Airbnb hosting isn’t an entirely new concept, but it does seem to be growing in popularity all around the globe. It’s a concept that, if managed correctly, benefits all the parties involved.
If you have a spare room or two or even a whole home that you can rent out for travellers, it might be an option worth looking into. Some of the pointers to consider include Airbnb insurance, effective advertising and pricing. Here’s a handy guideline.
Pointers to Consider when You’re Thinking of Turning Your Home into an Airbnb
If you’ve decided to turn your spare room or empty building into an Airbnb that can generate some extra cash, the good news is, it’s easier than you think! Our experts have compiled a few crucial tips that will help you get your available space noticed in no time and part of your plans towards financial freedom!
Invest in Airbnb Insurance
It’s important to note that the first step you should take is to discuss your intention of becoming an Airbnb host with your insurance broker. Never assume that Airbnb functions are automatically covered by your regular home insurance.
A specialised Airbnb insurance covers the following:
- Accidental loss or damage: This covers damage to your home’s contents and structure such as dents and damages to home fixtures and fittings.
- Malicious vandalism: Deliberate or purposeful damage to your property by tenants.
- Tenant theft: This covers theft of possessions stolen by the tenant or anyone else during the rental period.
Establish the Most Competitive Price
Before you even consider listing your home or doing any advertising, you need to decide how much you’ll be charging for nightly and extended stays. Doing a great deal of research is key here! The easiest way is to check out other listings in the area. Compare the features you have on offer versus theirs.
Airbnb, the app you’ll place your listing on, will recommend a price listing based on the features you say you offer, but remember to be competitive. You might want to go a little cheaper. Another popular pricing strategy is to vary prices during the year. Being cheaper during off-peak periods will draw more patrons.
Choose the Best Photos
To get an idea of the types of photos you’ll need to upload, look through the photo galleries on the Airbnb app. The trick here is to upload as many photos as possible and you need to make your home look attractive.
Take photos of the room the guest will be staying in as well as all the spaces they’ll have access to. An innovative idea would be to give potential guests a virtual video tour of the space.
Give your Home a Deep Clean
Your Airbnb needs to prove why it would be a better option than a hotel. And this means in more ways than just price. Give your home a top to bottom deep clean before you start taking photos. Ensure your home is clutter-free and well ventilated.
Personalise the Space
Many travellers enjoy staying at Airbnb’s because it’s a more personal experience. Rather than spend their vacation in a generic hotel room, they get to experience something homier. Expert Airbnb hosts recommend trying a few of the following tips:
- Leave breakfast ingredients in the fridge for the next morning – this will help a tired traveller have a good start and excellent memories that they’re bound to write about in the review!
- If your guest is arriving later in the evening, you could leave a few basic dinner ingredients or leave a home cooked meal on the counter. Opt for a salad or a local favourite dish. If you’re going to do this, be sure to check if your guest has food allergies or preferences!
- Ask guests about their favourite wine or beer and leave some in the fridge, making it easier to unwind after a long flight or drive.
- Consider adding a fan or two if your home doesn’t have air conditioning since Australian temperatures can be overwhelming!
Never Leave Valuables in the Space
Creating a beautiful, functional space is key. But do it without leaving valuables or heirlooms around. Afterall, your guest is simply a stranger needing a place to stay. While your Airbnb insurance will cover theft, nothing can replace the sentiment of the lost item.
Leave a Detailed Guide
If you’re not going to be in the home when your guest is there, be sure to leave a guide about how to use certain appliances. This would include the air conditioning unit, stove or any other item where operation isn’t straightforward!
Leave a map of the area in their room. A clever idea is to draw up a list of great restaurants in the area. While it’s true your guest can simply Google these options, bear in mind you live in the area and have better knowledge of what’s good to visit and what’s not! If your guest is a stranger to the area, they’ll appreciate your input.
Final Thought
To be a top Airbnb host you should go the extra mile to be viable competition for hotels and other Airbnb’s. It’s important to communicate and be clear of the features available to your guest.
With the right approach, you won’t only earn extra money but meet some interesting people along the way!