What happens when a passion for design meets the wild beauty of Joshua Tree? In this episode, Rory Gill and I sit down with Dre Shapiro, a designer whose journey into short-term rentals is as inspiring as it is unexpected. Dre fell in love with a vacation rental in Joshua Tree, turned it into her own, and transformed it into a guest favorite through her incredible design sensibilities. We discuss her unique approach to creating unforgettable guest experiences, from curated book collections and vintage record players to custom murals and luxurious amenities. Dre’s story showcases how personal touches can set your rental apart. Operating in the desert isn’t without its challenges. Dre opens up about staffing hurdles, maintenance struggles, and how showing appreciation to her team has been a game-changer. Plus, she shares practical tips for new hosts on blending thoughtful design with minimalist comfort, helping guests feel at home while standing out in the market. This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and lessons for anyone in—or considering joining—the short-term rental space. Whether you’re a host, a guest, or simply love design, you won’t want to miss it! 🎧 Things we discussed in this episode: Dre Shapiro's unique journey of falling in love with a vacation rental and purchasing the property in Joshua Tree. Dre's design expertise and attention to detail in creating a welcoming and memorable guest experience. The influence of Dre's New York background and how it shapes her design approach and business mindset. The challenges of operating short-term rentals in the harsh desert environment of Joshua Tree, including staffing issues and constant maintenance needs. Dre's emphasis on treating her team well, offering bonuses and praise to maintain loyalty and ensure high-quality service. The importance of providing guests with thoughtful touches, such as curated book collections, vintage record players, and custom-designed elements. The competitive nature of the short-term rental market in Joshua Tree and the need for continuous improvement and guest experience enhancement. Dre's process of de-personalizing her primary residence for short-term rentals and the role of property managers in preparing the space. Dre's advice for new short-term rental owners, highlighting the importance of clean, minimalist design with character and charm. The value of providing guests with useful recommendations and information about the local area to enhance their overall experience. Get in touch with Dre: Email - DRE@dredesign.co Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dre_design_/ Website - https://www.dredesign.co/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbDesign #JoshuaTreeRentals #HostingTips #GuestExperience #DesertDesign #NewYorkInfluence #PropertyManagement #CreativeHosts #HospitalityDesign Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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Jan 14 202542 mins