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56. How the Karwells Raised $5.5M in 2 Years and Built a Top Airbnb Brand from Scratch
Manage episode 519831393 series 3702026
JOIN MY PRIVATE COMMUNITY FOR DAILY WEALTH-BUILDING INSIGHTS & STRATEGIES π₯ -https://www.strlikethebest.com/insider
In this episode, I sit down with Sarah and Emily β better known as the Karwells β two best friends turned powerhouse STR investors whoβve raised over $5.5 million from everyday investors, built a thriving portfolio of uniquely designed Airbnbs, and launched a brand that spans education, e-commerce, retreats, and more.
We talk about how they evolved from scrappy designers working for free to learn the gameβ¦ to running a full-fledged STR operation that prioritizes community, creativity, and transparency. Whether you're an aspiring host, capital raiser, or someone building a brand in this space β this episode will show you whatβs possible when you combine heart, hustle, and high standards.
What Youβll Learn:
How the Karwells raised $5.5M+ in equity capital for STR deals
Why design, hospitality, and investor trust are their edge
How they balance friendship and business (and why it actually makes them stronger)
The power of community and building in public
What makes a deal worth doing β and what they say βnoβ to
Their expansion into e-commerce and retreats, and how it's all connected
The importance of honest underwriting (and why most deals donβt pencil)
Chapters:
00:00 β Introduction and Personal Reflections
00:13 β Introducing the Guests: the Karwells
01:38 β the Karwells' Journey into Short-Term Rentals
03:27 β Building a Business and Partnership
09:56 β Evolving the Business and New Ventures
22:26 β The Importance of Community and Networking
27:11 β Reflecting on Financial Growth
27:19 β Understanding Wealth and Short-Term Rentals
28:18 β The Importance of Transparency with Investors
28:42 β Celebrating Fundraising Milestones
29:27 β Design and Hospitality in Property Management
31:32 β The Value of Honest Underwriting
34:53 β Launching Retreats for Networking and Education
40:04 β Finding the Right Deals and Investors
45:51 β The Power of Community and Generosity
51:39 β Closing Thoughts and Contact Information
Follow The Karwells on Instagram β @thekarwells
Learn more about their upcoming retreats β thekarwells.space
LEARN MY STR INVESTING & STRATEGIES π₯ https://strlikethebest.com/wealthpod
Apply to work with Michael: https://strlikethebest.com/applypod
Follow Michael on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelchangbnb
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