Before and After: Transforming My St. Louis Airbnb in Shaw Park

When I purchased this charming duplex in the Shaw Park area in August 2023, I knew it was going to be a project. What I didn’t realize was just how many lessons I’d learn along the way. I went in without a formal inspection—big mistake! Let me share the journey of turning this historic property into a stylish, comfortable Airbnb and midterm rental, complete with all the bumps and surprises.

The Backstory: Why I Skipped the Inspection (and Why You Shouldn’t)

As a real estate agent, I always advise my clients to get an inspection. But here I was, convinced I’d found a “great deal” just a block from Tower Grove Park in a prime St. Louis neighborhood. With nearby hospitals, restaurants, and attractions, I thought I could handle whatever the property threw at me. Spoiler: I was wrong. Skipping the inspection? Definitely not worth it.

The Property: A Duplex Full of Character—and Challenges

This duplex has two units, each with one bedroom and one bathroom, each about 900 square feet. The building had that classic St. Louis charm but needed a serious update. Kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, doors that wouldn’t close—almost everything required attention.

And just when I thought we were nearly done, leaks in the roof and tuckpointing issues meant more repairs. This experience drove home the value of an inspection, even for seasoned real estate agents.

The Renovation: From Outdated to Guest-Ready

1. Kitchen Overhaul
The original kitchens were, well, let’s just say they were in desperate need of a makeover. I wanted these spaces to be functional, inviting, and durable for guests. We installed new cabinets, countertops, and appliances, along with updated lighting and ample storage. Now, these kitchens are ready for guests who want to cook and enjoy a bit of home away from home.

2. Bathroom Revamp
The bathrooms required a complete transformation—from outdated fixtures to flooring. I went with a simple yet modern design using durable materials that would stand up to guest turnover. The end result is a clean, comfortable bathroom that adds a touch of luxury to each unit.

3. Improved Lighting
One thing older homes often lack is good lighting, and this duplex was no exception. We replaced outdated fixtures with energy-efficient lighting that brightened up each room. The effect is a warm, welcoming space that feels more open and modern.

4. Door Updates and Hardware
In older buildings, doors sometimes don’t close properly—or at all. We replaced several interior doors and updated the hardware to give the units a polished, functional feel. Small details like these make a big difference in how a space feels and functions.

5. Roof and Tuckpointing Repairs
Just when I thought we were in the clear, the roof started leaking. We had to replace it and redo the tuckpointing to prevent water from seeping in. This experience taught me an unforgettable lesson: repairs can pop up anytime, so be prepared!

The Design Phase: Making the Space Guest-Ready

With renovations finally wrapped up, it was time for the fun part—bringing the design to life. I ordered, shopped, and set up each room to create a welcoming atmosphere, but soon realized I needed an extra set of hands. After two weeks, I hired someone from TaskRabbit to help finalize the details.

Creating an Inviting Living Room
The living room needed to feel like a cozy retreat, so I focused on comfortable seating, layered lighting, and a few St. Louis-themed touches. I wanted guests to feel instantly at home but kept the decor simple to avoid any cluttered look.

Bedroom Comfort
I designed the bedrooms for relaxation, with quality bedding, blackout curtains, and a few decorative touches. Comfortable sleep is one of the top things guests value, so I made sure these rooms felt peaceful and inviting.

Listing, Learning, and First Guests

After getting everything set up, I soon realized that attracting midterm guests takes more than just a great space. To gain traction, I listed the units on Airbnb in late October to catch holiday traffic. Bookings started rolling in around Thanksgiving and Christmas, and that’s when the real learning began.

I made sure to ask my first guests for 5-star reviews and honest feedback. Thankfully, they were gracious and helpful, offering insights that allowed me to fine-tune the experience. One guest even dealt with a hot water heater issue, and they were incredibly understanding. These early experiences were valuable lessons in hospitality.

What I Learned About Hospitality
Over the past year, I’ve discovered that while some guests are impossible to please, others make the whole journey worth it. I’ve picked up ways to automate tasks to make hosting smoother, and I’ve learned what guests truly appreciate during their stay.

Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Every Lesson

From unexpected repairs to learning the art of guest satisfaction, transforming this duplex has been a journey. Here are a few key takeaways I’d share with anyone looking to dive into short- or midterm rentals:

Never skip an inspection – Even if you’re experienced, it’s worth the peace of mind.
Plan for surprises – Especially in older properties, you’re bound to encounter a few.
Focus on guest comfort – The little things make a big difference.

In the end, transforming this property into a functional, welcoming space was well worth the effort. Now, I’m excited to welcome more guests to experience this thoughtfully designed home in one of St. Louis’s best neighborhoods. Here’s to more bookings, five-star reviews, and an experience that guests love!

Before and After: Transforming My St. Louis Airbnb in Shaw Park