Professionalising Short-Term Rentals with Merilee Karr (UnderTheDoormat)
In this episode of Pillow Talk Sessions, Merilee Karr, CEO of UnderTheDoormat Group, explains how short-term rentals have evolved from fragmented, alternative accommodation into a professional, institutional-grade asset class operating at scale across Europe and beyond.
With short-term rentals now accounting for over 20% of accommodation nights in Europe, the sector is no longer a niche. Merilee outlines how operational infrastructure, technology platforms, and regulatory collaboration are shaping its next phase of growth.
UnderTheDoormat operates across luxury B2C properties and institutional portfolios in London and Paris, while its technology arm, Hospiria, supports global operators with flexible PMS and reservation systems designed specifically for converging asset classes. Through Trusted Stays, the group has also opened access to government contracts and global distribution systems, accelerating the sector’s professionalisation.
The conversation explores how short-term rentals intersect with real estate, hospitality, and policy, and what must happen next for the sector to mature sustainably.
Key themes explored:
Why short-term rentals have become a core part of Europe’s accommodation landscape
How the merger of UnderTheDoormat and Veeve strengthened luxury and institutional portfolio management
The role of Hospiria in enabling flexible, mixed-use rental operations
How Trusted Stays unlocked government and GDS distribution channels for short-term rentals
The difference between hotelization and hospitality, and why authenticity still matters
How the UK Renters Reform Bill is accelerating institutional interest in flexible rental models
Why tenant-driven subletting models can increase retention without destabilizing buildings
The scale of opportunity in the Middle East, where short-term rentals represent less than 5% of accommodation nights
Why legacy PMS systems struggle to manage converged asset classes
How AI and emerging technology are likely to disrupt flexible rental operations over the next five years
For leaders across hospitality, real estate, and flexible living, this episode reframes short-term rentals not as disruption, but as convergence. The next competitive advantage will come from professional standards, agile infrastructure, and thoughtful regulatory collaboration.
Explore related industry analysis and strategic perspectives:
https://abodeworldwide.com/news-insights/
Website: https://abodeworldwide.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abode-worldwide
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