Michelle Nardozzi wanted others to feel the joy of traveling to two of her favorite spots - Stowe, Vermont, and Charleston, South Carolina - and was inspired to launch short-term rental properties in these destinations.
Her experience as a contractor gave her a strong foundation to get these rental properties up and running successfully. Read on to hear about how she is building a thriving STR business and uses Minoan to save money on furnishings!
Q: What inspired you to get into STR hosting?
A: Our friends own STRs in NY and we had so much fun staying at one of their rentals, we wanted to become hosts ourselves. As contractors, my husband and I were able to collaborate together in the renovation and design of both homes, and hope to continue doing that as we grow our portfolio.
Q: What are your biggest pain points as an STR owner?
A: Weather-related issues (icy roads, mud season, snow storms or hurricanes) and unexpected appliance problems (parts break, supply-chain issues).
Q: How have you tried to differentiate your properties from other STRs - how do you make them stand out?
A: We strive to offer key amenities at a competitive price point for families and small groups, while being mindful of guests’ needs for things like a well-equipped kitchen and plenty of supplies.
Q: What's your favorite thing about being an STR host?
A: I love the joy of being on vacation and getting to experience new sites/places. Hosting allows me to share our favorite places (Vermont and South Carolina) with our guests so they can make memories together like we love to do.
Q: What is the #1 most important thing for STR hosts to get right, in your opinion?
A: Understand your guests’ needs, be genuine, and be engaged. I truly love hosting and hope that reflects in my communication with guests, and in our thoughtfully curated homes.
Q: What products do your guests love the most?
A: Comfortable hybrid mattresses and West Elm sofas, our game room (air hockey is very popular), and the radiant heated floors at our property in Vermont.
Q: What are your favorite Minoan brands (particularly the more niche ones, if you have any)?
A: We love West Elm for quality foundational furniture, Society 6 for eclectic decor pieces like pillow cases, shower curtains, wall art, and Polywood for outdoor furniture because it’s easy to clean and durable.
Q: How has Minoan helped you with your short term rentals?
A: Minoan takes the headache out of organizing and tracking orders, while offering amazing discounts that typically are only available to Interior Designers or other trades. Their customer service is top-notch, professional, and beyond helpful.
Q: What's one thing you know now that you wished you knew when you first started setting up your STRs?
A: I wished I had known about Minoan! I was sourcing from all different vendors, and it was not easy coordinating deliveries to a “rural” location like our property in Vermont.
Q: Any other tips for your fellow hosts?
A: Be authentic, invest in classic, quality pieces that will last, and keep hospitality as a top priority.
