If you are thinking of becoming an Airbnb host, it is a great opportunity to make extra money or even earn a full-time income. However, it is important to know that there are several things you can do to make the experience more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Here are 25 Airbnb hosting tips to level up your hosting game.
Note: Don’t worry about implementing every tip. Focus on implementing a few tips that best fit your property and your hosting style.
Be honest and Clear
No property is perfect. Guests are aware that staying in an Airbnb is different from staying in a hotel. Don’t hide the flaws. It is best to be upfront and honest. Many guests will see the flaws as charming quirks and trying to hide them will look like you are taking advantage of them.
Be Flexible
If your cleaner allows you to be flexible with your check-in and check-out times, many guests will appreciate this small gesture.
Be Open to Renting to People Without Reviews
Having no reviews or few reviews doesn’t mean the guest won’t be great. Renting to newbies helps the platform grow and you’ll find that many renters will be new to the platform.
Install a Smart Lock
Keyless entry is expected from most guests. It also makes the process much easier for the host, better security, and there is no chance they will lose their keys.
Under Promise and Over Deliver
This is age-old advice for any business. Don’t promise something you can’t deliver. Promise the minimum, then go above and beyond to make your guests feel welcome and comfortable.
Communicate Often
Stay in contact with your guests. It’s best to send a message a week before their stay, the day before, and the day of their stay to answer any questions or address any issues.
Accommodate Food Preferences
If you provide food items, find out if your guests have food sensitivities or allergies. These things could make a guest very sick and they will appreciate your consideration.
Leave Plenty of Instructions
Leaving laminated instructions for electronics such as TVs and the thermostat helps guests feel like they in control of their stay. It is also a benefit for the host because you will get fewer phone calls asking for help.
Be Available As Much As Possible
Whether you will be staying onsite or not, it’s a good idea to be available especially when your guest checks in. This gives you a chance to speak with them and address any immediate issues.
Give a Quick Tour
If you’re going to be there to greet your guests in person, why not give them a tour? Showing them around helps your guests feel comfortable and safe. You can also any questions they may have about the area.
Offer Bell Service Like a Hotel
If you want to make a great first impression, carry your guests’ luggage to their room for them. It’s not a have-to, but great customer service leads to great reviews.
Provide Information About Local Attractions
It’s a great idea to provide a welcome book with a list of your favorite restaurants and attractions in the area. Menus, pamphlets, coupons, and other information such as where the closest grocery store is located are also well appreciated.
Offer A Welcome Snack or Beverage
Have you ever stayed at a resort that brought you a cocktail or warm cookies on arrival? It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows you’re willing to go above and beyond. You can also consider leaving small gifts such as a bottle of wine or water in guest rooms.
Create a Coffee Station
Create a dedicated Tea or Coffee station for your guests! For some people, nothing is more important than their morning Coffee, and having a dedicated coffee station show up in your pictures can definitely cause a guest to pick your listing and leave a good review after the fact!
Stock Your Rental With Snacks
Another way to go above and beyond is to provide snacks. Most Airbnbs won’t do this, so it gives you a leg up on getting a great review. Bonus if you can get the snacks from local small businesses.
Provide Plenty of Supplies
In addition to the bare essentials, providing extra amenities such as nice shampoo, laundry detergent, and hotel-quality towels is a nice touch.
Cleanliness is a Must
A professional cleaning service is highly recommended for Airbnb hosts. You want your property as clean as possible since this is the number one complaint guests have.
Play Music During Check In
Most guests are tired and stressed after a day of traveling. Quiet music can make their check-in experience more relaxing.
Host A Tea or Happy Hour
Invite your guests for a cup of coffee or tea at a set time during the day. Not all guests will want to socialize but some will love it!
Invest in Good Lighting
Lighting can make a huge difference in a home, making it appear more luxurious. It can also make the space feel more comfortable and inviting.
Hire an Interior Decorator
If you’re not a pro yourself, you may find it difficult to finish an entire house. Considering hiring an interior designer to offer suggestions.
Invite Guests to Dinner
Extending this offer makes a stay more charming and inviting. Not all will accept, but it is a nice gesture.
Ask to Address Any Problems After the First Night
You want to address any problems at the beginning of the stay. Wait until the end, and it may be too late to avoid a bad review. Send a text or e-mail after the first night asking if you can do anything to improve their stay.
Follow Up After CheckOut
Make sure you send a message asking for feedback or a review after guests leave. Try to do this within 24 hours.
Keep It Simple
This is a lot of information and may make hosting seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Be a welcoming host and do as much as you can to accommodate your guests. Find simple ways to do this and you will reap the benefits of being an Airbnb host quickly.
