Real Talk About Short-Term Rentals in Joshua Tree

If you’ve spent any time in Joshua Tree lately, you’ve probably noticed the shift — more Airbnbs popping up on every street, but not every one of them is booking like they used to. The short-term rental market here is feeling the effects of over-saturation, and while that’s not the end of the world, it is something to navigate wisely. Whether you're already hosting or thinking about investing, it’s important to approach it with clarity, not fear. The desert is still magic — but it’s not as easy as "buy a house, post it online, get rich."

I’ve been around long enough to see the full arc: from a handful of funky artist homes on Airbnb to a flood of high-design vacation rentals with hefty price tags. As someone who works in both real estate and photography, I get a front-row seat to the difference thoughtful presentation and realistic expectations can make. Design still matters. Good photos always matter. And understanding the rhythms of the local market (and not just riding trends) is more important than ever.

Not every property is meant to be a full-time vacation rental — and that’s okay. In fact, the most successful hosts I know are pivoting: some are offering long-term or mid-term stays, others are fine-tuning their branding to attract a more specific type of guest. The ones who are still thriving are doing it with strategy, not just style. If you're not booking out six months in advance anymore, you're not alone — it's the new normal. The question is: how do we adapt?

You can always count on me for a great photo — but also solid, grounded advice. Whether you're shooting a listing, exploring your options as a host, or thinking about your next desert investment, I'm here for the real talk. No doom, no fluff — just perspective that comes from working both sides of the Joshua Tree experience. Let’s make it work smarter, not harder.