When it comes to short-term rental real estate, Tyler Coon is a force in the field. As the founder of Savvy STR Agents, Tyler and his team of 40+ agents have helped close over 400 STR deals and work with clients in 25 markets nationwide. His hands-on experience as an investor, combined with a deep understanding of what makes short-term rentals profitable, makes him a go-to expert for new and seasoned investors alike.
Tyler doesn’t just help clients close on great properties; he supports them through every step of the process, from finding top designers to furnishing for five-star reviews. His partnership with Minoan streamlines furnishing for clients, saving them time and money so they can get the highest possible returns. Read on to learn more about Tyler’s background, favorite design tips, and why he believes STR investing is all about staying in the game, not timing the market.
Q: How long have you been working with short-term rental (STR) investors, and what sparked your interest in the space?
A: I have been focused exclusively on short-term rental investment real estate since 2019. After working at Keller Williams doing residential real estate, I saw there was no one focused on selling STRs here in Asheville. Having my own STR properties and firsthand experience, I felt it was a great opportunity to shift my focus to the STR market exclusively.
Q: What markets do you currently operate in, and are there any emerging markets you think are prime for STR investment?
A: Savvy STR Agents currently operates in 25 top-performing vacation rental markets across the South, Southeast, and select mountain and coastal regions nationwide.
Q: Roughly how many STR deals have you helped investors close? If possible, please share a few standout listings or success stories.
A: I have closed 225 STR deals personally. I consider myself the no. 1 STR Realtor in the world – at least until somebody proves me wrong.
Q: Beyond helping clients purchase properties, do you offer support like furnishing guidance, design referrals, or management connections?
A: Absolutely. We have built a top-tier vendor list, including two amazing designers, that we’ve vetted to be the best in the area. We want our clients to know we are here for them not just throughout the transaction, but for any resource they may need afterwards to get their property launched. We value long-term relationships and want to help ensure they’re successful.
Q: What tools, resources, or partnerships do you most often recommend to your STR clients?
A: Utilize AirDNA and BNB Calc to make sure you're following the best pricing strategy to help keep occupancy rates high. Work with qualified and vetted vendors for your property – cleaners, designers, and co-hosts/property managers. Having a trusted team will increase guest experience and success.
Q: What are the most common challenges your clients face when investing in short-term rentals? How do you help them overcome those challenges?
A: Finding the right deal, and figuring out how much money it will take to make it a top 5% property. Many people have full-time jobs and families, and they struggle to envision the next best STR. That’s where we come in – this is our full-time job. We live and breathe it.
Q: What advice do you give clients to help their properties stand out and maximize bookings?
A: Future-proof your STR. Reverse engineer the best STRs in your area and figure out how to beat them. It’s not difficult with tools like AirDNA where you can see every comp in your market.
Q: How do you guide clients when it comes to furnishing their STRs, especially when balancing budget, quality, and guest appeal?
A: We work with two amazing designers here in Asheville, and all of our agents across the US have designers they work with, who start with a detailed call to align on budget, timeline, and vision. Our designers specialize in STRs, so they know how to balance cost with impact and ensure the final space looks and feels top-tier.
Q: What furnishing tips do you typically share, and are there any common mistakes you see new investors make?
A: A clean, cohesive aesthetic photographs well and helps your listing stand out. I recommend choosing a neutral base with pops of personality through artwork, textiles, or local touches. Also, always include ample outlets, luggage racks, and workspace options when possible.
Q: Are there specific design elements or amenities guests consistently rave about in successful STRs you’ve worked on?
A: Barrel saunas and hot tubs are a must here! Guests also love a unique outdoor feature like a pool or a pickleball court. We have a local muralist who is actually more affordable than wallpaper and faster to install. Her custom local art now lives in dozens (maybe hundreds) of STRs I’ve helped clients launch.
Q: How has Minoan supported your work with STR investors? What’s your favorite part about using or recommending the platform?
A: It makes it really easy to give our clients a one-stop shop for furniture when setting up their STR. They can find everything they need in one place at incredible prices, which saves them money and time after closing.
Q: What are some of your go-to or favorite Minoan brands to recommend – especially any hidden gems?
A: Wayfair is obviously a big one, but I love Public Goods because it goes beyond just furniture – Minoan helps clients manage their property with restocking quality essentials, too.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working in the short-term rental space?
A: It’s incredibly rewarding to help clients turn a property into a successful investment – whether that’s a first-time buyer or a repeat investor. Every project is unique and keeps things dynamic with new trends, pricing shifts, and guest needs.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy their first STR investment?
A: Be confident in your property! If the client isn’t excited about the investment, it likely won’t perform as well. We make sure our clients feel educated and supported before they buy.
Q: What do you wish more investors knew before purchasing and furnishing their first STR?
A: Not every property makes a good STR, even if it looks great on paper. You need to work with a qualified STR agent to research zoning laws, neighborhood dynamics, and market conditions first.
Q: Any additional tips or insights you’d like to share with other agents or investors getting into the STR game?
A: Stop trying to time the market. The magic is time in the market.
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