Safety | Sustainability | Trust | Insurance | Regulations

Rental property management software
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What is SSTIR Crazy Month?

SSTIR Crazy Month is an exciting five-week online event designed for short-term rental professionals to tackle the industry's most pressing challenges in Safety, Sustainability, Trust, Insurance, and Regulations (SSTIR).

Guided by expert mentors and brought to life through the engaging story of StayWise Rentals—a fictional property management company navigating these hurdles—participants will gain actionable insights and solutions they can apply to their own businesses.

With gamified elements like weekly challenges, mystery clues, leader boards, and exclusive rewards, SSTIR Crazy Month combines education with entertainment to inspire growth and innovation in the vacation rental industry.

Join us and transform how you manage your rentals!

 REGISTER HERE

Join us in a month-long adventure with StayWise Rentals, a fictional property management company navigating the highs and lows of rapid growth. This year, SSTIR Crazy Month 2025 brings you an engaging, story-driven program that mirrors real-world challenges in the short-term rental industry.

StayWise Rentals started as a family business but is now at a crossroads, tackling pressing issues in Safety, Sustainability, Trust, Insurance, and Regulations. Each week, you’ll step into the shoes of Sarah and Mike Chen as they face these hurdles head-on, guided by industry-leading experts. Will they emerge stronger or falter under pressure? You decide!

Here's What To Expect:

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Interactive Storytelling

Follow StayWise Rentals through weekly episodes highlighting challenges and innovative solutions.

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Expert Guidance

Learn from top minds like Chris Maughan, Justin Ford, Nick Massey, Bob Garner, and Dana Lubner, and others, as they mentor the StayWise team.

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Gamification Fun

Earn badges, solve mysteries, and climb the leaderboard by participating in challenges that reflect real business scenarios.  Participate to win some great prizes.

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Actionable Insights

Discover strategies you can implement in your own rental business, from trust-building techniques to sustainability practices.

Why Join?

The story of StayWise Rentals is more than fiction—it’s a mirror of the obstacles and opportunities every rental operator faces. Through engaging content, live panels, Q&A sessions, and challenges, you’ll gain practical knowledge and tools to elevate your business.

Be part of the journey. Be part of the solution. Are you ready to help StayWise Rentals thrive?

Register today and start earning your first badge!

SIGN UP NOW

Trust Week

Content Goes Live January 27th

Join us as we kick off SSTIR Crazy Month by learning the art of building trust not just with guests, but also with neighbors and communities. Chris Maughan from the trust certification program I-Prac leads this week with other experts the integral role of trust in every business facet.
The only trust tool in the short-term rental industy that increases your conversion by 67%
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Who is Chris Maughan?

CEO at I-PRAC | STR Trust Educator

Chris Maughan launched I-PRAC in April 2015 after seeing first-hand the damage that can be inflicted by rental fraud.

Earlier that year, he’d been contacted by a family who had lost £15,000 to online fraudsters and were left stranded without accommodation in Cannes. As well as giving them somewhere to stay – through his other company, AES Accommodation Ltd – Chris also vowed to put an end to rental fraud, a problem that is tarnishing the industry worldwide.

With the I‑PRAC logo becoming a recognized stamp of approval for legitimate rental agencies and property owners worldwide, Chris is keen to keep spreading the message about rental fraud.

If you’d like to organize an interview with Chris, or are looking for a comment or guest article on rental fraud, please get in touch.

Email >>
Website >>

2025 Trust Week Panel

Designing Trust: Websites That Win Over Guests

Heather Bayer and Chris Maughan host a great panel discussion with guests, Justine Ireland, and Jill Highsmith McGee, where you will discover how to transform your website into a trust-building powerhouse! Learn essential strategies to boost direct bookings, enhance guest confidence, and create a professional online presence.

REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND LIVE

VRS596 - From Questionable to TrustwortHY: A Trust Transformation with Chris Maughan

Publishing on Wednesday January 29th

StayWise Rentals faces a trust crisis with plummeting direct bookings, website skepticism, and flagged chargebacks. Chris Maughan from I-PRAC shares practical tips to rebuild trust and credibility.

VACATION RENTAL SUCCESS PODCAST

Activities During Trust Week

  • Website trust signals audit
  • Interactive poll: Focus on website resdesign vs. customer service training
  • Mystery clue hidden in podcast
  • Badge: Trust Builder

Build Unshakeable Trust: A Vacation Rental Website Audit Guide

Heather Bayer

This guide will walk you through the essential trust signals that every vacation rental website should incorporate.

WATCH HERE

Telling Your Story: How to MAP a Short-Term Rental About Us Page

Heather Bayer

Learn how to create your “About Us” page for your Short-Term Rental direct booking website

WATCH HERE

3 Trust Signals Every Vacation Rental Website Must Have

Heather Bayer

Create a powerful vacation rental direct book website by including these trust signals

WATCH HERE

I-PRAC Trust Trilogy Series: Pt 1 - Removing Guest Uncertainty

Neely Khan

WATCH HERE

I-PRAC Trust Trilogy Series: Pt 2 - Product Marketing vs. Trust Marketing

Neely Khan

The core difference between product marketing and trust marketing; and why the latter should not be dismissed

WATCH HERE

I-PRAC Trust Trilogy Series: Pt 3 - Managing Guest Expectations

Neely Khan

WATCH HERE

How to Tell Your Stories to Build Trust in Your Short-Term Rental Business

Heather Bayer

Attract short-term rental guest bookings by mastering the art of story telling

WATCH HERE

7 Ways to Show You Are Trustworthy Short-Term Rental Company

Heather Bayer

This article will help you answer the most common questions your guests are seeking the answers to, without them having to be asked.

WATCH HERE

From First Click to Lasting Loyalty: How Trust Shapes the Short-Term Rental Guest Experience

Heather Bayer

Trust is such a basic tenet in our industry but it’s rarely mentioned. It's the key to mastering a book direct strategy.

WATCH HERE

Safety Week

Content Goes Live Febuary 3rd
Join us for Safety Week, where we dive into the critical role of proactive safety measures in short-term rentals. Guided by Justin Ford, an expert in rental safety and operations, this week’s theme tackles how to protect guests, properties, and your reputation. Experience StayWise Rentals’ real-world challenges as they face a late-night emergency at one of their properties, and discover the actionable steps they take to mitigate future risks.

Who is Justin Ford?

Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs | Breezeway

Justin Ford, a leading authority on vacation rental safety, is passionate about helping property managers and owners create secure environments for their guests.

With years of experience in the short-term rental industry, Justin has witnessed the serious consequences of overlooked safety protocols. This inspired him to dedicate his career to raising awareness about safety standards and providing practical solutions.

As the Director of Safety & Certification Programs at Breezeway, Justin has worked tirelessly to develop systems that ensure properties meet the highest safety benchmarks.

Whether it’s advising on safety audits or speaking at industry events, Justin is committed to making safety a top priority for the vacation rental community.

To arrange an interview or guest article with Justin on safety in short-term rentals, please reach out.

Email >>
Website >>

2025 SAFETY Week Panel

Safety by Design: How Smart Interiors Protect Guests

Heather Bayer hosts an engaging panel discussion featuring Justin Ford, Jessica Duce from J Duce Design and Sarah Karakaian from Thanks for Visiting, where you’ll dive into practical tips for creating secure, welcoming spaces, including smart interior strategies, cutting-edge tech solutions, and proactive safety measures that protect guests and enhance their experience.

REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND LIVE

VRS597 - When Safety Systems Fail: Lessons from the Field With Justin Ford

Publishing on Wednesday February 12th

Join Nick Massey from Proper Insurance as he helps StayWise Rentals navigate insurance gaps. Learn how to protect your business, avoid costly claims, and ensure you're always covered. Don't miss this essential episode!

Activities During Safety Week

  • Website trust signals audit
  • Interactive poll: Focus on website resdesign vs. customer service training
  • Mystery clue hidden in podcast
  • Badge: Trust Builder

Is Your Short-Term Rental Being Used For Human Trafficking?

Mike Bayer

Practical tips for short-term rental businesses spot the signs if their properties from being exploited for illegal activities

WATCH HERE

Protect Your Guests and Business With These 28+ Vacation Rental Safety Tips

Justin Ford

Minimize the chances of guest injuries at your properties and protect your business

WATCH HERE

Short-term rental guest screening tips for multi-properties

Superhog

How to perform short-term rental guest screening for multi-properties

WATCH HERE

Guest Screening in the Digital Age: Know Your Rental Guest Without Overstepping

Heather Bayer

Effective guest screening in the digital age: Ensure compatibility, respect privacy.

WATCH HERE

Safety First, Liability Last: Transforming your vacation rental into a secure haven for guests

Heather Bayer

How to ensure short-term rental guest safety and protect your vacation rental from liabilities

WATCH HERE

Insurance Week

Content Goes Live Febuary 10th
This week focuses on the critical steps to disaster-proof your properties. Through expert guidance, we’ll explore real-life scenarios, like the infamous “Pool Party Disaster,” and learn how to safeguard against similar risks. Whether it’s identifying coverage gaps or understanding liability pitfalls, this week is all about ensuring your business is prepared for the unexpected.
Protect your short-term rental with the superior coverage of Proper Insurance®, built to fully replace inadequate Homeowners and Landlord policies.
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Who is Nick Massey?

Chief Sales Officer (CSO) | Proper Insurance Services, LLC

With over eight years at Proper Insurance, and more than a decade in the specialty insurance industry, Nick Massey brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Chief Sales Officer.

Nick specializes in demystifying the complexities of insuring vacation rental properties via educating and consulting with short-term rental owners and property managers.

His extensive background has enabled him to build an exceptional team of agents at Proper Insurance focused on providing clarity and seamless service.

Nick loves engaging with clients, listening to their short-term rental business successes, and offering his insider knowledge to help them protect their properties and succeed in the industry.

Email >>
Website >>

Insurance WEEK LIVE PANEL

Disaster-Proof Your Business: Lessons in Insurance Readiness

Heather Bayer hosts an insightful panel discussion featuring industry expert Nick Massey from Proper Insurance and Jackie Wolf of Waivo. Together, they delve into real-world claims that highlight the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage. From unexpected liability scenarios to damage mitigation strategies, this panel provides actionable insights to help property owners protect their investments and navigate the complexities of short-term rental insurance.

REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND LIVE

VRS598 - Lessons Learned from the disaster scenario with Nick Massey - Proper Insurance

Publishing on Wednesday, February 12th

Join Nick Massey from Proper Insurance as he helps StayWise Rentals navigate insurance gaps. Learn how to protect your business, avoid costly claims, and ensure you're always covered.

Activities During Insurance Week

  • Website trust signals audit
  • Interactive poll: Focus on website resdesign vs. customer service training
  • Mystery clue hidden in podcast
  • Badge: Trust Builder

Insuring Your Success: The Essentials of Coverage for Short-Term Rental Owners and Managers

Heather Bayer

From liability protection to damage waivers and business interruption to travel cover. Make sure your insurance covers everything in this article.

WATCH HERE

Creating the Ultimate Insurance Stack for Your Short-Term Rental Business

Nick Massey

Ultimate short-term rental insurance guide from Proper Insurance: Simplify & protect.

WATCH HERE

Regulations Week (Starts February 17th):


Content Goes Live Febuary 17th
Navigate the complex world of regulations that can significantly impact your business. Learn from those who've faced these challenges head-on.
The only trust tool in the short-term rental industy that increases your conversion by 67%
DISCOVER HOW

Who is OTHER GUEST NAME?

CEO at I-PRAC | STR Trust Educator

Chris Maughan launched I-PRAC in April 2015 after seeing first-hand the damage that can be inflicted by rental fraud.

Earlier that year, he’d been contacted by a family who had lost £15,000 to online fraudsters and were left stranded without accommodation in Cannes. As well as giving them somewhere to stay – through his other company, AES Accommodation Ltd – Chris also vowed to put an end to rental fraud, a problem that is tarnishing the industry worldwide.

With the I‑PRAC logo becoming a recognized stamp of approval for legitimate rental agencies and property owners worldwide, Chris is keen to keep spreading the message about rental fraud.

If you’d like to organize an interview with Chris, or are looking for a comment or guest article on rental fraud, please get in touch.

Email >>
Website >>

Regulations Week Panel Replay

Staying Ahead Of STR Regulations

Learn key terms, effective strategies, and best practices for navigating short-term rental regulations. Connect with decision-makers and influence regulatory decisions in your favour while staying ahead of changes and prepare for the future of regulations.

WATCH HERE

SAFETY WEEK PANEL REPLAY 2

The Shifting the safety paradigm in STR

A great panel discussion and you can now watch to the recording and join industry leaders, Justin Ford, Catherine Ratcliffe, and Humphrey Bowles, who dive into the essential but often overlooked areas regarding safety in the vacation rental industry.

WATCH HERE

Activities During Trust Week

  • Website trust signals audit
  • Interactive poll: Focus on website resdesign vs. customer service training
  • Mystery clue hidden in podcast
  • Badge: Trust Builder

How to start a short-term rental alliance

Paris Achen

In this guide, we’ll describe what an alliance is, why to start one, and how to start a group in your community.

WATCH HERE

How to participate in short-term rental advocacy for the first time

Paris Achen

This guide provides new and experienced advocates with essential tips to participate in advocacy, confidently and successfully.

WATCH HERE

Sustainability Week

Content Goes Live Febuary 17th
Delve into why sustainability is crucial for the future of your business. Hear from leading advocates like Vanessa de Souza Lage, Bob Garner, and Claire Binns about adopting sustainable practices.
The only trust tool in the short-term rental industy that increases your conversion by 67%
DISCOVER HOW

Who is OTHER GUEST NAME?

CEO at I-PRAC | STR Trust Educator

Chris Maughan launched I-PRAC in April 2015 after seeing first-hand the damage that can be inflicted by rental fraud.

Earlier that year, he’d been contacted by a family who had lost £15,000 to online fraudsters and were left stranded without accommodation in Cannes. As well as giving them somewhere to stay – through his other company, AES Accommodation Ltd – Chris also vowed to put an end to rental fraud, a problem that is tarnishing the industry worldwide.

With the I‑PRAC logo becoming a recognized stamp of approval for legitimate rental agencies and property owners worldwide, Chris is keen to keep spreading the message about rental fraud.

If you’d like to organize an interview with Chris, or are looking for a comment or guest article on rental fraud, please get in touch.

Email >>
Website >>

Regulations Week Panel Replay

Staying Ahead Of STR Regulations

Learn key terms, effective strategies, and best practices for navigating short-term rental regulations. Connect with decision-makers and influence regulatory decisions in your favour while staying ahead of changes and prepare for the future of regulations.

WATCH HERE

SAFETY WEEK PANEL REPLAY 2

The Shifting the safety paradigm in STR

A great panel discussion and you can now watch to the recording and join industry leaders, Justin Ford, Catherine Ratcliffe, and Humphrey Bowles, who dive into the essential but often overlooked areas regarding safety in the vacation rental industry.

WATCH HERE

Activities During Trust Week

  • Website trust signals audit
  • Interactive poll: Focus on website resdesign vs. customer service training
  • Mystery clue hidden in podcast
  • Badge: Trust Builder
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Register For SSTIR Crazy Month 2025

We will notify you of all upcoming events as part of SSTIR Crazy Month 2025 and also your standings in the competition to win our grand prize.

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