The Rise of Mid-Term Rentals: How Furnished Finder Is Changing the Game
In this episode of CasaCast, Steve Schwab sits down with Jeff Hurst, CEO of Furnished Finder, to talk about one of the fastest growing segments of the lodging market: mid-term rentals.
Jeff shares his path from leadership roles at HomeAway, Vrbo, and Expedia to leading Furnished Finder, a platform that began by solving a simple problem for traveling nurses and has since grown into a nationwide network of furnished housing for professionals on the move.
The conversation explores how changing work patterns, housing shortages, and a more mobile workforce are driving demand for 30-day-plus stays. Healthcare workers, construction teams, corporate travelers, and relocating families increasingly need flexible housing that sits somewhere between a hotel and a traditional lease.
For property managers and owners, the opportunity is significant. Mid-term rentals can help smooth seasonal dips, diversify booking sources, and bring in reliable guests who stay longer and treat homes more like residents than tourists.
Jeff and Steve discuss how the model works, why the market is expanding so quickly, and what operators should be thinking about as the line between short-term and longer-stay accommodations continues to evolve.
18 Feb 2026
From Family Roots to Franchise Success: Laura Bowers on Excellence in Vacation Rentals
Laura Bowers grew up in the vacation rental business—literally answering reservation phones as a teenager while her mother built one of the Smoky Mountains’ early short-term rental companies. In this episode of CasaCast, Laura joins host Steve Schwab to share her multi-generation journey through the industry, from family-run operations to leadership roles at Vacasa and AvantStay, and now as a Partner Success Manager at Casago.
Laura breaks down what it truly means to support franchise partners: diagnosing operational pain points, improving systems and processes, coaching teams, and showing up as someone who’s been in the trenches herself. She shares real-world examples of how small operational changes can unlock major efficiencies, why data and systems matter, and how Casago’s ecosystem helps partners build stronger, more resilient businesses.
The conversation closes with Laura’s personal connection to Casago’s Credo—specifically “E for Excellence”—and her belief that raising standards, taking ownership, and working as a true team are what drive long-term success in this industry.
A must-listen for franchise partners, operators, and anyone serious about building a sustainable vacation rental business with heart, discipline, and experience.
9 Feb 2026
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