Smokies STR Setup Guide
Congratulations on getting ready to close. This guide walks you through everything needed to launch your short-term rental in the Smoky Mountains. Use it as a step-by-step resource to set up vendors, utilities, devices, furnishings, photography, and your full tech stack.
Housekeeping
Smoky Bear Cleaning – Tatiana
865-256-3758
Handyman
STR Property Solutions – Charlie
912-944-9326
Utilities
Before closing, you’ll receive the list of utility providers currently assigned to the property. Below are the most common providers in Sevier County:
Sevier County Electric System
Note: Deposits can be significant. SCES typically requires twice the highest prior bill; new construction properties may require up to $2,000.Starlink – Ideal for locations with an unobstructed sky view.
Smart Device Setup
If the property conveys with existing smart locks, cameras, or thermostats, they must be factory reset and removed from the seller’s accounts. Below are helpful reset links and recommended devices if you are starting fresh.
Factory Reset Resources
Recommended Thermostats
Recommended Cameras
Recommended Smart Locks
Photography
Professional photos are critical to STR success. These photographers book quickly, so schedule in advance:
Teela Shandess – Outstanding quality; limited availability
Furnishings
Neutral, durable furnishings perform best in STRs. Local stores and furniture outlets are familiar with working with investors and delivering directly to rental cabins.
Big Box Stores
Costco – Knoxville (Farragut)
Hobby Lobby – Knoxville locations recommended
HomeGoods / TJ Maxx
Sam’s Club
Local Furniture Stores
Ogle Furniture Outlet
Foothills Furniture
Smoky’s Furniture
Wholesale Furniture & Linens
Knoxville Furniture & Linens
Gaming, Arcades & Hot Tubs
Volunteer Billiards
Arcade Headquarters
Hot Tubs Etc
Valley Pools & Spas
Turnkey Furnishing Options
HostGPO – Offers curated STR furnishing bundles shipped to your property.
Tech Stack: Setting Up Your STR Systems
This is a streamlined setup commonly used by Smokies self-managers. Additional training is provided in Management Monday.
1. Airbnb Setup
Create or log in to your Airbnb account
Connect your payout bank account
Build and complete your listing
Add custom pricing using the “$4,000 rule”
Add amenities
Update payout settings
Enter taxpayer information
Publish your listing
2. Channel Manager: Hospitable
Create a Hospitable account
Import your Airbnb listing
3. Dynamic Pricing: PriceLabs
Create a PriceLabs account
Connect PriceLabs to Hospitable
Set your pricing strategy
Sync pricing to Hospitable
Re-sync Airbnb in Hospitable so new pricing overwrites the $4,000 placeholder rate
4. Vrbo (if applicable)
Create a Vrbo account and listing
Use the $4,000 rule for initial pricing
Add payout information and W-9
Adjust booking window
Export Vrbo iCal to Airbnb and vice versa
Connect Vrbo to Hospitable, then merge and sync
Links
How do I integrate Pricelabs with Hospitable?
How to import calendar Airbnb?
5. Automation
Create templates and automated message flows within Hospitable