In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with Kim Steele, founder of Seabrook Stays, to explore her 16-year journey in short-term rentals—from one coastal cottage to managing 60+ properties across Australia and the United States, all while keeping a hands-on, family-run approach.

The conversation opens with a jaw-dropping guest story involving a homeless intruder, a loft bedroom, and an unlocked door—a cautionary tale about smart locks, clear house rules, and proactive safety. Kim then shares how she transformed underperforming listings with better photography, marketing, and dynamic pricing; scaled operations with systems and a reliable team; expanded to the U.S. during COVID; and later refocused on a curated mix of owned and rental-arbitrage properties.

• Pre-Airbnb origins: agents, Stays.com.au, and DIY hospitality
• What actually moves the needle: photos, pricing, and messaging
• Scaling without losing quality: team, tech, and playbooks
• Risk and prevention: ID verification, access control, and guest screening
• Actionable advice for new and growing hosts

Whether you’re managing one home or many, you’ll find practical insights, cautionary tales, and inspiration to build a sustainable hosting business.

Links
Seabrook Stays: seabrookstays.com.au
Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under
Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this special episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, hosts Ray Yee and Silvia turn the spotlight on Ray’s own South Yarra property. For the first time, listeners get a deep dive into the design philosophy, guest experience, and lessons learned from running one of Melbourne’s most thoughtfully curated Airbnb studios.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• ​Behind the design: How Scandinavian minimalism and cozy textures inspired “Sweet Scandinavia,” Ray’s Airbnb apartment in South Yarra.
• ​Guest stories & challenges: Handling demanding guests during Melbourne’s F1, the importance of towel delivery photos, and lessons from guest communication.
• ​Studio vs. one-bedroom: Why Melbourne building regulations and “borrowed light” mean some apartments blur the line.
• ​The extras that matter: Lap pool, sauna, gym, rooftop terrace, custom workspace, and lighting design that shapes guest mood.
• ​Airbnb vs. hotels: Why guests increasingly choose well-designed Airbnbs over hotels for longer stays.
• ​Superhost advice: Ray’s hard-earned tips—keep it simple, focus on comfort, consider linen services, and use reliable key exchange systems.

Why It Matters

Whether you’re a new host, an experienced Superhost, or an investor curious about short-term rentals, this episode gives you actionable insights into:

• ​Maximizing small spaces through design and storage.
• ​Balancing lifestyle with hosting by using co-hosts and services.
• ​Building repeat bookings through thoughtful guest experiences.

Links & Resources

• ​Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under
• ​Ray’s South Yarra Property – View on Airbnb
• ​Silvia’s Property – View on Airbnb
• ​North Melbourne Property – View on Airbnb

Keywords for Discoverability

Airbnb hosting tips, Melbourne Superhosts, Scandinavian design Airbnb, South Yarra Airbnb, Airbnb vs hotels Melbourne, Airbnb host challenges, short-term rental tips Australia, cozy Airbnb design, Airbnb guest communication, Airbnb studio apartment Melbourne.

In this episode of "Superhost Down Under," we welcome Fei, the owner of Hazel Beach House, to share her journey from being an avid Airbnb guest to a successful host. Join us as we delve into the challenges and joys of managing a coastal property, the importance of community connections, and the art of creating a memorable guest experience. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Fei insights and stories offer valuable lessons on navigating the world of Airbnb. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips and heartfelt moments.

Fei’s Property

https://www.airbnb.com/l/B77AJ7aE

@hazelbythesea

Connect with Us:

Follow us on Instagram: @superhostdownunder

Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:

Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠

Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠

North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3