Alliance News
Meet the New Faces of Mile High Hosts đź‘‹
Hey Rent,
Today I get to share something that fills me with gratitude and excitement—we’ve officially welcomed a new group of board members to Mile High Hosts.
This incredible group brings fresh energy, diverse experience, and a deep passion for the work ahead. Whether it’s advocating for hosts, shaping local policy, building community, or making STRs more sustainable and professional, they’re here because they care—about our city, this industry, and each of you.
Please help me welcome our newest board members:
✨ Marina Hoffman
✨ Reid Sealby
✨ Kyle James
✨ Travis Bott
✨ Becca Christeson
✨ Wil Slickers
✨ Jonathan Scheiner
Want to get to know our new board members? We’ve been spotlighting each new member in our Facebook group—check it out and say hello!
They join returning board members Sabrina Calnan, Nate Urquhart, Chad Wise, Gretchen Blaz, and Susan Bailey—whose leadership, consistency, and heart continue to strengthen this community every day.
And to our past board members: thank you. You laid the foundation. Because of your work, this organization is what it is today.
We’ve got big goals this year—from policy to programming, events to education. And I feel so lucky to be surrounded by a team that’s not just dreaming of change—but showing up to make it happen.
Thanks for being part of this community. The best is yet to come.
With gratitude,
Dana Lubner
Board President, Mile High Hosts
Alliance Events
Hot Seat Hosting: What Makes a Listing Convert?
The best STR listings don’t just look good. They convert.
On next Friday, April 18, at 12 PM MT, we’re going behind the scenes with three STR pros to break down real listings from real hosts—and uncover what drives bookings today.
Hot Seat Hosting: Rate My Listing:
- Learn what makes a listing actually stand out
- See how experts evaluate photos, flow, and guest appeal
- Get ideas you can apply to your own listing right away
This isn’t generic advice. It’s focused, specific, and practical.
Live attendance is free.
Replay access is a benefit of Mile High Hosts membership.
đź“© Submit your listing by April 11 → Linked HereÂ
✨ STR Design Tip from MHH Board Member Reid Sealby
Please welcome Reid Sealby of Hannah Reid Interiors, our newest board member. For his first contribution, Reid offers a smart, high-impact design move that boosts bookings and guest experience.
Design with your “Hero Shot” in mind.
Every short-term rental should have one bold, unforgettable feature—and it should be front and center in your listing photos. STR designers call this the Hero Shot—the image that stops guests mid-scroll and makes them click Book Now.
That standout feature might be:
- A dramatic light fixture
- A custom mural or wallpaper
- A unique amenity guests won’t find at home
It’s not just about looking good. A strong Hero Shot creates instant appeal, drives bookings, and sticks in guests’ memories—leading to better reviews and more return stays.
Pro Tip: Tie it to your location. A “Red Rocks” mural near Morrison or vintage ski lodge elements in the mountains give guests a stronger sense of place—and something to talk about long after checkout.
STR Hospitality Summit: Coming to Colorado!
Get ready, Colorado hosts—the STR Hospitality Summit 2025 is landing in our backyard this spring! Join fellow Mile High Hosts on April 30 and May 1 for two days of hands-on learning, powerful strategies, and real connection.
Whether you’re tackling guest challenges, navigating regulations, or looking to boost bookings, this summit is designed to reenergize you and equip you for success.
🎟 Use code MILEHIGHHOSTS for $200 off your ticket. Let’s represent our Colorado hosting community—see you there!
Local Updates
Legislative Update: HB25-1247 – Lodging Tax Expansion Bill
Mile High Hosts is continuing to monitor HB25-1247 as it progresses through the legislative process. As of now, the bill is advancing in the Senate. While no new details have emerged beyond this movement, we remain engaged with stakeholders and will keep our members informed of any significant updates.
We appreciate your continued attention to this important issue and encourage all members to stay involved and share your insights as the conversation evolves.
News You Can Use
What to Do About a Bad Airbnb Review
From Hostfully
A negative review doesn’t have to hurt your short-term rental business. Responding calmly and professionally shows future guests you care. Address concerns directly, request removal if it violates Airbnb’s policies, and use feedback to improve.
How to Succeed in STRs in 2025
From Rent Responsibly
Guest expectations are rising, and so is the need for professionalism. Focus on creating memorable stays, invest in quality, and engage with local policy. Insights from Expedia’s Tim Rosolio show that standing out in 2025 means delivering great experiences and leading with integrity.
•••