Student Housing Insight

Short-Term Rentals (STRs) in Student Housing

📝 Episode Summary:

In this special Lunch and Learn edition of the Student Housing Insight podcast, Wes Deese discusses the growing trend of using short-term rentals (STRs)—such as Airbnb and VRBO—as a strategy to offset vacancy in student housing. Featuring insights from Mickey Kropf of Vector Travel and Pam West of Campus Advantage, this session explores how STRs can be successfully integrated into student properties, the regulatory landscape, operational logistics, safety protocols, insurance, financial models, and ideal markets.

Whether you're new to STRs or looking to refine your implementation, this episode delivers practical advice and first-hand experiences to help student housing operators make informed decisions.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00:00 – Introduction and background on STRs in student housing

00:01:00 – Vector Travel’s role in managing student housing STRs

 00:02:00 – Wes shares personal experience using STRs during high vacancy

 00:03:00 – National leasing trends and challenges in 2025

00:04:00 – How Vector helped address occupancy gaps

00:05:00 – Guest introductions: Mickey Kropf and Pam West

00:06:00 – Mickey’s background and Vector’s student housing focus

00:07:00 – Pam’s experience managing STR assets with Vector

00:08:00 – What qualifies as a short-term rental legally?

00:09:00 – Midterm stays and platforms like Furnish Finder

00:10:00 – Navigating STR regulations and city-specific overlays

00:12:00 – Example: Charleston, SC regulatory framework

00:13:00 – Safety and preventing parties in STR units

00:14:00 – Noise monitoring, guest screening, and onsite team collaboration

00:15:00 – Insurance and liability for STR units

00:17:00 – Advertising STRs as an amenity to residents and families

00:18:00 – Lessons from Adobe Center in Austin, TX

00:19:00 – Operational logistics: cleaning, guest comms, and maintenance

00:21:00 – Why property teams should not DIY STR management

 00:22:00 – Corporate and site-level collaboration for success

00:24:00 – Marketing to residents and their families

00:25:00 – Accounting, taxes, and financial reporting of STR income

00:27:00 – Revenue share vs. guaranteed income models

 00:29:00 – Risk mitigation and flexibility in contract models

00:30:00 – Ideal student markets for STRs

00:31:00 – Real-life examples: Eugene, Missoula, Waco, and more

00:33:00 – Exit strategies and using STRs as temporary solutions

 00:35:00 – Wrapping up and future SHI events

🔗 Referenced Sources & Links:

Vector Travel: https://vectorstays.com

Student Housing Insight (Events Page): https://studenthousinginsight.com/events

Charleston STR Regulations: https://www.charleston-sc.gov/shortte...

Doby Center (Adobe Center) History Episode: Previously mentioned SHI podcast episode featuring Bill Bayless

QR Code: http://www.vectorstays.com/SHI

Future of Student Housing 2025 Episode - SHI 1005

 Student Housing Insight Podcast – Austin Round-Up 2025

In this engaging episode of Student Housing Insight, recorded live at the 17th Annual Interface Student Housing Conference in Austin, Texas, host Wes Deese brings together industry leaders to discuss the current state and future of the student housing sector. Held in mid-April 2025 at the JW Marriott, the conference attracted over 1,500 attendees, uniting top executives for three days of sessions, roundtables, and networking. The panel, featuring Sean Divine (Core Spaces), Adam Byrley (The Price Company), Jennifer Cassidy (Cardinal Group Companies), and Casey Petersen (Tailwind Group), delves into critical topics such as the impact of FAFSA delays on leasing velocity, competition from conventional multifamily housing, centralization strategies, and the potential effects of tariffs. The discussion also explores emerging trends like AI, international student demand, mental health programming, and user experience. The episode wraps up with audience Q&A, offering insights into what keeps these leaders passionate about the industry and their excitement for technology adoption.

 Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Interface Student Housing Conference and Episode Overview.

• • 00:01:00 - Welcome to the Live Podcast and Guest Introductions
    • Sean Divine, EVP of Property Operations and Experience, Core Spaces.
    • Adam Byrley, COO, The Price Company.
    • Jennifer Cassidy, President, Cardinal Group Companies.
    • Casey Petersen, COO, Tailwind Group.

• • 00:05:00 - Discussion on Leasing Velocity and FAFSA Impact
    • Reflecting on the 2024 FAFSA delays and their effect on leasing.
    • Market-specific impacts (e.g., Arizona) and supply-demand dynamics.
    • Role of pricing, new supply, and economic uncertainty.

• • 00:19:00 - Competition from Conventional Multifamily Housing
    • Challenges in measuring student leakage to conventional markets.
    • Market-specific shadow markets and student preferences.

• • 00:24:00 - Centralization in Student Housing Operations
    • Lessons learned from centralization efforts.
    • Balancing technology, payroll costs, and performance.
    • Importance of change management and team empowerment.

• • 00:36:23 - Impact of Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty
    • Potential effects on furniture supply and new developments.
    • Broader business impacts (e.g., interest rates, treasuries).

• • 00:41:46 - Future of Student Housing (Next Five Years)
    • Role of AI and technology (e.g., humanoid robots at Iris Technologies).
    • International student demand shifts and policy impacts.
    • Legal policy, mental health programming, and user experience trends.

• • 00:48:44 - Audience Q&A
    • What keeps industry leaders passionate about student housing.
    • Excitement for technology and balancing operational strategy.

• 00:55:50 - Closing Remarks and Thanks.

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 Resources & References Mentioned

• InterFace Student Housing Conference – https://www.interfaceconferencegroup.com/event/student-housing

• University of Florida (Gainesville) – https://www.ufl.edu

• NC State University (Raleigh) – https://www.ncsu.edu

Bill Bayless - Profiles in Student Housing - SHI 1004

🎙️ Episode Title: Profiles in Student Housing: Bill Bayless of Maslow’s Campus Communities

📋 Episode Summary:

In this special episode of the Student Housing Insight Podcast, host Wesley Deese sits down with industry legend Bill Bayless, co-founder and former CEO of American Campus Communities and current CEO and founder of Maslow’s Campus Communities. From his humble beginnings in West Virginia to founding one of the largest student housing companies in the world, Bill shares the pivotal moments, challenges, and philosophies that have defined his career and shaped the industry. This candid, in-depth interview also covers his new vision for Maslow’s Campus Communities and a full-circle moment with Disney. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just entering the student housing world, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and wisdom from one of the industry’s greats.

 

⏱️ Episode Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 — Introduction: Bill Bayless joins the podcast
  
• 00:01:00 — Sponsor message: Campus Technologies
  
• 00:02:00 — Overview of Student Housing Insight platform and “ShopTalk” webinars
  
• 00:03:09 — Introducing the “Profiles” series and Bill Bayless’s industry impact
  
• 00:07:10 — Bill’s upbringing in West Virginia and early work experiences
  
• 00:14:00 — Memorable professors and practical business education
  
• 00:17:00 — Becoming an RA and discovering student housing
  
• 00:19:00 — Market softening at WVU and the inspiration to build a student housing business
  
• 00:21:00 — Misconceptions of student housing in the 1980s
  
• 00:23:00 — Early career: Cardinal Industries and bankruptcy lessons
  
• 00:25:00 — Joining Century Development and exploring P3 partnerships
  
• 00:27:00 — Launching American Campus Communities (ACC) from Doby Center
  
• 00:32:00 — Early ACC challenges and the Prairie View A&M project
  
• 00:38:00 — Securing capital and scaling ACC
  
• 00:42:00 — IPO journey: Institutionalizing student housing
  
• 00:47:00 — Culture and philosophy of leadership at ACC
  
• 00:51:00 — Management advice: hiring, mentorship, and team development
  
• 00:56:00 — Returning to the Disney vision and a full-circle moment
  
• 01:00:00 — Partnering with Disney on 10,400-bed intern housing
  
• 01:03:00 — Operational excellence as the cornerstone of success
  
  

🏢 Sponsor:

Campus Technologies
Fast, reliable internet isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Campus Technologies brings nearly 25 years of experience delivering top-tier internet and managed IT services to student housing communities nationwide.
📥 Download their latest white paper or visit campustechnologies.com to learn how to future-proof your property.

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• 🎧 Student Housing Insight Website
• 📊 ShopTalk Info & Webinar Registration
• 🌐 Campus Technologies
• 🏢 American Campus Communities
• 🏫 Maslow’s Campus Communities

 

Affordable Housing for Students: The Mission of College Housing Northwest - SHI1003

In this episode, co-host Greta Dare sits down with Alex Wallace, Development Manager at College Housing Northwest (CHNW), to explore how the nonprofit has been delivering affordable housing to Portland-area students since 1969. They discuss CHNW’s origins, current initiatives, and how the organization is partnering with schools and government programs to address rising student housing insecurity and homelessness. With innovative redevelopment strategies and a mission-driven approach, CHNW presents a compelling model for expanding access to affordable student housing across the U.S.

🕒 Time Stamps:

• 00:00:00 – Sponsor Message from Campus Technologies

• 00:01:00 – Introduction by Wesley Deese

• 00:03:00 – Why affordability in student housing isn’t discussed enough

• 00:04:15 – Introduction to College Housing Northwest (CHNW)

• 00:06:00 – Mission and structure of CHNW

• 00:07:00 – The rise of student homelessness and nationwide affordability crisis

• 00:11:00 – Statistics from the Hope Center on housing insecurity

• 00:13:00 – How CHNW began: the 1969 student-led initiative

• 00:15:00 – Types of developments and redevelopments CHNW has completed

• 00:18:30 – Hotel acquisition and conversion into student housing

• 00:20:00 – Student referral process and relationship with schools

• 00:21:30 – Lowering barriers: no guarantor or rental history required

• 00:24:00 – The evolving demographic of college students

• 00:27:00 – Exclusion from LIHTC and policy challenges

• 00:28:00 – Partnerships with schools and state governments

• 00:30:00 – Potential for broader partnerships with developers

• 00:34:30 – How to get involved with CHNW

• 00:36:00 – Closing thoughts and call for collaboration

🙌 Featured Guest:

Alex Wallace
Development Manager, College Housing Northwest
📧 Email: aWallace@chnw.org
🌐 Website: www.chnw.org

💡 Sponsor Highlight:

Campus Technologies
Campus Technologies delivers high-speed, stable internet infrastructure tailored for student housing — backed by nearly 25 years of industry experience. They also provide managed IT services for on-site teams.
📥 Download their white paper on best practices for upgrading internet infrastructure
🔗 Visit: campustechnologies.com

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• 📊 The Hope Center Report on student food and housing insecurity: https://hope.temple.edu

• 🖥️ Shop Talk Webinars by Student Housing Insight: https://www.shoptalk.info

• 🏢 College Housing Northwest: https://www.chnw.org

• www.StudentHousingInsight.com 

Behind The Biz - South Park Interiors

In this milestone episode of Student Housing Insight, host Wesley Deese sits down with founders and co-owners of SouthPark Interiors, Martha Thomley and Lisa Brooks, to commemorate 20 years of excellence in interior design for the student housing industry. From their humble beginnings to establishing one of the most trusted design firms in the market, this episode is a heartfelt and insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, innovation, and the impact of design on student living communities.

Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at how SouthPark Interiors built a reputation for creative, budget-conscious, and impactful design that enhances both branding and resident experience. Traci and Christie also reflect on the changes they’ve seen in the industry and offer advice to up-and-coming designers and developers.

 

⏱ Episode Segments & Timestamps
00:00:00 – Intro & Sponsor Message

00:02:18 – SouthPark Interiors 20-Year Celebration

00:05:00 – How SouthPark Interiors Got Started

00:09:52 – Early Projects and Gaining Trust in the Industry

00:13:20 – Working with Clients: Budgeting and Collaboration

00:16:45 – Design Trends Over the Last Two Decades

00:21:10 – Creating a Brand Identity Through Interior Design

00:24:05 – Challenges of Scaling and Maintaining Quality

00:28:40 – Advice to New Developers and Designers

00:32:55 – The Future of Student Housing Design

00:35:35 – Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts

00:36:11 – Sponsor Message & Outro

🏆 Episode Sponsor: SouthPark Interiors
This episode is proudly sponsored by SouthPark Interiors, a full-service interior design firm specializing in the student housing sector for over 20 years. Known for their ability to deliver high-end design solutions that remain mindful of budget constraints, SouthPark Interiors has partnered with developers across the U.S. to create inviting, functional, and marketable student communities.

🎨 Visit SouthParkInteriors.com to see their portfolio and learn how they can bring your next project to life.

🔗 References & Resources
SouthPark Interiors
Website: https://www.southparkinteriors.com

Student Housing Insight
Website: https://studenthousinginsight.com

2025 Interface Conference Preview - SHI1002

In this episode, host Wesley Dease previews the upcoming Interface Student Housing Conference, the largest global event for the student housing industry. Wesley is joined by Rich Kelly from Student Housing Business to discuss the conference’s history, its growth, and what attendees can expect this year in Austin, Texas, from April 9-11. They explore key sessions, networking opportunities, and emerging industry trends. If you work in student housing, this episode provides a must-hear preview of the industry's biggest event.

Timestamps & Topics

00:00:00 – Introduction to the Episode and the Importance of Student Housing.

00:01:00 – Sponsor Spotlight: Campus Technologies – Providing high-performance internet for student housing.

00:02:00 – Overview of Student Housing Insight and industry resources.

00:03:00 – What is the Interface Student Housing Conference? Event dates and significance.

00:04:00 – Background on Student Housing Business, France Media, and how the conference started.

00:06:00 – Key highlights from past LeaseCon TurnCon conference and student panel discussions.

00:08:00 – Why Interface Student Housing continues to grow and attract global attention.

00:09:00 – The evolution of the student housing industry and increasing institutional investment

00:14:00 – Breakdown of the Interface Student Housing Conference Schedule: Opening Day (April 9th): Data session, Women in Development panel, International Student Housing panel, Roundtables, and Welcome Reception Day Two (April 10th): Power Panel, Exhibit Hall, Key Sessions, and the Innovator Awards Day Three (April 11th): Final sessions and closing remarks

00:18:00 – Why attendees should stay for the entire conference, including Friday sessions

00:19:00 – Hotel and lodging options near the JW Marriott Austin

00:21:00 – Opportunities for sponsors and exhibitors at the event

00:22:00 – Closing thoughts and call-to-action for attendees

Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Campus Technologies. Whether you're developing a new student housing community or upgrading an existing one, reliable high-speed internet is essential. Campus Technologies specializes in internet infrastructure and managed IT services tailored for student housing, ensuring seamless connectivity and support.

📌 Download their latest white paper or visit www.CampusTechnologies.com to learn more.

Resources & Links Mentioned

Student Housing Insight Website: www.StudentHousingInsight.com

ShopTalk Monthly Webinar Registration: www.ShopTalk.info

Interface Student Housing Conference Info & Registration: https://web.cvent.com/event/8c037ef7-d0ab-40b4-88f2-7076a4a3d9f3/websitePage:9ee6647b-278e-45b3-95bc-fdca253e1bba

Student Housing Business Magazine: StudentHousingBusiness.com

France Media Publications & Events: FranceMediaInc.com

Hotel Booking for Conference: Check event website for official hotel partners

Making Social Media Relevant - SHI1001

In this episode, Wesley Deese and co-host Alexis Krissay dive into the world of social media marketing for student housing. They discuss the importance of creating engaging, two-way conversations online rather than just posting content for the sake of it. The episode covers strategies for making social media content relevant to students, the role of leasing agents as social media ambassadors, and best practices for leveraging automation tools to maintain instant communication with prospects and residents.

Alexis shares her insights from working with student housing properties across the country, highlighting common mistakes properties make with their digital presence and how to avoid them. Whether you're looking to improve your property's social media strategy or explore innovative ways to enhance engagement, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you stay ahead.

Episode Timestamps

📌 [00:00:00] – Introduction: Establishing mini brand personalities in student housing marketing
📌 [00:01:00] – Sponsor Spotlight: Campus Technologies – Providing high-speed internet & managed IT services
📌 [00:02:00] – Welcome & Overview of Student Housing Insight and Shop Talk Webinars
📌 [00:04:00] – Meet Co-Host Alexis Krissay & Introduction to Serendipity Consulting
📌 [00:05:00] – The Current Landscape of Social Media in Student Housing
📌 [00:06:00] – Common Social Media Mistakes: One-sided content, lack of engagement
📌 [00:07:00] – Creating a Two-Way Engagement Strategy on Social Media
📌 [00:10:00] – How Leasing Agents Can Become Social Media Ambassadors
📌 [00:11:00] – Building Trust with Transparency & Open Communication
📌 [00:14:00] – Handling Negative Comments & Encouraging Student Interaction
📌 [00:16:00] – Importance of Instant Communication on Social Platforms
📌 [00:17:00] – Leveraging Automation Tools: ManyChat & AI Chatbots
📌 [00:19:00] – Equipment & Tools for Quality Content Creation
📌 [00:22:00] – Marketing for New Developments: Selling the Lifestyle
📌 [00:23:00] – Encouraging User-Generated Content & Resident Ambassadors
📌 [00:27:00] – Tips for Small Properties Without a Large Leasing Staff
📌 [00:28:00] – Social Media Ambassador Programs: Best Practices
📌 [00:30:00] – Episode Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts

Sponsor Spotlight: Campus Technologies

This episode is sponsored by Campus Technologies, a leader in delivering high-speed internet and managed IT services tailored for student housing communities. With nearly 25 years of experience, Campus Technologies ensures top-tier connectivity and seamless tech support for both students and property managers.

🔥 Get their latest white paper on best practices for upgrading your property's internet infrastructure!
📌 Visit: campustechnologies.com

Resources & Links Mentioned

• 🎥 ManyChat (Automation for DMs & Instant Responses): manychat.com

• 📱 Shop Talk Webinar Series: shoptalk.info

• 🎥 Student Housing Insight YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@studenthousinginsight8916 

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Behind The Biz - Campus Technologies, Inc.

In this episode of the Student Housing Insight podcast, host Wesley Deese sits down with Andrew Marshall and Rob Collins of Campus Technologies, Inc. to discuss the critical role of internet infrastructure in student housing. As expectations for fast, reliable Wi-Fi continue to rise, student housing operators must navigate the challenges of upgrading aging networks, optimizing connectivity, and future-proofing their properties. Andrew and Rob share insights from their decades of experience, tracing the evolution of student housing internet services—from the early struggles with traditional telcos to today’s sophisticated enterprise-grade Wi-Fi solutions.

They discuss:

• The history of Campus Technologies, Inc. and its impact on the student housing industry.
• Why network infrastructure matters for student retention and operational success.
• Key considerations for new developments vs. acquisitions—including how long-term vs. short-term holds impact tech investments.
• The biggest mistakes operators make when it comes to internet service.
• The future of student housing connectivity—from managed Wi-Fi to IoT and smart building integrations.

Whether you’re a property owner, operator, or tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you stay ahead in the ever-changing world of student housing technology.

📌 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Campus Technologies, Inc.: https://www.campustechnologies.com
• Download their latest white paper on network infrastructure lifespan: https://www.campustechnologies.com/_files/ugd/b3a15c_99ae55a5e2b443209859091ea4150925.pdf
• Register for ShopTalk, the industry’s monthly student housing webinar at www.shoptalk.info
• For more info about Student Housing Insight: www.StudentHousingInsight.com
•  

Recalibrating Your Leasing Team - SHI222

In this insightful episode of the Student Housing Insight Podcast, host Wesley Deese and guest Alexis Krisay, founder of Serendipit Consulting, tackle a critical topic: how leasing teams can better engage with prospects. Drawing from experiences that student residents described at the recent LeaseCon+TurnCon event, Wesley and Alexis discuss why strong interpersonal connections are crucial to creating memorable leasing experiences and how the industry can overcome challenges in training staff for relationship-driven sales. Hear real feedback from a student panel about their leasing experiences—some surprising, others disappointing—and gain actionable tips for transforming leasing agents into dynamic, customer-focused professionals. Alexis also shares her expertise on role-playing exercises, using DISC assessments, and fostering rapport to improve sales performance and resident satisfaction.

Sponsor Spotlight: This episode is proudly sponsored by The Guarantors. Their Rent Coverage product not only ensures quick recovery of lost rent but also simplifies the leasing process by eliminating the need for parental guarantors. Find out how The Guarantors can help you reduce risk and increase lease conversions. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3WmNsqa

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Learn more about the Student Housing Insight platform: www.studenthousinginsight.com

Register for Shop Talk webinars: www.shoptalk.info

Winter is Coming: Preparing Student Housing for Cold Weather Challenges - SHI221

In this episode of the Student Housing Insight Podcast, host Wesley dives into a critical topic for student housing professionals as the winter months approach: preparing properties for freezing temperatures and mitigating the risks associated with winter weather.

Joined by experts Lance Lemoine from Lemoine Disaster Services and Jonathan Epstein from Salamander Reservoir, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to both proactive and reactive strategies for winter preparedness. Key topics include: Preventative Maintenance: Best practices for winterizing properties, inspecting fire sprinkler systems, and maintaining HVAC systems to prevent costly disasters. Innovative Solutions: Jonathan introduces the Salamander Reservoir, a groundbreaking IoT-based tool for preventing pipe freeze failures and ensuring fire sprinkler systems remain operational. Reactive Strategies: Lance shares insights on handling winter disasters efficiently, the importance of master service agreements, and how restoration companies can advocate for property managers during insurance claims. Industry Checklists: Wesley reviews a detailed winter maintenance checklist covering life safety, mechanical systems, roofing, and plumbing to help you stay ahead of winter challenges. The episode is packed with actionable advice and personal anecdotes, including real-world examples of property damage caused by extreme weather and how proactive measures can save time, money, and tenant disruptions. Whether you’re a property manager, owner-operator, or vendor in the student housing industry, this episode is your go-to resource for navigating winter challenges with confidence.

This episode is sponsored by TheGuarantors. To find out more about how they can help your property approve more prospect and help eliminate bad debt, visit their website at: https://bit.ly/3WmNsqa

Links Mentioned: Student Housing Insight: www.StudentHousingInsight.com  ShopTalk: www.ShopTalk.info Salamander Reservoir: www.GetSalamander.com  Lemoine Disaster Services: https://1lemoine.com/ 

Connect with our guests on LinkedIn for more insights or email them: Lance Lemoine: Disaster Recovery Specialist - Lance.Lemoine@1lemoine.com

Jonathan Epstein: Co-Founder, Salamander Reservoir - je@jtjtech.com