Tech Tips for Managing Your Short-Term Rentals Remotely

I’m excited to dive into the operations side of our business, which is a bit different from the branding and marketing focus we usually cover.

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Preparing for Luna’s Opening

The opening of Luna is coming up quickly! We’re aiming to welcome the public by the end of January, so we’ve been busy crossing T’s and dotting I’s. A big part of that is ensuring our technology setup is ready.

Now, when I say “tech stack,” I’m not talking about software today. Instead, I’m focusing on the physical technology we use in our properties to manage them remotely. As we scale and take on more properties, it’s become increasingly important to monitor them when we’re not physically present and to automate key tasks, like managing lock codes.

If you’re just starting your short-term rental journey, this episode will be especially helpful.

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1. Schlage Encode Smart Locks

We use Schlage Encode smart locks in Luna, and I’ve been a fan since our first property back in 2019 on the North Carolina coast. At that time, Airbnb didn’t integrate with Schlage yet, so I manually created lock codes using the last four digits of each guest’s phone number. Even though I was five hours away, I could manage access remotely via the Schlage app.

Now, with Airbnb and PMS integrations (like Logify and Hospitable), codes can automatically sync for each reservation. Here’s how it works:

• Guests’ codes are automatically set for the exact check-in and check-out times.
• I can assign unique codes to contractors, so I know who enters the property and when.
• You can lock and unlock doors remotely, which is great if a guest forgets to lock up.

Other options include Yale and August locks, but Schlage is my go-to because of years of experience.

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2. Google Home Ecosystem

Next, let’s talk about Google Home, which we use for security cameras and smart thermostats.

At both Luna and our Kentucky property, we installed exterior cameras to monitor:

• Car counts
• Guest compliance (like no pets if not allowed)

All cameras are viewable in one Google Home account, which makes it seamless to manage multiple properties. Additional benefits include:

• Installing Google Nest thermostats to remotely adjust temperatures.
• Adding speakers or other smart devices for property automation.
• Affordable motion-triggered recording plans (~$100/year for extended recordings).

We previously used Reolink cameras, which recorded continuously to a hard drive, but Google Home cameras are much easier to install and manage.

Pro tip: If you’re juggling multiple apps and platforms, consider Logify. I recently started using it, and it’s a game-changer. Manage all messages in one unified inbox, track tasks for cleaners or contractors, and even reduce reliance on OTAs like Airbnb and VRBO. You can get 20% off your annual subscription at www.brandandmarket.co/logify.

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3. Starlink Internet for Rural Properties

Finally, let’s talk about internet. Both Luna and our Kentucky property are very rural, where traditional ISPs struggle.

We installed Starlink, which has proven to be reliable and fast, even in remote areas. Here’s a quick overview:

• Equipment cost: ~$350–$400 (some promotions make it free in select areas)
• Service tiers: $80–$120/month, depending on speed
• Installation: DIY-friendly; Caleb installed both setups
• Benefit: Stable, reliable internet in areas where satellite or DSL can fail

Previously, we used Viasat, which was unreliable and frustrating for remote work. Starlink has been a huge improvement, and even better, it’s comparable in price to traditional rural internet plans.

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Wrapping Up

Today we covered:

1. Schlage Encode smart locks for automated, remote access
2. Google Home cameras and smart devices for property monitoring and management
3. Starlink internet for reliable connectivity in rural areas

Managing these elements helps us operate our short-term rentals remotely and efficiently, even when we’re hours away.

If you’re looking for a short-term rental to purchase, I’ve created a free checklist for the acquisitions process, from pre-offer analysis to post-closing operations. Check the show notes for your free copy!

Thank you so much for listening. If you found this helpful, please rate, review, and subscribe so others can discover the show. Check out the show notes for resources mentioned today.

Until next week, I’m cheering you on as you build your dream brand and business!