Business Background

So, how did you become AirBnB Property Owners?

We had been using AirBnB when we traveled for years. When we first renovated our second duplex, The Lin, we wanted to have a mix of long-term and short-term rental options. We wanted to be able to welcome visitors to our great city and have fun creating a vibe and uplifting the space with unique used furniture, local art, and lots of colors! We listed the 3 bedroom space and quickly became AirBnB super hosts. Guests loved the character of the home. 

What made you decide/realize that this is the business that you wanted to pursue?

We were employed full-time but found ourselves using all of our resources and time on renovating homes in our neighborhood. We loved the character, the challenge, and the community we were building as we restored these hundred-year-old homes. We realized that we were happiest doing 

What do you love the most about renting out a property?

Restoring a vacant house and creating a place we would be proud to call home. We love when our residents feel comfortable in their space and make it their own! We love seeing everyone’s creativity and style with how they adorn their space. 

What made you decide to DIY the property renovations? 
This work is pricey! When we purchased our first two-family flat, we moved into one unit and then had to renovate one so we could rent it out. We are so fortunate to have Elyse’s grandpa, “Gramps” show us the way. Gramps is a retired electrician and overall craftsman. He was energized by the idea of a big project with a couple of sets of unskilled hands to assist. We started with a full renovation of a small kitchen. We had a limited budget, but a lot of patience, creativity, and dedication toward learning tools and processes. Of course, we would do some things differently now, but the project turned out wonderful! It was bright, and quirky and couldn’t have been done without us! We loved seeing the kitchen pop and felt very accomplished. We knew we had to keep transforming spaces and renovating homes. 

How did you start renovating? (i.e started following youtube tutorials or maybe, you really have a knack for arts and crafts, etc)

We started out learning everything from Gramps. We learned the names of the tools as he nicknamed them because we would run up and down the stairs getting him different things when he needed them. We watched, supported, and had a lot of fun in those early days. We borrowed most of his tools and slowly started to purchase tools as we were able to. When we hired contractors for different tasks, we started to better understand those systems and trades better. As we grew our portfolio, it made sense for Elyse to get her Michigan Residential Builders License, so we could pull permits and be the general contractor on our own projects. She focuses on how things are built. Monique has always loved interior design & decorating, an interest she shares with her mom. 

We do watch some youtube tutorials, typically for troubleshooting equipment malfunctions or for certain tricks of the trade. Through work on multiple homes and a couple of commercial spaces, both our own and client projects, we further gained knowledge and experience. 

Tips on becoming AirBnB Property Owners

Purchase a duplex/two-family flat! You can obtain owner-occupied financing for up to 4 units with most lenders, but two is a good place to start so you won’t be overwhelmed. You can live in one unit and rent out the other. The money you bring in for the second unit may be able to pay your mortgage all or in part. You can more easily manage a property that you also live at. If someone has an emergent situation, say a plumbing leak, you can more quickly address the issue. You will know the neighborhood and community better so you can tell your guests recommendations of activities and dining options. 

Tips on converting your extra space/room to Airbnb

Keep things clean and organized! Be able to easily lock up certain valuables or spaces you don’t want guests to have access to. Simplify decor as much as possible without compromising on style and flair. This will make it easier to clean and keep things as dust free as possible. 

Tips on doing the renovation yourself?

Rent tools from a community tool library, if possible. Preparation and patience are key. Put on some good music or an entertaining podcast to get in the zone and mentally prepare for a multi-step, multi-phase process. It’s an art and a science, so watch videos to get acclimated with the task; however, you will have to just do it yourself to get a feel for it. If you do not know something, do the research whether that means calling up your neighbor, looking it up on YouTube, or calling tool and product companies up to get clarification on how to use their products. The technical support of suppliers and manufacturers shoulnt’t be underestimated. 

Tips on renovating/redecorating, etc.

Determine your budget beforehand and work within that budget. The renovation process can already be stressful enough, so try not to overextend financially. Might cause more stress that the new space can’t solve. 

Be honest with yourself about your skills and appetite for DIY work. Half-finished projects are no fun, so start out with small tasks you are confident with. After you gain some experience and understanding of whether or not you enjoy doing construction work, begin to take on more challenging projects. 

Be resourceful and creative with what you have. Go hunting for great deals and unique pieces that help you to achieve your vision at a price point you can afford. 

What to do as AirBnB Hosts

Know your community well and  Tell the story of the home. Give it a unique name and 

What to do as AirBnB Guests

Respect the space! Treat it as well as (or better) than you would treat your own home. Please do not steal the trinkets! We love them, you love them and we want all guests to be able to love and enjoy them too! If you have any issues, bring them up to your host during the stay. If they are a good host, they will make sure to do everything they can to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Leave a good review! :) Always come back to visit us!