When asked what April Bachman Leonard finds the most rewarding about hosting, she states, “I love creating a space where people feel inspired, welcomed and comfortable.” April’s short term rental in Tucson, AZ, Sonoran Desert Blossom Retreat, achieves this. With it’s warm inviting colors and desert themed interior design (not to mention the added lux of Public Goods products purchased through HostGPO) her STR embodies the calming feel of the Sonoran Desert. April recently filled out our Member Spotlight and told us how she got started in the STR industry and sent us some photos of her STR that gives us wanderlust!
How many years have you been in the short term rental industry and how did you get started?
Six Months. After a shift in my employment due to COVID, I saw an opportunity to create a role for myself in hosting that would allow for my skills and passions to shine. My husband and I utilized the equity in our home in Portland, OR to put a down payment on a STR property in Tucson, AZ. My husband’s family is from the area and I am an artist that is hugely inspired by the Sonoran Desert. All of this presented a wonderful opportunity to create a special place in the desert that could be shared with others. We love spending time there, being a part of the community, being near family and pouring love into our home/STR.
What is your favorite rental property you have and why do you love it?
Sonoran Desert Blossom – My favorite era of home construction is the 1940s. This home was built in 1946. We loved decorating the space with a mixture of new and vintage pieces. It is spacious and welcoming with many lovely places to spend time, both inside and outside. There is an awesome Xeriscape garden with a GIANT saguaro cactus in the backyard.
What’s the craziest story you have from hosting?
I am just getting going on my hosting adventure, so, no crazy stories so far! I’ve had some crazy stress dreams about hosting… does that count? 😉
What’s one “pro-tip” you’d be willing to pass on to the community?
Always set your space up so your guest feels like they are the first person to ever stay there. I top up all the Public Goods products: soaps, conditioner, shampoo, body wash etc. every single turn over. Restock and face ALL of your products and offerings. I take it down to making sure the tea kettle is empty, unplugged and dry.
What’s the most recent item that you can remember that you’ve ordered from HostGPO?
Public Goods Hand Soap! I love their products for my STR. They look beautiful and are of excellent quality. It was important to me to stock products that are environmentally conscious as well.
What would you tell others about whether to join HostGPO?
HostGPO is a phenomenal resource to put high design and quality products within reach. The ordering process is seamless and the support is wonderful. I’m so grateful for HostGPO! Highly recommend.
