The Big Ten; Ten Ways To "Bring It" in the STR Game

According to the most recent Gallup poll, football continues to be the most popular sport in the United States. With 32 pro and countless college teams, football fanatics often take to the open road to check out their favorite team in action. Even more amazing, according to Sports Advantage , college football in many states draws more crowds than their NFL counterparts. Teams in the newly expanded Big Ten draw an average of 100,000 fans per game.With a popular college franchise in almost every state, this fall fandom provides many short term rental hosts an amazing opportunity to attract gridiron enthusiasts. At FIX Linens, we are here to breakdown the ten greatest “plays” made by expert hosts across the country that help them get their property in the game and ranked high on the MVP list,

The very first step to getting your property noticed by fans is to prime your listing. With names like The Hail Loft,  a guest favorite hosted by Keith in Michigan, and Superhosts Zach and Jenni’s Husker House in Nebraska, superhosts know how to highlight their property with a name that speaks directly to their fan base. Even if you aren’t into a complete name change for your property, make sure it’s easily discoverable by including search tags lines that mention the college/ university and stadium names. Fans are more likely to find your listing if it is associated with these searches and even more likely to book if the listing mentions their university or team.

Suit up your property with school colors that will make your fanbase high-five. Painting exteriors, doors or even accent walls are sure to get your listing noticed. If your property is walkable to the stadium, a team themed facade will also attract the attention of passing game- goers. Post a visible QR code on a window, yard sign or mailbox that links to your current listing.

The Townies Touch is an ode to everything Indiana. Superhost Eric will have fans beating down the red door to hang out in this gem. 

This quaint Ann Arbour cottage is a guest favorite hosted by Christopher and Jana. We love the muted maize and blue tones that plays homage to the Wolverines. 

While many fans take the trek to take in the game at the stadium, a property with an awesome outdoor space can also be a real game-changer. 

Superhost Jennifer knows how to outfit an outdoor space. This property, 3 miles from Penn State, offers a completely unique outdoor oasis. With hot tub, outdoor games, pizza oven and plenty of seating, The Land of the Lions offers a true extension of the home and fun. Jennifer also offers of a tailgate kit for booking guests; which earns this property a perfect season with consistent bookings. 

You're always in the gamezone with a property close to the stadium. Highlight this information within your listing. Make sure to include a map or directions for the easiest walkable route and clearly state the distance from your property to the stadium. This information can be placed in the “about the listing" sections but using visuals and attention grabbing photographs is always a good call.

Does your property offer free parking? Ample parking for your close-to-campus property is sure to gain you bookings. If you do not have on site parking, it might be worth the extra money to secure a space for visiting guests. A parking spot on game day is worth its weight in gold! 

Welcome to The Little Big House -beautiful inside and out. A Guest Favorite hosted by Sierre , this home is a mere 4 blocks from downtown Ann Arbor and offers a private driveway with space for up to 4 cars. Additional street parking is also available for guests. 

Take a page from Keith- the host of the Hail Loft. He provides a hang tag for access to a neighboring parking garage which his visiting guest rave about, “...the hang tag Keith provided offers in / out privileges (and free parking) at the garage just kitty corner from the loft. We will definitely be back!” 

A comfortable place to watch the game is essential for a game day property. Cozy and ample seating in a tv room is a must. More than one place to take in the game day line-up is a bonus. 

Iowa’s Hawkeye Haven offers endless spaces to gather friends. Although a seemingly new player in the STR game, RJ does it right by checking virtually every box for a team themed property. 

Even if your property isn’t completely centered around football fans, many STR rentals feature a designated space geared towards the fanatic. Having a fan cave, basement, or garage that is game day ready might be the tipping point for future bookers. 

We can’t say enough about this bookable gem in Illini territory; Urbana, Illinois. Superhost Maddie has taken the fan cave to the next level. The upscale Parlour House offers beautiful decor and a dynamite aesthetic; but the highlight of this home offers the maximum cool factor- a hidden Illinois State themed game room accessed through a hidden door. Total touchdown!

We love properties that split the difference between a fan centric property and a one that simply pays homage. Property owners can appeal to a larger audience by using classy simple accessories and accents.

Superhost Julia brings us the Hummingbird House. This peaceful getaway might not scream Oregon Duck Fanzone, but one look at the living room accent wall and that green and yellow furniture says it all. We see you Julia! 

Attract prospective traveling fans with special property features. From foosball and pool tables to arcade games; simple fun elements can up the cool factor of your property. Providing team themed or specialty food and beverages can also be just what your property needs to stand out and attract fans. 

Super Host Mary Clare offers some awesome options for her Indiana fans who book the B-Town Bliss. These well composed photos really highlight the best side of this property.

Nebraska fans will be doing more than husking corn while staying in the Capital Beach Retreat. With its modern decor and clean lines, Cody’s townhouse in Lincoln, Nebraska offers endless entertainment.

Not all game-winning properties are large. Smaller properties such as apartments and condos can still pack a punch.

Superhost Alex brings it with this well equipped apartment right in the heart of Nittany Lion territory. Smartly furnished and dripping with Penn State swag, this property shows how STR owners can effectively utilize any space to attract fans. 

The market for fan based properties, especially during football season, is one that can’t be beat. STR owners who live near a D1 college campus can make bank by simply appealing to the local fan base. Follow our playbook and your property is sure to be noticed by fans seeking a get-a-away. For serious contenders, consider listing your home on a fan-centric site like Rent Like A Champion ; a STR platform based solely around sports related rentals. At the end of the day, hosts who get in this game are more likely to come out on top.