Learn how to start hosting, from creating your listing to prepping your space.
#1. Create your listing
Your listing is a powerful tool to promote your space. It's important to highlight its best features and be honest about any unique qualities it has.
- Start with the basics: Enter details like the location of your place, what type of property you're offering, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms your guests will have access to.
- Take photos of the space: Guests love browsing photos when deciding on where to stay. To snap the best photos, tidy up your space beforehand. Take shots of each area, using natural light and landscape orientation when possible.
- Highlight unique details: When writing your listing title and description, consider what makes your place unique, such as a breathtaking view or a traditional courtyard. Also, note any aspects in your description that might be important for guests to know before booking, like stairs or parking.
#2. Organise the logistics
Your next step will be lining up all the logistics for your listing to make the hosting process run smoothly.
- Add House Rules to your listing: To help guests understand your expectations, add rules for your space, including details like restrictions on smoking, pets, or parties.
- Set up your calendar: To ensure you only get reservations when you can host, update your Airbnb calendar with your availability. You can also specify how much advance notice you need or how far in advance guests can book.
- Choose your nightly price: What you charge is always up to you, but Airbnb has tools – like Smart Pricing – to help you match your prices with demand, along with custom pricing controls for times like weekends and specific seasons.
- Review your local laws: Some cities have rules covering home sharing, like limits on the number of nights you can host, registration requirements, or special taxes. Keep yourself updated for a smooth hosting experience.
#3. Prepare your space
Whether you're expecting your first guest or your 100th, these are the steps you'll need to take to ensure your space is ready.
- Tidy up: Clean each room guests can access, especially bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. Check that there's no hair, dust, or mould on surfaces and floors, and make the bed(s) with fresh linens.
- Store your valuables: If you have jewellery, passports, or other valuables, consider storing them in a locked room, closet, safe, or storage facility. Or you can leave them with family or friends.
- Stock up on essentials: To help guests feel at home, consider providing amenities like soap, shampoo, toilet paper, bed linens, and towels. It can't hurt to have extras on hand as well.
- Provide check-in details: Be prepared to check guests in and out or recruit friends or family to help. If no one is around, you can always use a lockbox or electronic lock and provide guests with check-in instructions in the Airbnb app.
- Add the finishing touches: Guests love thoughtful details. A house manual with instructions and tips can help orient guests. A traditional Indian handicraft or a small box of traditional Indian sweets can also make guests feel extra welcome.
Once you've set up your listing and space, you'll be ready to start welcoming guests and earning income!
Are you interested in becoming an Airbnb host? Follow Airbnb and Travel Community on SHEROES for free expert tips and guidance. Join us now to begin your exciting hosting journey!
Remember that you're not on your own when it comes to hosting. Airbnb has plenty of support available for Hosts. You can participate in Ask Me Anything sessions on SHEROES to learn more and get your needed help.
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