We outline the vital qualities of an Airbnb real estate agent and provide strategic advice on how to find one.

Why It Pays to Work with an Airbnb Real Estate Agent

STR expertise is niche because most investor-friendly real estate agents focus on primary residences or long-term rentals. 

An Airbnb real estate agent can help you assess income potential, navigate local regulations, and avoid costly mistakes.

Combine Airbnb real estate agent expertise with tools like AirDNA’s market insights to invest with confidence.

Buying a property with Airbnb in mind? Be careful who you take advice from.

Most investor-friendly real estate agents are great at finding primary homes, but short-term rentals (STRs) are a different story. Airbnb investing isn’t just about buying a house. It’s about running a business. You have to factor in guest expectations, local regulations, pricing strategies, and long-term earning potential. It’s an entire industry with its own set of challenges. 

That’s why you need more than your typical real estate agent. An Airbnb real estate agent gets what makes a property perform. They know how to run the numbers, spot profitable neighborhoods, and flag red tape before it ruins your ROI.

The good news? Airbnb real estate agents exist, though they are a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. This guide will show you where to find them and what to look for in an agent who actually knows the short-term rental space.

Discover your next profitable short-term rental with real market revenue projections.

An Airbnb real estate agent is a real estate professional who helps investors find properties that perform well as short-term rentals. Unlike traditional agents who focus on primary homes, short-term rental real estate agents understand the business side of Airbnb. They help buyers estimate potential revenue, understand local short-term rental regulations, and choose markets with strong demand and earning potential.

Working with an Airbnb real estate agent can save you time, reduce risk, and help you make more confident investment decisions, whether you're launching your first listing or expanding your real estate portfolio.

Buying a short-term rental property isn’t just about location or curb appeal. It’s about earning potential, regulatory fit, and long-term viability. That’s where a knowledgeable Airbnb real estate agent comes in.

These agents do more than schedule showings or write offers. They help investors:

Estimate potential Airbnb revenue using local short-term rental data, not just traditional home comps.

Pinpoint profitable submarkets based on occupancy trends, average daily rates (ADR), and guest demand.

Understand local STR regulations like permit caps, license requirements, and HOA rules before making an offer.

Identify early signs of saturation or shifting market dynamics that could affect long-term returns.

Avoid investment misfires like properties that look good on paper but are poorly suited for short-term rental success.

If you're planning to invest in a new city or you’re just getting serious about STR as a business, having an Airbnb real estate agent could be the difference between a solid income stream and a costly mistake.

Pair that expertise with AirDNA’s market insights and revenue tools, and you’ll be in a far stronger position to find and fund your next great short-term rental.

Most Airbnb real estate agents earn a standard commission paid at closing just like any traditional buyer’s agent. However, because they often have short-term rental expertise, some may also offer extra services or partnerships, like recommending property managers or helping you evaluate post-purchase setup costs. The exact support they provide can vary, so it’s worth asking what’s included before you commit.

Gain insights into the revenue and occupancy trends in your market.

It’s not just your imagination. Airbnb real estate agents really are harder to find. That’s because most real estate professionals are trained to help people buy primary homes or long-term rentals. Short-term rentals are a completely different business model. They come with wide-ranging regulations, different operating costs, and their own set of performance metrics that don’t show up in a standard MLS listing.

So unless an agent has specific experience with STRs, they may not know how to evaluate a property's revenue potential or flag details that could hurt your booking performance later.

An agent who’s walked in your shoes, as an Airbnb host or STR investor, brings a whole different level of insight. They know what works (and what doesn’t) because they’ve been there themselves. That kind of firsthand experience can be a game-changer when you're weighing things like location, layout, or how to attract more bookings.

As Daniel Ramirez at Host Financial explains, most agents aren’t focused on this space. 

“Finding agents for primary homes, traditional long-term rentals, or commercial properties is as easy as throwing a dart on a board, while STR-specific agents still remain relatively scarce,” says Ramirez. 

The good news? They're out there. You just need to know where to look. Here's how to start your search for a short-term rental real estate agent who knows how to spot properties that perform on Airbnb.

Local real estate associations: Check their directories for agents specializing in STRs.

Online platforms: Search on Zillow, Realtor.com, or Redfin for agents with STR experience.

Networking events and meetups: Connect with agents at local events through MeetUp.com.

Referrals from other investors: Gain insights and recommendations from experienced investors.

Property management companies: STR property managers often work closely with agents and can be a great source for referrals, especially if you're planning to hire one anyway. Vet local managers and ask who they’ve seen closing properties that would work well on Airbnb in your target market.

Online forums and communities: Participate in discussions on platforms like BiggerPockets, which even have a Find an Agent Tool.

Social media: Utilize LinkedIn and Facebook to find STR-focused real estate professionals, including agents and property managers. Host Financial has a list of STR Rental Groups on Facebook.

Real Estate investment clubs: Network with STR-experienced agents in these clubs.

Real estate conferences: Engage with experts at STR-specific conferences and events.

Local Chambers of Commerce: Reach out to your local real estate business community.

13 Traits To Look For In An Airbnb Real Estate Agent

Not every investor-friendly agent is a good fit for short-term rentals. Airbnb investing comes with its own set of challenges, so it helps to work with someone who truly gets the STR space. Here are 12 things to look for when choosing an Airbnb real estate agent who can guide you to the right Airbnb investment.

Extensive experience with short-term rentals

It’s one thing to work in real estate. It’s another to know the short-term rental space inside and out. The best Airbnb real estate agents are full-time professionals who’ve spent serious time working in the STR market. That experience helps them understand local trends, spot shifting regulations, and guide you toward properties with strong earning potential and consistent guest demand.

Proven track record with Airbnb properties

You want an agent who doesn’t just talk Airbnb, but has helped other investors succeed in it. Look for someone with a history of closing STR deals and guiding clients toward profitable results. A strong track record shows they know how to find the right properties, navigate challenges, and build real investment value over time.

Knows how regulations impact your bottom line

Short-term rental laws directly affect your profits. A great Airbnb real estate agent helps you understand which regulations you can work with and which ones might kill your investment.

That means identifying areas where licensing is available (but limited), whether there are minimum night stay requirements, guest limits, or zoning quirks that reduce your flexibility. They’ll also know where hosts are getting squeezed by tax changes, or where new rules are on the horizon that could affect your returns.


A skilled Airbnb real estate agent knows how to read the market and back it up with data. They use tools like AirDNA to analyze things like occupancy rates, nightly pricing trends, and seasonal demand. With that information, they can help you compare neighborhoods, understand how a property might perform, and decide if the numbers make sense for your goals.

Financial expertise for Airbnb investments

The best agents understand your loan options and how the finances of short-term rentals actually work. They can help you estimate potential revenue, factor in operating costs like cleaning and maintenance, and build a realistic cash flow model. That way, you’re making decisions based on your overall investment strategy, not just the listing price.

A good Airbnb real estate agent understands what it actually takes to run a short-term rental, not just buy one. They should know what goes into day-to-day operations, how local rules affect hosting, and what typical host costs look like, from cleaning fees to platform commissions. This kind of insight helps you better assess a property's true earning potential.

Agents who specialize in STRs can also connect you with trusted property managers, especially helpful if you're investing out of state or want to stay hands-off. Having those resources upfront makes it easier to hit the ground running after you close.

An agent with deep-rooted connections in the Airbnb market can make a world of difference in your investment opportunities. Agents entrenched in the STR market often have access to exclusive property listings that aren't available to the general public. These off-market properties can present unique Airbnb investment opportunities that might otherwise be missed.

Additionally, their network often includes vital contacts, such as seasoned Airbnb property managers who can provide crucial insights into local STR operations and renovation experts who understand which upgrades will maximize your Airbnb's appeal. This network is invaluable for investors looking to gain a competitive edge in the short-term rental market.

An Airbnb real estate agent knows how to negotiate a price that fits your expected rental income and occupancy goals. They understand how to balance your budget with the property’s potential so you’re not overpaying for a place that won’t perform.

A great agent can also help you think beyond the purchase. They’ll have a good sense of what kinds of amenities improve guest experience and increase bookings. That could mean modern furniture, better lighting, smart home features, or small design touches that help your listing stand out in a crowded market.

A hot tub might add $17K in one market and nothing in another. AirDNA helps you filter by amenity to reveal what’s actually worth the investment in your area.

Not all Airbnb investments are plug and play. Some require creative Airbnb investment strategies, like buying a fixer-upper and turning it into a high-earning rental, or targeting areas with growing demand. A smart agent can help you think strategically about how and where to invest, especially in markets with long-term potential.

The best Airbnb agents know how to talk through the numbers. They understand key investment terms and can clearly explain cash flow, revenue projections, and market trends. You won’t have to translate industry jargon or second-guess what the data means for your bottom line.

An Airbnb investment doesn’t end at closing, and the right agent knows that. They stay connected, keep you informed about market shifts or new regulations, and continue sharing insights that help you grow your portfolio. If they’re truly experienced with STRs, they’ll be a resource long after the deal is done.

AirDNA’s powerful yet easy-to-use tools make hosting and investing a breeze. This means having every insight you need, all in one place, always up-to-date.

Do I need a special real estate agent to buy an Airbnb property?

Technically, no. Any licensed agent can help you buy a home. However, if you're planning to use it as a short-term rental, it’s worth working with an agent who understands the STR industry. An Airbnb real estate agent can guide you through local regulations, help you estimate potential revenue, and flag any risks that could affect your return on investment.

What does an Airbnb real estate agent actually do?

They help you find a property that actually makes business sense as a short-term rental, not just one that looks nice or seems like a deal. Buying an Airbnb is a different kind of decision, and a good short-term rental real estate agent understands that. They know where short-term rentals are allowed, where guests actually want to stay, and how to tell if a place has real income potential. Some agents can also connect you with property managers or tools to help you get your listing off the ground faster.

How much does an Airbnb real estate agent get paid?

Most get paid the same way as traditional agents: a commission based on the final sale price, paid by the seller at closing. In some cases, if the agent also offers property management or consulting, there might be additional fees. Always ask up front what services are included and how they’re compensated.

Can real estate agents also manage Airbnb properties?

Some do, but not all. A few real estate agents offer management services or partner with STR property managers to help clients after the sale. If you're looking for help beyond the purchase, ask whether they offer management support or can connect you with someone reliable.

Yes, absolutely, but like any investment, it comes down to doing your homework. The short-term rental space has evolved, and while some markets have gotten more competitive or introduced stricter rules, there’s still plenty of opportunity for strong returns. Investors who succeed today are the ones who understand local demand, stay ahead of regulations, and know how to position their property to attract the right guests. With the right strategy and tools, Airbnb can still be a profitable and flexible way to grow your real estate portfolio.

Find the perfect real estate agent for short-term rental investments. Learn essential tips to secure high-return properties with expert guidance.

12 Qualities of an Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agent and How to Find One


Key Takeaways:
Investors make up a growing portion of home buyers, which underscores the competition as well as the potential of real estate investments.
Investor-friendly real estate agents specialize in serving property investors, offering essential guidance in selecting high-return investments.
Leverage local real estate networks, online platforms, and industry events to find an investor-friendly agent. Focus on those with a proven track record, deep market insight, and strategic investment knowledge.

Navigating the real estate investment market alone is not for the faint of heart, especially in recent years.

According to Redfin data, there has been a significant rise in investor activity in the housing market. The percentage of homes purchased by investors has increased from 6-7% in 2000 to a record high of 16% in Q3 of 2023. This percentage includes 15% of all single-family homes sold. Meanwhile, 89% of homes were purchased with the help of a real estate agent in 2023, according to an annual survey from the National Association of Realtors. The median length of time on the market before sale was two weeks.

Investor-friendly agents can guide you through this competitive landscape and help you choose the best rental property investment. With their help, investors can make well-informed decisions, effectively manage complex transactions, and identify money-making opportunities in a market where timing and knowledge are critical for success.

Research Airbnb Markets

Gain insights into the revenue and occupancy trends in your market.

Try here for free
What is an Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agent?

An investor-friendly real estate agent caters to the specific needs of property investors. Unlike traditional real estate agents who mainly sell homes to people looking for a primary residence, investor-friendly agents solely focus on serving those who view real estate as a business opportunity. 

Investor-friendly real estate agents excel at identifying properties that offer high potential for returns. They possess the skills to assess various factors such as location, property condition, potential rental income, and market demand. 

In the short-term rental market, investor-friendly agents play a more active role as strategic advisors, market analysts, and investment strategists. Their primary objective is to help clients optimize their financial performance by providing valuable insights and guidance. This is especially important in the STR sector, which can be particularly nuanced and dynamic.

Learn about Dynamic Pricing

How to Find an Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agent for Short-Term Rentals

Finding an investor-friendly real estate agent, especially one with expertise in vacation rentals, requires a targeted approach. 

Here’s how one expert from Host Financial put it: 

“Finding agents for primary homes, traditional long-term rentals, or commercial properties is as easy as throwing a dart on a board, while STR-specific agents still remain relatively scarce. Therefore, some digging is required.”  Daniel Ramirez, Host Financial

Here are some places to start digging for a good investor-friendly agent: 

Local Real Estate Associations: Check their directories for agents specializing in STRs.
Online Platforms: Search on Zillow, Realtor.com, or Redfin for agents with STR experience.
Networking Events and Meetups: Connect with agents at local events through MeetUp.com.
Referrals from Other Investors: Gain insights and recommendations from experienced investors.
Property Management Companies: Short-term rental property managers enter the scene in the space between a new property purchase and operation. Because of that, they often have connections to agents that have just closed on a property. If you’re planning on using a property manager anyways, you can kill two birds with one stone. Vet property managers in the area that you’re looking to invest while simultaneously asking for agent recommendations (Adam Windham, Host Financial).
Online Forums and Communities: Participate in discussions on platforms like BiggerPockets, who even have a Find an Agent Tool. 
Social Media: Utilize LinkedIn and Facebook to find STR-focused real estate professionals, including agents and property managers. Host Financial has a list of STR Rental Groups on Facebook. 
Real Estate Investment Clubs: Network with STR-experienced agents in these clubs.
Real Estate Conferences: Engage with experts at STR-specific conferences and events. 
Local Chambers of Commerce: Reach out to your local real estate business community.

Compare Airbnb markets

12 Signs That a Real Estate Agent is Investor-Friendly

Here are 12 qualities to look for in an agent: 

Extensive Experience and Full-Time Engagement

Choosing a full-time agent who dedicates their career exclusively to real estate, particularly in the STR market, is essential. This level of commitment often correlates with a deeper understanding of the STR landscape, from evolving market trends to regulatory nuances. An agent with substantial experience in STRs will have a keen eye for properties that offer the best potential for high occupancy rates and robust rental income.

Personal Experience in Real Estate Investing

An agent who has personal investment experience in STRs brings invaluable practical insights. Their firsthand knowledge of the challenges and rewards of managing rental properties means they can offer advice that’s grounded in real-world experience. This experience is particularly beneficial when considering factors like location, property features that appeal to short-term renters, and strategies for maximizing occupancy. 

Proven Track Record With Real Estate Investors

A strong portfolio demonstrates an agent’s expertise in facilitating STR investments. Look for an agent who has not only helped make transactions happen, but has also contributed to notable financial success in their investor clients’ STR portfolios. Their track record should reflect a deep understanding of the investment property market. Look for evidence of smart property selection, investment strategies, and effective marketing techniques for STRs.

Learn about Dynamic Pricing

In-Depth Market Knowledge and Analysis

In the STR market, an agent's expertise in analyzing market trends and data is indispensable for pinpointing profitable investment opportunities. A good agent should skillfully utilize tools like AirDNA's STR Investing Tools to dissect real estate market trends, demand patterns, and the revenue potentials of different areas. They must be able to translate complex data into actionable insights. The best investor-friendly real estate agents help investors identify locations with high growth potential or uncover under-the-radar markets ripe for STR investments.

Financial Expertise

Agents specializing in STRs must excel in evaluating financial parameters unique to short-term rentals. This includes a thorough understanding of occupancy rates, seasonal pricing strategies, and the ability to project cash flow for short-term rental properties. Their financial guidance should help investors create realistic revenue expectations and investment models, considering factors such as operational costs, potential rental income, and return on investment timelines.

Try Our Vacation Rental Pricing Tool

Use Smart Rates™ to optimize your pricing strategy.

Try here for free
Expertise in Rental Property Management

An agent should be familiar with running an STR, everything from understanding the day-to-day management to ensuring regulatory compliance. They should also know all the expenses involved in managing an STR, allowing investors to make well-informed decisions about potential investment property purchases and their ongoing management strategies. 

Investor-friendly real estate agents should also have recommendations for property management services. These services are a critical aspect for investors who are new to the vacation rental business and want to outsource some of the work involved. 

Access to Exclusive Resources and Networks

An agent with deep-rooted connections can make a world of difference in your investment opportunities. Agents entrenched in the STR market often have access to exclusive property listings that aren't available to the general public. These off-market properties can present unique investment opportunities that might otherwise be missed. 

Additionally, their network often includes vital contacts like seasoned rental property managers, who can provide crucial insights into local STR operations, and renovation experts, who can advise on cost-effective upgrades to maximize your rental’s appeal. This network is invaluable for investors looking to gain a competitive edge in the STR market.

Negotiation Skills

The ability to negotiate and analyze deals is particularly crucial in the STR sector, where the balance between purchase price and potential rental income is key. A good agent will have a track record of negotiating terms that align with the specific goals of STR investors. This includes securing properties at prices that make financial sense in the context of expected rental income and occupancy rates.

Knowledge of Property Improvements

An effective agent in the STR market should be capable of offering practical advice on improving properties to boost returns. This includes an understanding of what guests seek in STRs and a grasp of the latest trends impacting the market. They should be able to advise on cost-effective enhancements that increase attractiveness and occupancy rates, such as modern amenities, décor updates, or technology integrations.

Familiarity with Advanced Investment Strategies

An agent with a deep understanding of the STR market will be knowledgeable about a variety of advanced investment strategies. This expertise might cover acquiring fixer-uppers to convert into profitable STRs or identifying and investing in emerging gateway markets. Gateway markets are city or metropolitan areas that are considered to be stable real estate investments because of their population, economic health, diversity, and desirability.

Boost Your Rental Revenue

Uses the Right ‘Lingo’ 

An agent with a background in working with real estate investors typically excels in delivering clear, investor-focused communication. They understand the specific terminology and concepts that are key to the investment world, making discussions about market trends, financial analyses, and investment strategies clear and meaningful. This agent is not only fluent in the language of real estate investment but also attuned to the unique concerns and objectives of real estate investors.

Provides Ongoing Support 

The ideal investor-friendly agent becomes a long-term partner in your investment journey. Look for an agent who keeps you informed about evolving trends, regulatory changes, and emerging investment strategies. An agent who stays in touch demonstrates a commitment to your success, ensuring that your investment properties remain competitive and profitable in the ever-changing STR landscape.

Don’t Go Solo with Your Investment Property

Investor-friendly agents offer you more than convenience. They play an important role in your overall investment strategy. The right real estate agent brings a wealth of knowledge, identifies promising investment properties, and offers insights into the ever-evolving dynamics of the STR market. 

If you're poised to take your property investment to the next level, AirDNA also offers valuable resources and tools. Check out our guide to Airbnb real estate investing for more information.

New Construction Homes Data - Redfin

realtor.com® | Homes for Sale, Apartments & Houses for Rent

Real Estate, Homes for Sale, MLS Listings, Agents | Redfin

Meetup | Find Local Groups, Events, and Activities Near You

Short Term Rental Loans For Purchase, Refinance & More | Host Financial

25 Short-Term Rental Conferences You Shouldn't Miss in 2024

 AirDNA | Short-Term Rental Data Analytics | Vrbo & Airbnb Data 

 Short-Term Rental Seasonality: The Most and Least Seasonal Markets | 
AirDNA 

Calculate potential short term rental earnings

Actionable data and insights to help you optimize and grow

Find great investment opportunities to grow your portfolio

Increase revenue with competitive analysis

Win and retain clients, grow your business.

Build custom comps to benchmark performance

Unlock crucial travel and tourism trends by destination

Invest with confidence using advanced market insights

Grow revenue 20% with local prices, occupancy, and trend data.

Research Solutions

Features

Feature

Enterprise Solutions

Investing Resources

Investing Resources Right Side

Free Tools

Hosting Resources

Ressources pour les hôtes

Why It Pays to Work with an Airbnb Real Estate Agent

ARTICLE SUMMARY

QUICK NAVIGATION