If you are working with clients who want a property that already operates, or is set up, as a short term rental, MLS can be a powerful tool. With a few extra fields you can quickly find listings that are STR friendly or already in use as vacation rentals.

This guide walks you through how to search for existing STR listings using the Private Remarks field, along with a few tips on what to look for in a strong STR candidate.

Step 1: Set Your Basic Search Criteria

Start with your usual search criteria:

  • Location: Area, subdivision, or map search that fits your client’s needs
  • Property Type: Single family, condo, townhome, etc.
  • Price Range: Budget for purchase plus any renovation or furnishing plans
  • Beds/Baths: Based on your client’s goals and target guest profile

Once those basics are set, you can refine the search for short term rental specific opportunities.

Step 2: Add the “Private Remarks” Field

At the very bottom of the search criteria page in MLS:

  1. Select Add Additional Fields
  2. From the list, choose Private Remarks
  3. Add it to your search criteria

You will use this field to run searches with specific keywords that often indicate STR use or STR potential.

Example: Adding the Private Remarks field in your MLS search screen.

Step 3: Use These Three Private Remarks Searches

Use the Private Remarks field with one search term at a time. The recommendations below are listed in order of breadth.

1. * short-term *

This usually returns the largest number of results.

How to use it:

  • In the Private Remarks field, enter: * short-term *

Why it works: This captures listings where agents reference short-term rentals or short-term restrictions.

2. *airbnb*

This usually finds the most currently operating STRs.

How to use it:

  • In the Private Remarks field, enter: *airbnb*

Why it works: Many agents mention “Airbnb” when a property is already operating as a short term rental or has a proven booking history.

3. * STR *

This usually produces the fewest results, but can catch listings that the other searches miss.

How to use it:

  • In the Private Remarks field, enter: * STR *
  • Include spaces before and after STR, exactly like this: * STR *

Why it works: This targets remarks that use the abbreviation “STR” in a way that may not include “short-term” or “Airbnb.”

Important notes about these searches

  • You will see overlap between these three searches. Some listings will show up in more than one search.
  • Run them separately and compare results to get the widest view of STR relevant listings in your area.
  • You can combine these Private Remarks searches with any other criteria such as year built, lot size, or school district, depending on your client’s priorities.

What To Look For In A Strong STR Candidate

Property Size and Layout

  • Guests often pay a premium for larger properties, especially those with 5 or more bedrooms.
  • Additional sleeping options such as bunk rooms or bonus spaces can increase revenue potential.

Property Type

  • Houses typically command higher nightly rates and appeal to larger groups and families.
  • Condos can still perform well but may have

Amenities That Matter for STRs

Plan amenities as part of the STR strategy from the start. Popular features include:

  • Pool or access to a pool
  • Hot tub
  • Grill and outdoor seating
  • EV charger
  • Dedicated workspace
  • Pet friendly setups (if allowed and appropriate)

These features often improve both nightly rate and booking volume.

Location Still Rules

As with any real estate investment, location is critical. For STRs, consider:

  • Proximity to downtown, major employers, or event venues
  • Access to restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor activities
  • Noise, parking, and neighborhood sentiment about STRs

Need Help Evaluating an STR Opportunity?

If you or your client would like help evaluating a property’s potential as a short-term rental in Austin, we can support you with:

You can view our à-la-carte services here:
https://store.strmanagement.com

If you would like to discuss a specific property, feel free to reach out and we can review it with you and your client.