How to Set Up a Profitable STR for Remote Workers
The rise of remote work has transformed the short-term rental (STR) market, creating a high demand for properties that cater to digital nomads and remote professionals. Offering work-friendly amenities can help you attract this growing audience, increase bookings, and maximize revenue. This guide explores how to set up a profitable STR tailored to the needs of remote workers.
Why Target Remote Workers?
1. Growing Demand
Remote work has surged, with millions of professionals seeking flexible and comfortable accommodations.
2. Longer Stays
Remote workers often book for weeks or months, providing consistent income and reducing turnover costs.
3. Higher Willingness to Pay
Guests are willing to pay a premium for work-friendly spaces that enhance productivity and comfort.
4. Year-Round Occupancy
Remote workers travel during off-peak seasons, helping you maintain occupancy year-round.
Features Remote Workers Look For in an STR
1. Reliable High-Speed Internet
A fast and stable internet connection is the top priority for remote workers.
How to Optimize Internet:
Provide speeds of at least 100 Mbps to support video calls and large file transfers.
Position the router centrally for maximum coverage.
Include a backup option, such as a mobile hotspot or secondary network.
Pro Tip:
Mention your internet speed in the listing description to attract remote workers.
2. Dedicated Workspace
A comfortable and functional workspace is essential for productivity.
Workspace Essentials:
Ergonomic desk and chair.
Sufficient lighting, preferably adjustable.
Power outlets and USB ports within easy reach.
Pro Tip:
Include a secondary workspace for flexibility, such as a standing desk or outdoor area.
3. Quiet Environment
Remote workers value peace and quiet for focus and video meetings.
How to Create a Quiet Space:
Install soundproofing measures, such as rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels.
Offer noise-canceling headphones as an added amenity.
Highlight quiet hours and policies in your listing.
Pro Tip:
Mention your property’s distance from noisy areas, like highways or airports.
4. Comfortable Living Areas
Work-life balance is important for remote workers, so provide cozy spaces for relaxation.
Living Area Features:
Comfortable seating with pillows and throws.
Entertainment options, like a smart TV and board games.
Bookshelves stocked with novels or local guidebooks.
Pro Tip:
Showcase your living areas with inviting photos to appeal to guests seeking a homely vibe.
5. Fully Equipped Kitchen
Remote workers often cook meals to save time and money.
Kitchen Essentials:
High-quality cookware and utensils.
Coffee maker and tea kettle.
Basic pantry items, like spices and cooking oil.
Pro Tip:
Highlight nearby grocery stores or farmer’s markets in your welcome guide.
6. Wellness and Fitness Amenities
Health-conscious travelers appreciate properties that support their wellness routines.
Fitness Features:
Yoga mats, resistance bands, or small weights.
Access to nearby gyms or walking trails.
Outdoor spaces for exercise, like patios or gardens.
Pro Tip:
Include a guide to local wellness services, such as spas or fitness centers.
How to Market Your STR to Remote Workers
1. Tailor Your Listing Description
Highlight features that appeal specifically to remote workers.
Examples of Descriptions:
“Fast 200 Mbps Wi-Fi and ergonomic workspace—perfect for remote professionals!”
“Quiet retreat with a dedicated home office and mountain views.”
Pro Tip:
Use keywords like “remote work-friendly,” “digital nomad retreat,” or “work-from-home space.”
2. Offer Long-Term Stay Discounts
Incentivize extended bookings with tiered discounts.
Example Pricing Structure:
Weekly stays: 10% discount.
Monthly stays: 25% discount.
Pro Tip:
Mention these discounts in your listing headline to attract long-term guests.
3. List on Remote Work Platforms
Expand your reach by advertising on platforms catering to remote workers.
Popular Platforms:
Airbnb (with “Work-Friendly Spaces” filters enabled).
Vrbo for family-oriented remote workers.
Specialized sites like NomadX and Remote Year.
Pro Tip:
Optimize your profile to stand out on these platforms by showcasing your unique features.
4. Use Social Media Advertising
Target remote workers through tailored social media campaigns.
Ad Strategies:
Highlight your property’s work-friendly features with photos and videos.
Use location-based targeting for popular remote work hubs.
Promote long-term stay discounts and seasonal offers.
Pro Tip:
Include testimonials from past remote worker guests to build trust.
Enhancing the Remote Work Experience
1. Provide Digital Welcome Guides
Make it easy for guests to settle in and explore their surroundings.
What to Include:
Wi-Fi instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Recommendations for coworking spaces or coffee shops.
Details about local attractions and essential services.
Pro Tip:
Use tools like Touch Stay to create interactive, mobile-friendly guides.
2. Offer Flexible Check-In and Check-Out
Remote workers value flexibility due to varying schedules.
How to Provide Flexibility:
Use smart locks for self-check-in and check-out.
Allow early check-ins or late check-outs when possible.
Pro Tip:
Mention your flexible policies in your listing to attract more bookings.
3. Maintain High Cleanliness Standards
Ensure your property is spotless and well-maintained.
Best Practices:
Use professional cleaning services for consistent results.
Stock cleaning supplies for guests who stay longer.
Pro Tip:
Include a cleaning schedule for long-term stays to maintain cleanliness without disrupting guests.
Case Studies: Successful Remote Work STRs
1. Urban Loft in Austin, TX
Features: High-speed Wi-Fi, standing desk, and proximity to coworking spaces.
Result: Attracted digital nomads, achieving 80% occupancy during the off-season.
2. Beachfront Bungalow in Bali
Features: Outdoor workspace with ocean views, yoga mats, and wellness guide.
Result: Secured long-term bookings from remote workers and influencers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overlooking Internet Quality
Slow or unreliable Wi-Fi can lead to poor reviews from remote workers.
Ignoring Workspace Needs
Lack of ergonomic furniture or proper lighting can deter bookings.
Underestimating the Importance of Flexibility
Rigid check-in/out policies reduce your appeal to digital nomads.
Conclusion
Setting up your short-term rental for remote workers is a smart strategy to capitalize on a growing market. By focusing on fast internet, ergonomic workspaces, and wellness features, you can attract long-term bookings and stand out from competitors. With thoughtful marketing and an emphasis on guest satisfaction, your STR can become the go-to destination for digital nomads and remote professionals.
