31 August 2017

Helpful Airbnb Host Tips That Can Make A Big Difference

By Edward Butler


Having a great room or unit to rent is not going to be enough to be a competitor in the world of Airbnb. There are many things that visitors want and expect and there are also lots of ways to ensure guests have a wonderful stay that will result in great reviews and repeat business. These are some simple Airbnb host tips that are sure to result in rave reviews.

Providing a good array of photos and being completely honest about the listing is critical. After all, this is how most potential guests will decide where to stay. Saying there is a beautiful view, but having no windows is a fail. Saying it is within walking distance of local attractions is a real stretch if it's a far walk. Don't make things up to enhance the listing, instead, find all of the positives and ensure they are included in the description.

Be flexible about check in and check out times. Things happen; sometimes flights get delayed, a car gets a flat tire, people run into an old friend and lose time. Sometimes, flights are right on time, and there are no issues, resulting in an earlier than expected arrival. Don't be a stickler for times. Of course, guests should have the courtesy of letting their hosts know if something unplanned happens. If the unit is clean and ready, and guests show up ahead of the scheduled time, let them in.

Provide information about the area. Obviously the guests have traveled tot he area for a reason, but maybe they have some unplanned time. Providing information about local events and attractions adds to the value of the rental and lets them know that their business is important.

Get a keypad entry system and learn how to program it. This is a great way to allow guests to enter if the hosts will not be home and to assure the guests that there are not a bunch of spare keys floating around. A keypad can be programmed with a temporary guest code, which should be different for each new guest, that expires after a set amount of time. This allows for a lot of flexibility and assures security, as the same code would never be used again.

Clean, clean, clean! Don't overlook anything! Guests can be picky, and if something isn't up to par, it can result in bad reviews. Make a cleaning checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked. Once the checklist has been completed, go over the entire place with a fine toothed comb and check it again. Guests will be impressed with a rental that is absolutely immaculate.

Little amenities go a long way. Leave some complimentary bottles of water and a small snack available. Provide books, magazines, board games, cards, etc. Stock some extra charging cables, toothbrushes, feminine products, and anything else that a traveler might need, want, or forget to bring with them. Having this on hand will make the guests feel well taken care of and leave them impressed!

Sometimes the most obvious things can make a big difference. Try to go out of the way to make a great impression on guests, and it will surely result in repeat business and rave reviews.




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