Setting up and listing your very first AirBnB is an exciting venture! Like all ventures, running an AirBnB has the potential to bring benefits and rewards, but it also has certain risks and realities.
We've compiled some helpful ideas to make sure you and your guests have a positive AirBnB experience this holiday season.
It's important to understand your rights and responsibilities as an AirBnB host, as well as those of your guests. Familiarising yourself with property legislation in your area will equip you with the right information and appropriate courses of action, should you or your guests experience any unfortunate or unpredictable incidents. Have all key services and emergency contacts on hand.
Keep your decor and furnishings comfortable and tasteful, but don't break the bank in your efforts to be hospitable. While most guests will take good care of your belongings, there may be others who break (or take) them altogether. Keep your furnishings simple and easy enough to replace. Using second hand furniture in good condition is the best way to deck out your AirBnB.
That said, property and household insurance is essential. Make sure everything of value in your AirBnB is properly ensured in the event of damages, theft, fire, water damage or other accidents. You want to be fully covered for any situation, particularly for appliances, digital devices and your geyser.
Running a successful AirBnB requires regular maintenance to make sure your property is in tip-top condition for every guest. Pre- and post-occupation inspections, scheduled deep cleaning and general upkeep will help maintain a hospitable environment. Keep an eye out for pests, leaks, mould and mildew.
A personal touch goes a long way. Create a folder filled with a variety of local hotspots your guests might enjoy. Include menus for nearby takeaways. Recommend things to see and do around your area: bars and restaurants, family friendly outings, beaches, romantic hideaways, wine tasting, hikes and adventuring, watersports and more.
Good reviews and ratings are the lifeblood of a successful AirBnB. Most people will take the time to rave about good hospitality and an overall great experience. So make sure you pay attention to the details to keep the good reviews rolling in.
Communication
Be available and responsive. Be clear about all important (and seemingly unimportant) details in your listing, including noticeable noise, construction nearby, or whether or not there is air conditioning or heating.
Accuracy
Ensure that what your guests see is what they get. Use a good quality camera and take accurate photos of your property. Make sure the space is neat, clean and uncluttered, with good natural light. Be clear about the location of your AirBnB in relation to key hotspots in your area.
Make use of every opportunity to market your AirBnB. If you rely solely on the AirBnB website, you might miss many booking opportunities. Register with local travel websites, promote your listing on social media, set up your own mini website or run your own social media ads.
Wishing you lots of success with your new AirBnB!
Luckily, we can do more than just find you an excellent property - we can manage it as well! Get in touch to see how one of our experienced agents can assist you with your listing or find you the perfect property.