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The Ultimate STR Host Tech Toolkit: What I Actually Use in My Rentals

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Running a short-term rental (STR) business in today’s world means more than just having a pretty property and fresh linens, it’s about using the right tech tools to save time, boost bookings, and deliver 5-star guest experiences.


When I started my STR journey, I had no clue what tools I really needed. I pieced things together through trial, error, and a whole lot of late nights. That’s why I am starting a new YouTube channel, to document my journey of growing a short-term rental business, including the wins and the struggles.


This post is your behind-the-scenes look at the tech stack I personally use to run my properties, the tools that have helped me go from overwhelmed host to confident, streamlined operator. And yep, these are tools I actually use and love.


My STR Host Tech Toolkit

Each of these tools has a specific purpose, and they all work together to help me run a smooth, scalable business.


1. OTAs: AirBnB, VRBO + Futurestay

Why I Use Them: AirBnB continues to dominate the U.S. short-term rental market, making it a must for exposure and bookings. VRBO is another solid platform, especially for family and vacation-oriented stays.


But here’s where it gets exciting, Futurestay is changing the game for direct bookings. It allows you to create your own professional direct booking site without needing to build a website from scratch. Think plug-and-play simplicity, with the ability to manage reservations, sync calendars, and accept payments, all while building your brand outside the OTAs.


Pro Tip: A direct booking strategy is key to long-term success. Futurestay makes that possible without needing to be a tech expert.



2. Property Management System: HostHub

Why I Use It: HostHub is my command center. It automates messages, syncs calendars, and helps me manage my listings in one place, no more app-hopping.

It also connects beautifully with all the big OTAs, so I never miss a beat (or a booking).



3. Dynamic Pricing Tool: PriceLabs

Why I Use It: Pricing manually is time-consuming and honestly — not very effective. PriceLabs takes the guesswork out of it by adjusting my nightly rates daily based on demand, seasonality, local events, and market trends.

Since using PriceLabs, I’ve seen higher occupancy and better revenue, especially during slower seasons or unexpected surges.



4. Digital Guidebook: TouchStay

Why I Use It: Guests love clarity, and TouchStay gives them exactly that. From check-in instructions to WiFi passwords and local recommendations, it’s all there in one clean, mobile-friendly link.


Pro Tip: Use TouchStay to put help tips about the amenities, like hot to change the settings the hot tub or how to use the fireplace.



5. Email Collection + Marketing: StayFi

Why I Use It: StayFi lets me collect guest emails through WiFi login, even from Airbnb guests, so I can market to them later with discounts, news, upcoming events, and a way to book directly.

It’s one of the only ways you can build your guest list when Airbnb hides emails.



6. Smart Lock: Schlage Encode

Why I Use It: This lock changed my life. I can give each guest a unique code, no physical keys needed. It integrates with apps like Amazon Alexa and offers remote access.

Total peace of mind for me and my guests.


Pro Tip: Always have a physical key in a lockbox close to the front door, just in case the guest cannot get the smart lock to work.

Schlage Encode - https://amzn.to/44Rx84J



7. Email Marketing: Mailchimp

Why I Use It: Once I capture emails via StayFi, I use Mailchimp to keep guests in the loop with promotions, new listings, or local travel tips. Automation makes it easy to stay top of mind without constant effort.

You don’t need a fancy email funnel to get started, you just need too start building the list.



Want the Full Breakdown? Watch on YouTube

If you’re more of a visual learner or want to follow my actual journey growing this business, tech tools, mindset, mistakes and all, start checking out my YouTube channel. I go deeper into how I use each of these tools and show you exactly what’s working behind the scenes.



Final Thoughts

If you're just starting out or looking to scale, the right tools can make all the difference. You don’t need to use everything from day one, but having the right tech in place lets you work on your business, not just in it.


And remember: every link in this post is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I actually use in my own STRs, and your support helps me keep sharing this content with fellow hosts like you.

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