We Turned Our Old Family Home into an Airbnb — Now It’s 70% Booked in Seattle Winter (Even in Kenmore!)

Why We’re Sharing This Now

The Airbnb landscape has changed — fast.

In a recent article, we broke down how the short-term rental market has become more crowded and competitive than ever. More listings. Higher expectations. And a growing gap between average hosts and five-star standouts.

That shift is exactly why we’re sharing this story.

Because while the market is tougher, it’s not impossible — if you do it right. And our recent long-term rental-to-Airbnb conversion is proof.

Thinking of your own short-term rental setup? Start by reviewing GPS Renting’s full-service property management.

Key Takeaways: How to Stand Out in Today’s Airbnb Market

If you’re thinking of converting a long-term rental into a short-term one, here’s what we learned — especially in today’s saturated market:

1. It Doesn’t Have to Be Central — It Has to Be Special — Nature views, unique design, high ceilings — these things create emotional impact. Find your property’s story.

2. Transparency Builds Trust — If there’s a steep driveway or tricky entrance, don’t hide it — highlight it with solutions and clarity.

3. Wow Them with the Unexpected — A dog station. A handwritten welcome note. A guidebook with your favorite bakery. These are what guests remember — and review.

4. Know the Market Has Shifted — This isn’t 2017 Airbnb anymore. Guests expect hotel-level prep with personal warmth.

The House That Made Us Fall for the Pacific Northwest

We bought this home in 2014, originally thinking it might be a good fit for my husband’s sister. But she didn’t love the steep driveway.

We, on the other hand, stayed after the showing… for over two hours. Sitting. Breathing. Taking it all in.

We knew: this house had something special.

It’s a Northwest contemporary dream.

Vaulted ceilings nearly 20 feet high.
Exposed cedar beams.
A full back wall of windows that opens to nothing but trees.

In summer? You don’t see another house — just forest, light, and peace.

It’s not just a structure. It’s a sanctuary.

We raised our three daughters there. And when we moved out, we rented it long-term for several years. But in the back of our minds, we always knew: this home had short-term magic in its bones.

But… It’s in Kenmore

At first, we thought: no way.

Kenmore? Really?

It’s quiet. Residential. It’s not walkable to Pike Place or a hot brunch spot. And most Airbnb success stories you hear are from buzzy neighborhoods, not tucked-away suburbs.

But here’s the surprise: this house is now one of our top-performing Airbnbs — and it’s doing better than our listings in Capitol Hill.

Kenmore may not be central, but it’s one of Seattle’s best-kept secrets with nature trails, Lake Washington access, and quiet forested vibes — just 25 minutes from downtown.

From Worn-Out Rental to Woodsy Luxe

When our long-term tenant moved out late last year, the house needed a lot of love.

Carpet ruined from pet stains
Outdated flooring
Walls needing a full refresh
Neglected landscaping
No hot tub (a must in Seattle’s Airbnb market)

We didn’t just repaint — we reimagined:

Installed fresh flooring throughout
Added accent wallpaper for charm
Repainted the entire interior
Replaced dated appliances
Installed a beautiful new hot tub
Brought the yard back to life

We treated it like a guest experience, not just a listing.

Want to know what upgrades really make a difference? Check out budget-friendly home upgrade ideas that boost rental value.

It’s the Little Things That Make a Big Difference

No property is perfect. Ours has a very steep driveway and is a bit tricky to find.

So we owned it.

Filmed a YouTube guide to show guests exactly how to arrive
Set clear expectations in our listing
Noted winter weather warnings for safety
Labeled everything inside for easy navigation

Then we focused on the little joys:

A pet treat station
A dog poop bag dispenser by the yard
A stocked, thoughtful kitchen
Local guidebooks with our personal tips

It’s not about perfection — it’s about intention. When guests feel cared for, they remember it.

Need inspiration on Airbnb preparation? Use our guide to earning a five-star Airbnb rating for more practical tips.

Winter Worries… and a Big Surprise

We listed the home in November. Not exactly prime Airbnb season in Seattle.

We were nervous.

But to our surprise, bookings rolled in. December, January, and February were over 70% occupied. In Kenmore. In winter.

Even our listings in central Seattle couldn’t match that.

Why? Because people weren’t booking convenience — they were booking an experience.

Final Thoughts: You Can Still Win in a Crowded Market

Yes, there are more listings than ever.
Yes, guests expect more.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t succeed.

We did it — with a suburban home, a steep driveway, and a whole lot of intentionality. And we hope our story helps you do it too.

Considering a switch from long-term to short-term? See our full breakdown at Seattle Long-Term vs. Short-Term Rental.
Or connect directly with GPS Renting’s expert real estate management team to explore your property’s potential.