What I Learned Living Rent-Free for 6 Months

Six months ago, I had a crazy idea: what if I could trade my web design skills for a place to stay?

I'd been building websites and landing pages for over a decade. I knew how to create value. But the traditional freelance model—trade time for money, pay rent, repeat—felt like a hamster wheel.

The First Stay: Austin

My first Staytrade was at a creative loft in downtown Austin. Marcus, the owner, had a fitness app idea but no way to bring it to life. I had the skills but no money for rent that month.

The deal was simple: I'd build his MVP in exchange for 4 weeks at his loft. No money changed hands. We both put skin in the game through the 10/10/80 equity split.

By week 3, FitTrack had its first 100 users. By month 2, it was generating $10K MRR.

What I Learned

1. Aligned incentives change everything.

When I own 10% of what I build, I don't cut corners. I'm not billing hours—I'm building equity.

2. Environment shapes output.

Working from a beautiful space, with a founder invested in my success, is different from grinding alone in a coffee shop.

3. The content requirement is genius.

At first, documenting my stay felt like extra work. But those posts became my portfolio. Other property owners found me through the content I created.

The Model Works

After 3 Staytrades, I've helped launch 3 businesses. I've lived in Austin, Miami, and Denver—rent-free. My portfolio is stronger than ever.

That's why I built Staytrade. To scale what worked for me.

If you're a creator who can ship, or a property owner with an idea, this might be for you.