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Plus how to read your firm’s cultural blueprint. By Martin Bissett Passport to Partnership Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

Plus how to read your firm’s cultural blueprint. By Martin Bissett Passport to Partnership Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

The past week's most important Wi-Fi news. Enjoy. The post Roundup: 35,000 APs in Malaysia, Airties & Qualcomm team up, WBA’s Wi-Fi 7 field trials, Plume’s spike in gaming devices appeared first on Wi-Fi NOW Global. View the full article

Elon Musk has long railed against the U.S. government, saying a crushing number of federal investigations and safety programs have stymied Tesla, his electric car company, and its efforts to create fleets of robotaxis and other self-driving automobiles. Now, Musk’s close relationship with President Donald Trump means many of those federal headaches could vanish within weeks or months. On the potential chopping block: crash investigations into Tesla’s partially automated vehicles; a Justice Department criminal probe examining whether Musk and Tesla have overstated their cars’ self-driving capabilities; and a government mandate to report crash data on vehicles using technology like Tesla’s Autopilot. The consequences of such actions could prove dire, say safety advocates who credit the federal investigations and recalls with saving lives. “Musk wants to run the Department of Transportation,” said Missy Cummings, a former senior safety adviser at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “I’ve lost count of the number of investigations that are underway with Tesla. They will all be gone.” Within days of Trump taking office, the White House and Musk began waging an unbridled war against the federal government — freezing spending and programs while sacking a host of career employees, including prosecutors and government watchdogs typically shielded from such brazen dismissals without cause. The actions have sparked outcries from legal scholars who say the Trump administration’s actions are without modern-day precedent and are already upending the balance of power in Washington. The Trump administration has not yet declared any actions that could benefit Tesla or Musk’s other companies. However, snuffing out federal investigations or jettisoning safety initiatives would be an easier task than their assault on regulators and the bureaucracy. Investigations into companies like Tesla can be shut down overnight by the new leaders of agencies. And safety programs created through an agency order or initiative — not by laws passed by Congress or adopted through a formal regulatory process — can also be quickly dissolved by new leaders. Unlike many of the dismantling efforts that Trump and Musk have launched in recent weeks, stalling or killing such probes and programs would not be subject to legal challenges. As such, the temporal and fragile nature of the federal probes and safety programs make them easy targets for those seeking to weaken government oversight and upend long-established norms. “Trump’s election, and the bromance between Trump and Musk, will essentially lead to the defanging of a regulatory environment that’s been stifling Tesla,” said Daniel Ives, a veteran Wall Street technology and automobile industry analyst. Musk’s empire Among Musk’s businesses, the federal government’s power over Tesla to investigate, order recalls, and mandate crash data reporting is perhaps the most wide-ranging. However, the ways the Trump administration could quickly ease up on Tesla also apply in some measure to other companies in Musk’s sprawling business empire. A host of Musk’s other businesses — such as his aerospace company SpaceX and his social media company X — are subjects of federal investigations. Musk’s businesses are also intertwined with the federal government, pocketing hundreds of millions of dollars each year in contracts. SpaceX, for example, has secured nearly $20 billion in federal funds since 2008 to ferry astronauts and satellites into space. Tesla, meanwhile, has received $41.9 million from the U.S. government, including payment for vehicles provided to some U.S. embassies. Musk, Tesla’s billionaire CEO, has found himself in his newly influential position by enthusiastically backing Trump’s third bid for the White House. He was the largest donor to the campaign, plunging more than $270 million of his vast fortune into Trump’s political apparatus, most of it during the final months of the heated presidential race. Those donations and his efforts during the campaign — including the transformation of his social media platform X into a firehose of pro-Trump commentary — have been rewarded by Trump, who has tapped the entrepreneur to oversee efforts to slash government regulations and spending. As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk operates out of an office in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, where most White House staff work and from where he has launched his assault on the federal government. Musk’s power under DOGE is being challenged in the courts. Even before Trump took office, there were signs that Musk’s vast influence with the new administration was registering with the public — and paying dividends for Tesla. Tesla’s stock surged more than 60% by December. Since then, its stock price has dropped, but still remains 40% higher than it was before Trump’s election. “For Musk,” said Ives, the technology analyst, “betting on Trump is a poker move for the ages.” Proposed actions will help Tesla The White House did not respond to questions about how it would handle investigations and government oversight involving Tesla or other Musk companies. A spokesman for the transition team said last month that the White House would ensure that DOGE and “those involved with it are compliant with all legal guidelines and conflicts of interest.” In the weeks before Trump took office on Jan. 20, the president-elect’s transition team recommended changes that would benefit the billionaire and his car company, including scrapping the federal order requiring carmakers to report crash data involving self-driving and partially automated technology. The action would be a boon for Tesla, which has reported a vast majority of the crashes that triggered a series of investigations and recalls. The transition team also recommended shelving a $7,500 consumer tax credit for electric vehicle purchases, something Musk has publicly called for. “Take away the subsidies. It will only help Tesla,” Musk wrote in a post on X as he campaigned and raised money for Trump in July. Auto industry experts say the move would have a nominal impact on Tesla — by far the largest electric vehicle maker in the U.S. — but have a potentially devastating impact on its competitors in the EV sector since they are still struggling to secure a foothold in the market. Musk did not respond to requests for comment. Before the election, he posted a message on X, saying he had never asked Trump “for any favors, nor has he offered me any.” Although most of the changes that Musk might seek for Tesla could unfold quickly, there is one long-term goal that could impact the autonomous vehicle industry for decades to come. Though nearly 30 states have rules that specifically govern self-driving cars, the federal government has yet to craft such regulations. During a late October call with Tesla investors, as Musk was pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into Trump’s campaign, he signaled support for having the federal government create these rules. “There should be a federal approval process for autonomous vehicles,” Musk said on the call. “If there’s a department of government efficiency, I’ll try to help make that happen.” Musk leads that very organization. Those affected by Tesla crashes worry about lax oversight People whose lives have been forever changed by Tesla crashes fear that dangerous and fatal accidents may increase if the federal government’s investigative and recall powers are restricted. They say they worry that the company may otherwise never be held accountable for its failures, like the one that took the life of 22-year-old Naibel Benavides Leon. The college student was on a date with her boyfriend, gazing at the stars on the side of a rural Florida road, when they were struck by an out-of-control Tesla driving on Autopilot — a system that allows Tesla cars to operate without driver input. The car had blown through a stop sign, a flashing light and five yellow warning signs, according to dashcam video and a police report. Benavides Leon died at the scene; her boyfriend, Dillon Angulo, suffered injuries but survived. A federal investigation determined that Autopilot in Teslas at this time was faulty and needed repairs. “We, as a family, have never been the same,” said Benavides Leon’s sister, Neima. “I’m an engineer, and everything that we design and we build has to be by important codes and regulations. This technology cannot be an exception.” “It has to be investigated when it fails,” she added. “Because it does fail.” Tesla’s lawyers did not respond to requests for comment. In a statement on Twitter in December 2023, Tesla pointed to an earlier lawsuit the Benavides Leon’s family had brought against the driver who struck the college student. He testified that despite using Autopilot, “I was highly aware that it was still my responsibility to operate the vehicle safely.” Tesla also said the driver “was pressing the accelerator to maintain 60 mph,” an action that effectively overrode Autopilot, which would have otherwise restricted the speed to 45 mph on the rural route, something Benavides Leon’s attorney disputes. Federal probes into Tesla The federal agency that has the most power over Tesla — and the entire automobile industry — is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is part of the Department of Transportation. NHTSA sets automobile safety standards that must be met before vehicles can enter the marketplace. It also has a quasi-law enforcement arm, the Office of Defects Investigation, which has the power to launch probes into crashes and seek recalls for safety defects. The agency has six pending investigations into Tesla’s self-driving technology, prompted by dozens of crashes that took place when the computerized systems were in use. Other federal agencies are also investigating Musk and Tesla, and all of those probes could be sidelined by Musk-friendly officials: —The Securities and Exchange Commission and Justice Department are separately investigating whether Musk and Tesla overstated the autonomous capabilities of their vehicles, creating dangerous situations in which drivers may over rely on the car’s technology. —The Justice Department is also probing whether Tesla misled customers about how far its electric vehicles can travel before needing a charge. —The National Labor Relations Board is weighing 12 unfair labor practice allegations leveled by workers at Tesla plants. —The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is asking a federal judge to force Tesla to enact reforms and pay compensatory and punitive damages and backpay to Black employees who say they were subjected to racist attacks. In a federal lawsuit, the agency has alleged that supervisors and other employees at Tesla’s plant in Fremont, California, routinely hurled racist insults at Black employees. Experts said most, if not all, of those investigations could be shut down, especially at the Justice Department where Trump has long shown a willingness to meddle in the department’s affairs. The Trump administration has already ordered the firing of dozens of prosecutors who handled the criminal cases from the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. “DOJ is not going to be prosecuting Elon Musk,” said Peter Zeidenberg, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Justice Department’s public integrity section who served during the Clinton and George H.W. Bush administrations. “I’d expect that any investigations that were ongoing will be ground to an abrupt end.” Trump has also taken steps to gain control of the NLRB and EEOC. Last month, he fired Democratic members of the board and commission, breaking with decades of precedent. One member has sued, and two others are exploring legal options. Tesla and Musk have denied wrongdoing in all those investigations and are fighting the probes. The small safety agency in Musk’s crosshairs The federal agency that appears to have enjoyed the most success in changing Tesla’s behavior is NHTSA, an organization of about 750 staffers that has forced the company to hand over crash data and cooperate in its investigations and requested recalls. “NHTSA has been a thorn in Musk’s side for over the last decade, and he’s grappled with almost every three-letter agency in the Beltway,” said Ives, the Wall Street analyst who covers the technology sector and automobile industry. “That’s all created what looks to be a really big soap opera in 2025.” Musk has repeatedly blamed the federal government for impeding Tesla’s progress and creating negative publicity with recalls of his cars after its self-driving technology malfunctions or crashes. “The word ‘recall’ should be recalled,” Musk posted on Twitter (now X) in 2014. Two years ago, he posted, “The word ‘recall’ for an over-the-air software update is anachronistic and just flat wrong!” Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, a non-profit consumer advocacy group, said some investigations might continue under Trump, but a recall is less likely to happen if a defect is found. As with most car companies, Tesla’s recalls have so far been voluntary. The threat of public hearings about a defect that precedes a NHTSA-ordered recall has generally prompted car companies to act on their own. That threat could be easily stripped away by the new NHTSA administrator, who will be a Trump appointee. “If there isn’t a threat of recall, will Tesla do them?” Brooks said. “Unfortunately, this is where politics seeps in.” NHTSA conducting several probes of Tesla Among the active NHTSA investigations, several are examining fundamental aspects of Tesla’s partially automated driving systems that were in use when dozens of crashes occurred. An investigation of Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” system started in October after Tesla reported four crashes to NHTSA in which the vehicles had trouble navigating through sun glare, fog and airborne dust. In one of the accidents, an Arizona woman was killed after stopping on a freeway to help someone involved in another crash. Under pressure from NHTSA, Tesla has twice recalled the “Full Self-Driving” feature for software updates. The technology — the most advanced of Tesla’s Autopilot systems — is supposed to allow drivers to travel from point to point with little human intervention. But repeated malfunctions led NHTSA to recently launch a new inquiry that includes a crash in July that killed a motorcyclist near Seattle. NHTSA announced its latest investigation in January into “Actually Smart Summon,” a Tesla technology that allows drivers to remotely move a car, after the agency learned of four incidents from a driver and several media reports. The agency said that in each collision, the vehicles were using the system that Tesla pushed out in a September software update that was “failing to detect posts or parked vehicles, resulting in a crash.” NHTSA also criticized Tesla for failing to notify the agency of those accidents. NHTSA is also conducting a probe into whether a 2023 recall of Autopilot, the most basic of Tesla’s partially automated driver assistance systems, was effective. That recall was supposed to boost the number of controls and alerts to keep drivers engaged; it had been prompted by an earlier NHTSA investigation that identified hundreds of crashes involving Autopilot that resulted in scores of injuries and more than a dozen deaths. In a letter to Tesla in April, agency investigators noted that crashes involving Autopilot continue and that they could not observe a difference between warnings issued to drivers before or after the new software had been installed. Critics have said that Teslas don’t have proper sensors to be fully self-driving. Nearly all other companies working on autonomous vehicles use radar and laser sensors in addition to cameras to see better in the dark or in poor visibility conditions. Tesla, on the other hand, relies only on cameras to spot hazards. Musk has said that human drivers rely on their eyesight, so autonomous cars should be able to also get by with just cameras. He has called technology that relies on radar and light detection to discern objects a “fool’s errand.” Bryant Walker Smith, a Stanford Law School scholar and a leading automated driving expert, said Musk’s contention that the federal government is holding him back is not accurate. The problem, Smith said, is that Tesla’s autonomous vehicles cannot perform as advertised. “Blaming the federal government for holding them back, it provides a convenient, if dubious, scapegoat for the lack of an actual automated driving system that works,” Smith said. Smith and other autonomous vehicle experts say Musk has felt pressure to provide Tesla shareholders with excuses for repeated delays in rolling out its futuristic cars. The financial stake is enormous, which Musk acknowledged during a 2022 interview. He said the development of a fully self-driving vehicle was “really the difference between Tesla being worth a lot of money and being worth basically zero.” The collisions from Tesla’s malfunctioning technology on its vehicles have led not only to deaths but also catastrophic injuries that have forever altered people’s lives. Attorneys representing people injured in Tesla crashes — or who represent surviving family members of those who died — say without NHTSA, the only other way to hold the car company accountable is through civil lawsuits. “When government can’t do it, then the civil justice system is left to pick up the slack,” said Brett Schreiber, whose law firm is handling four Tesla cases. However, Schreiber and other lawyers say if the federal government’s investigative powers don’t remain intact, Tesla may also not be held accountable in court. In the pending wrongful death lawsuit that Neima Benavides Leon filed against Tesla after her sister’s death, her attorney told a Miami district judge the lawsuit would have likely been dropped if NHTSA hadn’t investigated and found defects with the Autopilot system. “All along we were hoping that the NHTSA investigation would produce what it did, in fact, end up producing, which is a finding of product defect and a recall,” attorney Doug Eaton said during a March court hearing. “And we had told you very early on in the case if NHTSA had not found that, we may very well drop the case. But they did, in fact, find this.” Contact AP’s global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org or https://www.ap.org/tips/ —Kimberly Kindy and Brian Slodysko, Associated Press View the full article

Trade minister’s comments come as London follows Washington in refusing to sign global AI accordView the full article

Breaking news: Apple has another update for you to install. While it seems like there's always a new update for us Apple users to install on our devices, this one is quite important to prioritize. That's because it's not a simple feature update, changing the software you're used to. Instead, it's a security patch, fixing issues with iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and other Apple OSes that, left unpatched, leaves you vulnerable to hacking. Security patches vs. software updatesSome platforms separate security patches and software updates as two distinct processes. Not Apple. Usually, the company couples security patches and software updates together, which creates some interesting situations. You can have a feature-filled software update that is also full of security patches, a feature-filled software update with few (or no) security patches, or a software update with few (or no) features, and any number of security patches. It's this latter category that this post will focus on exclusively. See, every now and then, Apple will discover a critical security vulnerability on its platforms. This isn't necessarily Apple's fault: Software inherently contains security vulnerabilities, and the goal is to discover these before bad actors do. However, whenever these security flaws do come to light, it's imperative to push them out to users as quick as possible—especially if that flaw has already been used by bad actors. These are the times when you see software updates on your iPhone or Mac that look like a weirdly long string of numbers—iOS 18.3.1, for example. iOS 18 is the big update, with all the keynote features; 0.3 is the minor update, that comes with some new features; and while it's possible a 0.0.1 update could come with new features, it usually denotes security patches and bug fixes. There is an exception to this rule: Apple's Rapid Security Responses. These are strictly security patches—not feature updates—and are deployed when it's absolutely critical to patch a security flaw on customers' devices. You'll know when one of these hits your device, since it not only says "Security Response," but also includes an (a) to denote this isn't a standard update. This isn't a Security Response, though: This is an update, that just so happens to be a security patch. I know—not confusing at all. Apple's latest security patchOn Monday, Feb. 10, Apple dropped a series of updates for its devices. That includes iOS 18.3.1 for iPhones; iPadOS 18.3.1 for iPads, iPadOS 17.7.5 for older iPads, macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 for Macs, macOS Sonoma 14.7.4 for Macs running Sonoma, macOS Ventura 13.7.4 for Macs running Ventura, watchOS 11.3.1 for Apple Watches, and visionOS 2.3.1 for Apple Vision Pro. Curiously, out of all of these updates, only iOS and iPadOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 17.7.5 contain release notes. The rest are blank. However, we can pull from the notes Apple shared on these first two posts to see what's new. At this time, it's just one security patch: "Impact: A physical attack may disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. Apple is aware of a report that this issue may have been exploited in an extremely sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals." USB Restricted Mode protects Apple devices from unknown wired peripherals. The idea is that if a bad actor tries to plug a malicious device into your Mac or iPhone, for example, the feature will block that device from connecting. The feature is configurable, so you can choose whether to allow all USB devices to connect to your Apple device, allow USB devices when your Apple device is unlocked, have your Apple device ask you whenever a new device connects, or have it ask you whenever any device connects. Regardless of your setting, it seems this latest flaw enables a bad actor to bypass the security feature entirely on a locked device, and potentially connect a malicious accessory to your Apple device. What makes this flaw particularly dangerous is that Apple confirmed that it is actively exploited in the wild—meaning there are actors out there abusing the flaw to attack Apple users. To protect yourself, make sure to install the latest security patch on all of your eligible Apple devices right now. How to install a security patch on your Apple deviceAgain, security patches like 18.3.1 are just software updates. As such, you can install these patches just as you would any other Apple update. On most Apple devices, you can head to Settings (System Settings for macOS) > General > Software Update, then follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest update. View the full article

CATL is one of several Chinese companies expected to list in Hong Kong this year as activity revivesView the full article

Speaking to reporters from the Oval Office, the president was asked if he wanted to eliminate the bureau. "I would say, yeah," Trump replied. "Because we're trying to get rid of waste, fraud and abuse." View the full article

Abandoning the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act would not be good businessView the full article

What are the BEST rental listing sites? A landlord or property manager’s work is never done. Between handling repairs, collecting rent, and maintaining the property, there’s always something to be done. Add finding the right renter to the list, and things can get complicated in a hurry. That’s where rental listing sites come into play. What is a Rental Listing Site? Rental listing sites are websites that allow landlords and property managers to post information about their rental properties. These sites are used by potential tenants looking for a new place to live or by people who are interested in finding additional properties to invest in. While some rental listing sites cater specifically to landlords and property managers (like Zillow Rental Manager), others also have information for potential tenants, such as reviews (HotPads) or financial tips (RentLingo). How do Rental Listing Sites Work? Most rental listing sites operate in a similar manner. Property owners or managers sign up for an account on the site and provide details about their property, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, monthly rent, and any special features or amenities that come with the property. They can also include photos of the exterior and interior of the property to give potential tenants a better idea of what it looks like. Alongside this information, some sites enable landlords to add extra details about their properties. This includes aspects like pet-friendliness, whether the tenant is responsible for utilities, available neighborhood amenities, nearby schools, and renter requirements, such as a minimum credit score. Once the listing is verified and ready, it goes live on the website. The owners are later notified by the rental listing company if prospective tenants want to rent the property. Our Methodology to Choose the Best Rental Listing Sites For our evaluation of the top rental listing sites, we considered several key criteria that are essential for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Each criterion is rated on a scale from 1 to 5, indicating its importance in our selection process, where 1 is less critical and 5 is most critical: Ease of Use and Navigation (Rating: 5) We focused on platforms that provide an easy-to-use interface, ensuring that both landlords and tenants can navigate them effortlessly. Quality and Variety of Listings (Rating: 5) Essential for us was the diversity and quality of rental listings available on each site. Cost for Listings and Value for Money (Rating: 4) We assessed the cost-effectiveness of each site, ensuring landlords get good value for their listing fees. Tenant Screening and Security Features (Rating: 4) Sites offering robust tenant screening processes and security features were rated highly. Customer Support and Resources (Rating: 3) We considered the availability and quality of customer support and educational resources for users. Integration with Property Management Tools (Rating: 3) The ability of these sites to integrate with property management software was an important factor. Market Reach and Visibility (Rating: 5) We focused on sites that offer significant market reach and visibility to ensure listings attract a wide audience. Mobile Accessibility and App Performance (Rating: 3) Sites with reliable and functional mobile platforms were given preference. User Reviews and Feedback (Rating: 2) We took into account user reviews and feedback to understand the real-world effectiveness of each site. Innovative Features and Tools (Rating: 3) We looked for sites that provide innovative features, like virtual tours or AI-driven property suggestions. These criteria form the backbone of our methodology, ensuring that the rental listing sites we recommend can provide visibility, efficiency, and value to landlords and property managers. The Best Rental Listing Sites Now that you know about the best rental listing sites for landlords, here are 16 of the best ones you can use to list your rental property, along with their advantages and disadvantages: Zillow Zillow is one of the most popular rental listing sites on the internet, and that means you’ll have a lot of applicant traffic. Its size and features make the platform a great choice for landlords looking to list their properties. In addition, their website features some of the best rental tools around for finding quality renters and managing the ones you already have. Landlords can really make their property listings pop by uploading a 3-D view of it, too. Pros: Zillow is an established brand that has a large website of over 135 million homes. Built-in tools like the Zillow Rental Manager lets you screen tenants with background and credit checks. Having Tenants pay rent online is an option, too. Zillow’s mobile applets property owners upload, edit, and publish their listings. The app also lets property owners and landlords communicate with applicants and collect rent payments. Cons: There is no way to categorize rental properties into specific neighborhoods. If you want to add a listing, it’s $9.99 a week for every additional listing after the first free one. While the tools to collect rent payments are a nice feature, landlords say they find it a challenge to manage financials like credits, security deposits, and pet fees. Facebook Marketplace If you’re not utilizing Facebook Marketplace to advertise a rental, you are missing out on a huge pool of potential tenants. With roughly 800 million monthly users, the destination will give your listings a significant amount of exposure with its large user base. Pros: You can easily add photos, descriptions, and even videos to the listings in minutes. The marketplace lets you see who’s interested in your listing so that you can contact those people directly through Messenger or WhatsApp. Landlords can use features like messaging, filters, and location tags to gain more exposure with renters in their area. Facebook offers tools that make it easy for landlords to view who posted listings and how many times they were shared or liked. Cons: The site has far fewer users than some of the other popular rental listing websites. Renters looking for properties on Facebook Marketplace may not be as serious about finding a rental as those who visit other websites. Responding to inquiries can be difficult, as renters message you through the site or the app itself. This option might put your private data at risk. Rentals.com Rentals.com is part of the RentPath company, and it targets first-time renters, especially the millennial demographic. They operate in all 50 states, and they are the largest rental listing site that is focused on single-family homes, condos, townhomes, apartment ings and rent-to-own properties. Pros: You can influence your placement based on the entire time your property is listed with them vs. automatically sorting listings by how recently you posted them. They have an enormous amount of filters that make finding the right renter easy. Unlimited online applications from serious renters. Feature-rich landlord tools like video tours that show lots of property details. Cons: The website can take a while to update and be glitchy, which is a big downside when listing real-time availability, and collecting money from tenants is critical. Some reviewers on TrustPilot reported receiving very few or even no leads from rent.com. In fact, some users mentioned that they received more leads from free listings compared to those from rental.com. Their price range runs from $49.99 to $84.99/month, which can give some landlords sticker shock compared to other listing sites. Customer service reportedly can be slow to respond to inquiries. AVAIL 180,000 people use the property management AVAIL app. It’s ideal for DIY landlords that have less than 10 rental units. With AVAIL, you can advertise your vacant units on high-traffic rental listing sites, including Apartment List, Doorsteps, realtor.com, and Zillow. Tenants can pay rent on Avail’s easy-to-use online rental platform. Pros: The app lets you easily collect rent and track rent credits and tenant expenses. An educational system walks you through the beginning, intermediate and advanced landlord topics. AVAIL has a very responsive help desk that operates 24/7. Their free tenant screening process goes way beyond typical credit and eviction history checks, such as whether the potential renter is on the terrorist watch list. Cons: The site doesn’t have as many listings as some of the other top rental listing websites. There is a lack of filters on AVAIL, which can make finding the right property more difficult. They charge by rental unit, so the more you have, the more expensive it is. Landlords with over 10 units or short-term rentals may find that AVAIL isn’t the best fit for them. Apartments.com Apartments.com is one of the best listing sites for attracting qualified apartment renters since they charge applicants a fee to apply on their mobile app. Why is that? This requirement separates qualified renters from the rest since applicants take their time and look closely to make sure the property’s size, price, and rules are a good fit before handing over their application. Pros: It is one of the largest rental websites (more than 1.1 million available units). You can narrow your search by specific neighborhoods. Provides tools for saving money on rent and deposits. You can connect with many renters and lease the property 100% online. User-friendly search function. Cons: App users report sorting features and updates are cumbersome. The site mainly displays larger apartment complex rentals. Neighborhood information is too limited. It is one of the more expensive sites to advertise on. PadMapper PadMapper has a motto, and that’s “Making Apartment Hunting Suck Less.” We could all do with a little bit of that, and the property management tool offers simple ways to make it happen for renters. But the big question here is: does PadMapper suck at listing your apartment property? Let’s look at the pros and cons to find out. Pros: It has an easy-to-use interface, and you can post an apartment, private or shared room, or rental home to a “pad” in a minute or two. PadMapper is secure and safe to use. They also clamp down on spam and viral marketing ads like a frog eating a fly. Although they don’t splash it across the website like other listing companies, Pad Mapper has free rent collection and tenant screen tools. PadMapper has joined forces with San Francisco-based Zumper, so landlords can now benefit from the best these site partners have to offer. Cons: There are not many options in the way of filters, so you may need to do some searching on your own before finding a rental that suits your needs. The site has a tendency to show irrelevant properties, such as those that are sold or no longer available. PadMapper’s rental listings expire, and you can only have one active listing at any given time without paying for an upgrade. Oodle Think of a mashup of Facebook Marketplace and Craig’s List, and you have the classified ad listing website Oodle. Landlords can list apartments, condos, and home rentals online in their classified section. Pros: Oodle is one of the biggest classified ad listing websites on the internet. You can list your apartment or rental home quickly and easily. There are many filters to help you find what you’re looking for, including an option to search by email address. The site is free, so you can list as many apartments and homes on Oodle as you own or manage. Cons: You might be bombarded with spam emails from scammers who want your money without delivering any results for your apartment business. There are not any landlord tools to help you manage your property, and it doesn’t have any tenant screening services to make sure the tenant is reliable. Rentometer Rentometer is a website and app that landlords can use to measure the rentability and the going rate of their properties in seconds. It is a great resource for those who are curious about how much they could charge for rent or if they should raise the rent on their current tenants. Pros: Rentometer provides both short-term and long-term rental rate averages so you can get a good idea of what the market is doing. It’s easy to use. Just plug in your property parameters, and it generates a report for you. Rentometer offers both monthly and yearly subscription plans, so there is something for everyone. The Batch Analysis tool provides statistics on properties and lets you know if you are charging too much or too little Cons: Rentometer doesn’t have features for listing rentals. You can only use the site and app if you’re a property owner, so renters cannot access the information they need. The estimation for rental prices isn’t accurate at times. No mobile app for Android platforms. You have to pay for monthly and annual plans. Trulia Trulia is a real estate marketplace, MLS aggregator, and subsidiary of Zillow. They have over 3.5 million listings, and information is provided to them by brokers, MLSs, website vendors, and Zillow. Pros: The listings are accurate and up-to-date You can filter and save your searches The website is easy to use and has many features, such as the ability to see how long a property has been on the market. Trulia gets most of its profit from ads, and landlords can list their properties for free. Cons: The website has a lot of advertisements, which can be overwhelming and detract from the listings themselves. There is no way to list directly with Trulia, and there are many false listings placed on Trulia’s site because of its free rental listing options. The website is slow sometimes, and it takes time to get updated when the property has already been sold or occupied. Hotpads Hotpads is a rental marketplace for apartments and houses throughout the U.S. Like Trulia, it’s part of the Zillow Group family of listing sites. That means you’ll have a lot of monthly visits to your rental real estate listing. You may have to pay a fee for larger rental property listings, but the added value from Hotpads is probably going to be worth it to many landlords. Pros: It has been established for a significant amount of time and has developed a strong reputation among landlords and tenants alike. An easy-to-use interface with many filters. Their site connects landlords to the Zillow Rental Manager, where you can post listings, collect rent, screen tenants, and more. It lets you use custom keywords in your search. Cons: Hotpad listing inventory contains a lot more apartments than homes. Therefore, if a single-family house is what you need, this site may not align with your goals. Reviewers on Sitejabber have complained that the reality of the property doesn’t match up to the nice photos of it on the site. Critics argue that Hotpad can be slow to update its listings, leading to instances where properties are advertised as available even when they are not. Hotpad’s no-frills website, apps, and search engine aren’t as advanced as some other sites on this list. Apartment Guide Offering a nice apartment finder for tenants in big cities is Apartment Guide. It is one of the most popular rental listing sites on the web, and you can count cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles and Phoenix among some of the big cities on their apartment list. They also have their focus on leasing single-family houses, townhouses and condos. Pros: It takes just a few minutes to create an account and list your property. An easy-to-use interface that is easy to navigate. It’s free. There are some pricing plans that are designed to give your listings an extra boost. But they probably aren’t necessary for many landlords. A lot of great photos and descriptions of properties (e.g., square footage). Advanced filtering options. You can save your favorite searches. Cons: Reviewers on TrustPilot said that the pictures of properties can be deceiving. Customer support can be uneven. The search engine does not contain as many listings as some other sites on this list. This means you may have fewer results for larger properties like single-family homes and condos, especially if these are not in major cities or metropolitan areas where Apartment Guide focuses its attention. There are some issues with the way their software maps properties, which can potentially get in the way of how tenants find your properties. ByOwner The owner has been in business for over 20 years, and they can list the homes, condos, apartments, townhomes, and villas for rent. Additionally, it is the top-visited rental digital platform for renters looking to lease straight from owners. They offer a complete online toolbox, such as online rental applications for prospective renters, to make a landlord’s job easier. Pros: They offer a 14-day free trial. The website is easy to use and navigate. You can post up to 50 pictures Your ad stays active for six months from the day you post it. They have a rental guarantee: you get 3 months of free listings if you don’t rent your property in 3 months. Cons: Some reviewers on SiteJabber say they have poor customer support. It is difficult to get in touch with them over the phone if you have a question. The listings are $39/month after a 14-day free trial. An MLS rental advertisement on several high-trafficked sites is $349/month. Byowner caters to major “for rent” cities, so their services may not be available in your area. Homes.com When it comes to traffic homes.com has it going on, as they are the sixth-largest web portal for people scouring the Internet for rental property. They focus on single-family homes, along with townhouses and condos. Pros: Balance Small Business ranks them as “the best rental listing site for single-family properties.” Since it has high traffic, a lot of people will browse listings. They provide concierge services that provide you with custom real estate advertising that’s powered by machine learning. Cons: You can create a profile for free, but you have to buy leads if you want to list your rental property and have much success on homes.com. Critics on Consumer Affairs say they can be very attentive on the sales side—but uneven on the customer support side. There is only a contact form or way to sign up for an account on the site, making it hard to navigate the process and find out what to do and how to get started without talking to an agent. MyNewPlace (formerly RentJungle) is an excellent resource for landlords looking to lease their single-family homes and apartment units. A unique feature they offer, which sets them apart from many other platforms, is that landlords only incur costs when potential tenants reach out to them through an advertisement on MyNewPlace. Pros: Mobile users are a big pool of renters you can reach with their iPhone app. It has quite a few filters that allow for specific neighborhood searches. You can advertise and reach millions of people looking for rental homes and apartments Their various service levels allow you to purchase options that enhance the visibility of your rental listing on the website. Cons: You have to contact the company directly to advertise with them. It can be hard to get in touch with customer service if you need help. Critics on Yelp, San Francisco state that the sorting features aren’t so great, and it can be hard to get in touch with customer service if you need help. Doorsteps Doorsteps is a house and apartment finder for renters that’s powered by realtor.com. Their website has thousands of listings collected from direct feeds from property management companies, city & state MLS sites, and through their partnership with apartments.com, Cozy, and Avail. Pros: You can create a custom listing in minutes that showcases your rental’s most desired features. The company offers tenant screening, lease creation, renewable listings and rent collection with their basic plan—all free and 100% online. The website offers accurate, up-to-date information There are many visitors, especially in college towns. Syndicates your rental listing to the top 12 listing sites. Cons: Their payment structure is similar to how AVAIL lists their apartment units at $5/unit. So, the more units you have, the more expensive it is. Another downside is you’ll be out of luck if you are listing something other than apartments or houses for rent. Rentdigs Rentdigs promotes itself as the #1 place on the internet to advertise home and apartment rentals. The website was created by landlords for landlords, so it has a lot of juicy tools and features for free that will help you get qualified tenants. For instance, you can create custom screening questions and applications, and you can use their rent collection service. Pros: You can add single and multiple home and apartment listings to Rentdigs for free. When you list, Rentdigs automatically posts to other sites renters access, such as MyNewPlace, Oodle and Trovit. Site statistics give you the number of viewers and how often they are looking at your rental property. You can create personalized links for prospective tenants Rentdigs indexes great on Google, Bing, and other search engines Cons Some of Rentdig’s features are less advanced than other listing sites. The site doesn’t get as much traffic as sites such as Cozy or Zillow. Bonus: People with Pets About 72% of renters in the U.S. own pets, yet only 7% of landlords permit them. This means that if you belong to the 93% of property managers and owners who do not rent to pet owners, you are missing out on this niche market. If you do allow pets, it’s important to utilize this resource to inform pet owners of your policy. You can also communicate details such as whether you require a security deposit or pet deposit, as well as the rules regarding pets on your property. The premium membership to list on People with Pets costs $9.99 per month. Pros: Responsive website you can access with all mobile Devices. Property Description: up to 12 photos; unlimited floor plans Direct link to your website & social media Direct communication with your property via email, phone, or fax Access to their Listing Management Console and the ability to add/edit your own listing Cons: There are no landlord tools to screen your tenants, so you may have to list with another company simultaneously to use theirs Many listing companies allow people to filter “nearby pet-friendly properties” as part of their services, so People with Pets may not be needed if you are with another listing company. There isn’t as much traffic as with some of the property listing companies on this list; this could result in fewer pet owners and other renters seeing your listing. Best Rental Listing Sites Summary SiteProsCons ZillowLarge audience, advanced tools, 3-D listings, mobile app.Weekly fee for additional listings, managing financials can be challenging. Facebook MarketplaceHigh user base, integrated messaging, quick listing setup.Less serious renters, risk to private data. Rentals.comGood for first-time renters, vast filter options, unlimited applications.Glitchy updates, may not yield many leads, higher price range. AVAILComprehensive landlord tools, 24/7 help desk, detailed tenant screening.Charges per rental unit, less suitable for landlords with over 10 units. Apartments.comLarge inventory, neighborhood-specific search, fully online leasing.Cumbersome app updates, mainly showcases large apartments. PadMapperEasy interface, secure, free rent collection, and tenant screening.Limited filter options, shows irrelevant properties, listings expire. OodleLarge classified ads site, quick listing process, free.Risk of spam, lacks landlord and tenant screening tools. RentometerProvides rental rate averages, easy to use, subscription plans available.No listing features, only for property owners, price estimation issues. TruliaAccurate listings, easy to use, free profile creation.Ad-heavy, no direct listing, slow updates. HotpadsWell-established, connects to Zillow Rental Manager, custom keywords in search.More apartments than homes, potential outdated listings, basic interface. Apartment GuideQuick account setup, free base listing, advanced filtering options.Deceptive pictures, uneven customer support, focused on major cities. ByOwner14-day free trial, 50-picture uploads, 6-month ad duration, rental guarantee.Paid listings after trial, caters to major cities, costly MLS ads. Homes.comHigh traffic, focuses on single-family properties, machine learning advertising.Must buy leads, uneven customer support, no direct listing process. MyNewPlacePay-per-contact model, reaches mobile users, different service levels.Direct contact required for advertising, inconsistent customer service. DoorstepsCustom listings, free basic tools, accurate information, large visitor base.Paid listings for more exposure, not for non-apartment/house listings. RentdigsFree listings, auto-posts to other sites, indexed well on search engines.Less advanced features, lower traffic than larger sites. People with PetsResponsive site, direct communication links, property description features.No tenant screening tools, may not be necessary if using other services, less traffic. Free Rental Listing Sites There are a few free sites like Oodle and Trulia that offer rental listings at no charge. Also, Zillow offers the first listing free. However, when you’re looking for a great rental listing site, it’s important to consider what features are the most important to you. Sites that offer free listings can be a great option, but they can often be filled with ads or have less traffic than those that charge a fee. Why You Should Use Rental Listing Sites Rental listing sites offer several benefits to landlords and property managers. Here are a few of the more important reasons why you would want to use them. Reach a Larger Audience Rental listing websites attract a vast audience of potential renters, often numbering in the millions. This extensive exposure significantly increases the reach of your rental listing compared to relying solely on word-of-mouth or local newspapers. Tenant Screening Rental listing sites allow landlords to do tenant screening by requiring rental applicants to provide relevant information. This process helps landlords gain a better understanding of the tenant and weed out unqualified renters. Make sure to use the best background check for landlords to vet your tenants properly. Saves Time and Cash By posting your rental property on a rental listing site, you don’t have to worry about advertising it in other ways. This can save you time and your hard-earned cash. Stay Organized Rental listing websites often have tools that allow you to keep track of the properties you own and manage, as well as information about tenants. This can help landlords stay organized and avoid mistakes. Free Rental Listings It is free to list properties through the online platforms of many rental listing companies, making it a quick and easy process for landlords to find many prospective clients for their vacant units. Direct Access Listing sites also allow the landlords and tenants to communicate directly with each other, making it an easy process for both parties. This can save a lot of time in the process and make it more efficient. No Agents or Brokers If you use a rental listing, you don’t have to pay agents or brokers negotiating fees or commissions to find a tenant. This means you get to keep more money in your pocket. Property Management Tools Some listing sites also offer tools to help landlords and rental managers keep track of their properties. For example, Zillow Rental Manager allows you to store information about your tenants, generate lease agreements, and automate rent collection. Fraud is Prevented It’s tough to fill vacancies if fraud is involved. Luckily, rental listing websites can prevent fraud by verifying the information landlords list for their properties. This option is better for tenants since they don’t have to search through the newspaper for a place to rent. It’s also better for landlords because they often don’t have to pay every week to list their properties. Correct Audience Landlords experience a 49% turnover rate in their rental properties. As a result, they and their property managers are often motivated to fill vacancies with qualified tenants as soon as possible to offset losses. Posting high-resolution photos of rental units on rental listing websites can attract the correct audience, including those who are looking for a place to rent immediately. Advanced Search Options Rental listing websites often have advanced search options that allow prospective renters to filter their results by things like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and price. This makes it easier for potential tenants to find the rental property they want. How to Choose the Best Website for Your Rental Listings Not all rental listing websites are created equal. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best website for your rental listings: Size of the Website: The size of the website is often an important consideration. Type of Site: You should also consider what type of site the website is. Some websites are only for rentals, while others are for both sales and rentals. For instance, if it’s a vacation rental listing, property owners should research and find a vacation rental site where they can get a larger audience with good traffic for their vacation rentals. Features: The features offered by the website should also be considered. For example, some websites offer tools to help landlords manage their properties, while others allow renters to filter their results by price and number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Ease of Use: The website should be easy to use. It should be simple to post a rental listing and easy for renters to find the information they need. Pricing: Finally, consider the pricing of the website. Some websites charge landlords to post their rental listings, while other rental listing sites do not. How much do rental listing sites cost? That depends on a number of factors, including the listing site, the area, and how badly you want to get your property rented. Some sites offer a la carte features so you can choose what’s important to you, and others offer a variety of packages with standard features. For the most part, the price range can vary greatly. For instance, at Zillow, it’s about $10 a week for every additional listing after the first free one, but with BuyOwner’s no-holds-barred approach to getting your place rented, it’s nearly $350 a month. Then, there are those like AVAIL, where you can be wind up paying a little or a lot, depending on how many rental units you’re listing. How do I list my property to rent? The process of listing your property to rent will vary depending on the rental listing site you choose. Generally, you’ll be asked to provide some basic information about your real estate, such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, price range, and amenities. Many rental listing sites also require photos of the real estate or a video tour, and, at the very least, you’ll want to post multiple pictures of your property for people to see as they browse listings. You may also be asked to provide information about the neighborhood, including schools nearby and local attractions. They will also verify your identity and address for security purposes. Once you’ve submitted the information and been notified that your listing is live, it’s usually a waiting game to see if someone bites. Should I list my rental on multiple sites? Yes, and you’ll want to list your real estate on sites that are most relevant to your target renter. For example, if you’re targeting a specific city, list it on rental listing sites for that area. If you’re targeting vacationers, list it on travel-based rental sites. There’s no need to limit yourself to just a few sites—the more, the better. If you’re using property management software, it should automatically list your rental on all these sites for you. Be sure to check with each site before listing and make sure that they allow multiple listings from single users so there are no problems later on down the road. Is Zillow free to list a rental? If you want to list a rental property on Zillow, your first listing is free. After that, you’ll have to pay roughly $10 each week. Is it free to list on rentals.com? No. Their price range starts at the basic plan for $49.99 to a premium plan with extra features and exposure for $84.99. (source was a phone call to rentals.com) Image: Depositphotos This article, "Best Rental Listing Sites for Landlords and Property Managers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

What are the BEST rental listing sites? A landlord or property manager’s work is never done. Between handling repairs, collecting rent, and maintaining the property, there’s always something to be done. Add finding the right renter to the list, and things can get complicated in a hurry. That’s where rental listing sites come into play. What is a Rental Listing Site? Rental listing sites are websites that allow landlords and property managers to post information about their rental properties. These sites are used by potential tenants looking for a new place to live or by people who are interested in finding additional properties to invest in. While some rental listing sites cater specifically to landlords and property managers (like Zillow Rental Manager), others also have information for potential tenants, such as reviews (HotPads) or financial tips (RentLingo). How do Rental Listing Sites Work? Most rental listing sites operate in a similar manner. Property owners or managers sign up for an account on the site and provide details about their property, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, monthly rent, and any special features or amenities that come with the property. They can also include photos of the exterior and interior of the property to give potential tenants a better idea of what it looks like. Alongside this information, some sites enable landlords to add extra details about their properties. This includes aspects like pet-friendliness, whether the tenant is responsible for utilities, available neighborhood amenities, nearby schools, and renter requirements, such as a minimum credit score. Once the listing is verified and ready, it goes live on the website. The owners are later notified by the rental listing company if prospective tenants want to rent the property. Our Methodology to Choose the Best Rental Listing Sites For our evaluation of the top rental listing sites, we considered several key criteria that are essential for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Each criterion is rated on a scale from 1 to 5, indicating its importance in our selection process, where 1 is less critical and 5 is most critical: Ease of Use and Navigation (Rating: 5) We focused on platforms that provide an easy-to-use interface, ensuring that both landlords and tenants can navigate them effortlessly. Quality and Variety of Listings (Rating: 5) Essential for us was the diversity and quality of rental listings available on each site. Cost for Listings and Value for Money (Rating: 4) We assessed the cost-effectiveness of each site, ensuring landlords get good value for their listing fees. Tenant Screening and Security Features (Rating: 4) Sites offering robust tenant screening processes and security features were rated highly. Customer Support and Resources (Rating: 3) We considered the availability and quality of customer support and educational resources for users. Integration with Property Management Tools (Rating: 3) The ability of these sites to integrate with property management software was an important factor. Market Reach and Visibility (Rating: 5) We focused on sites that offer significant market reach and visibility to ensure listings attract a wide audience. Mobile Accessibility and App Performance (Rating: 3) Sites with reliable and functional mobile platforms were given preference. User Reviews and Feedback (Rating: 2) We took into account user reviews and feedback to understand the real-world effectiveness of each site. Innovative Features and Tools (Rating: 3) We looked for sites that provide innovative features, like virtual tours or AI-driven property suggestions. These criteria form the backbone of our methodology, ensuring that the rental listing sites we recommend can provide visibility, efficiency, and value to landlords and property managers. The Best Rental Listing Sites Now that you know about the best rental listing sites for landlords, here are 16 of the best ones you can use to list your rental property, along with their advantages and disadvantages: Zillow Zillow is one of the most popular rental listing sites on the internet, and that means you’ll have a lot of applicant traffic. Its size and features make the platform a great choice for landlords looking to list their properties. In addition, their website features some of the best rental tools around for finding quality renters and managing the ones you already have. Landlords can really make their property listings pop by uploading a 3-D view of it, too. Pros: Zillow is an established brand that has a large website of over 135 million homes. Built-in tools like the Zillow Rental Manager lets you screen tenants with background and credit checks. Having Tenants pay rent online is an option, too. Zillow’s mobile applets property owners upload, edit, and publish their listings. The app also lets property owners and landlords communicate with applicants and collect rent payments. Cons: There is no way to categorize rental properties into specific neighborhoods. If you want to add a listing, it’s $9.99 a week for every additional listing after the first free one. While the tools to collect rent payments are a nice feature, landlords say they find it a challenge to manage financials like credits, security deposits, and pet fees. Facebook Marketplace If you’re not utilizing Facebook Marketplace to advertise a rental, you are missing out on a huge pool of potential tenants. With roughly 800 million monthly users, the destination will give your listings a significant amount of exposure with its large user base. Pros: You can easily add photos, descriptions, and even videos to the listings in minutes. The marketplace lets you see who’s interested in your listing so that you can contact those people directly through Messenger or WhatsApp. Landlords can use features like messaging, filters, and location tags to gain more exposure with renters in their area. Facebook offers tools that make it easy for landlords to view who posted listings and how many times they were shared or liked. Cons: The site has far fewer users than some of the other popular rental listing websites. Renters looking for properties on Facebook Marketplace may not be as serious about finding a rental as those who visit other websites. Responding to inquiries can be difficult, as renters message you through the site or the app itself. This option might put your private data at risk. Rentals.com Rentals.com is part of the RentPath company, and it targets first-time renters, especially the millennial demographic. They operate in all 50 states, and they are the largest rental listing site that is focused on single-family homes, condos, townhomes, apartment ings and rent-to-own properties. Pros: You can influence your placement based on the entire time your property is listed with them vs. automatically sorting listings by how recently you posted them. They have an enormous amount of filters that make finding the right renter easy. Unlimited online applications from serious renters. Feature-rich landlord tools like video tours that show lots of property details. Cons: The website can take a while to update and be glitchy, which is a big downside when listing real-time availability, and collecting money from tenants is critical. Some reviewers on TrustPilot reported receiving very few or even no leads from rent.com. In fact, some users mentioned that they received more leads from free listings compared to those from rental.com. Their price range runs from $49.99 to $84.99/month, which can give some landlords sticker shock compared to other listing sites. Customer service reportedly can be slow to respond to inquiries. AVAIL 180,000 people use the property management AVAIL app. It’s ideal for DIY landlords that have less than 10 rental units. With AVAIL, you can advertise your vacant units on high-traffic rental listing sites, including Apartment List, Doorsteps, realtor.com, and Zillow. Tenants can pay rent on Avail’s easy-to-use online rental platform. Pros: The app lets you easily collect rent and track rent credits and tenant expenses. An educational system walks you through the beginning, intermediate and advanced landlord topics. AVAIL has a very responsive help desk that operates 24/7. Their free tenant screening process goes way beyond typical credit and eviction history checks, such as whether the potential renter is on the terrorist watch list. Cons: The site doesn’t have as many listings as some of the other top rental listing websites. There is a lack of filters on AVAIL, which can make finding the right property more difficult. They charge by rental unit, so the more you have, the more expensive it is. Landlords with over 10 units or short-term rentals may find that AVAIL isn’t the best fit for them. Apartments.com Apartments.com is one of the best listing sites for attracting qualified apartment renters since they charge applicants a fee to apply on their mobile app. Why is that? This requirement separates qualified renters from the rest since applicants take their time and look closely to make sure the property’s size, price, and rules are a good fit before handing over their application. Pros: It is one of the largest rental websites (more than 1.1 million available units). You can narrow your search by specific neighborhoods. Provides tools for saving money on rent and deposits. You can connect with many renters and lease the property 100% online. User-friendly search function. Cons: App users report sorting features and updates are cumbersome. The site mainly displays larger apartment complex rentals. Neighborhood information is too limited. It is one of the more expensive sites to advertise on. PadMapper PadMapper has a motto, and that’s “Making Apartment Hunting Suck Less.” We could all do with a little bit of that, and the property management tool offers simple ways to make it happen for renters. But the big question here is: does PadMapper suck at listing your apartment property? Let’s look at the pros and cons to find out. Pros: It has an easy-to-use interface, and you can post an apartment, private or shared room, or rental home to a “pad” in a minute or two. PadMapper is secure and safe to use. They also clamp down on spam and viral marketing ads like a frog eating a fly. Although they don’t splash it across the website like other listing companies, Pad Mapper has free rent collection and tenant screen tools. PadMapper has joined forces with San Francisco-based Zumper, so landlords can now benefit from the best these site partners have to offer. Cons: There are not many options in the way of filters, so you may need to do some searching on your own before finding a rental that suits your needs. The site has a tendency to show irrelevant properties, such as those that are sold or no longer available. PadMapper’s rental listings expire, and you can only have one active listing at any given time without paying for an upgrade. Oodle Think of a mashup of Facebook Marketplace and Craig’s List, and you have the classified ad listing website Oodle. Landlords can list apartments, condos, and home rentals online in their classified section. Pros: Oodle is one of the biggest classified ad listing websites on the internet. You can list your apartment or rental home quickly and easily. There are many filters to help you find what you’re looking for, including an option to search by email address. The site is free, so you can list as many apartments and homes on Oodle as you own or manage. Cons: You might be bombarded with spam emails from scammers who want your money without delivering any results for your apartment business. There are not any landlord tools to help you manage your property, and it doesn’t have any tenant screening services to make sure the tenant is reliable. Rentometer Rentometer is a website and app that landlords can use to measure the rentability and the going rate of their properties in seconds. It is a great resource for those who are curious about how much they could charge for rent or if they should raise the rent on their current tenants. Pros: Rentometer provides both short-term and long-term rental rate averages so you can get a good idea of what the market is doing. It’s easy to use. Just plug in your property parameters, and it generates a report for you. Rentometer offers both monthly and yearly subscription plans, so there is something for everyone. The Batch Analysis tool provides statistics on properties and lets you know if you are charging too much or too little Cons: Rentometer doesn’t have features for listing rentals. You can only use the site and app if you’re a property owner, so renters cannot access the information they need. The estimation for rental prices isn’t accurate at times. No mobile app for Android platforms. You have to pay for monthly and annual plans. Trulia Trulia is a real estate marketplace, MLS aggregator, and subsidiary of Zillow. They have over 3.5 million listings, and information is provided to them by brokers, MLSs, website vendors, and Zillow. Pros: The listings are accurate and up-to-date You can filter and save your searches The website is easy to use and has many features, such as the ability to see how long a property has been on the market. Trulia gets most of its profit from ads, and landlords can list their properties for free. Cons: The website has a lot of advertisements, which can be overwhelming and detract from the listings themselves. There is no way to list directly with Trulia, and there are many false listings placed on Trulia’s site because of its free rental listing options. The website is slow sometimes, and it takes time to get updated when the property has already been sold or occupied. Hotpads Hotpads is a rental marketplace for apartments and houses throughout the U.S. Like Trulia, it’s part of the Zillow Group family of listing sites. That means you’ll have a lot of monthly visits to your rental real estate listing. You may have to pay a fee for larger rental property listings, but the added value from Hotpads is probably going to be worth it to many landlords. Pros: It has been established for a significant amount of time and has developed a strong reputation among landlords and tenants alike. An easy-to-use interface with many filters. Their site connects landlords to the Zillow Rental Manager, where you can post listings, collect rent, screen tenants, and more. It lets you use custom keywords in your search. Cons: Hotpad listing inventory contains a lot more apartments than homes. Therefore, if a single-family house is what you need, this site may not align with your goals. Reviewers on Sitejabber have complained that the reality of the property doesn’t match up to the nice photos of it on the site. Critics argue that Hotpad can be slow to update its listings, leading to instances where properties are advertised as available even when they are not. Hotpad’s no-frills website, apps, and search engine aren’t as advanced as some other sites on this list. Apartment Guide Offering a nice apartment finder for tenants in big cities is Apartment Guide. It is one of the most popular rental listing sites on the web, and you can count cities like Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles and Phoenix among some of the big cities on their apartment list. They also have their focus on leasing single-family houses, townhouses and condos. Pros: It takes just a few minutes to create an account and list your property. An easy-to-use interface that is easy to navigate. It’s free. There are some pricing plans that are designed to give your listings an extra boost. But they probably aren’t necessary for many landlords. A lot of great photos and descriptions of properties (e.g., square footage). Advanced filtering options. You can save your favorite searches. Cons: Reviewers on TrustPilot said that the pictures of properties can be deceiving. Customer support can be uneven. The search engine does not contain as many listings as some other sites on this list. This means you may have fewer results for larger properties like single-family homes and condos, especially if these are not in major cities or metropolitan areas where Apartment Guide focuses its attention. There are some issues with the way their software maps properties, which can potentially get in the way of how tenants find your properties. ByOwner The owner has been in business for over 20 years, and they can list the homes, condos, apartments, townhomes, and villas for rent. Additionally, it is the top-visited rental digital platform for renters looking to lease straight from owners. They offer a complete online toolbox, such as online rental applications for prospective renters, to make a landlord’s job easier. Pros: They offer a 14-day free trial. The website is easy to use and navigate. You can post up to 50 pictures Your ad stays active for six months from the day you post it. They have a rental guarantee: you get 3 months of free listings if you don’t rent your property in 3 months. Cons: Some reviewers on SiteJabber say they have poor customer support. It is difficult to get in touch with them over the phone if you have a question. The listings are $39/month after a 14-day free trial. An MLS rental advertisement on several high-trafficked sites is $349/month. Byowner caters to major “for rent” cities, so their services may not be available in your area. Homes.com When it comes to traffic homes.com has it going on, as they are the sixth-largest web portal for people scouring the Internet for rental property. They focus on single-family homes, along with townhouses and condos. Pros: Balance Small Business ranks them as “the best rental listing site for single-family properties.” Since it has high traffic, a lot of people will browse listings. They provide concierge services that provide you with custom real estate advertising that’s powered by machine learning. Cons: You can create a profile for free, but you have to buy leads if you want to list your rental property and have much success on homes.com. Critics on Consumer Affairs say they can be very attentive on the sales side—but uneven on the customer support side. There is only a contact form or way to sign up for an account on the site, making it hard to navigate the process and find out what to do and how to get started without talking to an agent. MyNewPlace (formerly RentJungle) is an excellent resource for landlords looking to lease their single-family homes and apartment units. A unique feature they offer, which sets them apart from many other platforms, is that landlords only incur costs when potential tenants reach out to them through an advertisement on MyNewPlace. Pros: Mobile users are a big pool of renters you can reach with their iPhone app. It has quite a few filters that allow for specific neighborhood searches. You can advertise and reach millions of people looking for rental homes and apartments Their various service levels allow you to purchase options that enhance the visibility of your rental listing on the website. Cons: You have to contact the company directly to advertise with them. It can be hard to get in touch with customer service if you need help. Critics on Yelp, San Francisco state that the sorting features aren’t so great, and it can be hard to get in touch with customer service if you need help. Doorsteps Doorsteps is a house and apartment finder for renters that’s powered by realtor.com. Their website has thousands of listings collected from direct feeds from property management companies, city & state MLS sites, and through their partnership with apartments.com, Cozy, and Avail. Pros: You can create a custom listing in minutes that showcases your rental’s most desired features. The company offers tenant screening, lease creation, renewable listings and rent collection with their basic plan—all free and 100% online. The website offers accurate, up-to-date information There are many visitors, especially in college towns. Syndicates your rental listing to the top 12 listing sites. Cons: Their payment structure is similar to how AVAIL lists their apartment units at $5/unit. So, the more units you have, the more expensive it is. Another downside is you’ll be out of luck if you are listing something other than apartments or houses for rent. Rentdigs Rentdigs promotes itself as the #1 place on the internet to advertise home and apartment rentals. The website was created by landlords for landlords, so it has a lot of juicy tools and features for free that will help you get qualified tenants. For instance, you can create custom screening questions and applications, and you can use their rent collection service. Pros: You can add single and multiple home and apartment listings to Rentdigs for free. When you list, Rentdigs automatically posts to other sites renters access, such as MyNewPlace, Oodle and Trovit. Site statistics give you the number of viewers and how often they are looking at your rental property. You can create personalized links for prospective tenants Rentdigs indexes great on Google, Bing, and other search engines Cons Some of Rentdig’s features are less advanced than other listing sites. The site doesn’t get as much traffic as sites such as Cozy or Zillow. Bonus: People with Pets About 72% of renters in the U.S. own pets, yet only 7% of landlords permit them. This means that if you belong to the 93% of property managers and owners who do not rent to pet owners, you are missing out on this niche market. If you do allow pets, it’s important to utilize this resource to inform pet owners of your policy. You can also communicate details such as whether you require a security deposit or pet deposit, as well as the rules regarding pets on your property. The premium membership to list on People with Pets costs $9.99 per month. Pros: Responsive website you can access with all mobile Devices. Property Description: up to 12 photos; unlimited floor plans Direct link to your website & social media Direct communication with your property via email, phone, or fax Access to their Listing Management Console and the ability to add/edit your own listing Cons: There are no landlord tools to screen your tenants, so you may have to list with another company simultaneously to use theirs Many listing companies allow people to filter “nearby pet-friendly properties” as part of their services, so People with Pets may not be needed if you are with another listing company. There isn’t as much traffic as with some of the property listing companies on this list; this could result in fewer pet owners and other renters seeing your listing. Best Rental Listing Sites Summary SiteProsCons ZillowLarge audience, advanced tools, 3-D listings, mobile app.Weekly fee for additional listings, managing financials can be challenging. Facebook MarketplaceHigh user base, integrated messaging, quick listing setup.Less serious renters, risk to private data. Rentals.comGood for first-time renters, vast filter options, unlimited applications.Glitchy updates, may not yield many leads, higher price range. AVAILComprehensive landlord tools, 24/7 help desk, detailed tenant screening.Charges per rental unit, less suitable for landlords with over 10 units. Apartments.comLarge inventory, neighborhood-specific search, fully online leasing.Cumbersome app updates, mainly showcases large apartments. PadMapperEasy interface, secure, free rent collection, and tenant screening.Limited filter options, shows irrelevant properties, listings expire. OodleLarge classified ads site, quick listing process, free.Risk of spam, lacks landlord and tenant screening tools. RentometerProvides rental rate averages, easy to use, subscription plans available.No listing features, only for property owners, price estimation issues. TruliaAccurate listings, easy to use, free profile creation.Ad-heavy, no direct listing, slow updates. HotpadsWell-established, connects to Zillow Rental Manager, custom keywords in search.More apartments than homes, potential outdated listings, basic interface. Apartment GuideQuick account setup, free base listing, advanced filtering options.Deceptive pictures, uneven customer support, focused on major cities. ByOwner14-day free trial, 50-picture uploads, 6-month ad duration, rental guarantee.Paid listings after trial, caters to major cities, costly MLS ads. Homes.comHigh traffic, focuses on single-family properties, machine learning advertising.Must buy leads, uneven customer support, no direct listing process. MyNewPlacePay-per-contact model, reaches mobile users, different service levels.Direct contact required for advertising, inconsistent customer service. DoorstepsCustom listings, free basic tools, accurate information, large visitor base.Paid listings for more exposure, not for non-apartment/house listings. RentdigsFree listings, auto-posts to other sites, indexed well on search engines.Less advanced features, lower traffic than larger sites. People with PetsResponsive site, direct communication links, property description features.No tenant screening tools, may not be necessary if using other services, less traffic. Free Rental Listing Sites There are a few free sites like Oodle and Trulia that offer rental listings at no charge. Also, Zillow offers the first listing free. However, when you’re looking for a great rental listing site, it’s important to consider what features are the most important to you. Sites that offer free listings can be a great option, but they can often be filled with ads or have less traffic than those that charge a fee. Why You Should Use Rental Listing Sites Rental listing sites offer several benefits to landlords and property managers. Here are a few of the more important reasons why you would want to use them. Reach a Larger Audience Rental listing websites attract a vast audience of potential renters, often numbering in the millions. This extensive exposure significantly increases the reach of your rental listing compared to relying solely on word-of-mouth or local newspapers. Tenant Screening Rental listing sites allow landlords to do tenant screening by requiring rental applicants to provide relevant information. This process helps landlords gain a better understanding of the tenant and weed out unqualified renters. Make sure to use the best background check for landlords to vet your tenants properly. Saves Time and Cash By posting your rental property on a rental listing site, you don’t have to worry about advertising it in other ways. This can save you time and your hard-earned cash. Stay Organized Rental listing websites often have tools that allow you to keep track of the properties you own and manage, as well as information about tenants. This can help landlords stay organized and avoid mistakes. Free Rental Listings It is free to list properties through the online platforms of many rental listing companies, making it a quick and easy process for landlords to find many prospective clients for their vacant units. Direct Access Listing sites also allow the landlords and tenants to communicate directly with each other, making it an easy process for both parties. This can save a lot of time in the process and make it more efficient. No Agents or Brokers If you use a rental listing, you don’t have to pay agents or brokers negotiating fees or commissions to find a tenant. This means you get to keep more money in your pocket. Property Management Tools Some listing sites also offer tools to help landlords and rental managers keep track of their properties. For example, Zillow Rental Manager allows you to store information about your tenants, generate lease agreements, and automate rent collection. Fraud is Prevented It’s tough to fill vacancies if fraud is involved. Luckily, rental listing websites can prevent fraud by verifying the information landlords list for their properties. This option is better for tenants since they don’t have to search through the newspaper for a place to rent. It’s also better for landlords because they often don’t have to pay every week to list their properties. Correct Audience Landlords experience a 49% turnover rate in their rental properties. As a result, they and their property managers are often motivated to fill vacancies with qualified tenants as soon as possible to offset losses. Posting high-resolution photos of rental units on rental listing websites can attract the correct audience, including those who are looking for a place to rent immediately. Advanced Search Options Rental listing websites often have advanced search options that allow prospective renters to filter their results by things like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and price. This makes it easier for potential tenants to find the rental property they want. How to Choose the Best Website for Your Rental Listings Not all rental listing websites are created equal. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best website for your rental listings: Size of the Website: The size of the website is often an important consideration. Type of Site: You should also consider what type of site the website is. Some websites are only for rentals, while others are for both sales and rentals. For instance, if it’s a vacation rental listing, property owners should research and find a vacation rental site where they can get a larger audience with good traffic for their vacation rentals. Features: The features offered by the website should also be considered. For example, some websites offer tools to help landlords manage their properties, while others allow renters to filter their results by price and number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Ease of Use: The website should be easy to use. It should be simple to post a rental listing and easy for renters to find the information they need. Pricing: Finally, consider the pricing of the website. Some websites charge landlords to post their rental listings, while other rental listing sites do not. How much do rental listing sites cost? That depends on a number of factors, including the listing site, the area, and how badly you want to get your property rented. Some sites offer a la carte features so you can choose what’s important to you, and others offer a variety of packages with standard features. For the most part, the price range can vary greatly. For instance, at Zillow, it’s about $10 a week for every additional listing after the first free one, but with BuyOwner’s no-holds-barred approach to getting your place rented, it’s nearly $350 a month. Then, there are those like AVAIL, where you can be wind up paying a little or a lot, depending on how many rental units you’re listing. How do I list my property to rent? The process of listing your property to rent will vary depending on the rental listing site you choose. Generally, you’ll be asked to provide some basic information about your real estate, such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, price range, and amenities. Many rental listing sites also require photos of the real estate or a video tour, and, at the very least, you’ll want to post multiple pictures of your property for people to see as they browse listings. You may also be asked to provide information about the neighborhood, including schools nearby and local attractions. They will also verify your identity and address for security purposes. Once you’ve submitted the information and been notified that your listing is live, it’s usually a waiting game to see if someone bites. Should I list my rental on multiple sites? Yes, and you’ll want to list your real estate on sites that are most relevant to your target renter. For example, if you’re targeting a specific city, list it on rental listing sites for that area. If you’re targeting vacationers, list it on travel-based rental sites. There’s no need to limit yourself to just a few sites—the more, the better. If you’re using property management software, it should automatically list your rental on all these sites for you. Be sure to check with each site before listing and make sure that they allow multiple listings from single users so there are no problems later on down the road. Is Zillow free to list a rental? If you want to list a rental property on Zillow, your first listing is free. After that, you’ll have to pay roughly $10 each week. Is it free to list on rentals.com? No. Their price range starts at the basic plan for $49.99 to a premium plan with extra features and exposure for $84.99. (source was a phone call to rentals.com) Image: Depositphotos This article, "Best Rental Listing Sites for Landlords and Property Managers" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

David Ko, CEO of Calm, speaks with Brendan Vaughan about the state of mental health solutions in the workplace. View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: My company announced a “biggest loser” weight loss challenge today and immediately my stomach sank. This was sent by the owner/founder of my small civil engineering company (about 40 employees). This is still so fresh for me I don’t even really have the words to express how many ways this is a horrible idea and would love your thoughts. I have the words. And those words begin with: how is this still happening in the year of our lord 2025? It’s incredible that so many workplaces are still oblivious to how very problematic weight loss competitions can be for many people — people with eating disorders, first and foremost, but also anyone who’s trying to have a healthier relationship with food or avoid diet culture, people who need maintain their weight or gain weight (the assumption that everyone should lose weight is really weird), anyone who’s concerned about crash dieting, anyone who does want to lose weight but doesn’t want to engage with their coworkers about how it’s going, or anyone who simply doesn’t consider their diet or their weight to be any of their employer’s business. That’s a lot of people, all told. If your employer wants to encourage employees to make healthy choices, they’re welcome to provide healthy snacks, subsidize gym memberships, and offer excellent health insurance. Creating a contest around crash dieting isn’t the way to do it. Are you up for pushing back about it? Ideally you’d talk to someone with some influence over it (HR might be the right place to start) and point out that experts advise against these competitions because they’re bad for such a wide range of people. View the full article

President Donald Trump said Monday he is banning federal use of paper straws, saying they “don’t work” and don’t last very long. Instead he wants the government to exclusively move to plastic. “It’s a ridiculous situation. We’re going back to plastic straws,” Trump said as he signed an executive order to reverse federal purchasing policies that encourage paper straws and restrict plastic ones. The order directs federal agencies to stop buying paper straws “and otherwise ensure that paper straws are no longer provided within agency buildings.” The move by Trump — who has long railed against paper straws, and whose 2019 reelection campaign sold Trump-branded reusable plastic straws for $15 per pack of 10 — targets a Biden administration policy to phase out federal purchases of single-use plastics, including straws, from food service operations, events and packaging by 2027, and from all federal operations by 2035. Trump declared President Joe Biden’s policy “DEAD!” in a social media post over the weekend. While plastic straws have been blamed for polluting oceans and harming marine life, Trump said Monday that he thinks “it’s OK” to continue using them. “I don’t think that plastic is going to affect the shark very much as they’re eating, as they’re munching their way through the ocean,” he said at a White House announcement. Several U.S. states and cities have banned plastic straws, and some restaurants no longer automatically give them to customers. But plastic straws are only a small part of the problem. The environment is littered with single-use plastic food and beverage containers — water bottles, takeout containers, coffee lids, shopping bags and more. Around the world, the equivalent of one garbage truck of plastic enters the ocean every minute from a range of sources, including plastic bags, toothbrushes, bottles, food packaging and more, experts say. As those materials break down in the environment, microplastics are turning up in the stomachs of fish, birds and other animals, as well as in human blood and tissue. And plastic manufacturing releases planet-warming greenhouse gases and other dangerous pollutants. More than 90% of plastic products are derived from fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas, and millions of tons of plastic waste enter the world’s oceans every year. Many multinational companies have moved away from plastic straws and have made reducing plastic use across their operations central to their sustainability goals, making Trump’s decision an outlier in the business world. Trump’s order is “more about messaging than finding solutions,” said Christy Leavitt, plastics campaign director for the environmental group Oceana, noting that most U.S. voters support requiring companies to reduce single-use plastic packaging and foodware. “President Trump is moving in the wrong direction on single-use plastics,” Leavitt said. “The world is facing a plastic pollution crisis, and we can no longer ignore one of the biggest environmental threats facing our oceans and our planet today.” The plastic manufacturing industry applauded Trump’s move. “Straws are just the beginning,” Matt Seaholm, president and CEO of the Plastics Industry Association, said in a statement. “‘Back to Plastic’ is a movement we should all get behind.” More than 390 million straws are used every day in the United States, mostly for 30 minutes or less, according to advocacy group Straws Turtle Island Restoration Network. Straws take at least 200 years to decompose and pose a threat to turtles and other wildlife as they degrade into microplastics, the group says. “To prevent another sea turtle from becoming a victim to plastic, we must make personal lifestyle alterations to fight for these species,” the group said in a statement. Every year, the world produces more than 400 million tons of new plastic. About 40% of all plastics are used in packaging, according to the United Nations. Globally, nations are creating a treaty to address plastic pollution. Leaders met for a week in South Korea late last year but didn’t reach an agreement. Talks resume this year as more than 100 countries pursue a pact that limits plastic production as well as tackles cleanup and recycling. The U.S., China and Germany are the biggest players in the global plastics trade. U.S. manufacturers have asked Trump to remain at the negotiating table, and to revert to Biden’s previous position that focused on redesigning plastic products, recycling and reuse. White House staff secretary Will Scharf, who presented the executive order to Trump, told him the push for paper straws has cost the government and private industry “an absolute ton of money and left consumers all over the country wildly dissatisfied with their straws. It really is something that affects ordinary Americans in their everyday lives.” Associated Press writer Jennifer McDermott in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this story. —Matthew Daly, Associated Press View the full article

Wall Street bank is latest major US company to roll back DEI initiative View the full article

It happens way too often. You install a new, interesting app. The app asks you to grant it permission to your photo library, and you end up granting it full access. That is, after all, the most convenient option. Doing this for a trusted, popular app like Instagram or Slack is fine, useful even. But not all apps are built the same. In fact, researchers have recently found photo-scanning malware apps on the App Store. Yes, malware has started to make its way from Android to the iPhone. Dubbed SparkCat, this is a kind of malware framework that runs in the background, running OCR on all your photos in hopes of finding credentials to your crypto account. But any app that has access to your entire photo library can, theoretically, access text inside photos, like your credit card details, or your IDs (though you should never keep unprotected photos of important documents in your Camera Roll). In light of this news, and as a way to make sure that unnecessary or smaller apps aren't accessing all your photos, you should take some time to audit which apps have complete photos access, and revoke apps that don't really need it. Revoke photo access for iPhone appsOpen the Settings app and go to Privacy & Security. Then, choose the Photos app and go through all the apps that have access to its photos. Here, you'll see the access level for each app. Choose an app that you want to revoke permissions for and switch to None or Limited Access. When you choose Limited Access, you'll be prompted to select the photos that you do want to provide access to, rather than giving it blanket access to your whole library. Repeat for any apps you want to change permissions for, then tap Done. Credit: Khamosh Pathak If you gave an app Limited Access and attempt to access your photo library with it, your iPhone will ask you if you want to keep the current selection, or add more photos. You can choose the Select More Photos option to add more recent photos to the mix. Credit: Khamosh Pathak You can also always revise an app's photo permissions at any time from Privacy & Security > Photos > App > Done. And while you're already in your Privacy & Security settings, it might also be worth enabling the new Private Access feature that can help you automatically remove location data when you upload or share photos to the selected app. View the full article

A former Biden official called the bureau protection against another housing crisis. The current White House calls it a "weaponized arm of the bureaucracy." View the full article

It has been a tumultuous few weeks since Donald Trump took office for the second time as president of the United States, While Trump has garnered headlines for his outlandish executive orders aimed at recasting the country in his own shape, Elon Musk, the tech billionaire turned government quango-buster as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been no less busy. Musk and a small group of staff working under him have been traveling between government departments, demanding access to data they hold with the purported goal of making government operations more efficient. Serious questions—including by the U.S. Treasury itself—have been raised about whether that’s the case, with Musk and his team running roughshod over government and data access norms. (That those barriers exist, Musk and his team have argued on social media, is exactly why they need access to details of how the government works.) The immediate impact is already being felt. And plenty of alarms are being raised. But it’s not just the here and now that millions of Americans need to consider when thinking about their data integrity. The shockwaves of Musk’s shock and awe approach to accessing government data will continue for decades to come. “What we know from Musk’s model of what he did to Twitter—which, unfortunately, seems to be the model for what he’s doing with sort of orders of magnitude more complex and sensitive government systems—is really not reassuring,” says Ian Brown, a visiting professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation Law School in Rio de Janeiro. (DOGE did not respond to Fast Company‘s request for comment.) Reports indicate that DOGE has already been granted access to highly sensitive personal information across a number of federal agencies. That sensitive data includes information such as a person’s social security number (SSNs), family income, and tax records. “It is hard to overstate how devastating any leakage of information of this level of sensitivity would be because it is high-value data to identity thieves, deeply personal, and difficult to fix as this type of information is intended to stick with you for a long time,” says Elizabeth Laird, director of equity in civic technology at the Center for Democracy and Technology, a U.S. non-profit. (SSNs are appended to you for your entire life—meaning that any breach of them could have a long-term impact.) “What Musk is reportedly doing is not just to say, ‘In order to modernize these U.S. government federal processes, we’re going to take significant parts of the data and do new things with it,’” says Brown. “He’s saying, ‘We’re going to just completely bypass all those controls, take the data wholesale out of the protected government environments, and import it into environments DOGE is running— with who knows what security and privacy controls, who knows what technical limits on what is done with that data, who gets access to it.’” There doesn’t have to be an actual breach of that data in order to have an impact on users, Laird reckons. “Just knowing that this information has been shared without your consent can inflict distress and can lead to life-impacting harms like identity theft,” she says. Ideally, the best way to mitigate the risk of a data breach would be to not collect or share that data in the first place, Laird says. “The second best thing to do is to place strict safeguards on its handling and sharing,” she adds. “Unfortunately, the public, including individuals whose data is being shared, is left in the dark about what is being done to protect them in the face of these increased security risks.” Anupam Chander, a law professor at Georgetown University, feels these concerns on a personal level. “When I filed my tax return electronically last year, I didn’t think that my data might possibly end up in the hands of people poring through files with a political agenda,” he says. “One hopes our private data is not sitting unencrypted on a 19-year-old’s laptop somewhere.” View the full article

Cryptocurrencies are rapidly changing the way we do business online. These digital currencies are driving significant changes in the trading of digital assets, physical products, and services. One of the key benefits of cryptocurrencies is their enhanced ease, security, and privacy compared to traditional currencies. If you’re an entrepreneur or a business leader exploring cryptocurrency, researching Bitcoin wallets and their role in cryptocurrency trading is key. This article will guide you in selecting the ideal cryptocurrency wallet. When finished reading, you’ll be equipped to make informed choices that align with your business objectives in the dynamic world of digital currencies. Here’s a word from Cryptocurrency Casey on how these wallets work: What is a Cryptocurrency Wallet? As the influence of cryptocurrency expands in the digital economy, an increasing number of individuals and businesses are exploring effective ways to manage their cryptocurrency holdings. A crucial aspect of this management is the secure storage of cryptocurrencies and the protection of digital assets, where a cryptocurrency wallet plays a pivotal role. It’s not just a secure repository for your cryptocurrencies but also serves as a medium for sending or receiving them and a gateway to fund purchases of crypto apps and services. Understanding the functionalities and benefits of the best cryptocurrency wallets is essential for efficient trading and asset management, especially if you’re venturing into the realm of cryptocurrency. What exactly is a cryptocurrency wallet, then? In essence, crypto wallets are tools that keep your private keys – a randomly generated string of alphanumeric characters that function like your bank PIN. For instance, a Bitcoin wallet not only stores your digital Bitcoin but also validates your transactions when using Bitcoin. These wallets grant you access to your cryptocurrencies and other crypto assets, safeguarding them from unauthorized use or third-party alterations. They come in various forms, including paper wallets, soft wallets, and hard wallets. Central to a wallet’s functionality is the private key, which is crucial for validating Bitcoin transactions and ensuring the security and integrity of your digital assets. Selecting the Best Cryptocurrency Wallet: A Guide for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs To help our readers choose the best cryptocurrency wallet that provides security, convenience, and functionality, we utilize the following criteria. These criteria are rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest importance and 1 the lowest. Security Features Importance Scale: 10/10 Rationale: The most crucial aspect of a cryptocurrency wallet is its security features, including encryption, two-factor authentication, and backup options. User Interface and Ease of Use Importance Scale: 8/10 Rationale: A user-friendly interface is important for both beginners and experienced users to navigate and manage their assets effectively. Support for Multiple Cryptocurrencies Importance Scale: 8/10 Rationale: Wallets that support a wide range of cryptocurrencies provide users with more flexibility and convenience. Backup and Restoration Capabilities Importance Scale: 9/10 Rationale: Reliable backup and restoration features are essential for safeguarding assets against device loss or failure. Control Over Private Keys Importance Scale: 9/10 Rationale: Wallets that give users full control over their private keys enhance security and autonomy. Compatibility and Integration Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: The wallet’s convenience is enhanced by its compatibility with multiple operating systems and its integration with various apps and services. Anonymity and Privacy Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: Features that enhance user anonymity and privacy are important for many users in the cryptocurrency space. Customer Support Importance Scale: 6/10 Rationale: Responsive customer support is vital for addressing technical issues and providing guidance. Costs and Fees Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: The cost structure, including any transaction fees associated with the wallet, should be transparent and reasonable. Community and Industry Reputation Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: A strong reputation within the community and industry indicates reliability and trustworthiness. By applying these criteria, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide to our readers for choosing cryptocurrency wallets that not only ensure the security of their digital assets but also offer ease of use and robust features. What to Look for in a Bitcoin Wallet Before settling on one particular Bitcoin wallet, look for a crypto wallet that has the following features: Offer Security: your digital wallet app should help prevent data losses and tampering from taking place. Your crypto wallet app should require you to unlock it every time you want to use it some great Bitcoin wallets come with facial or fingerprint recognition, making it easy to access your digital assets. Backup Features: The best cryptocurrency wallet should provide a reliable backup mechanism. Choose a digital wallet that includes a backup process featuring a recovery link, a password, and several passphrases to restore your access and get everything functioning again. Handles multiple cryptocurrencies: Look for a digital wallet that allows you to work with different cryptocurrencies under one roof. A good digital wallet will help you convert one cryptocurrency into another. This will help in simplify your cryptocurrency and digital assets trading. Though many digital wallets in the market can accommodate multiple cryptocurrencies, be aware of some wallets that accommodate just one cryptocurrency. For trading insights check out our articles on how to buy cryptocurrency and how to sell cryptocurrency. Ease of use: If you are new to cryptocurrency and digital trading look for a wallet that allows for easy management of your account and comes with easy-to-use features that are beginner-friendly. Types of Crypto Wallets When it comes to cryptocurrency, there is a diverse range of wallet types available, each tailored to cater to various needs and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial for selecting a wallet that aligns with your specific security and usability requirements. Here’s an overview of the common types of crypto wallets: Cold Wallet: Cold wallets are physical, often resembling USB drives, and are used for storing cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offline. They’re ideal for long-term storage, offering enhanced security since they don’t connect to the internet. When connected to a computer or mobile device, they allow for buying, selling, and trading, providing robust protection against online hacking attempts. Hardware Wallet: Like cold wallets, hardware wallets are tangible devices designed to keep private keys offline. These devices resemble thumb drives and are considered one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrencies, thanks to their built-in encryption for enhanced security. Their physical form makes them less vulnerable to online threats, making them a popular option for significant crypto holdings. Paper Wallet: Paper wallets consist of physical paper that has your private and public keys printed, sometimes with scannable barcodes or QR codes. They act as an offline wallet and are completely detached from the internet, offering a high level of security. However, they require careful handling as physical damage or loss can result in losing access to your assets. Hot Wallet: Hot wallets are digital and always connected to the internet. They’re typically used for daily transactions and are more convenient for frequent access. These wallets include desktop and mobile versions, each with its own set of features and security measures. Additionally, there are: Desktop Wallet: Software wallets installed on PCs or laptops, desktop wallets can only be accessed from the computer where they were installed. They offer a reasonable level of security but are susceptible to risks like viruses or hacking if the computer is compromised. Mobile Wallet: Mobile wallets are apps on smartphones that facilitate on-the-go cryptocurrency transactions. They’re convenient for daily use, but it’s crucial to back up your private keys externally for added security. Their portable nature makes them popular among users who transact with cryptocurrencies regularly. Web Wallet: These wallets function in the cloud and can be accessed from multiple devices, such as PCs and smartphones. While they provide convenience and easy access, they store your private keys online, typically managed by a third party, which can heighten the risk of hacking and theft. Each type of wallet has its unique advantages and considerations, so it’s essential to select the one that best meets your individual needs and the security level you require for your cryptocurrency transactions. List of Cryptocurrency Wallets Whether you choose a hardware wallet or a soft wallet, here are some of the best cryptocurrency wallet options available to safely store your currency. There are several types of cryptocurrency wallets in the market, each with its own pros and cons. Below are our picks for the best bitcoin wallets: Trezor Wallet Trezor wallets, which are open-source crypto wallets, support over 1,600 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance coin, Tether, Dogecoin, and more in their cold storage. These wallets connect to desktops via USB, enabling users to utilize them as offline cold storage. This feature allows for signing transactions without the need for an internet connection, enhancing security and anonymity. Back by strong security measures that include PIN codes and passphrases your crypto coins are secured and accessible around the clock. Ledger Nano X With a strong reputation across the industry, Ledger Nano X is widely considered the best hardware wallet that lets users buy and exchange cryptocurrencies. Combined with the Ledger Live app it offers feature-rich apps for mobile and desktop. Besides supporting Bitcoin, Ledger wallets are touted to support over 1,800 digital coins and tokens. In terms of security, the Ledger Nano comes with a Secure Element chip which is fashioned after technology used in high-end security solutions such as credit cards and passports. Exodus Wallet Exodus’ Wallet allows users to securely, manage, and exchange cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Monero (XMR), Litecoin (LTC), and more. You can use it to track your cryptocurrency portfolio and its performance over time with its intuitive charts that update in real time so that you can keep up with the fast-moving market. With it, users can buy and sell one digital asset for another without having to go through centralized exchanges. When it comes to security it encrypts your Bitcoin private keys and transaction data on your device so that no one else can access your cryptocurrency. Users also have the option to enable Face or Touch ID to further secure their wallets. Metamask Metamask is one of the most popular cryptocurrency wallets in the market today with over 21 million users, thanks to a strong industry reputation. Considered best for mobile wallet it comes with a browser extension and as a mobile app while offering you a key vault, secure login feature, token wallet, and token exchange options to manage your digital assets. If you are looking to swap currencies to buy an NFT, Metamask comes with a built-in swap feature and even lets users limit how much they pay in gas fees. Coinbase Wallet Coinbase wallet is a digital wallet developed by the people behind the Coinbase cryptocurrency exchange. With this wallet you can store all of your crypto and NFTs in one place; participate in airdrops and initial coin offering (ICO); shop at stores that accept cryptocurrency, and send crypto to anyone. It has an easy-to-use interface, especially for those who already use the Coinbase exchange. Trust Wallet Trust Wallet is an open-source, decentralized, mobile crypto wallet that supports all forms of digital assets and blockchains. This free-to-use app does not earn anything when users use it and all the gas charges accrued are paid to the validators or miners. Thanks to its user-friendly features it has seen over 25 million users Mycelium Mycelium is another popular crypto wallet for mobile users as it gives users more control over transaction fees and integrates with hardware wallets, with a big focus on Bitcoin. It is considered among the best Bitcoin wallet options for Android and iOS users, with widely positive reviews and industry support. It comes with features that allow users to set custom transaction fees and offers hardware wallet support. It also allows users to hold their Bitcoin in an offline storage device while still using Mycelium’s user interface to see their holdings. Electrum The Electrum Bitcoin Wallet is an open-source wallet and offers custom transaction fees that allow users to adjust their fees. In addition, it can integrate with hardware wallets such as KeepKey, Ledger, and Trezor to help with cold storage purposes. This wallet also offers some of the best security features available in the market. This table provides a quick overview of various cryptocurrency wallets, highlighting their types, supported cryptocurrencies, connectivity options, security features, and special features.? Table: Comparison of Top Cryptocurrency Wallets This table provides a quick overview of various cryptocurrency wallets, highlighting their types, supported cryptocurrencies, connectivity options, security features, and special features.? WalletTypeSupported CryptocurrenciesConnectivitySecurity FeaturesSpecial Features Trezor WalletHardwareOver 1,600 (incl. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance coin, Tether, Dogecoin)USB (Desktop)PIN codes, passphrases, offline cold storageOffline cold storage, transaction signing Ledger Nano XHardwareOver 1,800 digital coins and tokensUSB (Mobile and Desktop)Secure Element chip, Ledger Live appBuy and exchange cryptocurrencies, Ledger Live app Exodus WalletSoftwareBitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Monero, Litecoin, and moreN/AEncrypted private keys, transaction data, Face/Touch IDCryptocurrency portfolio tracking, real-time charts MetamaskSoftwareVarious (best for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens)Browser extension, Mobile appKey vault, secure login, token exchangeBuilt-in swap feature, gas fee customization Coinbase WalletSoftwareVarious (incl. crypto and NFTs)Mobile appN/AStore crypto and NFTs, participate in ICOs Trust WalletSoftwareAll forms of digital assets and blockchainsMobile appOpen-source, decentralizedUser-friendly, free-to-use MyceliumSoftwareFocus on Bitcoin, supports other cryptocurrenciesMobile appCustom transaction fees, hardware wallet supportControl over transaction fees, offline storage ElectrumSoftwarePrimarily Bitcoin, supports other cryptocurrenciesN/ACustom transaction fees, hardware wallet integrationCustom transaction fees, high security What is the best cryptocurrency wallet? Considered the best crypto wallet in the market, Trezor comes with backup and regular features, great customer support, regular firmware updates, and works with various cryptocurrencies. What is the safest crypto wallet? Cold storage wallets are considered the best option in terms of security. For example, the Ledger Nano X is equipped with a Secure Element chip that is fashioned after technology used in high-end security solutions such as credit cards and passports. Do you need a cryptocurrency wallet? If you want to invest in cryptocurrency, it is best to invest in a crypto wallet as it offers you more control over your investments. You do, however, have the option to use brokerages such as Robinhood to facilitate selling and buying Bitcoin or payment services such as PayPal, though these services offer limited selections of crypto coins and trading tools. Meanwhile, when trading in cryptocurrencies, make sure you abide by state and federal tax regulations. For additional insights check out our article on do you have to pay taxes on cryptocurrency. Additionally, you can find a great selection of cryptocurrency exchanges check out our article on the best cryptocurrency apps. Is there a wallet that holds all cryptocurrency? With the continuous rolling out of cryptocurrencies into the market, each comes with its own protocols and case uses; as such, there is no universal cryptocurrency wallet. As such, there are several multi-cryptocurrency wallets in the market that can accommodate popular cryptocurrencies these include Ledger, Coinomi, Trezor, Freewallet, and Exodus. How do you create a cryptocurrency wallet? You can create a cryptocurrency wallet within a few minutes by following these simple rules: Download a wallet app based on particular requirements and needs. Create your account by following the signup instructions Record and secure your recovery phrase. Some wallet apps may allow you to add an extra layer of security, such as facial recognition or creating a passcode. Purchase and deposit some cryptocurrency into your wallet. Lastly, you can start sending, receiving, or trading cryptocurrencies when ready. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Best Cryptocurrency Wallet Options for Secure Transactions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Cryptocurrencies are rapidly changing the way we do business online. These digital currencies are driving significant changes in the trading of digital assets, physical products, and services. One of the key benefits of cryptocurrencies is their enhanced ease, security, and privacy compared to traditional currencies. If you’re an entrepreneur or a business leader exploring cryptocurrency, researching Bitcoin wallets and their role in cryptocurrency trading is key. This article will guide you in selecting the ideal cryptocurrency wallet. When finished reading, you’ll be equipped to make informed choices that align with your business objectives in the dynamic world of digital currencies. Here’s a word from Cryptocurrency Casey on how these wallets work: What is a Cryptocurrency Wallet? As the influence of cryptocurrency expands in the digital economy, an increasing number of individuals and businesses are exploring effective ways to manage their cryptocurrency holdings. A crucial aspect of this management is the secure storage of cryptocurrencies and the protection of digital assets, where a cryptocurrency wallet plays a pivotal role. It’s not just a secure repository for your cryptocurrencies but also serves as a medium for sending or receiving them and a gateway to fund purchases of crypto apps and services. Understanding the functionalities and benefits of the best cryptocurrency wallets is essential for efficient trading and asset management, especially if you’re venturing into the realm of cryptocurrency. What exactly is a cryptocurrency wallet, then? In essence, crypto wallets are tools that keep your private keys – a randomly generated string of alphanumeric characters that function like your bank PIN. For instance, a Bitcoin wallet not only stores your digital Bitcoin but also validates your transactions when using Bitcoin. These wallets grant you access to your cryptocurrencies and other crypto assets, safeguarding them from unauthorized use or third-party alterations. They come in various forms, including paper wallets, soft wallets, and hard wallets. Central to a wallet’s functionality is the private key, which is crucial for validating Bitcoin transactions and ensuring the security and integrity of your digital assets. Selecting the Best Cryptocurrency Wallet: A Guide for Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs To help our readers choose the best cryptocurrency wallet that provides security, convenience, and functionality, we utilize the following criteria. These criteria are rated on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest importance and 1 the lowest. Security Features Importance Scale: 10/10 Rationale: The most crucial aspect of a cryptocurrency wallet is its security features, including encryption, two-factor authentication, and backup options. User Interface and Ease of Use Importance Scale: 8/10 Rationale: A user-friendly interface is important for both beginners and experienced users to navigate and manage their assets effectively. Support for Multiple Cryptocurrencies Importance Scale: 8/10 Rationale: Wallets that support a wide range of cryptocurrencies provide users with more flexibility and convenience. Backup and Restoration Capabilities Importance Scale: 9/10 Rationale: Reliable backup and restoration features are essential for safeguarding assets against device loss or failure. Control Over Private Keys Importance Scale: 9/10 Rationale: Wallets that give users full control over their private keys enhance security and autonomy. Compatibility and Integration Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: The wallet’s convenience is enhanced by its compatibility with multiple operating systems and its integration with various apps and services. Anonymity and Privacy Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: Features that enhance user anonymity and privacy are important for many users in the cryptocurrency space. Customer Support Importance Scale: 6/10 Rationale: Responsive customer support is vital for addressing technical issues and providing guidance. Costs and Fees Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: The cost structure, including any transaction fees associated with the wallet, should be transparent and reasonable. Community and Industry Reputation Importance Scale: 7/10 Rationale: A strong reputation within the community and industry indicates reliability and trustworthiness. By applying these criteria, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide to our readers for choosing cryptocurrency wallets that not only ensure the security of their digital assets but also offer ease of use and robust features. What to Look for in a Bitcoin Wallet Before settling on one particular Bitcoin wallet, look for a crypto wallet that has the following features: Offer Security: your digital wallet app should help prevent data losses and tampering from taking place. Your crypto wallet app should require you to unlock it every time you want to use it some great Bitcoin wallets come with facial or fingerprint recognition, making it easy to access your digital assets. Backup Features: The best cryptocurrency wallet should provide a reliable backup mechanism. Choose a digital wallet that includes a backup process featuring a recovery link, a password, and several passphrases to restore your access and get everything functioning again. Handles multiple cryptocurrencies: Look for a digital wallet that allows you to work with different cryptocurrencies under one roof. A good digital wallet will help you convert one cryptocurrency into another. This will help in simplify your cryptocurrency and digital assets trading. Though many digital wallets in the market can accommodate multiple cryptocurrencies, be aware of some wallets that accommodate just one cryptocurrency. For trading insights check out our articles on how to buy cryptocurrency and how to sell cryptocurrency. Ease of use: If you are new to cryptocurrency and digital trading look for a wallet that allows for easy management of your account and comes with easy-to-use features that are beginner-friendly. Types of Crypto Wallets When it comes to cryptocurrency, there is a diverse range of wallet types available, each tailored to cater to various needs and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial for selecting a wallet that aligns with your specific security and usability requirements. Here’s an overview of the common types of crypto wallets: Cold Wallet: Cold wallets are physical, often resembling USB drives, and are used for storing cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offline. They’re ideal for long-term storage, offering enhanced security since they don’t connect to the internet. When connected to a computer or mobile device, they allow for buying, selling, and trading, providing robust protection against online hacking attempts. Hardware Wallet: Like cold wallets, hardware wallets are tangible devices designed to keep private keys offline. These devices resemble thumb drives and are considered one of the safest ways to store cryptocurrencies, thanks to their built-in encryption for enhanced security. Their physical form makes them less vulnerable to online threats, making them a popular option for significant crypto holdings. Paper Wallet: Paper wallets consist of physical paper that has your private and public keys printed, sometimes with scannable barcodes or QR codes. They act as an offline wallet and are completely detached from the internet, offering a high level of security. However, they require careful handling as physical damage or loss can result in losing access to your assets. Hot Wallet: Hot wallets are digital and always connected to the internet. They’re typically used for daily transactions and are more convenient for frequent access. These wallets include desktop and mobile versions, each with its own set of features and security measures. Additionally, there are: Desktop Wallet: Software wallets installed on PCs or laptops, desktop wallets can only be accessed from the computer where they were installed. They offer a reasonable level of security but are susceptible to risks like viruses or hacking if the computer is compromised. Mobile Wallet: Mobile wallets are apps on smartphones that facilitate on-the-go cryptocurrency transactions. They’re convenient for daily use, but it’s crucial to back up your private keys externally for added security. Their portable nature makes them popular among users who transact with cryptocurrencies regularly. Web Wallet: These wallets function in the cloud and can be accessed from multiple devices, such as PCs and smartphones. While they provide convenience and easy access, they store your private keys online, typically managed by a third party, which can heighten the risk of hacking and theft. Each type of wallet has its unique advantages and considerations, so it’s essential to select the one that best meets your individual needs and the security level you require for your cryptocurrency transactions. List of Cryptocurrency Wallets Whether you choose a hardware wallet or a soft wallet, here are some of the best cryptocurrency wallet options available to safely store your currency. There are several types of cryptocurrency wallets in the market, each with its own pros and cons. Below are our picks for the best bitcoin wallets: Trezor Wallet Trezor wallets, which are open-source crypto wallets, support over 1,600 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance coin, Tether, Dogecoin, and more in their cold storage. These wallets connect to desktops via USB, enabling users to utilize them as offline cold storage. This feature allows for signing transactions without the need for an internet connection, enhancing security and anonymity. Back by strong security measures that include PIN codes and passphrases your crypto coins are secured and accessible around the clock. Ledger Nano X With a strong reputation across the industry, Ledger Nano X is widely considered the best hardware wallet that lets users buy and exchange cryptocurrencies. Combined with the Ledger Live app it offers feature-rich apps for mobile and desktop. Besides supporting Bitcoin, Ledger wallets are touted to support over 1,800 digital coins and tokens. In terms of security, the Ledger Nano comes with a Secure Element chip which is fashioned after technology used in high-end security solutions such as credit cards and passports. Exodus Wallet Exodus’ Wallet allows users to securely, manage, and exchange cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Monero (XMR), Litecoin (LTC), and more. You can use it to track your cryptocurrency portfolio and its performance over time with its intuitive charts that update in real time so that you can keep up with the fast-moving market. With it, users can buy and sell one digital asset for another without having to go through centralized exchanges. When it comes to security it encrypts your Bitcoin private keys and transaction data on your device so that no one else can access your cryptocurrency. Users also have the option to enable Face or Touch ID to further secure their wallets. Metamask Metamask is one of the most popular cryptocurrency wallets in the market today with over 21 million users, thanks to a strong industry reputation. Considered best for mobile wallet it comes with a browser extension and as a mobile app while offering you a key vault, secure login feature, token wallet, and token exchange options to manage your digital assets. If you are looking to swap currencies to buy an NFT, Metamask comes with a built-in swap feature and even lets users limit how much they pay in gas fees. Coinbase Wallet Coinbase wallet is a digital wallet developed by the people behind the Coinbase cryptocurrency exchange. With this wallet you can store all of your crypto and NFTs in one place; participate in airdrops and initial coin offering (ICO); shop at stores that accept cryptocurrency, and send crypto to anyone. It has an easy-to-use interface, especially for those who already use the Coinbase exchange. Trust Wallet Trust Wallet is an open-source, decentralized, mobile crypto wallet that supports all forms of digital assets and blockchains. This free-to-use app does not earn anything when users use it and all the gas charges accrued are paid to the validators or miners. Thanks to its user-friendly features it has seen over 25 million users Mycelium Mycelium is another popular crypto wallet for mobile users as it gives users more control over transaction fees and integrates with hardware wallets, with a big focus on Bitcoin. It is considered among the best Bitcoin wallet options for Android and iOS users, with widely positive reviews and industry support. It comes with features that allow users to set custom transaction fees and offers hardware wallet support. It also allows users to hold their Bitcoin in an offline storage device while still using Mycelium’s user interface to see their holdings. Electrum The Electrum Bitcoin Wallet is an open-source wallet and offers custom transaction fees that allow users to adjust their fees. In addition, it can integrate with hardware wallets such as KeepKey, Ledger, and Trezor to help with cold storage purposes. This wallet also offers some of the best security features available in the market. This table provides a quick overview of various cryptocurrency wallets, highlighting their types, supported cryptocurrencies, connectivity options, security features, and special features.? Table: Comparison of Top Cryptocurrency Wallets This table provides a quick overview of various cryptocurrency wallets, highlighting their types, supported cryptocurrencies, connectivity options, security features, and special features.? WalletTypeSupported CryptocurrenciesConnectivitySecurity FeaturesSpecial Features Trezor WalletHardwareOver 1,600 (incl. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance coin, Tether, Dogecoin)USB (Desktop)PIN codes, passphrases, offline cold storageOffline cold storage, transaction signing Ledger Nano XHardwareOver 1,800 digital coins and tokensUSB (Mobile and Desktop)Secure Element chip, Ledger Live appBuy and exchange cryptocurrencies, Ledger Live app Exodus WalletSoftwareBitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Monero, Litecoin, and moreN/AEncrypted private keys, transaction data, Face/Touch IDCryptocurrency portfolio tracking, real-time charts MetamaskSoftwareVarious (best for Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens)Browser extension, Mobile appKey vault, secure login, token exchangeBuilt-in swap feature, gas fee customization Coinbase WalletSoftwareVarious (incl. crypto and NFTs)Mobile appN/AStore crypto and NFTs, participate in ICOs Trust WalletSoftwareAll forms of digital assets and blockchainsMobile appOpen-source, decentralizedUser-friendly, free-to-use MyceliumSoftwareFocus on Bitcoin, supports other cryptocurrenciesMobile appCustom transaction fees, hardware wallet supportControl over transaction fees, offline storage ElectrumSoftwarePrimarily Bitcoin, supports other cryptocurrenciesN/ACustom transaction fees, hardware wallet integrationCustom transaction fees, high security What is the best cryptocurrency wallet? Considered the best crypto wallet in the market, Trezor comes with backup and regular features, great customer support, regular firmware updates, and works with various cryptocurrencies. What is the safest crypto wallet? Cold storage wallets are considered the best option in terms of security. For example, the Ledger Nano X is equipped with a Secure Element chip that is fashioned after technology used in high-end security solutions such as credit cards and passports. Do you need a cryptocurrency wallet? If you want to invest in cryptocurrency, it is best to invest in a crypto wallet as it offers you more control over your investments. You do, however, have the option to use brokerages such as Robinhood to facilitate selling and buying Bitcoin or payment services such as PayPal, though these services offer limited selections of crypto coins and trading tools. Meanwhile, when trading in cryptocurrencies, make sure you abide by state and federal tax regulations. For additional insights check out our article on do you have to pay taxes on cryptocurrency. Additionally, you can find a great selection of cryptocurrency exchanges check out our article on the best cryptocurrency apps. Is there a wallet that holds all cryptocurrency? With the continuous rolling out of cryptocurrencies into the market, each comes with its own protocols and case uses; as such, there is no universal cryptocurrency wallet. As such, there are several multi-cryptocurrency wallets in the market that can accommodate popular cryptocurrencies these include Ledger, Coinomi, Trezor, Freewallet, and Exodus. How do you create a cryptocurrency wallet? You can create a cryptocurrency wallet within a few minutes by following these simple rules: Download a wallet app based on particular requirements and needs. Create your account by following the signup instructions Record and secure your recovery phrase. Some wallet apps may allow you to add an extra layer of security, such as facial recognition or creating a passcode. Purchase and deposit some cryptocurrency into your wallet. Lastly, you can start sending, receiving, or trading cryptocurrencies when ready. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Best Cryptocurrency Wallet Options for Secure Transactions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting a hotel can be both a thrilling and daunting venture. From boutique havens to franchising giants, this guide sheds light on the myriad pathways and decisions in crafting your dream establishment. Whether you’re seeking to revolutionize guest experiences or pondering how to start a hotel business on a shoestring budget, get on this journey with us as we unveil the essentials of the trade. Understanding the Hotel Industry Before diving into the nuts and bolts of starting a hotel, it’s vital to familiarize oneself with the industry’s landscape. The hospitality world is vast, dynamic, and ever-evolving. Let’s get you acquainted. Current State of the Hospitality Industry Trends: With the rise of technology, many travelers prefer booking their stays online, giving birth to the significance of online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com and Airbnb. Sustainability has also become a key concern, leading to a surge in eco-friendly hotels and practices. The Hotelchamp also provides some additional trends that hoteliers need to keep an eye on: Challenges: While promising, the hotel industry has its hurdles. Seasonal fluctuations can impact revenue, and there’s always stiff competition from other hotels and alternative accommodation options like vacation rentals. Opportunities: The digital age has brought a world of possibilities. Direct bookings through hotel websites, partnership opportunities with local businesses, and experiential packages like wellness retreats or cultural excursions are drawing guests. Many hotels may also serve as a wedding venue. Before starting, consider the different opportunities you may explore so you can include those in your plans. For example, you may research a wedding venue business plan instead of simply writing one for a basic hotel. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Hotel Every entrepreneurial journey starts with understanding the financial landscape. Starting a new hotel is no exception. Costs can vary greatly depending on location, scale, and type. Here’s a range to help you gauge your investment: Low-end Hotels: $60,000 – $500,000 Typically, it includes budget accommodations, smaller guest capacities, and basic amenities. Mid-range Hotels: $1 million – $5 million Offers additional features like pools, restaurants, and larger room capacities. High-end Hotels & Resorts: $10 million – $50 million (or more) Think luxury. Spas, gourmet dining, prime locations, and top-tier services. Converting an Existing Building Repurposing an old building can be a brilliant move. Here’s a breakdown of the costs: Purchase Prices: $100,000 – $5 million. It greatly varies based on location and the building’s size and condition. Renovation Costs: $50,000 to $2 million. This encompasses structural modifications, aesthetic enhancements, and the incorporation of amenities. Compliance with Regulations: $10,000 – $100,000. Ensuring that your building adheres to safety, health, and other local regulations is crucial. Buying a Building to Convert Seeking a building with potential? Keep these in mind: Initial Purchase Prices: $250,000 – $10 million. The price tag is influenced by factors like location, building potential, and market demand. Renovation Costs: Similar to the above, expect to pay between $50,000 and $2 million. Compliance with Regulations: Anticipate spending between $10,000 and $100,000 to meet standards. Buying an Existing Hotel Sometimes, stepping into an already functioning hotel is the best move: Costs: This ranges significantly from $1 million to $100 million based on the hotel’s reputation, location, and profitability. Benefits: Faster start, as the groundwork is already laid. Immediate cash flow. Drawbacks: Potential legacy issues. Less room for personalization. Crafting Your Own Hotel Business Plan Crafting a hotel business plan is more than just paperwork; it’s about mapping out your vision, setting clear goals, and understanding how to achieve them. Here’s how you can create a plan that speaks volumes: ComponentDescription Executive SummaryA snapshot of your hotel's overview, including its mission, vision, and basic details. Business ObjectivesDefine what you aim to achieve in the short-term and long-term. Market AnalysisInsights into the current market, trends, competition, and potential customer segments. Marketing StrategiesTactics to attract guests, from online campaigns to partnerships with travel agencies. Operations PlanDay-to-day management, staffing, and hotel procedures. Financial ProjectionsEstimated earnings, costs, break-even analysis, and profit and loss predictions for the upcoming years. AppendixAny additional data or resources supporting your plan like market research findings, legal documents, or resumes of key team members. Executive Summary: Description: Provide a snapshot of your business. Example: “Sunset Inn is a 30-room hotel in San Diego that strives to offer travelers a combination of luxury and comfort while prioritizing eco-friendly practices.” Market Analysis: Description: Dive deep into the current market scenario. How-To: Conduct surveys to understand what guests value most in a hotel. Study market trends using tools like Google Trends or Statista. Example: “In San Diego, there’s been a 20% rise in eco-conscious travelers in the last two years. Our hotel will appeal to this demographic by ensuring sustainable practices.” Competitive Analysis: Description: Understand your competition. How-To: Visit competitor hotels or their websites. Analyze guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. Example: “Although Beachfront Luxe has sea-view rooms, they lack eco-friendly amenities. Sunset Inn can address this shortcoming.” Marketing & Sales Strategy: Description: Detail how you’ll attract and retain guests. How-To: Engage in social media marketing targeting travel enthusiasts. Collaborate with travel bloggers for reviews. Example: “Launching a ‘Stay 3, Pay for 2’ nights promotion for the first two months.” Financial Projections: Description: A clear picture of expected revenues, expenses, and profit. How-To: Use past financial data if available. Forecast based on market trends and expected occupancy rates. Example: “Predicting an average occupancy rate of 75%, with room rates at $200 per night, we project a gross revenue of $1.6 million.” Operational Plan: Description: Describe day-to-day operations. Example: “Housekeeping will operate on two shifts, ensuring rooms are always clean. The front desk will be manned 24/7 to cater to guest inquiries.” Management & Organization: Description: Detail your team and their roles. Example: “Jane Doe, our general manager, brings ten years of hotel management experience, previously working with The Ritz.” Your business plan serves as your compass. It needs to be clear and detailed, guiding every decision you make in your hotel venture. Keep in mind that the more research and preparation you invest in it, the more confident you will feel with each step you take. Steps to Launching Your New Hotel Business Starting a hotel involves a series of intentional and interconnected steps. Each phase builds upon the previous one, laying the groundwork for the success of your establishment. Here’s your roadmap: Research & Feasibility Study: Before any concrete plans, gauge the feasibility of your hotel idea. Survey your target area, analyze demographics, and assess the competition. Business Plan Development: This step is all about detailed planning, as we covered earlier. A strong business plan acts as your roadmap, outlining your goals, budget, and operational strategies. Location & Property Selection: In the hotel industry, the mantra is ‘Location, Location, Location’. It is crucial to select a site that matches your target market and reflects your brand. Legalities & Licensing: Make sure to address all legal requirements, including obtaining building permits, securing a liquor license, and acquiring zoning permissions. Design & Construction: If building from scratch or renovating, this is where your hotel starts taking shape. Collaborate with architects and interior designers to bring your vision to life. Hiring & Training: A hotel is only as good as its staff. Recruit wisely and invest in their training. Soft Launch: Before the opening, have a trial run. Invite friends or industry partners to experience your hotel and provide feedback. Grand Opening: Roll out the red carpet and make your official debut in the hospitality world! Building a Strong Team for Your New Hotel Its guests’ experiences define a hotel’s success, and your hotel employees craft those experiences. Hiring Process: Prioritize attitude over skills. Skills can be taught, but attitude often can’t. Use role-specific tests or simulations during interviews. Training: Implement an orientation program that instills the hotel’s values, mission, and service standards. Team Building: Organize regular team-building activities to foster camaraderie and morale. Continuous Feedback: Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions help staff grow and address concerns. Empowerment: Empower your employees to make decisions. When they feel ownership, they’re more likely to deliver top-notch service. Hotel Pre-launch Marketing Creating a buzz even before you open your doors is essential. Digital Presence: Launch a user-friendly website with SEO optimization. Also, create engaging profiles on popular social media platforms. Collaborations: Partner with influencers or travel bloggers. A shoutout or a blog post can introduce your hotel to a wide audience. Email Marketing: Gather emails through your website or contests and send newsletters about opening offers, sneak peeks, or behind-the-scenes content. Press Releases: Send out a press release to local newspapers, magazines, and travel sites. Loyalty Programs: Introduce early bird loyalty programs to incentivize bookings. The Grand Opening Your hotel’s opening is more than just a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It sets the stage for future operations and creates a lasting impression. Local Collaboration: Partner with local businesses for mutual promotions. Maybe a wine tasting from a local vineyard? Event Marketing: Host a theme-based event. For instance, how about a beach-themed party if you’re near the coast? Local Celebrities: Invite local influencers or celebrities. Their presence can attract media attention and generate buzz. Guided Tours: Offer guided hotel tours showcasing unique features and rooms. Feedback Collection: Set up feedback stations or provide cards. Initial feedback is golden for improving services swiftly. How to Start a Boutique Hotel The allure of boutique hotels lies in their intimate, unique, and personalized environments. Unlike mainstream hotels, boutique hotels are typically smaller, offer tailored experiences, and often have a distinct personality. Distinguishing Factors: Size: Typically, boutique hotels range from 10 to 100 rooms. Personalized Service: With fewer rooms, staff can offer personalized services. Unique Theme or Style: Boutique hotels often boast distinctive atmospheres, whether it’s an Art Deco design or a literary theme. Unique Challenges: Brand Recognition: Unlike chain hotels, boutique hotels don’t have instant brand recognition, which can be a challenge in attracting initial customers. Economies of Scale: Their smaller size means they might not benefit from bulk purchasing or operational efficiencies that larger hotels do. Opportunities: Niche Market: Consider targeting a specific audience, such as art lovers or environmentally conscious travelers. Local Experiences: Integrate local art, cuisine, and traditions to offer a unique, immersive experience. Exploring Franchising in the Hotel Business Franchising allows you to get a head start. You’re leveraging an established brand’s name, operational methods, and support. Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) all offer popular hotel franchise models. Pros: Brand Recognition: You’ll benefit from immediate brand trust and loyalty. Operational Support: Many franchises offer training, marketing support, and operational guidelines. Supplier Discounts: Bulk purchasing agreements can reduce supplies and services costs. Cons: Initial Franchise Fee: This can be hefty and doesn’t include operational costs. Royalty Payments: A percentage of your gross revenue will typically go to the franchisor. Less Flexibility: You must adhere to the brand’s standards, limiting creativity. How to Start a Hotel Business with No Money Starting a hotel with no money might sound like a dream, but it’s achievable with determination, creativity, and resourcefulness. Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe can be used to raise capital by showcasing your unique hotel concept to the public. Vendor Financing: Negotiate with suppliers to provide goods and services upfront with deferred payments. Property Lease: Instead of purchasing, consider leasing a property and converting it into a hotel. Leveraging Partnerships and Investments Partnerships and investments can be the lifeline for aspiring hoteliers with limited capital. Joint Ventures: Partner with someone with the capital or resources you lack. For instance, if you have hotel management expertise but lack funds, find a partner looking for operational expertise. Angel Investors: Individuals who provide capital for a business start-up, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity. Venture Capitalists: Professional groups that manage pooled funds from many investors to invest in startups. They usually come in when you have a proven business model and want to scale. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with travel agencies, local businesses, or even established brands to co-run or promote the hotel. Starting a hotel business, especially with limited capital, requires innovation, tenacity, and smart strategies. Frequently Asked Questions How long do hotel businesses typically take to start? Starting a hotel business can range from 8 months to several years, depending on factors such as property construction or renovation, licensing, and market research. A turnkey operation or purchasing an existing hotel can be quicker while building from scratch is more time-intensive. Additionally, those who already know how to start a business may save time on the paperwork and logistics, while new entrepreneurs may need to dedicate additional time and resources to education. How can a hotel owner create a successful hotel business? Success in the hotel business hinges on thorough market research, an effective business plan, a prime location, exceptional customer service, and continuous marketing efforts. Regularly updating offerings and staying tuned to industry trends also play pivotal roles. As you get started, find or create a comprehensive business startup checklist to stay organized and reach your goals. What are some trends in the current hotel market that potential hotel owners should be aware of? Some current trends include: Eco-friendly Operations: Green practices and sustainability are in demand. Local Experiences: Guests seek authentic local experiences, from food to activities. Tech Integration: Smart rooms, touchless check-ins, and integrated apps are becoming standard. Health & Wellness: Hotels are focusing on wellness amenities, including spas, fitness centers, and healthier menu options. What are the common characteristics of successful hotel owners? Successful hotel owners are forward-thinking, flexible, focused on customer satisfaction, and knowledgeable about finances. They typically exhibit strong leadership abilities, excel at relationship building, and have a comprehensive grasp of the intricacies of the hospitality industry. What are the typical responsibilities of a hotel manager in a successful hotel business? Hotel managers are responsible for overseeing daily operations, ensuring guest satisfaction, managing staff, handling budgets, and collaborating on marketing strategies. They troubleshoot problems, interact with vendors, and are crucial in establishing the tone and service standards of the hotel. Additionally, they recognize the significance of online reviews and strive to ensure that customer service and every aspect of each visitor’s experience meet five-star standards. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Hotel Business: Your Ultimate Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting a hotel can be both a thrilling and daunting venture. From boutique havens to franchising giants, this guide sheds light on the myriad pathways and decisions in crafting your dream establishment. Whether you’re seeking to revolutionize guest experiences or pondering how to start a hotel business on a shoestring budget, get on this journey with us as we unveil the essentials of the trade. Understanding the Hotel Industry Before diving into the nuts and bolts of starting a hotel, it’s vital to familiarize oneself with the industry’s landscape. The hospitality world is vast, dynamic, and ever-evolving. Let’s get you acquainted. Current State of the Hospitality Industry Trends: With the rise of technology, many travelers prefer booking their stays online, giving birth to the significance of online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com and Airbnb. Sustainability has also become a key concern, leading to a surge in eco-friendly hotels and practices. The Hotelchamp also provides some additional trends that hoteliers need to keep an eye on: Challenges: While promising, the hotel industry has its hurdles. Seasonal fluctuations can impact revenue, and there’s always stiff competition from other hotels and alternative accommodation options like vacation rentals. Opportunities: The digital age has brought a world of possibilities. Direct bookings through hotel websites, partnership opportunities with local businesses, and experiential packages like wellness retreats or cultural excursions are drawing guests. Many hotels may also serve as a wedding venue. Before starting, consider the different opportunities you may explore so you can include those in your plans. For example, you may research a wedding venue business plan instead of simply writing one for a basic hotel. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Hotel Every entrepreneurial journey starts with understanding the financial landscape. Starting a new hotel is no exception. Costs can vary greatly depending on location, scale, and type. Here’s a range to help you gauge your investment: Low-end Hotels: $60,000 – $500,000 Typically, it includes budget accommodations, smaller guest capacities, and basic amenities. Mid-range Hotels: $1 million – $5 million Offers additional features like pools, restaurants, and larger room capacities. High-end Hotels & Resorts: $10 million – $50 million (or more) Think luxury. Spas, gourmet dining, prime locations, and top-tier services. Converting an Existing Building Repurposing an old building can be a brilliant move. Here’s a breakdown of the costs: Purchase Prices: $100,000 – $5 million. It greatly varies based on location and the building’s size and condition. Renovation Costs: $50,000 to $2 million. This encompasses structural modifications, aesthetic enhancements, and the incorporation of amenities. Compliance with Regulations: $10,000 – $100,000. Ensuring that your building adheres to safety, health, and other local regulations is crucial. Buying a Building to Convert Seeking a building with potential? Keep these in mind: Initial Purchase Prices: $250,000 – $10 million. The price tag is influenced by factors like location, building potential, and market demand. Renovation Costs: Similar to the above, expect to pay between $50,000 and $2 million. Compliance with Regulations: Anticipate spending between $10,000 and $100,000 to meet standards. Buying an Existing Hotel Sometimes, stepping into an already functioning hotel is the best move: Costs: This ranges significantly from $1 million to $100 million based on the hotel’s reputation, location, and profitability. Benefits: Faster start, as the groundwork is already laid. Immediate cash flow. Drawbacks: Potential legacy issues. Less room for personalization. Crafting Your Own Hotel Business Plan Crafting a hotel business plan is more than just paperwork; it’s about mapping out your vision, setting clear goals, and understanding how to achieve them. Here’s how you can create a plan that speaks volumes: ComponentDescription Executive SummaryA snapshot of your hotel's overview, including its mission, vision, and basic details. Business ObjectivesDefine what you aim to achieve in the short-term and long-term. Market AnalysisInsights into the current market, trends, competition, and potential customer segments. Marketing StrategiesTactics to attract guests, from online campaigns to partnerships with travel agencies. Operations PlanDay-to-day management, staffing, and hotel procedures. Financial ProjectionsEstimated earnings, costs, break-even analysis, and profit and loss predictions for the upcoming years. AppendixAny additional data or resources supporting your plan like market research findings, legal documents, or resumes of key team members. Executive Summary: Description: Provide a snapshot of your business. Example: “Sunset Inn is a 30-room hotel in San Diego that strives to offer travelers a combination of luxury and comfort while prioritizing eco-friendly practices.” Market Analysis: Description: Dive deep into the current market scenario. How-To: Conduct surveys to understand what guests value most in a hotel. Study market trends using tools like Google Trends or Statista. Example: “In San Diego, there’s been a 20% rise in eco-conscious travelers in the last two years. Our hotel will appeal to this demographic by ensuring sustainable practices.” Competitive Analysis: Description: Understand your competition. How-To: Visit competitor hotels or their websites. Analyze guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. Example: “Although Beachfront Luxe has sea-view rooms, they lack eco-friendly amenities. Sunset Inn can address this shortcoming.” Marketing & Sales Strategy: Description: Detail how you’ll attract and retain guests. How-To: Engage in social media marketing targeting travel enthusiasts. Collaborate with travel bloggers for reviews. Example: “Launching a ‘Stay 3, Pay for 2’ nights promotion for the first two months.” Financial Projections: Description: A clear picture of expected revenues, expenses, and profit. How-To: Use past financial data if available. Forecast based on market trends and expected occupancy rates. Example: “Predicting an average occupancy rate of 75%, with room rates at $200 per night, we project a gross revenue of $1.6 million.” Operational Plan: Description: Describe day-to-day operations. Example: “Housekeeping will operate on two shifts, ensuring rooms are always clean. The front desk will be manned 24/7 to cater to guest inquiries.” Management & Organization: Description: Detail your team and their roles. Example: “Jane Doe, our general manager, brings ten years of hotel management experience, previously working with The Ritz.” Your business plan serves as your compass. It needs to be clear and detailed, guiding every decision you make in your hotel venture. Keep in mind that the more research and preparation you invest in it, the more confident you will feel with each step you take. Steps to Launching Your New Hotel Business Starting a hotel involves a series of intentional and interconnected steps. Each phase builds upon the previous one, laying the groundwork for the success of your establishment. Here’s your roadmap: Research & Feasibility Study: Before any concrete plans, gauge the feasibility of your hotel idea. Survey your target area, analyze demographics, and assess the competition. Business Plan Development: This step is all about detailed planning, as we covered earlier. A strong business plan acts as your roadmap, outlining your goals, budget, and operational strategies. Location & Property Selection: In the hotel industry, the mantra is ‘Location, Location, Location’. It is crucial to select a site that matches your target market and reflects your brand. Legalities & Licensing: Make sure to address all legal requirements, including obtaining building permits, securing a liquor license, and acquiring zoning permissions. Design & Construction: If building from scratch or renovating, this is where your hotel starts taking shape. Collaborate with architects and interior designers to bring your vision to life. Hiring & Training: A hotel is only as good as its staff. Recruit wisely and invest in their training. Soft Launch: Before the opening, have a trial run. Invite friends or industry partners to experience your hotel and provide feedback. Grand Opening: Roll out the red carpet and make your official debut in the hospitality world! Building a Strong Team for Your New Hotel Its guests’ experiences define a hotel’s success, and your hotel employees craft those experiences. Hiring Process: Prioritize attitude over skills. Skills can be taught, but attitude often can’t. Use role-specific tests or simulations during interviews. Training: Implement an orientation program that instills the hotel’s values, mission, and service standards. Team Building: Organize regular team-building activities to foster camaraderie and morale. Continuous Feedback: Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions help staff grow and address concerns. Empowerment: Empower your employees to make decisions. When they feel ownership, they’re more likely to deliver top-notch service. Hotel Pre-launch Marketing Creating a buzz even before you open your doors is essential. Digital Presence: Launch a user-friendly website with SEO optimization. Also, create engaging profiles on popular social media platforms. Collaborations: Partner with influencers or travel bloggers. A shoutout or a blog post can introduce your hotel to a wide audience. Email Marketing: Gather emails through your website or contests and send newsletters about opening offers, sneak peeks, or behind-the-scenes content. Press Releases: Send out a press release to local newspapers, magazines, and travel sites. Loyalty Programs: Introduce early bird loyalty programs to incentivize bookings. The Grand Opening Your hotel’s opening is more than just a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It sets the stage for future operations and creates a lasting impression. Local Collaboration: Partner with local businesses for mutual promotions. Maybe a wine tasting from a local vineyard? Event Marketing: Host a theme-based event. For instance, how about a beach-themed party if you’re near the coast? Local Celebrities: Invite local influencers or celebrities. Their presence can attract media attention and generate buzz. Guided Tours: Offer guided hotel tours showcasing unique features and rooms. Feedback Collection: Set up feedback stations or provide cards. Initial feedback is golden for improving services swiftly. How to Start a Boutique Hotel The allure of boutique hotels lies in their intimate, unique, and personalized environments. Unlike mainstream hotels, boutique hotels are typically smaller, offer tailored experiences, and often have a distinct personality. Distinguishing Factors: Size: Typically, boutique hotels range from 10 to 100 rooms. Personalized Service: With fewer rooms, staff can offer personalized services. Unique Theme or Style: Boutique hotels often boast distinctive atmospheres, whether it’s an Art Deco design or a literary theme. Unique Challenges: Brand Recognition: Unlike chain hotels, boutique hotels don’t have instant brand recognition, which can be a challenge in attracting initial customers. Economies of Scale: Their smaller size means they might not benefit from bulk purchasing or operational efficiencies that larger hotels do. Opportunities: Niche Market: Consider targeting a specific audience, such as art lovers or environmentally conscious travelers. Local Experiences: Integrate local art, cuisine, and traditions to offer a unique, immersive experience. Exploring Franchising in the Hotel Business Franchising allows you to get a head start. You’re leveraging an established brand’s name, operational methods, and support. Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) all offer popular hotel franchise models. Pros: Brand Recognition: You’ll benefit from immediate brand trust and loyalty. Operational Support: Many franchises offer training, marketing support, and operational guidelines. Supplier Discounts: Bulk purchasing agreements can reduce supplies and services costs. Cons: Initial Franchise Fee: This can be hefty and doesn’t include operational costs. Royalty Payments: A percentage of your gross revenue will typically go to the franchisor. Less Flexibility: You must adhere to the brand’s standards, limiting creativity. How to Start a Hotel Business with No Money Starting a hotel with no money might sound like a dream, but it’s achievable with determination, creativity, and resourcefulness. Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe can be used to raise capital by showcasing your unique hotel concept to the public. Vendor Financing: Negotiate with suppliers to provide goods and services upfront with deferred payments. Property Lease: Instead of purchasing, consider leasing a property and converting it into a hotel. Leveraging Partnerships and Investments Partnerships and investments can be the lifeline for aspiring hoteliers with limited capital. Joint Ventures: Partner with someone with the capital or resources you lack. For instance, if you have hotel management expertise but lack funds, find a partner looking for operational expertise. Angel Investors: Individuals who provide capital for a business start-up, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity. Venture Capitalists: Professional groups that manage pooled funds from many investors to invest in startups. They usually come in when you have a proven business model and want to scale. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with travel agencies, local businesses, or even established brands to co-run or promote the hotel. Starting a hotel business, especially with limited capital, requires innovation, tenacity, and smart strategies. Frequently Asked Questions How long do hotel businesses typically take to start? Starting a hotel business can range from 8 months to several years, depending on factors such as property construction or renovation, licensing, and market research. A turnkey operation or purchasing an existing hotel can be quicker while building from scratch is more time-intensive. Additionally, those who already know how to start a business may save time on the paperwork and logistics, while new entrepreneurs may need to dedicate additional time and resources to education. How can a hotel owner create a successful hotel business? Success in the hotel business hinges on thorough market research, an effective business plan, a prime location, exceptional customer service, and continuous marketing efforts. Regularly updating offerings and staying tuned to industry trends also play pivotal roles. As you get started, find or create a comprehensive business startup checklist to stay organized and reach your goals. What are some trends in the current hotel market that potential hotel owners should be aware of? Some current trends include: Eco-friendly Operations: Green practices and sustainability are in demand. Local Experiences: Guests seek authentic local experiences, from food to activities. Tech Integration: Smart rooms, touchless check-ins, and integrated apps are becoming standard. Health & Wellness: Hotels are focusing on wellness amenities, including spas, fitness centers, and healthier menu options. What are the common characteristics of successful hotel owners? Successful hotel owners are forward-thinking, flexible, focused on customer satisfaction, and knowledgeable about finances. They typically exhibit strong leadership abilities, excel at relationship building, and have a comprehensive grasp of the intricacies of the hospitality industry. What are the typical responsibilities of a hotel manager in a successful hotel business? Hotel managers are responsible for overseeing daily operations, ensuring guest satisfaction, managing staff, handling budgets, and collaborating on marketing strategies. They troubleshoot problems, interact with vendors, and are crucial in establishing the tone and service standards of the hotel. Additionally, they recognize the significance of online reviews and strive to ensure that customer service and every aspect of each visitor’s experience meet five-star standards. Image: Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Hotel Business: Your Ultimate Guide" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Don't just check the boxes. Provide benefits. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

Don't just check the boxes. Provide benefits. The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

This article is posted with permission from our partner MacPaw. MacPaw makes Mac + iOS apps that have been installed on over 30 million devices worldwide. Freelancers Union members receive 30 days of free unlimited access to CleanMyMacX and Setapp: https://freelancersunion.org/resources/perks/macpaw/ If you’ve ever bought something from Best Buy, you’re probably familiar with Geek Squad. For those who pick up their freelance gadgets elsewhere, Geek Squad is Best Buy’s trusted tech support service. It’s well-known and reliable, which makes it a prime target for scammers. Some Geek Squad scams trick people into visiting fake websites where they’ll unknowingly enter sensitive details. Others take it a step further, aiming to install malicious software or gain remote access to your device. But the endgame is always to steal your money, your identity, or both. Moonlock, the cybersecurity division of MacPaw, will break down how Geek Squad scams work, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do if you’ve been targeted. How do Geek Squad scams work?Geek Squad scams are a classic form of phishing. Scammers disguise themselves as Geek Squad employees, whether pretending to be tech support agents or members of the billing department. Their goal is to get you to hand over personal information, send them money, or install malware on your device. Attackers send out generic emails to hundreds or even thousands of people, hoping that a few will take the bait. Sometimes, they pose as payment services sending invoices from Geek Squad. Other times, they’ll claim to be Geek Squad technicians offering to fix issues with your device. They might even call you directly, spinning elaborate lies to gain your trust. The core tactic is always the same: create a sense of urgency and trick you into acting without thinking. If you don’t recognize their game, you risk giving away your information, your money, and peace of mind. Moonlock has collected here a few of the most common ways Geek Squad scams play out. Geek Squad auto-renewal scamThis one’s a favorite among scammers. You get an email claiming that your Geek Squad subscription is about to auto-renew, and a big charge is headed for your bank account. The email is designed to make you panic. Did you accidentally sign up for this? How do you cancel it before they take your money? The scammers provide a convenient link or phone number for “canceling” the payment. If you follow the link or call, you’ll be asked for personal information like your bank account details or Social Security number. Of course, there’s no subscription. Just a scammer eager to use your information to clean out your account or steal your identity. Hardware fix scamsIn this version of the scam, someone pretending to be a Geek Squad technician contacts you, claiming your device has malware or another serious problem that only they can fix. They’ll ask you to download software to give them remote access to your computer. What you’re actually downloading is malware, often designed to steal sensitive information like passwords, files, or banking details. Fake invoicesScammers send fake invoices via email, claiming you’ve been billed for Geek Squad services. The invoice might reference a Best Buy membership, a device warranty, or even antivirus software. The email usually contains a link to “dispute” the charge or a phone number to call for support. If you engage, you’ll be directed to share personal information or download malicious software. In some cases, the invoice itself may contain malware (if it’s a downloadable attachment). How to spot a Geek Squad scamThankfully, Geek Squad scams aren’t hard to spot once you know what to look for. These red flags can help you identify phishing attempts: You don’t remember buying anything from Best Buy: If you’ve never purchased anything at Best Buy, how would they get your contact details? Bad spelling or grammar: Legitimate messages from companies like Best Buy won’t be riddled with typos and clunky sentences. If the message looks like it was written in a hurry (or poorly translated), it’s a scam.Unofficial email address: Always check the sender’s email address. Real Geek Squad emails will come from @bestbuy.com. Anything from Gmail or other random domains is a red flag.Generic greeting: If the message starts with “Dear Valued Customer” instead of your name, it’s likely a mass email phishing attempt. Legitimate companies usually personalize their communications.Sketchy links: Hover over links in the email or use a URL checker to see where they’ll take you. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match Best Buy’s official website, don’t click.Scare tactics and urgency: Scammers thrive on creating panic. If a message or call makes you feel rushed or scared, it’s probably a ploy to get you to act without thinking.Asking for remote device access: If someone wants you to download remote access software or share your device, treat it as a major red flag.Unsolicited calls: Best Buy doesn’t make random calls to customers. If you receive one, treat it with caution and contact the company directly through their official website BestBuy.com or phone number 1-888-BEST BUY (1-888-237-8289).What to do if you fall victim to a Geek Squad scamFalling for a scam is never a good feeling. But before you sink into a spiral of regret, remember this: acting quickly can save you from further trouble. 1. Scan your device for malwareIf you’ve clicked on a suspicious link or downloaded something sketchy, run a malware scan on your device immediately. Think of it as a digital detox, scrubbing away any harmful software that scammers may have planted. On a Mac, tools like CleanMyMac’s Protection module, powered by Moonlock Engine, can make quick work of these nasty intrusions. 2. Call your bank If you’ve shared your bank account or credit card details, tell your bank or credit card company without delay. Explain what happened and see if they can reverse any unauthorized charges or set up fraud alerts on your account. They’ve dealt with this sort of thing before and are well-equipped to help. 3. Freeze your creditIf there’s even a hint that your Social Security number may have been compromised, freezing your credit is your best bet. Contact the three major credit bureaus – TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax – to lock down your credit and prevent anyone from opening accounts in your name. 4. Change your passwordsOnce your financial and personal data are secured, it’s time to update your passwords. Start with the ones that matter most, like your email and bank accounts. Even if you’re not sure whether these accounts were breached, changing passwords is a simple but effective safeguard. And if you don’t already use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords, now is an excellent time to start. 5. Report the scamLet Best Buy know what happened by calling their official Geek Squad support line at 1-888-BEST-BUY. Reporting fraudulent calls and emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov is also a smart move. Not only does this help protect others, but it also gives law enforcement the information they need to track down and stop scammers. Also, flag phishing emails in your inbox to help your provider identify and block similar messages in the future. How to prevent Geek Squad scamsAvoiding Geek Squad scams is all about staying vigilant and practicing good digital hygiene. A great first step is to reduce your digital footprint. The less personal information about you floating around online, the harder it is for scammers to target you. Delete old, unused accounts, say no to unnecessary cookies, and consider using a VPN to keep your online activity private. Another way to protect yourself is to use a temporary email address to sign up for accounts or services you’re less invested in. For instance, Google seems to soon come up with an email forwarding alias system called “Shielded Email.” With burner email addresses and aliases, you can keep your main inbox private and limit the number of phishing attempts that land in it. And when scammy emails do appear, report them as spam. Many email providers learn from your reports and will filter similar messages in the future, keeping your inbox cleaner and safer. Ultimately, staying safe comes down to awareness. If something feels off, like a message asking for money, personal information, or access to your devices, pause and think before you act. Scammers rely on panic and urgency to trick their victims, so staying calm and skeptical is your best defense. With a little effort, you can outsmart even the craftiest phishing schemes. View the full article