6 Things These Airbnb Experts Wished They Knew Before Becoming Hosts

Have a short-term rental? Read tips from our panel of expert hosts. Photo: Kam Idris.

When launching into the world of short-term rentals, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. From planning the interior design, to investigating property management software, to gaining an Instagram following, to hiring a cleaning service — there are countless directions you can be pulled in. 

Thankfully, there are those who have been there before. We turned to our panel of expert hosts to uncover the top six things they wish they’d known prior to launching their now hugely successful Airbnbs. Take their advice and skip the hard part, so you can launch a successful short-term rental property from day one.

Implement a Design Plan From the Very Beginning  

They say to never judge a book by its cover, but that’s exactly what short-term rental guests are doing the minute they step into your home. Consider implementing a full design scheme as part of your marketing plan from the get-go. If decor and design is not your strong suit, you can always bring in the help of an expert interior designer.

“Decide on a design aesthetic and overall color scheme — be deliberate about the branding of your short-term rental. You have to make sure your place stands out in the crowded short-term rental market,” says Matilda Ekholm, Superhost of Mountain Lake Bungalow.

“Consider what will photograph well, since that will be your foremost marketing material. Art, plants, pillows, and other accessories will provide warmth, texture, and a homey feel. While hiring an interior designer may seem like a big step, even just getting some advice and a person to bounce ideas off of will make a difference in making your space feel complete.”

Be a Guest in Your Own Rental

There is no better safety net for all the things that could go wrong with your Airbnb than to test out the place yourself before welcoming guests. It’s better to work out the kinks and know your weaknesses prior to opening, rather than waiting for a damning review. 

“We really recommend staying in your own Airbnb for a few days and making a list of items that your guests will need or appreciate,” suggests Laurie Bizzell of Little Tail Farms.

Plan For Things to Go Wrong 

You can plan, plan, plan — and then have absolutely everything go wrong. When it comes to real estate, renovations and hosting, it’s important to have an open mind and be prepared for the unexpected. While it’s hard to not get frustrated at times, it’s important to remain focused on the end goal. 

Rebecca O’Neill of The Upstate A cautions, “I think the lessons learned from our reno, like not anticipating that everything takes longer than you think it will, can be applied to prepping your house for Airbnb in general. Make sure you build in a longer runway than you think you need to scale everything up.”

Reach peak relaxation in The Upstate A’s stunning Great Room. Photo: Derek Walker.

Outsource, Outsource, Outsource 

Remember, you don’t have to do everything yourself. One of the most important aspects to running a business is knowing your strengths and outsourcing your weaknesses. So it’s no different when it comes to running an Airbnb business. Outsource, outsource, outsource. 

“Consider how much time you have to put into the business, and find good people to outsource to if you think you don't have the time or the aptitude/interest — be honest with yourself!” says Dustin DeVincentis from Catskill Mountain House.

“Make sure you hire and retain a very good cleaning service. You want the place to be spotless when guests arrive.”

Always Be Open to Feedback 

Even when we think our rental couldn’t possibly get any better, sometimes guests will come up with an epic suggestion. Take the time to read through each guest review and adjust your rental accordingly. If you keep an open mind, you’ll be surprised at all the value a guest can provide. 

“If I could give one piece of advice to other hosts, it would be to not be so hard on yourself!” encourages Alison Renga, co-host of Trillium Cabin.

“Be open to guest feedback and take that into consideration before your next guest arrives. Some of my guests have given me great feedback that my future guests have loved so much.”

The Devil is in the Details 

Sometimes guests can miss important information, so it’s important to include important details across multiple channels, such as in the Airbnb listing, in automated messages, and in your Folio guidebook, which can be helpful to reduce confusion and avoid repeated questions. As the saying goes, the devil really is in the details.

“Provide more than just a place to stay. Offer guests restaurant and activity recommendations in the area, like through our Folio guidebook!” suggests Melinda Martino, co-host of Mountain Lake Bungalow.

“Think about the physical details too, such as convenient places to charge your phone, a place to put your toiletry bag in the bathroom and to hang clothes at night in the bedroom.”

A smartly-designed bedroom at Mountain Lake Bungalow. Photo: Winona Barton-Ballentine.

Ready to get started? Follow these six tips when launching your first short-term rental property and you’ll already be on the path towards Superhost status in no time.