are purchasing properties specifically for Airbnb and VRBO income, sellers are marketing existing STR operations as turnkey investments, and traditional homeowners are weighing whether to convert. Each of these clients needs an agent who understands how STRs work as a property type, an income stream, and a regulated use.

This course gives you the working knowledge to serve buyers and sellers in the short-term rental market with confidence. You’ll learn how to evaluate a property’s STR potential, read revenue data from AirDNA and similar platforms, navigate local zoning and registration requirements, and understand how lenders and appraisers treat STR income. You’ll also hear directly from active STR investors about what they look for in a property and what they expect from the agents they work with.

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to:

  • Evaluate a property’s short-term rental potential using market data
  • Explain how zoning, HOA rules, and local registration requirements affect STR use
  • Discuss STR income with buyers in a way that supports informed decisions
  • Understand how lenders qualify STR income and how appraisers value STR properties
  • Recognize the disclosure and risk considerations unique to STR transactions
  • Position yourself to work effectively with investor clients in this market

What’s included: Video and audio lessons, downloadable resources, knowledge checks throughout, and a final assessment. Includes interview segments with active short-term rental investors sharing their property selection criteria, financial benchmarks, and what makes an agent valuable to them.

 

Course Content

Welcome and Why STRs Matter to Agents
How the STR Market Works
How to Recognize STR Potential
The Three STR Buyer Types in Depth
STR vs. Long-Term Rental vs. Traditional Residential
Why Rules Come First — and What Listings Get Wrong
Types of STR Restrictions
How to Research STR Rules in Any Market
Why Standard CMA Thinking May Not Be Enough
STR Income Terms Agents Should Understand
Actual Performance vs. Projected Performance
Seasonality and Why a Strong Month Isn’t a Strong Year
Reconciling Comparable Sales and STR Income
How STR Financing Can Differ From a Typical Purchase
DSCR Loans and Investor Financing Basics
Insurance and Risk Issues
Tax Issues to Be Aware Of
How STR Platforms Work
Self-Management vs. Property Management
Operating Expenses That Shape STR Net Income
Final Quiz
Course Evaluation