How Real Estate Agents Can Boost Earnings with Short-Term Rentals (And Why It Pays to Partner Smart)

🡐 Back to Resources | Last Updated: June, 2025 | Written by Kurt Russell

A sunny suburban home with trimmed lawn and welcoming curb appeal, representing a profitable short-term rental property.

Why This Matters

The short-term rental (STR) market isn’t just booming, it’s evolving. With platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo continuing to surge in popularity, savvy real estate agents are uniquely positioned to benefit from this shift. Whether you’re looking to expand your revenue streams or build long-term client relationships, short-term rentals can be a strategic advantage if you know how to leverage them.

At Clear Stay Properties, we believe agents shouldn’t have to choose between service and scale. The smartest agents are doing both,and STRs are the key.

A smiling woman in a cozy home interior holding a small house keychain, symbolizing a new real estate investment opportunity.


1. Why Short-Term Rentals Are a Smart Play for Agents

Real estate agents often focus on long-term gains: listings, closings, commissions. But short-term rentals offer recurring value across multiple touchpoints. Here’s how:

  • Earn more per client. A single STR deal can lead to long-term management partnerships.

  • Stay top-of-mind. Investors and owners often need repeat services more than your average homebuyer.

  • Tap into passive income. Many agents also become investors. STRs are a smart entry point.

A confident real estate agent in a suit, thoughtfully reviewing a plan under evening office light, representing strategic property management.


2. STR Investors Need Partners — Not Just Realtors

Today’s buyers aren’t just looking for a house; they’re looking for performance. They want to know:

  • What markets are best for STRs?

  • What upgrades will increase nightly rates?

  • Who will manage the bookings, reviews, and guests?

Agents who can answer those questions don’t just close deals, they win loyalty!

Pro tip: Consider collaborating with a property management partner like Clear Stay. We handle the headaches (maintenance, pricing, support), so you can keep your focus on growth.

A green arrow-shaped topiary rising over hills, representing the financial growth of short-term rentals in scenic destinations.

3. 5 Ways Real Estate Agents Can Win with STRs

✅ Build Trust Through Transparency
Set realistic expectations. Show buyers both the ROI potential and the real costs.

✅ Offer Market-Specific Insights
Tourist towns? College cities? Corporate hubs? Learn your local STR rules and share smart data.

✅ Expand Your Referral Network
STR properties bring guests, and guests talk. Referrals from satisfied investors or renters are powerful.

✅ Become a Connector
Partner with cleaners, stagers, interior designers, STR consultants, and local handy men. Your buyers will thank you.

✅ Collaborate with Management Pros
With Clear Stay Properties, you get a strategic partner who can walk your clients from close to cash-flow; no babysitting required.

A group of professionals gathered around a scale property model, planning a collaborative real estate investment strategy.

4. Partnering with STR Management Companies: A Win-Win for Agents

If you’re a real estate agent, your zone of genius is closing deals, not coordinating linens, handling guest complaints, or tracking occupancy rates. That’s where short-term rental (STR) management companies come in.

When you connect your clients with a trusted STR operator, you’re doing more than referring a service, you’re delivering peace of mind and long-term results.

Here’s how it pays off:

  • You reduce friction. Clients feel supported, which reflects positively on you.

  • You stay in your lane. No need to become an overnight expert in pricing algorithms or Airbnb disputes.

  • You unlock repeat business. Happy investors often return for their next purchase, and they bring referrals.

It’s not about handing off the relationship. It’s about strengthening it by surrounding your clients with the right support system.

Let’s Partner

If you're ready to stay ahead of the curve, and make your clients more money. Now’s the time to integrate STRs into your business model.

📅 Book a free consultation
We'll walk you through our onboarding process and explore partnership options with Clear Stay Properties.

Book here.

  • With a track record of converting struggling long-term rentals into thriving short-term businesses, we've mastered the art of identifying and capitalizing on opportunities in the rental market. We don't just manage properties; we transform them into profitable ventures.

  • Our comprehensive services range from property identification, market analysis, and legal compliance to guest management and maintenance. We provide professional photoshoots, craft compelling property descriptions, and use advanced pricing strategies to attract guests and optimize returns.

  • Our strategic approach ensures maximum occupancy and competitive pricing, leading to an excellent return on investment (ROI). We've successfully helped homeowners like Fred and Ursula achieve over 50% occupancy in the first month of listing, significantly higher than the average Airbnb occupancy rate of 48% (source: AirDNA).

  • We believe in the power of clear communication. Our clients are continually updated with performance reports and market trends, ensuring they're well-informed about their property's progress and potential.

Ready to get started in the Short-Term Rental Business and earn passive income on your property?

Fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

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Mastering Property Management: Essential Skills for Success in Short-Term Rentals