How To Become An Airbnb Host – 5 Essential Tips To Be Successful

Before you decide to become an Airbnb host, there are a few things that you will need to consider.

I have been an Airbnb host since 2015 and can’t recommend this platform more.

It is effortless to get your space listed, and you can become an Airbnb host within minutes.  

We all stayed at beautiful Airbnb’s, but many of us fear becoming Airbnb hosts themselves.

Yes, there is a lot of work you will have to put in before you become an Airbnb host, but the role is super rewarding.

You get to meet incredible people from around the world and help them explore your city like a local.

Airbnb does a great job of making sure that you and your guests are always happy. You as a new Airbnb host, however, need to consider several factors to become successful. 

Here are my top 5 tips when you decide to become an Airbnb host.

1. Decide how much you will charge for your Airbnb property

Before you become an Airbnb host, you have to decide how much you will charge for your listing.

Although Airbnb is very good at giving you price recommendations, you should do your own research.

First, check similar properties to your listing (preferably within the same area).

Make sure to note how much they charge based on the space, amenities and other additional services.

If you are in a small town, you will probably want to start with a slightly lower price to get your bookings in.

Once you host 3-5 times and receive your five* reviews, you can adjust the rate.

Do not be afraid to charge more if your listing stands out.

Many people are looking for unique experiences and are willing to pay a high price.

You also need to decide whether you will charge people a cleaning fee or include it in your price.

As we travel a lot, we tend to book Airbnb’s without any additional costs, but this is our personal preference.

2. Make an unforgettable Airbnb headline for your space

You don’t want a basic ‘ apartment in Krakow’ or ‘flat in Miami’ or ‘house in Dublin’.

Make sure that your listing title stands out from the competition.

Add words that describe the place and are targeted to your desired audience.

For example, if you want your place to be booked by couples only say ‘romantic 5* hidden escape in Athens’.

Try and include words like charming, cosy, comfy, unforgettable, luxury, central, beachfront, waterfront etc.

Make sure that your featured image says everything.

If you can hire a professional photographer, who will capture your beautiful Airbnb.

If you are taking pictures yourself, make sure that you turn on all the lights in the rooms and try and take several pictures. It is always easier to choose a perfect image from 10-15 shots.

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3. Clearly list your space with amenities, Airbnb host rules, your Airbnb sightseeing/eating out tips

Your description is key.

It is not enough to have a great heading. You also need to have a comprehensive description of your space.

Make sure that each room is clearly described with its amenities.

Clearly state the sleeping arrangements and the number of bathrooms.

Guests want to know as much as possible before making a decision.

After you decide to become an Airbnb host, make sure to communicate your house rules so your guests will know exactly how to behave in your space.

Note things like check-in check-out times, quiet hours, whether pets are allowed at your property etc.

Airbnb now also has its guidebook you can contribute to.

I strongly recommend however to send all recommendations in a message and have printouts ready for your guests upon arrival.

4. Prepare your space for your Airbnb guests

Before you become an Airbnb host and accept your first booking, you need to make sure that your space is ready for your first guests.

Clean it properly, make sure that towels and linen are fresh and clean, check for any dust and cobwebs.

Make sure that there is no dust under the beds, and the closets have hangers.

Simple amenities like a hairdryer, iron and ironing board, coffee machine are a must in every Airbnb.

Make sure that a suitable amount of kitchenware is available for your guest’s arrival.

5. Add personal touches before hosting your first Airbnb guests

The first impression counts most so make sure your first-time visitors have nothing to complain about.

Small touches, like bathroom amenities, bathrobes, chocolates/fruits on arrival, soft drinks, water make all the difference.

During the summertime, you might want to put suncream or mosquito repellent into a guest bathroom.

Whether you are here to personally meet and greet your guests or give them check-in details, make sure that they are happy.

After you become an Airbnb host and welcome your first guests, you don’t want to be worrying that you haven’t done something right.

Make sure to always be available for your guests so they can quickly reach you in case they need something.

Additional tips before you become an Airbnb host:

• Always communicate via Airbnb
• Set strict or semi-strict cancellation policy (yet still understand emergency cancellations)
• Always be upfront with your guests
• Respond to your Airbnb guests promptly
• Review your guests after each stay
• Don’t be afraid to speak out when something isn’t right
• Always try to meet and exceed guest expectations

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I hope that this post will help you with the process. If you like what you are reading, please save it for later!