Top 5 Tips for Hosting on Airbnb
Short term rentals are so much fun to manage and also is a great source of additional income! My husband and I decided to try out using Airbnb during the summer and fall season in 2021 while we lived in our renovated camper van! It was such a great experience that we decided to do it again the following year and now we are planning to build a cabin on our property to rent out full time.
We recently had the amazing opportunity to style and decorate an Airbnb for a client, which sparked an idea to share my top 5 tips for creating a successful and enjoyable Airbnb rental!
Have professional images of your rental. This might feel like an unnecessary expense, but take my advice! When a majority of people are searching for a place to stay, they want the space to feel clean, comfortable, and safe! Having images that represent the space you’ve created will help display those things!
Pay attention to the details. Airbnb or any short term rentals are a business! You want guests to enjoy their experience and share about it. The best way to make a lasting impression is good communication and attention to detail! Some examples are decorating your space intentionally and functionally! Other ideas are supplying everything the guest could need or want during their stay, like board games, or kitchen equipment. If you live near the beach, supply beach chairs and towels. Just try to be thoughtful of what they may need to create the best experience.
Spend the extra money on good bedding. Nothing is worst than being away from home and having to sleep on a lumpy bed with a thin comforter and one pillow. Invest in a good mattress and bedding sets, and have extra pillows and blankets! You want your guests to feel cozy so make sure they have the options to create the sleeping environment they like!
Keep an extremely clean space. This might feel obvious but take what you think is clean and go the extra mile. If you do your own cleaning or if you have someone do it for you, create a very detailed list and don’t skip steps between stays. Check the drawers to make sure nothing was left. Dust all the surfaces, including the baseboards! Mop your way out of the house when you’re done cleaning. You will be amazed at the difference it makes in the reviews you get from your guests.
Be thoughtful and do extra. Pat attention to why your guests are visiting the area. Are they just coming to explore or is it their anniversary or birthday? Be thoughtful and leave them a card with well-wishes. Also adding small add-ons like free coffee and a treat with help make their stay memorable. These are things that will stand out and make your guests feel like you care!
