The Secret to 80% Direct Bookings & Happy Guests!

Remotely In today’s episode, I’m excited to introduce you to a truly inspiring figure in the vacation rental industry, Rose Tipka. Rose isn't just a successful short-term rental host; she's a homeschooling mom of six who's managed to build a multi-million-dollar portfolio while maintaining an admirable work-life balance. Her journey into vacation rentals started unexpectedly when her husband purchased their first property just a day before she gave birth to their fifth child! Instead of seeing this as a challenge, Rose embraced the opportunity with incredible determination.

Over the past seven years, Rose has grown her business to include three high-end vacation rentals, each with an impressive average daily rate of $600 to $1,000. What sets Rose apart, though, isn't just the properties themselves, but her unwavering focus on creating exceptional guest experiences.

With 80% of her bookings coming directly through her website and 60% of her guests being repeat customers, Rose's approach to hospitality is clearly working. In this conversation, we’ll explore how she’s built her brand, diversified her booking sources, and balanced entrepreneurship with motherhood. Whether you're a seasoned host or new to the game, Rose’s insights offer a fresh, inspiring perspective on thriving in the vacation rental world. Let’s dive in!

Things we discussed in this episode:

Rose Tipka's background as a homeschooling mom of six and how that has shaped her entrepreneurial drive.
The unexpected start of her vacation rental business when her husband purchased their first property without her initial knowledge.
The importance of maintaining a work-life balance and being present for her family while growing a successful business.
Rose's strategic decision to focus on high-end vacation rentals with average daily rates between $600-$1000.
The power of branding and how Rose has built a cohesive brand experience across her properties, marketing, and customer interactions.
Rose's use of "magic phrases" to reinforce her brand values, such as friendliness and hospitality. The personalized customer service tactics
Rose employs, including video greetings, handwritten thank-you notes, and branded fridge magnets.
The significance of diversifying booking sources beyond third-party platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to build a sustainable business.
The challenges of unpredictability and account suspensions on OTA platforms, and the importance of having a standalone business.
The lessons Rose has learned in balancing entrepreneurship and parenthood, and the "ferocity" that comes with being a mom in business.