

Today we're covering contingency tools and systems (like secondary Wi-Fi, battery-powered locks, and emergency contact plans) that keep operations running during tech or power outages. Keep reading for more. ⬇️

Community Perks with The STR Report

🏠 Top-Tier Property Management â€“ Lower fees, higher payouts, and premium service. Built for investors who want performance and peace of mind. Mention The STR Report by 6/30/25 & get your first month completely FREE.

🔎 Personal Airbnb Investment Finder â€“ Connect with an expert to handpick profitable Airbnb properties that match your criteria. With 213+ successful deals, all cash-flowing, you’re in good hands. Take 15 seconds to fill out the form to see how all of these properties are experiencing at least a 15% Cash-on-Cash return.

🤑 STR Loans & More – Need funding for your next short-term rental? Expect expert guidance, personalized service, and the best possible rates.

June 9th, 2025

Good evening STR Report Community!

In today’s issue, you will find:

📱Today’s Article: 🛠️ What’s Your Plan B? Backup Systems That Save STR Hosts from Disaster

📈 Trending Market Highlight: Orlando, Florida and Burlington, Vermont

✉️ STR News: Twimo launches private vacation STR platform & more

💸 Mortgage Rate Watch

🇵🇷 Unique Airbnb of the Week

🏫 Subscriber Perks: Go Live Playbook, including: Beginner’s Guide E-Book, Guest Communication Messaging Templates, Airbnb Welcome Guide Template, STR Buy Box Template, & Tax Savings E-Book

✅ Community Perks: Top-Tier Property Management, Personal Airbnb Investment Finder, and STR Loans & More

📬 See our collection of newsletters here: Prior Newsletters

🛠️ What’s Your Plan B? Backup Systems That Save STR Hosts from Disaster

No one thinks about backup systems—until they really need one.

From Wi-Fi going out mid-check-in to a power outage during a storm, hosting a short-term rental without contingency plans is like walking a tightrope without a net. If you want your STR business to run smoothly (and stress-free), a few smart failsafes can make all the difference when things go sideways.

Here are the essential backup systems every host should have in place:

leonardo dicaprio party GIF by Turner Classic Movies

When the power goes out but you’ve got battery-powered locks, backup Wi-Fi, and printed guest instructions:

1. Secondary Wi-Fi = Primary Peace of Mind

Internet issues are one of the most common guest complaints. And in the age of smart homes, no Wi-Fi can mean no locks, no thermostats, and no happy guests.
Backup tip: Consider adding a secondary internet source, like a mobile hotspot or a Wi-Fi failover device that automatically kicks in when your main provider drops. These backups are surprisingly affordable and could be the hero of your next booking.

2. Battery-Powered Smart Locks = Entry Without the Emergency

Many STR hosts rely on Wi-Fi or power to run their entry systems—but what happens when the power’s out and the guest’s flight just landed?
Plan B: Use smart locks with a keypad and battery backup. Some even store access codes locally, so guests can still check in without an internet connection. Bonus: these locks can notify you when battery life is low, so you can swap them out before they die completely.

3. Emergency Contact Plans = Human Backup When Tech Fails

Even the best automation can’t replace a well-prepared human.
Your move: Have a local contact (cleaner, handyman, or co-host) who can jump in during emergencies. Make sure their info is in your guest guide and easily reachable in case a guest needs help and you’re out of range.

4. Manual Guest Info = Offline Access, Online Reviews

If your digital guidebook or check-in instructions live only on the cloud, you could leave guests scrambling when they lose access.
Solution: Print a hard copy of your guest guide and emergency instructions. Keep it in a clearly labeled folder near the entrance. Include things like Wi-Fi passwords, appliance instructions, and local emergency numbers.

5. Power Backup = Comfort During Outages

A sudden outage in the middle of winter or during summer heatwaves can mean refund requests or even canceled stays.
Backup gear to consider: Portable battery banks for charging devices, rechargeable lanterns, or even a small generator (especially in rural or weather-prone areas). These thoughtful touches can turn a power outage into a minor hiccup instead of a guest complaint.

Final Thoughts

In STR hosting, your best defense is a solid Plan B. These backup systems aren’t just for worst-case scenarios—they’re for peace of mind, happy guests, and smooth operations year-round. Because when disaster doesn’t strike thanks to your prep work? That’s the true win.

Orlando, Florida🎢

Downloadable Orlando, Florida Short-Term Rental Market Report

Orlando STR Market Report.pdf1.82 MB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $165.79 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 59.61%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $36,142.30 per year

Read our full Orlando, Florida Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

Burlington, Vermont⛷️

Downloadable Burlington, Vermont Short-Term Rental Market Report

Burlington STR Market Report.pdf2.84 MB • PDF File
  • Average Daily Rate (ADR): $294.34 per night

  • Occupancy Rate: 56.11%

  • Annual Revenue Potential: Around $60,339 per year

Read our full Burlington, Vermont Short-Term Rental Market Report attached above.

📬 See our collection of 50+ market reports here: Prior Trending Market Reports

🏠 Twimo launches private vacation STR platform
Twimo has launched a private vacation rental platform designed specifically for homeowners, offering them a dedicated space to manage and share properties outside mainstream short‑term rental marketplaces amid growing global restrictions.

📱 Booking Holdings Hedges Google Disruption, Wants to 'Be Close' to AI Hyperscalers
Booking Holdings is strategically partnering with major AI hyperscalers—such as those behind large language models—to “hedge” against potential disruptions from platforms like Google, ensuring they remain at the forefront of AI-driven travel innovation.

🤝 SuiteOp partners with Smily
SuiteOp has officially integrated its Guest Operations Platform with France’s leading rental software Smily, enabling thousands of European property managers to automate tasks from cleans and inspections to upsells and smart‑device coordination all through a unified dashboard.

💸Mortgage Rate Watch – June 9th, 2025

Current Mortgage Rates (as of June 9, 2025):

  • 30‑Year Fixed: 6.97% (+0.08 points from June 6) 

  • 15‑Year Fixed: 6.22% (+0.08 points) 

  • 30‑Year Jumbo: 7.02% (+0.07 points) 

  • 30‑Year FHA: 6.47% (+0.09 points) 

  • 7/6 SOFR ARM: 6.40% (+0.16 points)

  • 30‑Year VA: 6.50% (+0.10 points) 

Market Overview:
After climbing early in the week, rates edged back upward by Monday. The 30‑year fixed briefly dipped near 6.87% mid‑week, but US Treasury yields and bond markets rebounded ahead of the June 6 jobs data. The MBS (Mortgage‑Backed Securities) intraday trend was slightly positive, which typically supports lower mortgage rates, though the overall move was modest.

Rate Trends & Forecast:

Short‑Term:
Mortgage rates are likely to hover near current levels unless new economic data or Fed commentary alters investor sentiment. The intraday mix of slightly positive MBS and modest Treasury yield gain suggests a stable but cautious market.

Long‑Term:
Goldman Sachs projects 30‑year rates to hold around 6.75% by year‑end due to persistent inflation and robust Treasury yields. Meanwhile, the broader expectation is for rates to stay elevated above 6%, with only slight easing unless major Fed policy changes or economic shifts occur.

For real-time mortgage rate updates, visit Mortgage News Daily.

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La Rancho La Terapia (sometimes called The Therapy) is a charming, one‑bedroom tiny‑house hut tucked in the lush heart of Villalba Arriba, Puerto Rico, designed for serene escapes and intimate getaways. With space for up to two guests, it features air conditioning, a well‑equipped kitchen, and a private pool—perfect for both relaxation and refreshment. Nestled amid dramatic mountain and lake views, this eco‑friendly retreat blends simplicity with comfort: cozy bedding, toiletries, and even parking are included. With a one‑night minimum stay and availability often around $200 USD per evening, it’s ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful nature‑immersed respite.

Subscriber Perks:

📖🏡💰 Go Live Playbook

The "Go Live Playbook" is your all-in-one guide featuring a beginner’s guide e-book, messaging templates, Airbnb welcome book, STR buy box template, and tax savings tips to kickstart your short-term rental success.

Community Perks with The STR Report

🏠 Top-Tier Property Management â€“ Lower fees, higher payouts, and premium service. Built for investors who want performance and peace of mind. Mention The STR Report by 6/30/25 & get your first month completely FREE.

🔎 Personal Airbnb Investment Finder â€“ Connect with an expert to handpick profitable Airbnb properties that match your criteria. With 213+ successful deals, all cash-flowing, you’re in good hands. Take 15 seconds to fill out the form to see how all of these properties are experiencing at least a 15% Cash-on-Cash return.

🤑 STR Loans & More – Need funding for your next short-term rental? Expect expert guidance, personalized service, and the best possible rates.

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