Avoid the Biggest Mistakes in Airbnb Investing | John Bianchi

Are you ready to find your next cash-flowing short-term rental property — and actually know it’s a winner before you buy? In this episode, We sit down with John Bianchi, the self-proclaimed "Airbnb Data Guy," who's helped uncover over 200 profitable STR properties. John pulls back the curtain on how to spot the best markets, why understanding local regulations is critical, and how effective marketing can make or break your rental’s success. You'll learn John's two-step method for market selection, dive into real-world property analysis (including a live review of Jason and Rory's property in Laconia, New Hampshire), and get practical tips like the "20% rule" and how to maximize your property's potential with strategic photography. Whether you're investing your first dollar or expanding your growing portfolio, John's data-driven insights and no-nonsense advice will give you the edge to make smarter, more profitable decisions. Get ready for a deep-dive that's packed with actionable strategies you can use right now! Things we discussed in this episode: John Bianchi’s two-step method for picking STR markets: check regulations and apply the 20% rule (annual revenue = 20% of purchase price). Why professional photography and marketing are key to standing out — especially when showcasing unique amenities and outdoor spaces. A deep dive into Jason and Rory’s Laconia, NH property: challenges with cash flow and market fit. The risks of buying in areas without clear STR regulations. How STRs offer cash flow, equity growth, and major tax benefits. Why you can’t fully trust AirDNA’s rentalizer tool — and how to do better comp analysis manually. John’s story: from building STR Search to helping identify 200+ profitable properties. How waterfront locations and standout features boost income. Diversifying investments: blending STRs with other vehicles. The deeper "why" behind STR investing: creating freedom and generational wealth. Get in touch with John: LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bianchi/ Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbdataguy/ Website - ⁠https://strsearch.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #ShortTermRentals #STRInvesting #AirbnbDataGuy #ShortTermRental #RealEstateInvestment #PropertyInvesting #PassiveIncome #RentalMarkets #InvestmentStrategy #RealEstateData #STRTips Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show ⁠Website⁠ and on ⁠Instagram⁠ and⁠ YouTube⁠ Prideaway Stays ⁠Website⁠ and on ⁠Facebook⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Straightforward Short-Term Rentals ⁠Website⁠ and on ⁠Instagram⁠ Attorney Rory Gill ⁠on LinkedIn⁠ Jason Muth on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of⁠ Hospitality.FM⁠, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!