STRIVE SHORT-TERM RENTAL AWARDS 2026
- Stage 1 – Nominations: The first phase of the awards involves a nomination round. Nominations can be submitted via the official STRIVE website. Self-nominations are acceptable, and STRIVE team members may also nominate. STRIVE will review all nominations and shortlist candidates for each category. STRIVE reserves the right to not accept any nomination at its sole discretion and without providing a reason. (Nomination is now open and closes on 19 January 2026)
- Stage 2 –Public Voting: Following the nomination round, a public vote will determine the top three finalists in each category. This is your chance to support your favourites and have a say in recognising industry leaders. (Public voting opens on 28 January and closes on 12 February 2026)
- Stage 3 – Judges’ Panel & STRive Attendee Vote: The top three finalists will present their case through a short video to an esteemed panel of judges from various sectors within the STR industry. The judges will evaluate these presentations, accounting for 50% of the final score. The remaining 50% will be determined by attendee votes during STRive. The combined results will determine the winners. (Top three submissions due by 19 February and Judging takes place on 25 February 2026)
Learn. STRive. Thrive!
NOMINATION IS NOW OPEN (SELF NOMINATIONS WELCOME)
The inaugural STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards mark a significant milestone in celebrating success within the short-term rental industry. These awards are crafted to acknowledge and honor those who exemplify success through innovative practices, outstanding customer service, effective property management, creative marketing strategies, and emerging leadership in the field. These awards encompass the diverse talents and significant contributions that are propelling the short-term rental industry forward and making an impact.
The STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards ceremony is more than just an awards presentation; it’s a celebration of the industry’s collective achievements and a prime opportunity for professionals to network, share insights, and revel in their shared successes. This gala event promises to be a night of recognition, inspiration, and camaraderie, setting a new benchmark for excellence and innovation in the short-term rental space.
Award Categories:
Best Guest Experience Award ⭐
Best Marketing Award ⭐
Best Property Manager Award ⭐
Best Supplier Award ⭐
Sustainability & Community Impact Award ⭐
Rising Star Award ⭐
Online Travel Agent of the Year Award ⭐
STRIVE SHORT-TERM RENTAL AWARD CATEGORIES
BEST GUEST EXPERIENCE AWARD
This award recognises an individual or organisation in the short-term rental industry that consistently delivers outstanding guest experiences. It celebrates those who go above and beyond to anticipate guest needs, create memorable stays, and set new benchmarks for service excellence and hospitality within the sector.
BEST MARKETING AWARD
This category recognises the marketing campaign, initiative, or brand within the short-term rental industry that has most effectively and creatively made an impact. It celebrates those who have driven significant brand awareness and business growth through innovative social media strategies, persuasive storytelling, or standout marketing creativity.
BEST PROPERTY MANAGER AWARD
Recognising property management companies that have made a measurable impact through exceptional service to both guests and property owners. This award celebrates those who stand out for their innovation, profitability, team culture, and operational excellence in managing short-term rentals.
BEST SUPPLIER AWARD
This category acknowledges a product or service provider that has made a substantial impact on the short-term rental sector through innovation. Eligible entries include pioneering software, automation solutions, support services, and technology products that enhance efficiency, sustainability, or the guest experience.
SUSTAINABILITY & COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD
This award recognises a company, organisation, or initiative within the short-term rental industry that demonstrates exceptional commitment to sustainability and positive community impact. It celebrates those who go beyond profit to operate responsibly — reducing environmental impact, supporting local economies, and creating lasting value for guests, hosts, and their communities.
RISING STAR ⭐ AWARD
Dedicated to an emerging leader or individual, or company making a significant mark on the short-term rental industry. This award shines a light on those redefining the sector through bold innovation, creative leadership, or exceptional execution, setting the tone for the next generation of industry trailblasers.
To qualify, finalists should have been active in the short-term rental industry for less than three years and demonstrate measurable progress, innovation, and influence within that time. This category celebrates fresh voices and rising talent who are shaping the future of the industry.
ONLINE TRAVEL AGENT OF THE YEAR AWARD
Celebrating People’s Choice online travel agency that has most successfully supported hosts while maintaining guest satisfaction. This award highlights OTAs that foster strong partnerships with hosts, provide fair terms, and offer tools or programmes that help hosts thrive.
NOMINATE HERE!
BE PART OF THIS EXCITING JOURNEY: We encourage you to participate in these awards, either by nominating, voting, or simply spreading the word within your network. This is not just an award; it's a celebration of the passion, innovation, and hard work that defines our industry.
2025 STRIVE AWARD WINNERS!
BEST CONSUMER CHAMPION WINNER!
Supercalla has been recognised as the Best Consumer Champion Winner at the Strive Awards 2025, a prestigious honour in the short-term rental industry. This award celebrates organisations and individuals who go above and beyond to prioritise guest needs, ensuring exceptional satisfaction and unforgettable stays. By consistently exceeding expectations and setting new benchmarks in customer service, Supercalla has demonstrated its commitment to creating outstanding guest experiences.
BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN WINNER!
Guest Realty has been crowned the Best Marketing Campaign Winner at the Strive Awards 2025, recognising its outstanding impact in the short-term rental industry. This prestigious award honours the most innovative and effective marketing strategies that have elevated brand awareness and driven business growth. Through creative social media initiatives, compelling advertising, and groundbreaking campaigns, Guest Realty has set a new standard for marketing excellence in the industry.
BEST PROPERTY MANAGER WINNER!
BNB Butler has been named the Best Property Manager at the Strive Awards 2025, a prestigious recognition in the short-term rental industry. This award honours property management companies that set the standard for excellence, delivering exceptional service to both guests and homeowners. BNB Butler stands out for its commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and profitability, redefining short-term rental management with industry-leading practices.
BEST SUPPLIER AWARD WINNER!
PriceLabs has been crowned the Best Supplier at the Strive Awards 2025, recognising its game-changing impact on the short-term rental industry. This prestigious award honours innovative products and services that drive efficiency and elevate guest experiences. From cutting-edge software to smart automation solutions, PriceLabs stands out for revolutionising revenue management and optimisation. By empowering property managers with data-driven insights and automation, PriceLabs continues to set the benchmark for innovation in the short-term rental space.
RISING STAR 
AWARD WINNER!
Chris de Closey of Coastal Letting Group wins the Rising Star Award Winner at the Strive Awards 2025, recognising his exceptional leadership and rapid impact in the short-term rental industry. This prestigious award honours emerging leaders, startups, and innovators who are redefining the sector through groundbreaking business models, cutting-edge technology, outstanding customer service, and game-changing marketing strategies. Chris’s visionary approach and dedication have set a new standard, making a lasting mark on the industry’s future.
BE PART OF THIS EXCITING JOURNEY: We encourage you to participate in these awards, either by nominating, voting, or simply spreading the word within your network. This is not just an award; it's a celebration of the passion, innovation, and hard work that defines our industry.
2025 STRIVE AWARD JUDGES
Julie George
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George is a global STR leader, bestselling author, and founder of Million Dollar Host. She scaled her Airbnb business to 130 properties and $8M in under three years before successfully exiting. Today, she mentors hosts worldwide through her top-ranked mastermind, speaks on international stages, and advises leading hospitality tech companies, empowering operators to scale with confidence.
Justin Ford
Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs, Breezeway
Justin Ford
Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs, Breezeway
Justin Ford is the Director of Short-Term Rental Safety & Certification Programs at Breezeway, leading efforts to enhance safety standards across the industry. A recognized expert in rental safety, he educates owners and managers on best practices to protect guests and properties. With years of experience, Justin is dedicated to raising awareness, implementing safety protocols, and driving industry-wide improvements through training, advocacy, and certification programs.
Lisa Peterson
CEO & Founder, L’Abode Accommodation Specialists
Lisa Peterson
CEO & Founder, L’Abode Accommodation Specialists
Lisa Peterson is the Founder & CEO of L’Abode Accommodation, one of Australia’s leading luxury property management brands. Starting from her bedroom after moving from New Zealand, she identified a need for quality short-term stays and built a trusted, guest-focused company. Guided by integrity, innovation, and care, Lisa is a recognised industry leader dedicated to creating exceptional experiences and nurturing meaningful partnerships.
Pete Smith
Founder, Ex-Weekenda
Pete Smith
Founder, Ex-Weekenda
Since saying goodbye to Corporate Australia after 21 years Weekenda is thriving and growing year on year. We had spent 10 years quietly building this up from a single cabin in Kangaroo Valley to now managing over 170 properties in the Hunter Valley Vineyards, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie and Newcastle.
Dennis Goedheid
Founder & CEO, Casiola Vacation Homes
Dennis Goedheid
Founder & CEO, Casiola Vacation Homes
Dennis Goedheid is the Founder & CEO of Casiola Vacation Homes, a fast-growing vacation rental brand known for its vibrant properties and exceptional guest experiences. With a passion for hospitality and innovation, Dennis has expanded Casiola across multiple destinations, redefining vacation rentals with a seamless blend of technology and personalised service. His leadership continues to drive the brand’s success, setting new standards in the short-term rental industry.
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Owner, Coconut Comms and Kaihanu Lodge
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies
Owner, Coconut Comms and Kaihanu Lodge
Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies is a travel marketing consultant and founder of Coconut Comms, combining 20+ years in PR and marketing with hands-on hospitality experience running a hosted lodge in Central Otago. She helps founder-led travel and hospitality brands grow through better acquisition, retention, and advocacy, drawing on her work with TripAdvisor, luxury travel clients, PMCs, and SaaS providers.
Mitchell Price
Executive Committee Member, STRA - Short Term Rentals Asia
Mitchell Price
Executive Committee Member, STRA - Short Term Rentals Asia
Mitchell Price is an Executive Committee Member of STRA – Short Term Rentals Asia and Head of Government Relations at Ario, a global mobility tech company in Singapore. With 15+ years in government, strategic communications, and mobility, he excels in policy development and regulatory strategy. As ASTRA’s inaugural CEO, he led major short-term rental policy reforms, working with Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking.com to drive industry-wide regulatory change.
Rebecca Cribbin
Founder & CEO, Holiday Rental Specialists
Rebecca Cribbin
Founder & CEO, Holiday Rental Specialists
Rebecca Cribbin is the Founder & CEO of Holiday Rental Specialists, a leader in short-term rental management. With over a decade of experience, she specialises in maximising property returns while delivering exceptional guest experiences. Passionate about industry innovation, Rebecca empowers property owners with expert strategies and insights. Her commitment to excellence and growth has positioned her as a trusted voice in the short-term rental space.
Alex Husner
Co-Founder & Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Alex Husner
Co-Founder & Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Alex Husner is the Co-Founder & Host of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals podcast and a seasoned vacation rental marketing leader. Formerly CMO at Casago and Condo-World, she led business expansion and direct booking strategies, driving $25M+ in revenue. Now an independent consultant, she helps vacation rental brands grow profitably. A past VRMA board member and Myrtle Beach Chamber Chair, Alex’s podcast ranks in the Top 5% globally and among the Top 30 Hospitality Podcasts.
Steve Schwab
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab is the Founder & CEO of Casago, a leading vacation rental and property management company. With decades of industry experience, he has built Casago into a trusted brand operating across the U.S. and Mexico. A visionary leader, Steve focuses on innovation, owner success, and exceptional guest experiences. His expertise in scaling businesses and fostering community-driven hospitality has positioned Casago as a top choice for property owners and travellers alike.
Annie Holcombe
Co-Founder & Co-Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Annie Holcombe
Co-Founder & Co-Host, Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals
Annie Holcombe is the co-host of Alex & Annie: The Real Women of Vacation Rentals, bringing decades of experience in hospitality, marketing, and vacation rentals. A dynamic industry leader, she has worked with top brands to drive growth, build partnerships, and enhance guest experiences. Passionate about advocacy and innovation, Annie shares expert insights on industry trends, leadership, and success in short-term rentals, empowering professionals through storytelling and collaboration.
Mark Simpson
Founder, Boostly
Mark Simpson
Founder, Boostly
Mark Simpson, Founder of Boostly, is on a mission to help one million hospitality owners boost direct bookings, cut commission costs, and maximize profits. Named a "Top 20 Most Influential" in vacation rentals, he's a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and industry leader. Boostly, an award-winning website agency and training platform, has helped property managers generate £50M+ in direct bookings. Follow him for expert insights, free resources, and a proven path to OTA independence.
Tim Rosolio
VP of Vacation Rental Partnerships, Expedia Group
Tim Rosolio
VP of Vacation Rental Partnerships, Expedia Group
Tim Rosolio is the Vice President of Vacation Rental Partnerships at Expedia Group, leading strategic initiatives to support property managers and enhance traveller experiences. With deep industry expertise, he drives innovation, helping partners maximise bookings and stay ahead in the evolving short-term rental market. Passionate about technology and hospitality, Tim plays a key role in shaping the future of vacation rentals through data-driven insights and strong industry collaborations.
Stacey St. John
Founder & Owner, Stacey St. John STR Success Mentor
Stacey St. John
Founder & Owner, Stacey St. John STR Success Mentor
Stacey St. John is the Founder of STR Success Mentor, helping busy professionals achieve financial freedom through real estate. She entered short-term rentals by accident in 2018 and quickly scaled to a multi-7-figure portfolio, transforming properties into thriving vacation retreats. Seeking community, she launched a Facebook group that grew to 55K+ members. In 2020, she founded STR Global Enterprises, uniting businesses with one mission: empowering others to build wealth through real estate.
Brooke Pfautz
Founder & CEO, Vintory
Brooke Pfautz
Founder & CEO, Vintory
Brooke Pfautz is the Founder & CEO of Vintory, the only growth platform dedicated to helping vacation rental managers scale their inventory. A seasoned entrepreneur with deep industry expertise, he built and sold a successful vacation rental company before launching Vintory. Brooke now leverages cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies to help property managers accelerate growth, streamline acquisition, and achieve long-term success in the competitive short-term rental market.
Patryk Swietek
Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek
Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek is the Owner of The Cohost Company, managing 85+ short-term rentals for himself and investors. After struggling in the corporate world, he found his passion in vacation rentals, achieving financial freedom through entrepreneurship. Having acquired three management companies, Patryk now helps others escape the 9-to-5 grind and build their own path to success. His mission is to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their future through short-term rentals.
Steve Trover
CEO, Better Talent
Steve Trover
CEO, Better Talent
Steve Trover is the Founder & CEO of Better Talent, revolutionizing recruitment in the vacation rental industry. With 34 years of business leadership and 28 years in vacation rentals, he has founded 16 companies and served as VRMA President. Steve’s expertise in talent acquisition helps businesses hire and retain top performers. Through Better Talent’s data-driven approach, he ensures companies build high-impact teams, proving that success starts with the right people in the right roles.
Matthew Tesdall
Owner & CEO, Family Time Vacation Rentals
Matthew Tesdall
Owner & CEO, Family Time Vacation Rentals
Matthew Tesdall is the Owner & CEO of Family Time Vacation Rentals, offering premium accommodations across Utah, Idaho, and Central Oregon. With properties near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and top ski resorts, his company caters to families and large groups. A strategic leader with $70M in production, Matthew excels in business development, B2B marketing, and negotiations. His results-driven approach and passion for hospitality create unforgettable experiences in some of the nation’s most stunning destinations.
Tim Mortimer
Founder & CEO, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer
Founder & CEO, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer, Founder & CEO of BNB Made Easy, is dedicated to redefining hospitality for property owners and guests. With a background in farming, sport, education, and travel, he built the company on strong country values, making it a trusted name in short-term rentals. Passionate about regional tourism, he fosters community connections while scaling responsibly. When not working, he enjoys family time, new adventures, and unwinding to country music in a hammock.
Tom Goodwin
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin is the CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets, a family-owned vacation rental company serving Gatlinburg for over 52 years. Since 2012, he has upheld its legacy, ensuring long-term success in a competitive market. With expertise in business strategy, branding, and operations, Tom enhances profitability for homeowners while delivering exceptional guest experiences. A problem-solver at heart, he is passionate about revitalizing businesses, communities, and people to maximize their potential.