Interview with Superhost Brandon Holman
Introduction:
Meet Brandon Holman, a dedicated short-term rental host with a passion for creating spaces that make guests feel at home. Despite only being a host for a year, Brandon’s properties are already making a lasting impact on his guests. We had the opportunity to chat with him about his journey, challenges, and the unique features of his rental properties.
Getting Started:
Brandon’s journey into short-term rentals began in February 2023 when he purchased his first property with the help of his father-in-law and brother-in-law. The property, located just two houses down from his own, was a dream come true. “I have been wanting to do this for years,” he says, highlighting his long-standing desire to create welcoming spaces for travelers. However, the journey was not without its challenges.
Despite his goal to go live in April 2023, the amount of work required pushed the launch to September 2023. But with hard work, determination, and support from his family, Brandon successfully overcame these obstacles.
Property and Design:
Brandon’s property is a mid-luxury farmhouse that focuses on creating an atmosphere perfect for family get-togethers. The space was once a small farm, and Brandon decided to embrace this history with a farmhouse theme that is both charming and functional.
Brandon was able to quickly identify his ideal guest for his property.
When asked about his inspiration, he mentioned, “When our family travels, we try and find an STR before we look at hotels. We look for spaces that are good for families, so we wanted to create a space that is great for families to come and make memories!”
Unique Features:
One of the standout features of Brandon’s property is the full-size Wiffle Ball field, which has garnered great feedback from guests. In addition to this, the property offers a range of outdoor games, a fire pit, hammocks, and a covered picnic area. Inside, guests can enjoy various games and cozy up on bean bags, creating an inviting environment for all ages.
Overcoming Challenges:
Managing an old property comes with its share of issues, such as electrical wiring and an aging HVAC system. Brandon’s approach to resolving these problems is proactive: “I try to address these right away and take care of the guests. If they are there when these issues occur, I try to make up for it by paying for dinner or giving them a discount on their stay.” This commitment to guest satisfaction ensures that even minor inconveniences don’t spoil the experience.
Memorable Moments: One of Brandon’s most memorable guest experiences involved a family of five who had initially booked the property for a little league tournament nearby. When the tournament was canceled due to rain, the Wiffle Ball field at the property turned an otherwise disappointing weekend into an unforgettable one. The guests were so thrilled that they even sent photos of the event, with the kids signing the “Home Run Wall of Fame.” This story highlights the impact of Brandon’s thoughtful design and hospitality choices.
Advice for Fellow Hosts: When asked what he enjoys most about being an STR host, Brandon reflects on the joy of creating memories for his guests. He advises other hosts to find something unique to add to their space, something that most people don’t often experience, to leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion: Brandon Holman’s journey as a short-term rental host is a testament to the power of dedication, thoughtful design, and a commitment to guest satisfaction. As he continues to create memorable experiences for his guests, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for him and his properties.
Connect with Brandon:
Final Thoughts: Brandon’s journey so far has been incredible, and with just a year into hosting, he looks forward to creating even more memorable moments for his future guests.