Episode 9 - The Smart Investor’s Guide to STR Automation & Tax Benefits with Michael Chang

03/21/25 • 42 min

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

Guest:

@michaelchangbnb

Previous Episode

Episode 8 - Mastering Property Management: James Svetec on AI, Team Building & Guest Experience

How can AI and automation transform property management? In this episode, James Svetec shares his journey from real estate operations to coaching and optimization, revealing the key strategies behind efficient short-term rental management.

We dive into:
✔️ How AI and automation are revolutionizing guest communication and operations.
✔️ The importance of systemization for managing properties remotely.
✔️ Strategies for hiring and building a reliable remote team.
✔️ How to handle bad reviews, navigate claims, and improve guest retention.
✔️ Why eliminating, automating, and outsourcing is the key to scaling.

James also reflects on his biggest lessons learned in property management, including mistakes he would avoid and how hosts can leverage community support to grow their business.

Credits:

🎙 Guest: James Svetec
🎙 Host: Jonathan Farber

📺 James Svetec’s YouTube: James Svetec
📖 Books: Airbnb for Dummies | Airbnb Unlocked (Upcoming)

🔹 Follow James for more insights on Airbnb, automation, and property management.

Next Episode

Episode 10 - How to Build and Scale an Airbnb Business Working Only 20 Hours a Week – with Luke Kolk

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.