Description

Poconos Association of Vacation Rental Owners (VRO) in partnership with the PMVB (Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau)is pleased to offer a full-day of programming on the topic of short-term rentals.

The conference is planned to include breakout tracks for the following groups:

• REALTORS® from PMAR and surrounding boards
• Investor-oriented STR Owners and Professional Managers
• Individual owners, Novice Operators
• Local Civic Leaders, Advocates, Concerned Citizens

The conference will feature educational sessions, panel discussions, roundtable gatherings, and plenty of networking opportunities along with an exhibit area in area aside for vendors, and local and national service providers.

Schedule of the Day:

Breakfast with Support Vendors 

7 AM – 8:45 AM : Mini exhibit hall

Breakfast Buffet with small 4x4 card tables for providers around the perimeter.  Local service providers like cleaners, maintenance people, plumbers, electricians, etc. 

Breakfast is included with price of Full Day Tickets. 

Welcome

9 AM – 9:15 AM : Ballroom

Chris Barrett (PMVB) to offer welcoming remarks and provide some updates as to travel and tourism statistics.

Morning Keynote

9:15 AM – 10:15 AM : Ballroom

Mike Sjogren (STR Secrets) 

Building a Portfolio That Serves You

In today’s hyper-competitive short-term rental market, success goes beyond owning the right properties—it’s about building a thriving operation that delivers unforgettable experiences to your guests while aligning with your personal goals. Whether you’re managing a single property or a growing portfolio, Mike will guide you through his framework to design a rental strategy that attracts repeat travelers and supports the lifestyle you envision.

Coffee Break/Mixer

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM : Breakout Sessions

STR Advocacy

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 

Rent Responsibly, Vrbo/Expedia

Individual Owners

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 

Next-Level Strategies for Growth & Success

STR 102: Ready to take your short-term vacation rental to the next level? In this follow-up to last year’s popular “STR 101” session, a panel of experienced operators and owners will share practical strategies to help you succeed in today’s competitive market through actionable advice for growth and long-term success. Discover how to boost your revenue, deliver a 5-star guest experience, and leverage marketing & technology tools to elevate your property or operations.

Realtors ®

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 

PMAR

Lunch Buffet/Mixer

11:45 AM – 12:30 PM

Exhibit Area Opens

Afternoon Keynote

Taylor Jones (STR Search) 

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM 

Levering data to maximize your STR Investment

Coffee Break/Mixer with the exhibitors

1:30 PM – 1:45 PM

Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh (Short Term Gems)

2:00 PM – 2:50 PM 

She Builds 2.0: Elevating Your Vacation Rental Success Through Strategic Automation & Brand Positioning 

Transform your vacation rental operation from a simple side project to a sustainable and thriving venture with "She Builds 2.0." Dr. Rachel reveals innovative systems, AI-enhanced tools, and branding strategies that help streamline your vacation rental home management, attract the right guests, and create a positive community impact—all while maintaining balance in your personal life.

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM :

Exhibit Hall & Sessions

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM :

Exhibit Hall, Sessions & Cocktail Reception