Launching a short-term rental (STR) or mid-term rental (MTR) property can be a rewarding yet demanding process. Now, imagine taking on the challenge of launching two properties at the same time! That’s exactly what we did with Flatwood Fairway and Lakes Landing, two beautiful homes located in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
In this blog, we’ll take you behind the scenes of what it takes to go from signing papers to going live on Airbnb. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate investor or a first-time host looking to break into the market, our experience (and a few lessons learned along the way) might just inspire and prepare you for your next big venture.
The Countdown to Launch
From the moment we signed the closing documents on October 31, 2024, to going live on December 14, 2024, we had a tight timeline of just six weeks. Every single day mattered, and every detail needed to be carefully planned and executed. Here’s how we made it happen:
1. Designing the Dream
They say first impressions matter, and that’s especially true for STR and MTR properties. The right interior design can make or break your listing.
For both Flatwood Fairway and Lakes Landing, we worked with Naomi Bertrand, a talented selfmade interior designer who understands how to balance functionality and style. From furniture selection to color palettes, Naomi curated designs that were not only visually stunning but also practical for guests.
Pro Tip: When designing rental properties, always prioritize durability and comfort. Stylish yet sturdy furniture will save you headaches in the long run.
2. The Ordering Marathon
Once the design vision was set, it was time to bring it to life. This phase was all about ordering. Furniture, technology, appliances, supplies—you name it, we bought it.
From beds and sofas to coffee makers and smart home tech, every item had to be thoughtfully chosen and ordered in time to align with our tight schedule. If you’re planning to launch a rental property, remember that shipping delays can happen, so always build some buffer time into your project plan.
3. Project Management: The Glue That Holds It All Together
With two properties to manage, staying organized was critical. This is where Justin Menard, our project manager, stepped in to ensure everything stayed on track.
Project management involves overseeing deliveries, coordinating with contractors, and making sure the properties are coming together as planned. It’s a lot of moving pieces, but with clear timelines and open communication, Justin kept the process running smoothly.
Key takeaway: Effective project management is non-negotiable when working on multiple properties. Whether you hire a professional or handle it yourself, having someone dedicated to overseeing the process is invaluable.
4. The Power of Teamwork
This was truly a team effort. With Kim Fitzpatrick with Launched Host and a total of 7 people working on the setup phase, we divided and conquered to make sure every detail was perfect. From assembling furniture to hanging wall art, every team member played a role in transforming these houses into stunning rental properties.
Kim also documented the journey with videos, capturing everything from empty rooms to fully furnished spaces. These behind-the-scenes glimpses will not only be great for marketing but also serve as a reminder of how far we’ve come.
Flatwood Fareway
Lakes Landing
5. Preparing the Listings
Once the homes were fully set up, it was time to prepare the listings. This step involved:
- Taking professional-quality photos that highlight each property’s unique features.
- Crafting compelling descriptions that tell the story of Flatwood Fairway and Lakes Landing.
- Ensuring every amenity is accurately listed to appeal to potential guests.
When preparing your listings, always think through the lens of a guest. What would attract you to the property? What details would make you book instantly?
Lessons Learned
While tackling two properties at once was no small feat, it was also an incredibly rewarding process. Here are a few lessons we learned:
- Plan Ahead: With a tight timeline, planning is everything. Create a detailed checklist and stick to it.
- Assemble the Right Team: You can’t do it all alone. Surround yourself with skilled professionals and team members who share your vision.
- Adapt and Overcome: Not everything will go according to plan, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and find solutions as challenges arise.
Launching two STR/MTR properties simultaneously is a whirlwind, but with the right approach, it’s absolutely possible.
Ready to Book Your Stay?
Flatwood Fairway and Lakes Landing are now live and ready to welcome guests! Whether you’re visiting Lake Charles for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these properties are designed with your comfort in mind.
Check them out today and experience why they’re among the best Airbnbs in Lake Charles!
Stay tuned for the full property transformation videos, captured by Kim, to see how these houses became homes.
