Should You Start a Short-Term Rental Business Without Prior Experience?

With the rise of platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, many people are stepping into the world of short-term rentals—even without prior hospitality or property management experience. But is it really possible to succeed in this business as a beginner? The short answer is yes—but like any business, it takes planning, patience, and a willingness to learn. If you’re considering launching a short-term rental property in North or South Carolina, the good news is that you don’t need years of experience to get started. What you do need is a clear understanding of the market, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to creating great guest experiences.

First-time hosts often begin with one property—sometimes their own home or a second property they’ve recently acquired. Starting small is not only manageable, but it also gives you a chance to learn the ropes without being overwhelmed. You’ll get hands-on experience with listing creation, pricing strategy, guest communication, and cleaning logistics. With every guest stay, you gain insights into what works—and what doesn’t. The best hosts are always adapting, updating their homes and improving based on guest feedback and market trends.

One common fear for new hosts is: “What if I mess up?” The truth is, there will be hiccups. Maybe a guest arrives early, or a pipe leaks, or a cleaning crew misses a detail. These challenges are part of the learning process, and handling them professionally builds your reputation. Good reviews come from good communication and a willingness to go above and beyond. Even if you’re new to short-term rentals, being responsive, polite, and attentive can win over guests and lead to positive feedback.

Another important factor is knowing your local regulations. In North and South Carolina, short-term rental laws vary by city and county. Some areas are very friendly to STRs, while others may have restrictions or require permits. As a new host, it’s your responsibility to research and follow all local laws. That includes checking with homeowners associations (HOAs), which often have their own rules about rentals. Taking the time to learn these details upfront will protect you and your business in the long run.

If you're not confident managing everything yourself, there are options. You can hire a property management company or even a co-host to help with guest communication and operations. This can be especially helpful if you don’t live near your rental property. There are also countless tools and services—from dynamic pricing software to smart locks and messaging apps—that make hosting easier and more efficient, even for beginners.

In the end, your success as a first-time STR host depends less on your experience and more on your attitude. Are you willing to put in the effort, learn from your mistakes, and treat your guests well? If the answer is yes, then you’re already on the right track. With the right mindset and some strategic planning, it’s entirely possible to grow a thriving short-term rental business—even without experience.