Real Estate Rookie Podcast Episode Summary

Title: How to Delete Unfair Airbnb Reviews (Rookie Reply)
Host/Authors: Ashley Kehr and Tony J Robinson
Release Date: June 13, 2025

In this episode of the Real Estate Rookie podcast, hosts Ashley Kehr and Tony J Robinson address common challenges faced by novice real estate investors. The discussion centers around three primary topics: handling unexpected property tax hikes, managing unfair Airbnb reviews, and resolving title issues in joint property ownership. The hosts provide practical advice, share personal experiences, and offer actionable strategies to navigate these scenarios effectively.

1. Navigating Unexpected Property Tax Reassessments

Listener Scenario:
A listener shares their experience of purchasing an investment property in Goose Creek, South Carolina. Initially projecting a cash flow of $400 per month, the investor faces a drastic reassessment of the property's value from $13,600 to $226,000 after one year. This surge causes annual property taxes to leap from $900 to $3,495 and increases the monthly mortgage payment by $300, leaving only $100 in cash flow.

Ashley Kehr's Insights ([00:02]):
Ashley explains that property tax reassessments depend on the county's policies, which may reassess properties periodically or when restructuring budgets. She emphasizes the importance of researching property tax histories and understanding the difference between assessed and appraised values:

"The assessed value is usually lower than the market value... Appraised values, when an appraiser comes in and determines the value of a home, are different from assessed values used for taxes." ([04:44])

Tony J. Robinson's Advice ([08:20]):
Tony highlights the possibility of appealing the reassessment. He shares his success in contesting unfair property taxes by presenting evidence of comparable property sales and stresses the importance of acting promptly:

"You can take proof of actual values of what's being sold to contest the assessment." ([08:20])

Key Takeaways:

• Understand Local Assessment Cycles: Research how and when your county conducts property tax assessments.
• Monitor Property Values: Compare purchase prices with assessed values to identify potential red flags.
• Appeal Unfair Assessments: Gather evidence of comparable sales and market conditions to contest unjust tax increases.
• Consider Professional Help: Utilize companies or attorneys specializing in property tax disputes to navigate the appeals process effectively.

2. Managing Unfair Airbnb Refunds and Negative Reviews

Listener Scenario:
An Airbnb host recounts an incident where guests reported a mouse sighting on the second day of their stay. Despite providing a partial refund as recommended by Airbnb, the guests left a one-star review. The host successfully appealed the removal of the review but seeks advice on handling similar future situations.

Ashley Kehr's Approach ([12:58]):
Ashley discusses the importance of setting clear expectations in listings to prevent misunderstandings:

"We put into our listing a little disclaimer... because it's in nature." ([12:58])

She shares her strategy of offering solutions, such as sending someone to address the issue promptly and providing options for refunds or alternative arrangements to maintain goodwill.

Tony J. Robinson's Strategy ([16:21]):
Tony emphasizes proactive communication and transparency:

"You want to make sure when expectations don't match reality, people aren't mad." ([16:21])

He advises documenting all communications and leveraging Airbnb's policies to handle extortionate review threats. Tony also notes the variability in impact based on the number of existing reviews:

"One one-star review won't have that big of an impact if you have hundreds of reviews." ([16:54])

Ashley’s Additional Tips ([21:15]):
Ashley highlights the effectiveness of over-communicating potential issues in listings. By clearly stating any property quirks or limitations upfront, hosts can attract guests who are prepared and less likely to be offended:

“Being proactive and offering options reduces headaches later.” ([21:15])

Key Takeaways:

• Set Clear Expectations: Include disclaimers about potential issues in your property listings to align guest expectations.
• Offer Prompt Solutions: Address guest concerns swiftly and provide options to mitigate dissatisfaction.
• Leverage Platform Policies: Understand and utilize Airbnb’s policies to contest unfair reviews and protect your reputation.
• Build a Strong Review Base: A larger number of positive reviews can help buffer the impact of occasional negative feedback.

3. Resolving Title Issues in Joint Property Ownership

Listener Scenario:
A listener describes purchasing a property in Wisconsin jointly with their mother, both listed as tenants in common. After taking out a HELOC to repay her with interest, the mother no longer has a stake in the property but remains on the title. The listener seeks advice on managing the title during a future sale.

Ashley Kehr's Recommendations ([26:17]):
Ashley advises formalizing the agreement through written documentation and removing the mother from the title to prevent future liabilities:

“It's better to be proactive and get your mom off title now on the property.” ([26:17])

She suggests using a quitclaim deed to transfer ownership and stresses the importance of legal precision to avoid complications during the sale.

Tony J. Robinson's Procedure ([29:34]):
Tony outlines the steps for executing a quitclaim deed, emphasizing the necessity of notarization and proper documentation:

“Everyone needs to sign the quitclaim deed and have it notarized.” ([29:34])

He shares his personal experience, noting that while initially requiring an attorney, the process can become streamlined with familiarity.

Key Takeaways:

• Formalize Agreements: Use written agreements to clarify ownership stakes and responsibilities.
• Use Legal Instruments: Implement quitclaim deeds to transfer ownership interests accurately and legally.
• Ensure Proper Documentation: All parties involved should sign and notarize the deed to validate the transfer.
• Consult Professionals: While some aspects can be handled independently, consulting an attorney ensures compliance with local laws and prevents future disputes.

Notable Quotes:

• "Real estate is a long game and it pays to know what you're getting into before you close that deal." — Tony J. Robinson ([00:17])

• "The assessed value is not the appraised value." — Ashley Kehr ([04:44])

• "You want to make sure... people aren't mad that a mouse is in the cabin, they're mad they thought it wasn't going to be." — Tony J. Robinson ([16:21])

• "Being proactive and offering options reduces headaches later." — Ashley Kehr ([21:15])

Conclusion

This episode of the Real Estate Rookie podcast equips new investors with essential strategies to handle unexpected property tax increases, manage challenging guest interactions on short-term rental platforms, and navigate the complexities of joint property ownership. By providing clear, actionable advice and sharing real-life experiences, Ashley Kehr and Tony J Robinson empower listeners to make informed decisions and safeguard their real estate investments.