Peak summer travel is in full swing, and short-term rental demand shows no signs of slowing. This issue, we’re spotlighting three guest-ready gems in Tennessee, Virginia, and Maryland - mountain retreats, woodland domes, and beachfront escapes designed to keep bookings (and cash flow) strong all year long.

Whether you're buying, optimizing, or just staying sharp, we've got you covered.

📍 Gatlinburg, Tennessee | 💰 Listed at $549,000 | 🔗 View Listing

A charming 2-bed, 2-bath cabin retreat spanning 1,404 SF in the heart of Gatlinburg Falls Resort, just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Perfectly positioned for strong short-term rental potential and personal getaway.

Highlights:
☑️ Desirable Gatlinburg Falls location with community pool, hot tub, clubhouse, and fitness center access.
☑️ Inviting stone fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, and expansive windows bringing the Smokies indoors.
☑️ Private hot tub, BBQ grill patio, and comfortable outdoor living space for guests to unwind.
☑️ Quick access to downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions, hiking trails, and natural beauty.

👉 Embrace the opportunity to own a top-performing, guest-ready mountain retreat in Tennessee’s most beloved destination.

Tired of the scramble to find reliable cleaners or manage turnover schedules? Turno takes the chaos out of STR cleaning by connecting you with vetted local pros and automating the entire process.

Your guests get spotless stays. You get your time back (and fewer 2 AM texts).

🧽 Keep it clean without lifting a finger.
🔗 Learn more about Turno

📍 Hillsville, Virginia | 💰 Listed at $150,000 | 🔗 View Listing

An extraordinary 1-bed, 1-bath, 2,100 SF multifamily dome compound in Hillsville featuring 3 separate domes, offering a one-of-a-kind investment or getaway surrounded by Virginia’s stunning natural beauty.

Highlights:
☑️ Distinctive geodesic dome design that blends modern style with rustic charm.
☑️ Outdoor living with hot tubs, BBQ grills, furnished patios, and lush backyards.
☑️ Fully equipped kitchens, spacious bedrooms, and private workspaces ideal for remote guests.

👉 Don’t miss your chance to own a truly unique, high-demand destination in the scenic Blue Ridge region.

📍 Ocean City, Maryland | 💰 Listed at $315,000 | 🔗 View Listing

A beautifully remodeled beachfront studio condo offering 396 SF of light-filled living with unobstructed ocean views in north Ocean City. A prime opportunity for a proven short-term rental performer.

Highlights:
☑️ Private balcony with panoramic sunrise views, surfboard dining table, and ocean breezes.
☑️ Coastal-chic design with Nectar murphy bed, sleeper sofa, and modern finishes.
☑️ Building amenities include private gated pool, elevator access, and exclusive parking.

👉 Experience effortless beachfront living with this guest-ready, high-performing Ocean City investment opportunity.

Managing your STR remotely? Don’t let bad reviews tank your ROI. Awning provides full-service, technology-forward property management designed specifically for Airbnb and vacation rentals.

✅ Dynamic pricing + marketing to boost occupancy.
✅ 24/7 guest support, cleaning, and maintenance.
✅ Lower fees than traditional managers.

📈 Sit back while your STR earns more.
🔗 Get a free management proposal from Awning

According to AirDNA’s 2025 Global Outlook, alternative and unique accommodations, like cabins, domes, and boutique-designed homes, now account for over 30% of new short-term rental bookings, outpacing traditional condos and apartments.

Travelers are prioritizing one-of-a-kind experiences and standout design, driving ADR (average daily rate) growth in rural and nature-adjacent markets, which saw a 12% year-over-year increase in Q1 2025 alone.

👉 The takeaway? Hosts and investors should lean into differentiated design, highlight unique features in listings, and invest in upgrades that create memorable, Instagram-worthy stays.

Sources: AirDNA 2025 Global Outlook

Smoky Mountain sunrises in Tennessee, secluded domes in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, or oceanfront coffees in Ocean City - no one says you have to choose just one (but if you do, make it count).

After all, the only thing more unpredictable than the market is missing out on your own slice of it.

See you later,
Jack O’Neill
Founder, The STR Wire

This newsletter is published by The STR Wire LLC, and affiliated entities (“we”, “us”, or “our”) for informational purposes only. It should not be considered financial, legal, investment or real estate advise. We are not licensed under any securities laws, and nothing in this publication constitutes an offer to buy or sell any security or investment. All property details, pricing, availability, and financial figures are based on sources believed to be accurate at the time of publication but are not guaranteed and are subject to change.

Always perform your own due diligence and consult qualified legal, financial, or real estate professionals before making any investment decisions. Verify all property information with the appropriate listing agent, seller, municipality, or platform. Market conditions, regulations, and investment performance may vary by location and change over time. All content is provided “as is,” without warranties of any kind, and we disclaim any liability for errors, omissions, or losses arising from its use.