Should You Partner with Influencers? What Every Host Needs to Know Before Saying Yes

It starts with a flattering DM: “Hey! I love your space and would love to collaborate…”
Before you block off your peak weekend and offer up a free stay, take a beat.

In this episode of Thanks for Visiting, we’re unpacking the real truth behind influencer marketing for short-term rentals. Hosts are often unsure of how to respond to influencer requests—especially when there’s a promise of content, exposure, and bookings, but no guarantee.

Here’s what we cover:

1. Influencer Marketing Is Still Marketing

That means it needs strategy, goals, and clear expectations. Are you looking for content? Brand awareness? Bookings? Start there.

2. It’s Not All About the Follower Count

An influencer with 2,000 loyal followers who trust their recommendations can outperform someone with 200,000 disengaged fans. Engagement rate matters—and so does audience alignment.

3. Define the Deliverables

Don’t assume they’ll tag you or send you the photos. Be specific. What kind of content are they producing? When will you receive it? Can you repost it later?

4. Always Have a Contract

Even if it’s a micro-influencer staying one night, protect your business with a clear agreement. Include cancellation policies, usage rights, deliverables, and even insurance requirements.

5. You Don’t Have to Wait for Influencers to Find You

Consider reaching out to content creators, bloggers, or local micro-influencers. And don’t sleep on UGC creators—many are pros at shooting content without needing a huge platform.

Whether you’re testing influencer marketing for the first time or refining your strategy, this episode gives you the tools to do it with clarity, confidence, and creativity.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Influencer Partnership Checklist
  A free downloadable PDF with everything you should ask, track, and confirm before agreeing to a partnership. Includes deliverables, contracts, cancellation policies, and more.
  → Download the checklist here
• The Setting That Can Increase Bookings by 300%
  In this free video, we reveal a powerful listing setting that can dramatically improve your visibility and increase direct bookings.
  → Watch now

#STRShareSunday

@blythetrailwaycabins

Blyth Trailway Cabins is doing all the right things when it comes to building a brand that goes beyond just a beautiful stay.

Nestled in the town of Blyth, Ontario, these cozy cabins have found a unique way to connect with their community—offering stays for visitors coming to town for local workshops and partnering with the town itself to cross-promote events. It’s a win-win that puts heads in beds and builds local buzz.

But what really caught our attention? Their playful take on “Fake Guest Fridays,” where they superimpose celebrities like Kate Middleton and famous hockey players onto their property photos. It’s creative, scroll-stopping, and adds a whole lot of personality to their feed.

They’ve also leaned into influencer collaborations, teaming up with creators to produce content that captures the charm of their space—and the results speak for themselves. One reel alone hit nearly 30,000 views thanks to a well-executed collab.

Give them a follow at @blythtrailwaycabins and see how they’re using creativity and community to grow their short-term rental business.

We would love to feature YOU! Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.com