How to Start a Sucessful Airbnb

Have you always been on the search for new ways to supplement your income? I earn how to earn $1000 a week with just one Airbnb. Starting an Airbnb is a relativity simple process but can feel daunting at the time. I’m here to help! Like this article if you would like more of this content.

1. Set your Airbnb apart from the rest

My Airbnb has bucket loads of unique charm. I've decorated the space with knick-knacks, fabrics and quirky furniture pieces that I’ve salvaged from second-hand stores. Don't go for stark new pieces of IKEA furniture, add a sense of homeliness with interesting and warm furniture pieces. There are hundreds of bland spaces with Target furniture, so you should dare to be different. When your buying second-hand you aren't as concerned about damages, which is a plus! The chest of drawer shouldn’t be your grandmothers 50 year old vintage, that’s too precious.

Add functional items into your Airbnb, like a record player. This is a crowd favourite I've found. A record player is cheap from somewhere like Target or Kmart, even if the quality isn't great, the novelty is appreciated. I bought a selection of second hand records for about $2 each! Don't be afraid to paint a wall with some colour and change the floral curtains for some 70's patterned ones. Pick up some paintings as well to liven up the walls. My glassware and plates are the 60's and 70's coloured glass and that adds a retro touch that guests really appreciate.

2. Spend time taking good photos

It is worth it to get a family member who has a camera rather than just taking the pictures off your phone. Airbnb also offers a professional photo service. I've seen many listings that have dark, grainy images that make an otherwise nice room look awful! Open all the curtains and let in as much natural light as possible. Taking the photos in the afternoon on a sunny day is best for soft natural light. Rainy days can make the room look grey and dull. Add at least 10 images. Add images of the outside of the space (1-2), the kitchen (1-2), the bedroom (2), a few of the living space (2-3) or any area with lots of character and some scenic shots of the surrounding area and attractions (3-5).

No, don't take ten photos of your flower bed, keep it concise and attractive. Do not take images of the toilet! If the bathroom is attractive take images around the sink or shower. Taking images of the bathroom isn’t totally necessary unless you want to showcase it! Or if it’s an outhouse, guests will want to know that. Don't be afraid to add a warm filter to the images to make the space look even more inviting!

Now I know you may be thinking the second image is just of a nicer room. This is not entirely true. The first room could have a nice view but we wouldn't know because the camera is facing the wrong way. We can't see the artwork or other featured items in the room as we can in the second image. With the addition of a more interesting bedspread and a quirky lamp, the tone of this room could be changed. The lighting is also making it look like a dungeon. Turning on the lamp in this situation or taking this photo on a brighter day would help improve the look.

Don't forget to put your best image first so that's the one that shows in the search results!

3. Medium-sized spaces are best to prevent parties

You can read Airbnb's parties policy by clicking here.

You have probably heard the property damage horror stories. The someone turned on the lawnmower and sent it through the back fence into the neighbour's pool, kind of stories. Airbnb discourages against parties but they do still happen. An Airbnb that is comfortable for just two or three people is far more party proof.

A warning sign is when people book your Airbnb when they live close by, this probably means they are booking it just for a party. I set the person limit to 2 guests even though my Airbnb can take 4 guests. When 4 people were staying the mess was double and they were much louder. You could trial 4 guests and see if the cleaning time is worth it for the extra money. Consider lowering your maximum guest limit even if your space can take more people to discourage gatherings. In your description you can say you have a zero-tolerance policy for large gatherings and that in the event it does happen action will be taken immediately.

4. Set your price and write an engaging description

You can figure out the best possible price for your Airbnb, by looking at others in your area of a similar size. You may be able to increase your price slightly if you have a fantastic view or extra features the others do not. If you are cleaning the Airbnb yourself, start with a cleaning fee of about $30 for a two-person space. You can hire cleaning services that will sync with your calendar. Google Airbnb cleaning services.

As for the description write about how your Airbnb is a unique experience with all the comforts of home. If you can offer extra activities like kayak hire or animal feeding, mention that! Look into purchasing extra recreational items if you have a issuable water space such as a lake. A kayak or canoe is too big of an item for guests to bring themselves most of the time. Highlight the best parts, whether it be the convenience of the location, the water views or the cosy stylish interior. Be honest about the kitchen set-up and what utensils you have. Foodies look for this. Is your space the perfect romantic getaway or great for families? Let your guests know.

You also need to work out how you want to exchange the keys. Guests apprecaite a lockbox so they can have privacy.

5. Add all the basics and write a guidebook

Airbnb's have moved away from traditional bed and breakfasts. Most Airbnb's don't offer breakfast items anymore so this is optional. You should however always provide things like milk, butter, salt & pepper. Some bread and breakfast spreads are a nice touch so guests don't have to bring these basics with them. If you don't mind supplying a few eggs, pop those in too. I add small champagne bottles as well because my Airbnb is marketed as a romantic getaway. Unless you are off-the-grid you really should have Wifi for your guests. It is a massive drawback for guests if they can't research nearby places to eat and visit. There's no excuse in 2021! Internet is not a luxury today, it is a necessity.

Next, you have to create a guidebook. A guidebook is the first thing guests reach for when they arrive, so make it detailed! You should collect local pamphlets of places you recommend. Add them into a folder along with instructions on how to use things in your Airbnb, that you feel might need explaining. Write down any relevant local activities like the location of bushwalks or swimming spots. You can also include reminders for any house rules eg. no smoking inside. Airbnb Australia and NZ now requires you add an emergency for a plumber and electrician.

GOOD LUCK!

Thank you for taking the time to read this article.

Need another way to earn $$$? I have some helpful tips for getting started with pet sitting. Click here.