Why This Step Matters
This is where most people mess up. They:
- Lease properties without verifying local short-term rental (STR) rules
- Mislead the landlord or skip full disclosure
- Assume Airbnb is allowed because others are doing it
You’re not guessing. You’re building a compliant business—and this module protects your lease, your reputation, and your bank account.
Skipping or shortcutting this step is how people get evicted, fined, or sued.
For our Members
We handle this step for you:
- We call the city
- Confirm zoning/licensing
- Contact and speak to the landlord
- Deliver verified, ready-to-go properties
Important Note:
However, your business must already be formed before we do this.
Licensing Support Option (All Members)
Need help navigating licensing?
We can assist with licensing paperwork for an additional fee.
- We prepare and submit the application for you
- We guarantee approval if the property is eligible
- Cost varies by city/state and will be quoted once we confirm eligibility
We do not:
- Monitor renewal deadlines
- Maintain ongoing compliance
- Act as your registered agent or STR license holder
⚠️ Licensing is a one-time setup service. Once your license is issued, ongoing management is your responsibility.
Step-by-Step Instructions (DIY or Just Understand the Process)
Step 1: Property Search
Use:
- Zillow
- Redfin
- Apartments.com
Target:
- Entire homes or private-entry apartments
- 2–4 bedrooms
- W/D, updated interiors, parking
- Properties that allow business or corporate leases
Step 2: Call the City
Contact the Planning, Code Enforcement, or Short-Term Rental department.
Ask:
- “Are short-term rentals allowed at [insert address]?”
- “Is a license or permit required?”
- “What are the fees and steps to apply?”
- “Is there a night minimum or maximum?”
- “Are there zoning maps or overlays I should review?”
Record:
- Contact name and department
- Fee amount and timelines
- Whether any restrictions apply (distance from schools, etc.)
�� If you want us to handle this step → request our licensing service.
Step 3: Talk to the Landlord
Start soft:
“Hi, I’m calling about the listing on [Street Name]. I run a professionally managed housing business and I place traveling professionals, corporate relocations, and contractors. We maintain units to hotel-level standards and guarantee on-time rent.”
Once they engage:
“Just so you’re aware, we do list the properties on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking—but it’s not party traffic. These are business travelers and nurses, and it’s professionally cleaned between every stay.”
Step 4: Triple Verification (Don’t Skip)
City allows STR at the specific address
Landlord gives written or verbal consent
Property is eligible for stays under 30 nights (if that’s your model)
If any of these are “No”—you move on. You don’t risk it.
Red Flags: When to Walk Away
�� Properties with:
- HOA involvement (they almost always restrict STR)
- Zoning doesn’t allow STRs in that part of the city
- Landlord won’t allow subleasing or short stays
- Conditional Use Permits required (expensive and long process)
- Shared entrances or multi-tenant situations without private entry
How to Win the Landlord Over
�� Communicate like a business. Offer:
- Guaranteed rent
- Weekly professional cleaning
- Guest identity verification
- $1M Airbnb host guarantee for damage protection
- Agreement to fix minor damages or handle wear/tear quickly
Always follow up with an email confirming what was discussed.
Module 5 Checklist
Locate 3–5 strong property listings
Call the city and get STR licensing details
Talk to the landlord and explain your use case
Confirm all parties agree to short-term use
Request Memelli Licensing Assistance if needed
Eliminate any property that doesn’t check all boxes
Final Reminder
⚠️ If the city says “no” or the landlord isn’t 100% on board, you must walk away. Memelli does not support or assist with unauthorized rentals or illegal operations.
Your Next Step:
Click “Next Module” to begin Module 6: Utility Setup. All utilities must be turned on before you begin setting up furniture, locks, or testing the unit.