Casa-Cast

In this episode of CasaCast, Steve Schwab sits down with Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnished Finder, to talk about one of the fastest growing segments of the lodging market: mid-term rentals.Jeff shares his path from leadership roles at HomeAway, Vrbo, and Expedia to leading Furnished Finder, a platform that began by solving a simple problem for traveling nurses and has since grown into a nationwide network of furnished housing for professionals on the move.The conversation explores how changing work patterns, housing shortages, and a more mobile workforce are driving demand for 30-day-plus stays. Healthcare workers, construction teams, corporate travelers, and relocating families increasingly need flexible housing that sits somewhere between a hotel and a traditional lease.For property managers and owners, the opportunity is significant. Mid-term rentals can help smooth seasonal dips, diversify booking sources, and bring in reliable guests who stay longer and treat homes more like residents than tourists.Jeff and Steve discuss how the model works, why the market is expanding so quickly, and what operators should be thinking about as the line between short-term and longer-stay accommodations continues to evolve.

Laura Bowers grew up in the vacation rental business—literally answering reservation phones as a teenager while her mother built one of the Smoky Mountains’ early short-term rental companies. In this episode of CasaCast, Laura joins host Steve Schwab to share her multi-generation journey through the industry, from family-run operations to leadership roles at Vacasa and AvantStay, and now as a Partner Success Manager at Casago.Laura breaks down what it truly means to support franchise partners: diagnosing operational pain points, improving systems and processes, coaching teams, and showing up as someone who’s been in the trenches herself. She shares real-world examples of how small operational changes can unlock major efficiencies, why data and systems matter, and how Casago’s ecosystem helps partners build stronger, more resilient businesses.The conversation closes with Laura’s personal connection to Casago’s Credo—specifically “E for Excellence”—and her belief that raising standards, taking ownership, and working as a true team are what drive long-term success in this industry.A must-listen for franchise partners, operators, and anyone serious about building a sustainable vacation rental business with heart, discipline, and experience.

In this episode, Steve Schwab talks with Breezeway founder Jeremy Gall about the operational backbone of vacation rental management and how getting it right unlocks better hospitality, stronger owner relationships, and more efficient teams.Jeremy shares the arc of his career, from corporate attorney to travel-tech entrepreneur to accidental lumberjack, and how those experiences shaped Breezeway’s mission: empowering property managers with the tools, systems, and clarity required to deliver consistent, high-quality service at scale.They explore Jeremy’s seven principles of operational excellence, the essential balance between automation and human effort, why operators should rethink their relationship to “the grind,” and what Breezeway is building next for Casago partners.This episode offers a rare inside look at how the most progressive operators view operations: not as an afterthought, but as the foundation that allows hospitality, owner relationships, and revenue to flourish.

Meet Alex Johnson, whose journey is the key to understanding the depth of experience and operational expertise she brings to Casago. Her career has been shaped by a decade of industry leadership and a personal commitment to principle based decision making.Alex’s career began in the “big data” and new media sector at Rentrek (now CommCore), where she worked with television and movie studios. This role involved extensive travel, with up to 80% of her time spent on the road, which provided her with a strong analytical foundation. Her personal values were instilled in her by her mother, a “woman of principle” who dedicated herself to law school while raising two young children. This upbringing instilled in Alex a deep-seated commitment to doing what is right, a value she now shares with her own family.Alex Johnson’s role as VP of Franchise Operations is centered around a clear and actionable strategy: to provide tailored support to a diverse network of franchise partners. Her vision goes beyond a one-size-fits-all approach, focusing instead on empowering local operators with proven frameworks that they can adapt to their unique market realities.Alex’s goal for her team is to be a “partner and their guide” for every franchisee. She sees her team, which includes Jackie Nord’s team of what she calls “the heroes to the franchises,” as a central business consultancy. The team’s mission is to provide consistent, knowledgeable support throughout the franchisee journey. Alex discusses “standardized flexibility.” This concept is providing standardized principles and processes that serve as guardrails, which can then be adapted to meet the unique needs of different markets. The operational realities of a dense urban market like San Diego are vastly different from those of a mountain resort like Snowshoe. An inflexible, top-down approach can lead to the downfall of a portfolio by failing to build trust with homeowners and guests. By offering a flexible framework based on universal principles, franchisees can adapt their standard operating procedures (SOPs) to meet the specific demands of their community.Alex’s most significant value proposition stems from her firsthand experience at Vacasa. She has witnessed the company grow from 800 to 40,000 units, gaining a unique insight into the critical points of processes and systems. As she puts it, “It’s not always that the process is broken; it’s that the scale changes.” This perspective allows her to guide franchisees, regardless of whether they have 20 homes or 200, with proven strategies that align with their specific stage of development.Alex’s operational framework is built upon a strong foundation of personal and corporate values, which she believes are perfectly aligned with the Casago culture.

Maximizing Value: Insights from Senior Advisor David AngottiIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab welcomes David Angotti, a senior advisor at Casago, to discuss his extensive experience and the exciting developments. They delve into the recent merger that brought vacasa.com into the fold, highlighting its significant impact on franchisees and homeowners. David explains the strategies and investments being made in paid marketing and conversion optimization to drive bookings and enhance the value proposition for franchisees. The episode also highlights David's personal achievements as an ultramarathon runner and his relationships with key industry figures, such as Will Reynolds, enriching the team's approach to achieving ambitious goals.00:00 Introduction to Kass Cast00:15 Meet David: Senior Advisor and Industry Veteran00:56 The Impact of Vac Casa Merger02:02 Driving Revenue Through Vac Casa03:25 Optimizing Conversion Rates03:54 Building a World-Class Team04:37 The Funnel Strategy06:59 The Role of Relationships in Business09:58 David's Ultra Marathon Journey15:04 Owner-Centric Philosophy15:53 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Mastering Five-Star Guest Experiences with Casa Cast: The North County San Diego Casago OfficeIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab sits down with Bert King, Eric Trojan, and David Carter, the owners of the North County San Diego Casago office, to discuss their success in the vacation rental management industry. They explore their two-and-a-half-year journey with Casago, emphasizing their Orange Credo philosophy of exceptional guest care and owner-centric services. The team shares their hybrid model inspired by renowned brands like Nordstrom and Costco and luxury hotels such as Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton. The conversation delves into their 11-step process designed to ensure a five-star experience for every guest, highlighting proactive communication, immediate issue resolution, and personal touches that make guests feel valued and seen. The episode also discusses the importance of nurturing relationships with guests, owners, and vendors for long-term success.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:17 Meet the Team: North County San Diego Office00:55 Philosophy and Approach to Guest Services01:44 Setting Industry Standards02:58 Building Relationships with Guests04:09 The Importance of Customer Service04:52 Creating a Luxury Experience09:04 The 11-Step Process for Guest Satisfaction20:11 The Importance of Timely Responses20:46 Managing Guest Anxiety21:10 Setting Expectations with Appointments21:59 Immediate Response and Technical Expertise22:46 Mid-Stay Check-Ins23:46 Service Recovery and Guest Relations25:55 Pre-Checkout Text Message27:19 The IKEA Effect and Guest Participation29:25 Checkout Call and Final Impressions31:32 Prompting for Guest Reviews32:49 Responding to Reviews34:23 Reflecting on the Credo38:12 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Innovating Guest Experiences and Tech Partnerships with Casago: Insights from Ash and NashIn this engaging episode of Casa-Cast, host Steve Schwab leads insightful conversations with Ash from Adaptive and Nash, focusing on technological advancements in the vacation rental industry. Ash shares his background from Google, elucidating how Adaptive's AI platform enhances guest experiences for Casago users through data-driven personalization. Key topics include the platform’s impact on conversion rates, integration processes, and performance indicators. Nash adds to the conversation by emphasizing Casago’s forward-thinking mindset, their adoption of new technologies, and the importance of accountability in partnerships. Both guests highlight the promising potential for growth and improved bookings, concluding with a shared enthusiasm for the innovative journey ahead.00:00 Introduction to Casa-Cast00:14 Meet Ash from Adaptive00:20 Ash's Background and Journey00:55 What is Adaptive?01:30 How Adaptive Enhances Guest Experience01:40 Data Strategy and Learning02:09 Personalized Guest Experience02:56 Impact on Conversion Rates03:29 Cross-Channel Interaction04:16 Reporting and Insights05:15 Revenue Metrics and Proof of Concept05:51 Implementing Adaptive on Partner Websites06:05 Data Assessment and Integration06:40 Technical Aspects and Guest Experience06:53 Adaptive's Low Lift Implementation07:27 Casago Partnership and Forward Thinking08:24 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Unlocking Rental Success: Unique Design, Strategic Marketing, and Hero Features with Felipe CalderaIn this episode of CasaCast, host Steve Schwab interviews Felipe Caldera from Port Boulevard to explore the transformative impact of unique property design and strategic marketing on rental revenue. The discussion emphasizes differentiating properties with standout amenities such as hot tubs, game rooms, saunas, and cold plunges and creating eye-catching 'hero photos.' They delve into understanding the target market, effective property staging, and using actors in photos to enhance perceived experiences. Key points include leveraging platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, the importance of direct bookings and email marketing, and the role of RankBreeze in improving property rankings. Felipe underscores the shift towards providing unique experiences and thoughtful upgrades to succeed in a competitive market.00:00 Introduction to CasaCast00:15 Meet Felipe Caldera00:53 Felipe's Journey into Short-Term Rentals02:41 The Importance of Differentiation05:56 Design and Functionality in Vacation Rentals09:29 Understanding Your Target Market10:36 The Power of Storytelling in Property Marketing12:05 Essential Amenities and Upgrades15:53 The Impact of Marketing Strategies16:49 Creating Instagram-Worthy Features17:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Revolutionizing OTAs: Insights with Mike MearsIn this episode of Casa-Cast, host Steve Schwab interviews Mike Mears, co-founder of the innovative OTA, Vacay My Way. Mike shares his journey from VRBO and HomeAway to creating a new platform aimed at balancing benefits for property managers, hosts, and travelers. They discuss the evolution of the OTA market, strategies for sustainable growth, and the importance of transparent and competitive pricing models. Emphasizing trust and direct communication, Mike introduces VacayMyWay's tools and resources designed for success. This insightful conversation also touches on Mike's background in the Austin music scene and his memorable win in the John Lennon songwriting contest.00:00 Introduction to Casa-Cast00:17 Meet Mike Mears from Vacay My Way01:03 Mike's Journey in the Vacation Industry03:12 From Music to VRBO04:47 The Birth of Vacay My Way07:39 Challenges in the OTA Industry08:18 Marketing Strategies and Lessons Learned09:47 Future-Proofing with Rewards10:35 Commitment and Value Proposition10:56 Mindset Change in Merchandising11:48 Transparent Fee Structure13:14 Marketing Strategies for Growth14:30 Building Industry Confidence16:26 Reflections and Takeaways from Casa Con18:10 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

A Harmony of Hospitality and Market StrategiesIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab is joined by Alfredo Arcos, VRBO's Director of Partner Success for the Americas. Alfredo shares his musical family background and discusses his professional journey from the hotel industry to the vacation rental space with Casago. He emphasizes the importance of professional photography, competitive pricing, and optimized properties for attracting travelers. Alfredo also highlights the role of technology in both industries and the significance of an owner-centric approach. The episode concludes with anticipation for a friendly competition involving spicy chicken wings.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:16 Meet Alfredo Arcos00:28 Alfredo's Musical Background01:52 Transition to Hospitality Industry04:04 Optimizing Vacation Rentals06:50 The Importance of Market Knowledge09:15 Reflections on CosaCon10:26 Owner Centric Philosophy11:08 Closing Remarks and Fun Challenge

Standing Out in Short-Term Rentals: The Flower Field ConceptIn this episode of CasaCast, host Steve Schwab discusses a mastermind session focused on enhancing short-term rental listings with Stacy Wesson, Jackie Norde, Carlos Corzo, and David Mejorado. The concept of 'flowered fields' is introduced, comparing unique and eye-catching properties to colorful flower fields among monotonous brownfields. The discussion emphasizes the importance of making a rental stand out through unique amenities and creative staging without requiring extensive expenses to increase rental appeal and profitability. Several strategies are explored, including storytelling and minimal adjustments that can notably differentiate properties in a competitive market, inspiring property managers and homeowners to rethink their approach to design and marketing.00:00 Introduction to the Mastermind Event00:13 The Flowered Fields Concept01:00 Applying the Flowered Fields Concept to Listings01:42 Defining Unique Property Features03:29 Maximizing Property Appeal with Minimal Effort05:59 Tailoring Properties to Specific Audiences09:40 Encouraging Homeowners to Enhance Their Properties15:43 Creating Memorable Guest Experiences17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Unveiling Success: An Interview with Scott KleinIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab sits down with Scott Klein, a Partner Success Manager at Casago. They discuss Scott's background, his journey from Nebraska to his current role, and his passion for metaphysical studies. Scott shares his experiences in the business world, including his mentorship in Tampa and his role in helping student loan borrowers. They explore Scott's time at Streamline, his transition to Casago, and his insights into efficiency and relationship-building. The episode offers valuable wisdom on the importance of being present, forgiving oneself, and the significance of guiding others towards excellence.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:15 Meet Scott Klein: Partner Success Manager00:54 Scott's Background and Early Life03:06 Journey into Business and Mentorship06:13 Streamline and Career Growth08:58 Joining Casago and Future Goals10:40 Reflections and Final Thoughts14:10 Closing Remarks and Outro

Insights from the 2024 Streamline SummitIn this episode of the Casa-Cast by CasaGo, the team discusses their key takeaways from the 2024 Streamline Summit. Featuring insights from Shannon, Catrina, Brennan, Wendy, Jeremy, Scott, and Stacy. The conversation covers advancements in AI, team development strategies, new Streamline features, branding insights, and efficient processes for property management. They highlight sessions on AI-driven tools like Leo, best practices in team building using the Tuckman method, and the non-sales-focused nature of the summit. The team also shares their personal experiences and plans to implement new knowledge in their respective roles.00:00 Introduction to Casa-Cast00:16 Meet the Team00:23 Brennan's Takeaways on AI and Self-Improvement01:28 Wendy's Insights on Streamline Features02:27 Jeremy's Focus on Team Development04:30 Scott's Highlights on Airbnb and Processes06:01 Catrina's Experience with Tools and Branding08:13 Shannon's First Streamline Conference09:52 Stacey's Reflections and Homework11:26 Final Thoughts and Takeaways14:36 Closing Remarks and Outro

Exploring the B&B Finder Difference with Michelle Gilliland and Tim WilsonIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab sits down with Michelle Gilliland and Tim Wilson from B&B Finder to discuss their unique business model and recent success. The conversation covers their mission to reduce travel costs by cutting out excessive fees and commissions, thus linking travelers directly with property management companies. They also explore the evolution and history of B&B Finder since its inception in 1998 and their recent expansion to include professionally managed vacation rentals. Key points include the benefits of listing on B&B Finder, such as free listings, premium service levels, no traveler fees, easy onboarding, and personalized support. They also discuss the importance of maintaining direct communication between travelers and hosts and how their platform supports the direct guest-property manager relationship. The episode concludes with a discussion about the community spirit within Casago and the mutual benefits of the partnership.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:15 Meet the Guests: Michelle Gilliland and Tim Wilson02:33 B&B Finder's Mission and Industry Impact06:45 Seven Things You Didn't Know About B&B Finder06:49 B&B Finder's History and Evolution19:15 The Freemium Service Model24:52 Casago Community and Final Thoughts

The Casa Cast: The Science and Process of Effective Cleaning with Dave ThompsonIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve Schwab interviews Dave Thompson, the founder of the Academy of Excellence. They delve into what defines true cleaning, emphasizing the importance of pH balance and physical removal in the cleaning process. Dave explains how the right chemicals, agitation, and rinsing are essential for creating a healthy, safe surface. They also discuss the distinction between household cleaning and commercial cleaning, the role of quats in disinfection, and the necessity of using an ATP meter to measure cleaning efficiency. The episode provides valuable insights for property managers on maintaining proper cleanliness standards.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:18 Meet Dave Thompson: Founder of the Academy of Excellence00:42 Defining Clean: Insights from the Academy01:31 The Importance of pH in Cleaning02:43 Physical Removal: The Role of Squeegees and Agitation04:32 Sanitization vs. Disinfection: Understanding the Difference06:34 Commercial vs. Home Cleaning Standards09:52 The Rinse Process: Why It's Crucial13:08 Challenges in Cleaning Porous Surfaces15:16 Validating Cleaning Processes with ATP Meters20:40 Understanding Quats and Their Impact24:16 The Wooden Bottom Test and Chemical Storage26:53 About the Academy of Cleaning Excellence28:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Safety First: Insights from Justin Ford on CasaCastIn this episode of CasaCast, host Steve Schwab welcomes Justin Ford from Breezeway, an expert in short-term rental safety. They discuss Justin's journey from running a large vacation rental company to becoming a safety guru driven by personal experiences and incidents. The conversation includes essential safety measures for property managers, focusing on smoke alarms, egress, trip hazards, pool safety, and fire extinguishers. Justin shares practical advice and solutions to enhance guest safety and minimize liability, ultimately contributing to better guest experiences and increased bookings.00:00 Introduction to CasaCast00:15 Meet Justin Ford, The Safety Guru00:50 Justin's Journey in Property Management01:52 The Importance of Safety in Rentals04:19 Five Key Safety Tips for Property Managers05:18 Tip 1: Smoke Alarms08:44 Tip 2: Egress11:18 Tip 3: Trip Hazards13:51 Tip 4: Pool Safety16:11 Tip 5: Fire Extinguishers18:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Maximizing Relationships with Your VRBO Account Manager: Insights from Jenny DavisIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve welcomes Jenny Davis from VRBO, the account manager for Casago. Jenny shares insights into her background, having moved from San Diego to Texas, and her journey from teaching to working at VRBO. The episode focuses on the six ways to utilize your account manager better. These methods include setting up quarterly meetings, building strong relationships, leveraging available reports and data, optimizing photos and listing descriptions, ensuring amenities optimization, and understanding technical support and escalation processes. Jenny emphasizes the importance of regular communication, data-driven optimization, and the partnership between property managers and account managers. The discussion also touches on making properties 'RENTAGRAMALE' by enhancing their appeal for social media.Jenny also gave us a new hotline number for only enterprise accounts. As an owner of Casago, all of our partners can use this exclusive number 1-833-905-453000:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:15 Meet Jenny Davis from VRBO00:41 Jenny's Journey: From San Diego to VRBO03:24 Six Ways to Utilize Your Account Manager08:27 Optimizing Listings and Amenities16:45 Technical Support and Escalation19:39 Final Thoughts and Farewell

7 Secrets of Property Management Growth with Brooke PhautzIn this episode of Casa Cast, host Steve interviews Brooke Phautz, founder of Vintory, a leader in the inventory acquisition sector. Brooke shares insights from his 17-year experience in the vacation rental industry, revealing seven critical lessons learned from helping over 700 companies grow their inventory. These lessons include understanding the value of good data, maintaining consistent marketing, utilizing key messaging building blocks, leveraging technology, the significance of direct mail, having the right business development person, and the importance of responsiveness. Additionally,Brooke discusses his successful books and how his direct marketing and sales strategies have evolved. The episode wraps up with Ruth praising the unique culture at CasaGo and hints at a potential future discussion on hiring the right business development personnel.00:00 Introduction to Casa Cast00:16 Meet Brooke Founder of Vintory00:43 The Journey of Vintory01:15 Starting a Business: Passion and Challenges03:51 Growth and Success of Vintory04:23 Brooke's Books and Their Impact06:21 The Importance of Good Data10:51 Consistency in Marketing15:42 Seven Messaging Building Blocks21:57 Effective Call to Action Strategies23:38 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency24:10 The Importance of CRM Systems27:47 Cold Email Outreach Success29:57 Direct Mail Marketing31:51 The Right Business Development Role36:22 Responsiveness in Business Development42:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Nurturing Homeowners: The Big Three ApproachIn this episode of Casa-Cast, Steve Schwab discusses the importance of nurturing relationships with homeowners as part of Casago's Orange Credo. The episode features a presentation by Andres from Fort Lauderdale, who explains a strategic approach to nurturing homeowners by focusing on three key areas: rates and occupancy, home upkeep, and continuous improvement through communication. Steve emphasizes the necessity of transparent and consistent communication with homeowners, educating them on the nuances of running a vacation rental business and the importance of meeting their expectations to ensure long-term success. The episode also covers the significance of regular homeowner meetings and adapting communication styles to meet individual needs.00:00 Introduction and Inspiration00:27 Andres' Presentation and Podcast Creation01:06 Nurturing Homeowner Relationships01:55 The Big Three: Rates, Upkeep, and Communication03:14 Monthly Homeowner Meetings04:13 Educating Homeowners on Business Aspects06:22 Booking.com and Market Comparisons08:43 Importance of Reviews and Property Updates12:26 Tailored Communication and Consistency13:24 Conclusion

Key Takeaways from IMN Conference 2024: Homeowner and Customer-Centric StrategiesIn this episode of CasaCast, Steve Schwab discusses the significant takeaways from the IMN Conference 2024 in Austin with guests Manuel and Jason from Orlando. The conversation centers around four main points: the importance of being homeowner-centric, enhancing the customer experience, adopting a holistic view for creating a sustainable future, and the value of breakout rooms for practical and tactical learning. The guests also share their insights on building a strong company culture and the importance of communication in delivering top-notch hospitality.00:00 Introduction to CasaCast00:15 Meet the Team: Steve00:25 Key Takeaways from the IMN Conference01:26 Homeowner-Centric Approach02:51 Enhancing Customer Experience05:50 Holistic Business View for Sustainability09:42 Breakout Sessions Insights13:33 Favorite Letters in the Orange Credo15:19 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Mastering Revenue Management: Daily, Weekly, and Monthly StrategiesIn this episode, Steve hosts Desiree Garcia, co-founder of RevMax, to discuss essential practices in revenue management. Desiree shares her journey and expertise, highlighting strategies that property managers should implement daily, weekly, and monthly. Key focuses include measuring bookings, leads, and pickup daily; reviewing pricing, nightly minimums, and availability weekly; and evaluating marketing efforts and OTA performance monthly. The conversation underscores the importance of a collaborative approach between revenue managers and property managers to optimize revenue through a blend of art and science.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:32 Desiree Garcia's Career Journey01:15 Evolution of Revenue Management02:50 Daily Revenue Management Tasks09:30 Weekly Revenue Management Tasks15:41 Monthly Revenue Management Tasks21:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Exploring Streamline's Hidden Features with Andrea ParkIn this episode of Casa Cast, Steve welcomes Andrea Park, owner of South Padre Island CasaGo and software development manager at Streamline. They discuss Andrea's role in overseeing development and delve into eight lesser-known Streamline features, including language customization, custom user groups, rotation logic on websites, a customizable Owner Statement Builder, auto-response for OTAs, Owner Commission Discrepancy Report, unit setup tips for SEO, and work order approval processes. Andrea shares her journey in property management, her love for building strong owner relationships, and even a personal story about her riding a Harley Davidson. This informative session highlights practical insights for property managers to optimize their operations.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 Andrea's Role at Streamline01:10 Shared Background and Fun Question01:42 Streamline's Hidden Features01:56 Language Customization03:01 Custom User Groups04:22 Rotation Logic06:52 Owner Statement Builder07:38 Auto Response for OTAs08:47 Owner Commission Discrepancy Report09:41 Unit Setup Tips10:59 Work Order Approval12:42 Andrea's Personal Story13:32 Importance of Owner Relationships15:06 Conclusion and Farewell

Mastering Work Orders with Operational Excellence: A Conversation with BillIn this Casa-Cast episode, Steve welcomes Bill Johnson, a former homeowner turned Stigward, to discuss the intricacies of handling work orders. Bill shares his expertise on the operational aspects of using work orders as tools for workflow and coordination and for enhancing communication. They delve into the five key things you should know about work orders, including the importance of documentation, the proper language, and the necessity of team training. They also explore effective change management strategies for implementing work orders, emphasizing the importance of transparency and homeowners' engagement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their property management operations.00:00 Introduction to Casa-Cast00:09 Meet Bill: The Expert on Work Orders00:46 Understanding Work Orders02:17 Five Key Points About Work Orders04:34 The Importance of Team Involvement06:13 Creative Uses for Work Orders07:48 Essential Elements of a Work Order11:30 Change Management in Property Management15:25 Effective Communication with Homeowners17:14 Closing Thoughts and Reflections18:53 Outro and Credits

Top 10 Revenue Management Terms Every Property Manager Should KnowIn this episode, Steve interviews Desiree Garcia, the co-founder of RevMax. The discussion centers around the top 10 revenue management terms vital for property managers. The conversation begins by highlighting Desiree's extensive experience in the industry and how she partnered with Carlos and Streamline to create RevMax. The terms covered include Revenue, Occupancy, ADR (Average Daily Rate), RevPAR (Revenue Per Available Unit), Pace, Paid Occupancy, Availability, Booking Window, Length of Stay, and Forecast, Goal, and Budget. The episode provides valuable insights into understanding these metrics and their impact on revenue management strategies. Additionally, a bonus term, Opportunity Loss, is discussed, emphasizing the importance of optimizing availability and preventing occupancy gaps.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Desiree Garcia's Journey in Revenue Management03:00 Understanding Revenue Management Terms03:05 Revenue and Occupancy06:47 Average Daily Rate (ADR)10:56 Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR)17:09 Pace and Paid Occupancy23:26 Availability and Booking Window32:45 Length of Stay and Forecasting40:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Exploring 3rdHome with Chad Rowe and Rowdy Stovall on Casa-CastIn this episode of Casa-Cast, hosts discuss the 3rdHome Luxury Home Exchange program with guests Chad Rowe, SVP of Business Development, and Rowdy Stovall, Director of Business Development. They explore how affiliates can join through Casago, detailing the advantages for homeowners, including acquisition strategies to make the program appealing. The conversation covers the program's workings, emphasizing its B2B partnership model, the unique 'keys for time' exchange system, and how 3rdHome positions itself in the luxury market with high-end properties and desirable locations. Key points include the process and benefits of becoming an affiliate via Cosago, removal of initiation fees, earning and using keys for exchanges, and the importance of seasonality and property value in determining key values. Additionally, the episode touches on the strategic benefits for short-term rental operators and property managers, such as homeowner and employee recruitment and retention. Contacts for further information and sign-up processes are also shared.00:00 Welcome to Casa-Cast with 3rdHome Guests00:09 Introducing Chad and Rowdy from 3rdHome00:39 Exploring the Roles and Experiences of Chad and Rowdy03:20 Diving into 3rdHome's Luxury Home Exchange Program04:29 Understanding the Keys Currency System in 3rdHome07:23 Affiliate Program Benefits and Homeowner Acquisition09:04 Integration and Operational Details of 3rdHome12:42 Leveraging 3rdHome for Business Development and Retention15:54 Signing Up and Onboarding with 3rdHome19:24 Utilizing 3rdHome for Employee Recruitment and Retention21:05 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

In this episode of Casa-Cast, host Casago welcomes Kelsey, a key member of Casago's special business unit focusing on homeowner acquisition and marketing. Kelsey shares her journey from the eventful Keystone Retreats in Nashville to her growth within Casago, highlighting the seven crucial tips for increasing inventory. These tips range from ensuring a local touch in marketing, identifying and addressing homeowner pain points, the importance of a value proposition, consistency in branding, never stopping marketing efforts, creating a written plan, to utilizing Casago's resources efficiently. Kelsey's anecdotal insights, including her claim to fame via a YouTube video and her husband's career as a drummer for Ryan Stevenson, add a personal touch to the episode. This conversation not only sheds light on the strategic facets of marketing within the vacation rental industry but also underscores the significance of fostering a culture of excellence, as emphasized in Casago's Orange Credo.00:00 Welcome to Casa-Cast: Introducing Kelsey00:35 Kelsey's Journey: From Event Savior to Marketing Maven01:11 Personal Insights: Kelsey's Life, Love, and Laughter03:57 Growing Your Inventory: Kelsey's Top 7 Tips12:02 The Power of Consistency in Marketing18:45 Leveraging Casago's Resources for Growth23:04 Excellence Over Perfection: Kelsey's Favorite Credo24:58 Closing Thoughts and Invitations

Maximizing Engagement and Building Relationships Through Social Media ContestsThe script outlines a segment from the Casa-Cast, created by Casago, where the host discusses the importance of social media engagement, mainly through contests, with a guest named Pamela. Pamela and her husband, Michael, share insights from their vacation rental business, including how they've successfully integrated their diverse backgrounds into their business model. They detail a Facebook contest to increase page likes and foster long-term relationships through their email list. Highlights include their key strategies to ensure the contest's success, such as the significant prize of $1000, going live on Facebook for announcements, and maintaining an authentic, unpolished approach to connecting with their audience. Pamela shares their goal of gaining followers and cultivating genuine fans who actively engage and talk about their brand. The discussion concludes with advice on planning and executing social media contests, focusing on authenticity, budgeting, and consistent engagement to build a stronger customer relationship and community presence.

Decoding SEO: Meta Tag Titles and Descriptions with David AngottiIn this episode of Casa-Cast hosted by Steve Schwab and featuring David Angotti of Guesty, the focus is on unraveling the intricacies of SEO, specifically addressing meta tag titles and descriptions within a property management context. David, with his extensive SEO background and entrepreneurial experience, shares insights on optimizing these elements for better search visibility and conversion. The discussion includes tips on creating compelling meta tags, understanding Google's algorithms for titles and descriptions, and the irrelevance of meta-tag keywords in current search engine strategies. Moreover, David emphasizes creating content that answers potential guests' questions, aiming for conversion through clarity and relevance. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for property managers looking to enhance their listings' online presence and attract more guests through effective SEO practices.00:00 Meet David Angottii: The SEO Guru at Guesty00:34 Diving Into the Mysteries of SEO Fields with David01:58 Unraveling the Secrets of Meta Tag Titles06:38 The Art of Differentiating Properties in SEO08:21 Crafting Compelling Meta Tag Descriptions12:55 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Meta Tag Optimization18:55 Concluding Insights and Future Discussions

Deep Diving Surface Matters with Durk JohnsonIn this episode of Casa-Cast, host Steve Schwab is joined by cleaning expert Durk Johnson to discuss the intricacies and best practices for selecting and using various cleaning products. They cover the importance of choosing suitable cleaning agents to avoid damaging household surfaces, including detailed discussions on using all-purpose cleaners, degreasers, bathroom cleaners, and specialty products. Several tips on handling specific cleaning scenarios, from dealing with grease in kitchens to selecting the right tools for different surfaces, are shared. Additionally, the conversation delves into the science behind cleaning agents, ensuring safety, and maintaining professional standards in the cleaning industry. Special attention is given to proactive approaches to pest control, namely bedbugs, highlighting the significance of using professional-grade and correctly formulated products to ensure effective and safe cleaning processes.00:00 Meet Durk Johnson: A Cleaning Guru00:44 The Importance of Choosing the Right Cleaning Products02:35 Deep Dive into All-Purpose Cleaners08:20 The Science of Cleaning: Enzymes, Water Hardness, and More10:35 Specialty Cleaning Products: From Degreasers to Bed Bug Solutions34:13 Concluding Thoughts on Effective Cleaning Practices

Introducing Jackie Norde: The Chronicles of Partner Success at CasagoIn this episode of Casa-Casts, Steve Schwab introduces Jackie Norde, the new partner success manager at Casago. Jackie brings a rich and diverse background, including experience in commodities, tech, and property management, to her role at Casago. Her journey includes impactful work at GoDaddy and Streamline, a transformational period in Mexico managing properties, and her passion for vacation rental advocacy. Jackie emphasizes building relationships and owning the conversation to foster successful partnerships. Her commitment to enhancing community experiences and her hands-on approach in professional settings highlight her readiness to fill the big shoes left by her predecessor, Bill Johnson. The episode delves into Jackie's personal and professional life, showcasing her enthusiasm for helping people and ensuring vacation rental success.00:00 Meet Jackie: The Perfect Fit for Casago01:33 Jackie's Diverse Career Journey04:21 From Mexico to Streamline: A Personal and Professional Rebirth07:02 Jackie's Impactful Property Management in Mexico11:55 Stepping into the Role of Partner Success Manager13:12 Jackie's Passion for Vacation Rental Advocacy16:04 Embracing the Orange Credo at Casago16:59 Wrapping Up: Jackie's Journey and Future at Casago

Reflections and Farewells: Bill Johnson's Journey with CASAGOThis episode of the Casa-Cast, hosted by Bill Johnson, delves into his experiences and growth throughout his tenure at CASAGO. Bill, who has been with the company for nearly five years in a professional capacity and almost 20 years as a homeowner, shares insights into his personal and professional development, the challenges and lessons learned, and his interactions with team members and partners. He discusses his journey from running a landscape business to embracing new challenges at CASAGO, highlighting the importance of honest conversations, continuous learning, and adaptation. As Bill prepares for retirement, he reflects on the supportive relationships he formed, his contributions in various roles, especially as a COO and in the Partner Success role, and the valuable life lessons he gathered along the way. The conversation concludes with Bill expressing gratitude for the support from his partner, Charlene, and looking forward to spending time with his family, improving his golf game, and working on projects. Bill is celebrated for his contributions and is officially named the second alumni of CASAGO, ensuring his continued association with the community.00:00 Introduction: Life's Chapters and Casago00:19 Meet Bill Johnson: A Journey with Casago00:32 The Early Days and Growth at Casago01:45 Challenges and Learning: Bill's Transformation04:00 Bill's Advice for the Future of Casago05:02 Personal Growth and Surprising Skills07:57 Farewell Reflections and Retirement Plans09:19 A Heartfelt Thank You and The Alumni Program12:31 Closing: The Casago Legacy

Roman discusses how he was able to introduce himself to a market he’d never lived in before, and build a business through finding community and being intentional. It is day-to-day activities.

Tim Newman (AKA TIGS) and his teammate Lori have a discussion about RevMax that puts the basics into focus with Desiree.

Andres Gonzales, the owner of Casago in Ft. Lauderdale, digs into the nuances of nurturing homeowners on an orange call.

Ryan discusses his approach to getting new homeowners to sign up and how he prepares and approaches homeowners meetings

Tom discusses what to look for and how to optimize for 2024. (Note) we had audio problems with this interview; you will, at times, hear echoes or distortions from a bad connection. We decided to publish it anyhow since there was valuable content

Stacy Wesson shares 5 ways to get more out of the Casago Community.

Casago and Rent Responsibly kick off their first-of-a-kind program. Listen to learn more about how you as a partner, can benefit from this initiative.

CSM (R) John Spisso and Ilona Melnichenko define mental strength, intestinal fortitude, endurance, and focus. Today, John discusses what to expect and how to be ready when starting at zero.

Catrina Wakefield goes over the basics of the Lifetime of Leads program. Learn how this unique referral program works and how to use it to grow your referral network.

Tyler discusses his theory called the "book me mentality". A wholeistc mindset about how owner, property and our team can look through the prism to get better bookings.

Judy Crane, the GM of Casago’s Scottsdale, Tucson and Sedona markets discusses her take on what it takes to have successful homeowner relations.