Starting a vacation rental business is an exciting venture. With the rising popularity of short-term rentals and platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, more investors are recognizing the immense potential of vacation properties. Now is a great time to invest in vacation rental properties, thanks to the surge in travel demand, changing work-from-home trends, and the increasing desire for unique and memorable getaways.
However, launching a vacation rental business can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. The process requires a deep understanding of the local real estate market, rental income potential, and industry-specific challenges. You need to conduct thorough research and perform your due diligence to ensure you’re making a sound investment. From assessing the property’s proximity to attractions like a ski resort or hiking trail to evaluating potential upgrades such as hot tubs, the buying process can be tricky. To help you navigate this challenge, today I’m sharing a detailed round-up of what to look for in a vacation rental property to maximize your success.
If you’re feeling daunted by the process, consider hiring a property management company. My company, Greenway Rentals 1, LLC, specializes in managing vacation rental homes in Arizona, Texas, Maui, and more. We handle all aspects of property management for other owners, allowing you to reap the benefits of your investment without the headaches of day-to-day management. Visit us at homes.greenwaymgt.com to learn more about how we can help you grow your vacation rental business.
What To Look For In A Vacation Rental
When buying a vacation rental property, it’s essential to evaluate it with an investor’s mindset. Scrutinizing a vacation rental property is very different from checking out properties you’re considering for your primary residence. With an investment property, your focus needs to be on the potential for generating rental income, not just the aesthetic appeal. Here’s what to look for:
Location Is Key
Vacation rental properties thrive in areas with high tourist demand. Whether it’s near a beach, a ski resort, a popular hiking trail, or a bustling downtown, the location will significantly influence how much rental income your property can generate. Travelers are typically looking for convenience, so make sure your property is close to amenities and attractions that will draw guests in.
Understand the Local Regulations
Before you purchase a vacation rental property, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local regulations and zoning laws. Different cities and towns have various rules regarding short term rentals, and some places have restrictions on how often you can rent out your property. Failing to adhere to these rules could result in hefty fines or even the inability to operate your vacation rental legally.
Appeal of the Property
To attract guests, the property needs to stand out. Features like hot tubs, pools, large outdoor spaces, or proximity to hiking trails can make your vacation rental home more appealing. The more unique and well-equipped the property, the more likely you’ll receive higher bookings and, in turn, increased rental income.
Seasonality and Occupancy Rates
Consider the seasonality of the location. Properties near ski resorts may only see high occupancy in the winter months, while beach homes could be fully booked throughout the summer. Understanding the busy and slow seasons will help you estimate potential revenue and decide whether the investment makes sense.
Is Owning A Vacation Rental Worth It?
One of the biggest questions investors ask is whether owning a vacation rental is worth the effort. The answer is a resounding yes, as long as you do your due diligence before making a purchase. A great vacation rental property in the right location has the potential to generate significant revenue, especially with platforms like Airbnb offering global visibility.
However, the potential income depends on various factors. The property’s location, amenities, and how often it can be rented out will all influence your revenue. For example, a well-maintained cabin near a popular ski resort can yield steady rental income during the winter months. On the other hand, a beachfront home may have higher summer demand, but slower bookings in the off-season.
If managed correctly, owning a vacation rental can be highly profitable, and the returns can far exceed those of a traditional long-term rental. However, you’ll need to carefully balance the costs of maintaining the property, paying property management fees (if you’re not managing it yourself), and complying with local regulations.
If you prefer to outsource the work, consider **Greenway Rentals 1, LLC**, which offers comprehensive property management services for vacation rental owners. With our team’s expertise, you can maximize your rental income while we take care of the operational side of things. Whether you’re a new investor or looking to expand your portfolio, we’ve got you covered.
When evaluating whether a property is a good investment, focus on these key factors:
1. Proximity to Attractions
Vacation rental guests want to be close to the action. A property near popular attractions like a ski resort, beach, or hiking trail will generally have higher demand. Proximity to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment options is also a significant advantage.
2. Unique Amenities
The more unique and luxurious your property, the more bookings you’ll receive. Features such as hot tubs, fireplaces, and game rooms can elevate your property and justify higher nightly rates. These amenities are often the tipping point for guests choosing between two similar properties. Deciding if you will be pet friendly is another amenity you can include to get different travelers that bring along their 4 legged friends.
3. Size and Layout
Consider how many guests your property can comfortably accommodate. Larger properties with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms can command higher rental rates, especially if they are designed to host groups or families. A good layout is essential too—open floor plans and large living areas are more appealing to guests.
4. Curb Appeal and Online Presentation
First impressions matter. From the photos you post online to how the property looks when guests arrive, curb appeal plays a big role in securing bookings. A well-maintained vacation rental with beautiful landscaping and an inviting entryway will draw more interest. Invest in professional photography to showcase your property in the best light.
5. Low Maintenance and Durability
Look for properties that are easy to maintain and can withstand frequent use. Durable materials, easy-to-clean surfaces, and a reliable property manager will save you time and money in the long run. Vacation rental owners can often minimize wear and tear by selecting quality materials and furnishings.
Time To Buy
Owning a vacation rental can be a lucrative venture, but it’s essential to make smart decisions when purchasing and managing your property. By focusing on location, amenities, and the guest experience, you can turn a vacation rental home into a high-performing, income-generating asset. If you’re asking yourself, “Are short term rentals a good investment?” be sure to check out this article for further insight.
If you need help managing your vacation rental, or if you’re considering buying a vacation rental property, **Greenway Rentals 1, LLC** is here to assist. Visit homes.greenwaymgt.com to learn more about our property management services and how we can help you maximize your investment property’s potential.
Are you considering entering the world of real estate investment, particularly in the lucrative realm of Airbnb hosting? Congratulations! You’re right where you need to be to kick off on an exciting venture. Choosing the perfect location for your Airbnb investment is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your success. After all, not all cities offer the same opportunities for short-term rentals, and some are more profitable than others.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the top places to own an Airbnb. We’ve categorized these destinations into two main groups: the most profitable Airbnb cities in the United States and the most profitable Airbnb cities worldwide. Whether you’re a newcomer to the short-term rental/ Airbnb market or looking for an investment property to expand your existing portfolio, we’ve got you covered.
10 Best Places To Own An Airbnb
Most Profitable Airbnb Cities in the United States
1. Nashville, Tennessee
– Known as “Music City,” Nashville is a magnet for travelers and tourists. With a reasonable median property price and a high demand for short-term rentals,this city offers an ideal opportunity for real estate investors. Consider cozy apartments or charming homes to cater to the constant influx of visitors.
2. Austin, Texas
Austin is not just the Texas capital; it’s also a hub for tech, music, and culture. The city’s booming economy and vibrant atmosphere make it a hotspot for short-term rentals. Look for properties near popular event venues or downtown for the best returns.
3. Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s world-renowned theme parks attract millions of visitors annually, ensuring a steady stream of potential guests. The median property price is reasonable, and you can capitalize on the demand by offering vacation rental properties close to Disney and Universal Studios.
4. Denver, Colorado
Denver’s thriving tourism industry, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it an attractive destination for Airbnb investors. Properties in close proximity to hiking trails and ski resorts tend to perform exceptionally well here. Denver has the famous (and stunning) Rocky Mountain backdrop and a growing craft beer scene. This makes Denver appeal to both outdoor enthusiasts and city lovers. The city’s proximity to ski resorts and hiking trails ensures consistent tourist traffic, making Airbnb’s boom.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
The lively and culturally rich city of New Orleans never fails to draw visitors throughout the year. Airbnb occupancy rates are generally high, especially during festivals and Mardi Gras. Historic homes or unique properties are popular among travelers. New Orleans is popular for its vibrant culture, jazz music, and culinary scene. Short-term rentals in this historic city often see high demand throughout the year for these reasons.
6. Miami, Florida
Miami is a super popular destination for party goers, beach lovers, and general holidayers alike. Also, Miami’s rental market is consistently strong, proving that there’s a massive demand here! It’s renowned for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and cultural diversity. If visitors are seeking sun and fun, this will be where they want to go.
7. San Diego, California
Oh, beautiful San Diego with its stunning coastline, family-friendly attractions, and pleasant weather. San Diego is ideal for vacationers year-round. The city’s laid-back vibe and outdoor activities help to contribute greatly to its popularity in the short-term rental market. It’s simply a beautiful place to be at any time during the year.
Most Profitable Airbnb Cities in the World
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s Mediterranean charm and diverse culture make it a top choice for international travelers. While short-term rental regulations exist, owning an Airbnb here can be rewarding. Consider investing in apartments in popular neighborhoods like Eixample or Gothic Quarter. This spot is huge for its architecture and beaches, attracting a lot of visitors all throughout the year. Short-term rentals benefit from a strong tourism industry and a vibrant local scene.
9. Bali, Indonesia
The picturesque island of Bali is a dream destination for many. It offers great potential for successful Airbnb hosts, with various property types, from beachfront villas to jungle retreats. Just make sure you focus on compliance with local regulations for foreigners owning an Airbnb rental property. This spot is huge year round, with visitors flying from all over the world to enjoy it.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s affordability, stunning architecture, and year-round pleasant weather attract tourists from around the world. The city’s regulations are Airbnb-friendly, and investing in historic districts or overlooking the Tagus River can yield fantastic results. Lisbon’s charm, historic neighborhoods, and burgeoning tech scene have made it increasingly popular among travelers. The city offers competitive Airbnb yields due to its growing tourism sector.
11. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks make it a sought-after destination for travelers. Owning an Airbnb here can be a unique experience, with traditional machiya houses and ryokans being popular choices. With a focus on cultural tourism, well-located Airbnb properties can yield significant returns, especially during peak travel seasons. The city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities makes it a sought-after destination for travelers, leading to a super large demand for short-term rentals. This means a good rental income for you!
12. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai’s opulence and futuristic skyline make it a luxury Airbnb destination. High-end apartments and villas with breathtaking views of the city and the Arabian Gulf are particularly attractive to well-heeled travelers. Dubai is a growing market for short-term rentals, and major events and attractions keep occupancy rates high, leading to strong profitability for Airbnb hosts.
13. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Famous for its stunning canals and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam attracts millions of visitors every single year year. The compact city layout encourages short stays for visitors, making it a great location to own Airbnb properties.
14. Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s diverse population and number of cultural attractions make it a year-round destination for everyone. The city also hosts numerous events and festivals, driving demand for short-term rentals, particularly in the downtown area. It’s a really great place which is why so many people are eager to visit.
15. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum has become a hotspot for travelers who want to visit stunning beaches, eco-friendly resorts, and a laid-back vibe for a long time now. With a growing number of international flights and a focus on sustainability, investing in an Airbnb here can get you some substantial profits, especially during peak vacation seasons.
Make informed Airbnb business decisions!
No matter where you decide to invest, it’s essential to thoroughly research local regulations, understand the market dynamics, and assess potential returns when it comes to Airbnb listings. Remember that becoming an Airbnb host involves more than just buying a property; it’s about providing excellent guest experiences and managing your investments effectively.
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming an Airbnb co-host, check out our guide on How to Become an Airbnb Co-Host. Additionally, for those looking to start their journey as an Airbnb host, our guide on How to be a Host on Airbnb and crafting the ultimate Airbnb Guidebook can provide invaluable insights and tips.
Investing in Airbnb properties can be a rewarding venture, and these places are excellent starting points for your real estate investment journey. Keep an eye on rental rates, cash on cash returns, and the overall demand for short-term rentals to make informed decisions and expand your Airbnb business.
The dream of running a successful rental property business has become one of the most in-demand and lucrative opportunities available today. From seasoned real estate investors to beginners just starting their journey, more people are exploring rental property ventures than ever before. And surprisingly, many are jumping into the rental property business with little to no cash upfront. If you’re someone with limited funds but an interest in building wealth through real estate, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to start a rental property business with no money.
How to Start a Rental Property Business with No Money
While it may seem impossible to start a rental property business with no capital, there are numerous strategies that real estate investors have used to get their start. This post will walk you through these proven techniques, explain the various options available to you, and give you actionable steps to build your rental property portfolio—without needing large amounts of cash up front.
What can you expect from this guide? By the end, you’ll understand various financing options, creative investment techniques, and how to leverage resources you may already have to purchase rental properties. Whether it’s tapping into home equity or partnering with others, you’ll learn how to make a rental property business a reality—even if you’re starting with no money.
How Much Money To Start A Rental Property Business
One of the most common questions people ask is: *How much money do you need to start a rental property business?* While traditionally, starting a rental business required significant upfront capital, that’s no longer always the case. The amount of money needed varies depending on your strategy, location, and resources. For those using traditional lenders, a 20% down payment is standard, but savvy investors find ways to *buy a rental property* with little to no upfront cash by utilizing creative financing options like house hacking, seller financing, or a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
It’s possible to start with as little as zero dollars of your own money, but you need to be strategic and willing to put in the work to uncover and implement these approaches.
Can You Buy A Rental Property With No Money Down?
Yes, you can buy a rental property with no money down! While starting a business typically requires cash flow, real estate investment is unique because there are creative strategies that allow you to acquire property with no money from your own pocket. Many successful property owners have used methods like *house hacking*, where they live in one part of the property while renting out the other units, to get their start. Others use *seller financing* to negotiate a deal where the seller allows you to pay in installments, thus bypassing traditional down payment methods.
While there are no guarantees, the key is leveraging existing resources and financing opportunities to minimize or eliminate the need for upfront capital.
How Do You Start A Rental Property Business With No Money
Now that you know it’s possible, let’s look at the exact steps and strategies to start your rental property business with no money. Each of the following techniques has been used by investors to build their portfolios from the ground up with little to no personal investment.
1. **House Hacking**
House hacking is a popular strategy where you buy a multi-unit property, live in one unit, and rent out the others. By doing this, you can use the rental income to cover your mortgage and other expenses, essentially allowing you to live for free while building equity in your property. Many real estate investors start with this method because it allows them to get into the market with minimal upfront costs. *Traditional lenders* are often more willing to provide favorable loan terms for *owner-occupied properties*, which helps reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
2. **Seller Financing**
Seller financing occurs when the seller acts as the lender, allowing you to bypass *traditional lenders* altogether. In this scenario, you make monthly payments directly to the seller instead of securing a mortgage through a bank. This can be a win-win situation if the seller wants to offload the property quickly and you want to purchase a rental property without a large down payment. Be cautious of the *due on sale clause* in your contract, as it could lead to issues if the seller’s lender demands full payment of the loan.
3. **HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)**
If you already own a home, you can use a *home equity line of credit* (HELOC) to finance the down payment on a new rental property. This option allows you to borrow against the equity you’ve built up in your primary residence. You can use this borrowed money to cover the down payment or to invest in *buying and renovating rental properties*, especially if you’re looking into *long-term real estate investment* strategies.
4. **Real Estate Partnerships**
Another way to get into the rental property business with no money is by partnering with other investors. Real estate partnerships are common, where one partner provides the capital and the other handles the day-to-day operations, including finding tenants, dealing with *property managers*, and maintaining the property. By forming a partnership, you can get started without putting your own money at risk, while benefiting from the *cash flow* and appreciation of the property.
The BRRRR strategy is a popular investment method among real estate investors. It stands for *Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat*, and allows you to build a portfolio with little initial cash. You begin by purchasing a rental property with either a *money loan* or alternative financing, then renovate the property to increase its value. Once it’s rented, you can refinance to pull out the equity, using that money to fund the next property purchase. It’s a great way to scale your business and recycle your funds, though it does require some upfront work.
6. **Credit Cards and Personal Loans**
While not the most conventional route, some investors use *credit cards* or personal loans to finance the initial purchase or renovation of a property. These methods should be used cautiously due to the potential risks, but they can provide quick access to capital when traditional financing options are not available.
Starting a rental property business with no money may seem like a daunting task, but as you can see, it’s entirely possible with the right strategies and a little creativity. By utilizing house hacking, seller financing, HELOCs, real estate partnerships, the BRRRR strategy, or even personal loans, you can begin building your real estate portfolio without substantial cash upfront. Keep in mind that *purchasing a rental property* is an investment in both time and effort, but the long-term rewards can be significant, especially if you plan on growing your portfolio.
Ready to dive deeper into real estate investing? Check out this post on Are short term rentals a good investment, which can help you decide whether short-term or long-term rental strategies are the right fit for you.
By following these methods, you’ll be on your way to becoming a successful *property owner* without the need for large cash reserves, opening up new opportunities to achieve financial freedom through *real estate investment*.
Hosting on Airbnb can be a rewarding venture, offering both perks and challenges. One such challenge is managing your rental remotely, even while on vacation. Fortunately, with the advancements in technology, it is now possible to handle your Airbnb business from anywhere in the world. In this post, we will explore practical and effective tips to help you successfully manage your Airbnb remotely.
How To Host Airbnb Remotely
Install Smart Home Devices for Convenience and Security
Embracing smart home technology can greatly simplify the remote management of your Airbnb property. Installing devices such as smart thermostats, smart speakers, smart locks, smart lighting, and smart TVs can enhance guest experiences while providing you with control and peace of mind. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature remotely, ensuring a comfortable stay for your guests. Smart speakers enable easy communication and voice control. And smart locks offer secure and convenient self-check-in options, while smart lighting and smart TVs enhance the ambiance of your space.
Best Smart Home Devices For Airbnb
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats like Nest and Ecobee offer remote access through mobile apps, allowing you to monitor and adjust the temperature settings from anywhere. They learn guests’ preferences over time and provide energy-efficient solutions. Our favorites to use are the Nest Thermostats because they can be monitored and turned on from our phone remotely.
Smart Locks
Brands like August and Yale offer reliable smart locks that allow you to grant access to guests remotely, track entry and exit times, and receive alerts for security purposes. They can be easily integrated with your Airbnb account for seamless management. The ones we use specifically for all of our rentals is Schlage Encode and we manage them through Remote Locks. We like Remote Locks because they work well with our Property Management Software, or PMS, Hostaway.
Find Reliable Cleaners and Maintenance Vendors
Maintaining cleanliness and addressing maintenance issues promptly are essential for a successful Airbnb business. Finding trustworthy cleaning services and maintenance vendors in your rental property’s vicinity is crucial. Ensure open communication with them, provide detailed instructions, and establish a good working relationship. If you don’t know anyone in the area, you can use an app called Taskrabbit or the software called Turno.
Best Vacation Rental Software
Vacation Rental Management Software
As I mentioned previously, we use Hostaway, but there are so many you can use and try. Using vacation rental software, such as Guesty and Lodgify, can streamline various aspects of your remote Airbnb management. These platforms offer features like centralized booking management, automated messaging, calendar synchronization, and guest communication tools. Another great option I’ve done extensive research and have thought about switching to is Hostfully. It all depends on what you want to automate and how you want to use the Management Software to improve your business and get time back. They can save you time, improve guest satisfaction, and enhance your property management efficiency. A new option I am really considering because the integrations and AI opportunities is Jurny. You can also become an investor in their company if you have some capital to deploy.
Stock Up on Essential Supplies
To ensure a pleasant guest experience, stock up on necessary supplies in advance. This includes toiletries, fresh linens, towels, cleaning products, and kitchen essentials. Partner with local vendors or use online services to conveniently restock your supplies as needed.
Offer Self Check-in Options
Self check-in enhances guest convenience while enabling you to manage your Airbnb remotely. Utilize smart locks or secure lockboxes to provide detailed instructions for smooth arrivals and departures. Clear communication with guests regarding check-in procedures is crucial to ensure a seamless experience.
Set Clear House Rules
Establishing clear house rules is vital for managing your Airbnb remotely. Clearly communicate your expectations regarding noise levels, smoking policies, pet rules, and any specific guidelines unique to your property. This ensures a smooth guest experience and helps maintain your property’s integrity.
Automate Your Airbnb Pricing
Using dynamic pricing tools like Beyond Pricing, PriceLabs and Wheelhouse can optimize your rental rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. These tools automatically adjust your pricing, ensuring competitive rates that maximize your rental income. With remote accessibility, you can easily monitor and adjust prices as needed.
Managing your Airbnb business remotely is no longer an insurmountable challenge. By adopting smart home devices, utilizing vacation rental software, finding reliable support services, stocking up on supplies, and implementing self check-in options, you can successfully handle your Airbnb business from anywhere. Embracing these tips, along with the right tools and resources, will enable you to efficiently manage your short-term rental property, save time, and optimize guest experiences. Start incorporating these practices today to unlock the full potential of your remote Airbnb hosting journey.
As a woman navigating through the complexities of modern life, the journey toward empowerment is both personal and universal. In today’s society, where opportunities abound yet challenges persist, empowering oneself as a woman is not just advantageous; it’s essential. It’s about seizing control of your life, breaking through glass ceilings, and fostering a strong support system to thrive in all aspects of life. Here’s how to empower yourself as a woman:
How To Empower Yourself As A Woman: Unlocking Confidence and Success
1. Stand Up for Yourself
Feeling empowered begins with asserting yourself and your boundaries. Whether it’s in the workplace, at home, or in social settings, don’t hesitate to voice your opinions, express your needs, and advocate for yourself. Remember, your voice matters, and standing up for yourself is the first step towards empowerment.
2. Think Positive and Empowering Thoughts
The power of mindset cannot be overstated. Cultivate a positive attitude by focusing on your strengths, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and banishing self-doubt. Affirmations and visualization techniques can help rewire your brain for success and empower you to overcome obstacles with confidence.
3. Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for empowerment. Make time for activities that nourish your body, mind, and soul, whether it’s exercise, meditation, journaling, or indulging in hobbies. Remember, when you prioritize your well-being, you’re better equipped to tackle challenges and achieve your goals.
4. Read Books on Self-Empowerment and Self-Confidence
Knowledge is power, and books are a valuable resource for self-discovery and personal growth. Explore literature on self-empowerment, confidence-building, and women’s leadership to gain insights, inspiration, and practical strategies for unlocking your full potential.
5. Say Affirmations
Affirmations are powerful tools for rewiring your subconscious mind and boosting self-confidence. Start each day by affirming your worth, capabilities, and goals. Repeat positive statements aloud or in your mind to reinforce a mindset of empowerment and possibility.
6. Learn to Say No
Setting boundaries is crucial for self-empowerment. Don’t be afraid to say no to commitments, relationships, or situations that drain your energy or compromise your values. Remember, saying no is not a sign of weakness; it’s a declaration of self-respect and self-prioritization.
7. Empower Others
True empowerment is about lifting others as you rise. Mentorship, support networks, and community engagement are powerful ways to empower women and create a ripple effect of positive change. By empowering others, you amplify your own sense of purpose and fulfillment.
8. Cultivate a Strong Support System
Surround yourself with positive people who uplift and inspire you. A strong support system of friends, family, mentors, and peers can provide encouragement, guidance, and perspective as you navigate your journey toward empowerment.
9. Set Goals and Take Action
Empowerment is fueled by purpose and driven by action. Set clear, achievable goals for yourself, both short-term and long-term, and take consistent steps towards their attainment. Celebrate your progress along the way and adjust your course as needed to stay aligned with your aspirations.
10. Take Control of Your Life
Ultimately, empowerment is about taking ownership of your choices, actions, and destiny. Recognize that you have the power to shape your life according to your values, passions, and aspirations. Embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for growth, and trust in your ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace.
In conclusion, empowerment is not a destination but a journey—a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. By implementing these strategies and embracing the power within you, you can feel empowered to overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and create the life you desire. Remember, the path to empowerment is yours to forge, and with a positive attitude, a strong support system, and a commitment to self-care, you can break through barriers and soar to new heights of success and fulfillment.
If you’re looking for more insights on self-care, check out my post on the Pillars of Self Care for additional inspiration and guidance on nurturing your well-being.
Feel empowered, set goals, and achieve your dreams—because empowered women empower the world.
Y’all, I’m the first to admit that anytime someone tells me they used x,y,z site for getting this or that done more efficiently, I will head straight there to check it out. I have to know for myself! Yet, I don’t ever take the time to actually use and learn it because I’m onto the next best thing someone else recommended. And then my list of things to do, like this blog post, end up getting lost in the shuffle. It’s who I am and I’m doing my best to own it and change. If you are like me or maybe not as easily distracted as me, here are a few tips we can all use to help avoid online distractions.
How to Avoid Online Distractions
Many people are still working full time and schooling from home, but unlike in 2020, when everyone was getting so much more done and had more time on their hands than ever, most of us are back to the daily grind. We no longer have unlimited time to explore and discover new things online. We also don’t have to frequently check social, and news feeds to stay in-the-know. But if you’re like me, this habit isn’t one that you can quickly and easily break. Whether it’s part-time or full-time, many of us are still working from home. Here are a few of my tips to avoid online distractions so you can keep your productivity and focus on what you need to do.
Identifying Your Distractions
Let’s start with the most challenging part in eliminating your distractions, and it’s identifying what they are. When you try to work, take note of the things and ideas that keep your focus away. Is it a Facebook group discussion, sale online, an abandoned online shopping cart, or trending Twitter topics? Whatever it is, please write it down, and once done, look at your list and evaluate how to reduce or eliminate them.
Disable Notifications while Working or Studying
Pings and buzzes from notifications can easily distract you. There are ways to minimize their effect on your productivity. Silence the unnecessary notifications to stay focused during work or study time. If it is on your phone, disable it before you start to work, the same with computers and other gadgets—close distracting websites. One of the most distracting notifications comes from messenger apps and phone calls. It’s better to turn it off in the meantime or hide it somewhere far from your work area.
Set a Time Cap for Online Sessions
Take screen breaks. To increase productivity and avoid feeling burnout, create a balance between your online sessions and taking breaks. Destressing is essential but make sure that you are within a specific schedule. Perhaps, set it to a specific time, maybe 20 minutes for every hour work time. Spend it to stretch, grab a snack, drink coffee, or dance with your pups or kids.
Don’t go beyond the time you spend on breaks. Return immediately to your work to keep your routine on track and to keep you efficient.
Ask a Friend to Keep You Accountable
Seek accountability by asking someone to help you fight online distractions. It could be a friend, a sibling, or a roommate. Let them keep your phone while you’re working, or create a co-working area where you hold each other accountable to finish your work. Another way is also doing it online through a video call. You can study or work together while on Zoom. Just make sure to be true to your accountability goals.
Setting Aside Time for Answering and Reading Emails
Find ways to manage the time you spend answering and reading emails. How? Turn off email notifications. Allot time to clear up your inbox. A well-categorized inbox can lessen the time you spend scrolling through it. Organize and use folders for this. Use automated filtering. Lastly, set a specific number of minutes, and schedule an hour in a day when you can do an email task. So, create an email system that works best with your work schedule.
Changing your Workplace
If noise-canceling headphones are not working for you, relocate to another area conducive for working. Your workplace is a huge factor in your focus level. It covers inevitable external distractions like interruptions from other employees or your family. Studying or catching up on work in a coffee shop might sound like a good idea, but for many people it’s an environment that makes it difficult to manage distractions. Keep your door closed, clear the clutter before you start working or studying, and evaluate how your existing workplace affects your productivity. If you are still struggling, make sure to check out this blog I wrote to help you limit distractions when working from home.
Using Anti-Distraction Apps
While the worldwide web is a place to work, it’s also where significant distractions come from. There’s just a certain allure to current socializing technology like our favorite social media platforms, games, and many more. So, one of the best ways to combat online distraction is to use another technology against it. Build discipline with the help of anti-distraction apps that keep you stay on track. These apps will hopefully help you build a better routine.
How To Avoid Distractions During Online Classes
Turn Off Your Phone
If you’re like a lot of college students (or students of any age, really) who easily get distracted during online learning, silencing your phone or turning off notifications isn’t enough to avoid distractions. Instead, turn off your phone. This will make it easier to focus on the task at hand.
You can take it one step further and leave your phone where it’s out of reach. Out of sight, out of mind, right? This, a lot of times, works for people who struggle with paying attention when their phone is accessible, even if it’s turned off. You might even consider having one of your family members hold onto it for a specific period of time.
Take Frequent Breaks
No matter how well you’re able to concentrate on a task, it’s only a matter of time until it becomes hard to stay focused. Stay ahead of these dips in productivity by taking breaks. Your brain needs to rest, too! Research shows that even a short diversion can significantly improve focus
Best Anti Distraction Apps
Here are some of the focus apps that surely help to avoid getting distracted. These are tools that give options as far as distraction blocking apps is concerned:
Works on all your devices at the same time, so you can block your computer and phone and iPad all at the same time and not be distracted by a different device. Minimal cost of $9/month for all devices or you can choose yearly for about $3.50/month. (Personally this is what I use)
The Pro version is a one time purchase of $39 and you have it forever. Impossible to get out of the blocker once you start until the time is seen through or specific task is complete.
Free browser extension but it is only available for Firefox, so if you want to use other browsers to distract, you can do so.
Hopefully this helps you free yourself from the digital distractions we all find ourselves getting into, and you find on of the anti distraction options helps you become more productive. Afterall, we all have the same hours in the day, and it’s important you make the best use of the most valuable resource – time.
industry-specific challenges. You need to conduct thorough research and perform your due diligence to ensure you’re making a sound investment. From assessing the property’s proximity to attractions like a ski resort or hiking trail to evaluating potential upgrades such as hot tubs, the buying process can be tricky. To help you navigate this challenge, today I’m sharing a detailed round-up of what to look for in a vacation rental property to maximize your success.
a popular hiking trail, or a bustling downtown, the location will significantly influence how much rental income your property can generate. Travelers are typically looking for convenience, so make sure your property is close to amenities and attractions that will draw guests in.
and slow seasons will help you estimate potential revenue and decide whether the investment makes sense.
looking to expand your portfolio, we’ve got you covered.
amenities are often the tipping point for guests choosing between two similar properties. Deciding if you will be pet friendly is another amenity you can include to get different travelers that bring along their 4 legged friends.
thermostats, smart speakers, smart locks, smart lighting, and smart TVs can enhance guest experiences while providing you with control and peace of mind. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature remotely, ensuring a comfortable stay for your guests. Smart speakers enable easy communication and voice control. And smart locks offer secure and convenient self-check-in options, while smart lighting and smart TVs enhance the ambiance of your space.
cleaning services and maintenance vendors in your rental property’s vicinity is crucial. Ensure open communication with them, provide detailed instructions, and establish a good working relationship. If you don’t know anyone in the area, you can use an app called 
provide detailed instructions for smooth arrivals and departures. Clear communication with guests regarding check-in procedures is crucial to ensure a seamless experience.
hesitate to voice your opinions, express your needs, and advocate for yourself. Remember, your voice matters, and standing up for yourself is the first step towards empowerment.
energy or compromise your values. Remember, saying no is not a sign of weakness; it’s a declaration of self-respect and self-prioritization.
work, take note of the things and ideas that keep your focus away. Is it a Facebook group discussion, sale online, an abandoned online shopping cart, or trending Twitter topics? Whatever it is, please write it down, and once done, look at your list and evaluate 
taking breaks. Destressing is essential but make sure that you are within a specific schedule. Perhaps, set it to a specific time, maybe 20 minutes for every hour work time. Spend it to stretch, grab a snack, drink coffee, or dance with your pups or kids.
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