Episode 10 - How to Build and Scale an Airbnb Business Working Only 20 Hours a Week – with Luke Kolk
03/28/25 • 40 min
In this episode, Luke Kolk shares how he went from being a police officer to building a thriving Airbnb co-hosting business with over 60 units — all while working just 15–20 hours a week. He breaks down the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped him scale fast, including how he finds quality leads, builds a strong team, and uses tools like Asana and Indeed to streamline operations.
Luke also dives into the power of execution over information, why effective communication and team incentives matter, and how he structures his time to stay efficient. Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale your short-term rental business, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply right away.
🎙️ Episode Credits
Guest: Luke Kolk
Follow him on Instagram and Facebook: @kolkhomes
If you’re facing a challenge in your short-term rental business, Luke probably has a solution — whether it’s a VA, bookkeeper, revenue manager, mentorship, or simply the right connection to help you scale.
➡️ “It’s probably not an information problem. It’s an execution problem.”
Host: Jonathan Farber
Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Scaling Made Simple Podcast.
In this episode, Luke Kolk shares how he went from being a police officer to building a thriving Airbnb co-hosting business with over 60 units — all while working just 15–20 hours a week. He breaks down the systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that helped him scale fast, including how he finds quality leads, builds a strong team, and uses tools like Asana and Indeed to streamline operations.
Luke also dives into the power of execution over information, why effective communication and team incentives matter, and how he structures his time to stay efficient. Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale your short-term rental business, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply right away.
🎙️ Episode Credits
Guest: Luke Kolk
Follow him on Instagram and Facebook: @kolkhomes
If you’re facing a challenge in your short-term rental business, Luke probably has a solution — whether it’s a VA, bookkeeper, revenue manager, mentorship, or simply the right connection to help you scale.
➡️ “It’s probably not an information problem. It’s an execution problem.”
Host: Jonathan Farber
Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Scaling Made Simple Podcast.
Previous Episode
Episode 9 - The Smart Investor’s Guide to STR Automation & Tax Benefits with Michael Chang
In this episode, real estate investor Michael Chang shares the systems and strategies that have helped him scale a portfolio of 39 short-term rental properties. From automation and AI to guest communication and hiring the right team, Michael dives deep into the tools that allow him to manage operations remotely and sustainably. He also breaks down key tax benefits for real estate investors—especially high-earning W2 professionals—explaining how depreciation and the time value of money play crucial roles in building long-term wealth. Whether you're a new host or scaling your STR business, this conversation is packed with insights on building a sustainable and profitable real estate operation.
Guest:
@michaelchangbnb
Next Episode
21 Properties, One Full-Time Job, and a Remote Team: Real Strategies with Jeremy Rosen
In this episode of The Scaling Made Simple Podcast, Jonathan Farber sits down with Jeremy Rosen — a full-time nurse who also manages 21 short-term rental properties. Jeremy breaks down how he successfully balances a demanding job while scaling a thriving STR business, thanks to the power of virtual assistants, strong systems, and smart time management.
Jeremy dives deep into the day-to-day operations of managing multiple properties, including his approach to guest communication, pricing strategies, and creating a five-star experience that drives repeat bookings. He shares the tools and tactics he uses to stay organized, the importance of hiring early, and why building a reliable team (both virtual and local) is the key to long-term success.
Guest: Jeremy Rosen
Role: Full-time nurse & short-term rental operator
Based in: San Antonio, TX
STR Portfolio: 21+ properties
PMS: Hospitable
CRM Tool: Elite 360
Booking Platforms: Airbnb (primary), VRBO, Booking.com (limited), Direct bookings via personal website
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