Whether you have a single room in your house or an entire property, you can make space you don’t use earn money by renting it out via a service like Airbnb. However, you can’t just list your property for rent and expect it to become an immediate success. Instead, you need to take certain steps to ensure your Airbnb listing is profitable.
List and Price Your Property Properly
When you create a listing for your property on Airbnb, make sure it’s compelling. Start by looking at similar listings in your area to see how the owners describe the features and amenities and what price they charge. Also consider the experience you’ll be creating for your guests. Is your listing a cozy beach cottage perfect for relaxing? Or it is a rustic cabin that’s great for hikers? While you want your description to stand out, you also want to make sure it’s accurate.
Showcase Quality Photographs
While your listing’s description is important, even more significant are the pictures you provide. High-quality photographs can make a listing stand out. You should aim for around 10 pictures of the room or house. However, don’t forget to include some photos of the amenities and the surrounding area. If you don’t have the skills to take quality pictures, hiring a professional photographer could be worth the expense.
Consider the Small Details
Owners that have successful Airbnb listings focus on the small details that really make their properties shine. Be sure you include things for your guests to do, such as books, board games, movies, and other entertainment options. While a kitchen that’s fully stocked with pots, pans, dishes, and utensils is nice, providing a kitchen that also has condiments, spices, coffee, and tea is going a step above. Some hosts will even provide welcome gifts, such as a bottle of wine or a gift basket with local delicacies.
Keep Your Property Clean
Your property will get dirty when guests stay there, so you need to have a plan in place to get it clean before your next group arrives. Some owners choose to clean their properties themselves, while others hire a professional cleaning service. In addition to cleaning the property, you want to make sure you take steps to keep the indoor air clean and to remedy any problems your guests might report, such as a burned-out bulb or leaky pipe, immediately.
Make Sure You’re Responsive
Airbnb keeps track of how responsive you are to guest inquiries, and it will rate you accordingly. Higher response ratings mean higher search rankings for your listing. Airbnb has an app you can download to make it easier to stay connected. Additionally, if you happen to get a negative review, be sure you respond in a professional manner and take the time to correct the problem.
Renting a room or house through Airbnb can be a great way to make extra money. With these helpful tips, you’re one step closer to creating and running a successful listing.
