Plenty of people are trying their hats at Airbnb hosting these days, but how can you make sure your Airbnb services stand out? Above all, Airbnb hosting can be a very personal experience, and that goes beyond the rooms your guests stay in. 

How can you achieve, and maintain Airbnb Superhost status in such a saturated market?

Here are Pass the Keys’ top tips for being a killer Airbnb host:

1. Leave a quick how-to for basic electronics

Ovens and boilers often present the biggest challenge to guests, so a quick post-it with key instructions will save guests time and prevent a late-night phone call from a stressed guest.

2. Give your Airbnb a personal stamp

When choosing Airbnb decor, some hosts opt to play it safe with neutral tones and basic decor. However, this hotel-like setup often leaves guests underwhelmed. The beauty of Airbnb is that every property is unique, so leave your own mark and guests will feel like they are at a home away from home.

3. Be Honest

Nothing will dampen a guest’s experience by unfulfilled expectations. Never over-exaggerate your property in photos and descriptions on Airbnb. Instead, focus on what makes your place unique and its original charm will sell itself - trust us!

4. Make time to visit guests if you can

When visiting your guests, be sensitive to their needs, and always tell them you are planning to visit beforehand. Greeting guests in person shows you care about their well-being and have made an effort to ensure they have settled in well. It also gives you the chance to remind them of any housekeeping and allows them to ask any questions.

5. Do a quick shop for essentials

Guests will really appreciate having essential items such as tea bags, milk, and bread available when they arrive, especially if they have traveled a long distance and are unfamiliar with the area.

6. Keep it old school

Whilst it’s true a lot of us are surgically attached to our smartphones, it will be a nice touch to have board games, books, and other non-tech-related pastimes available. This will be appreciated especially by families with young children. 

7. The importance of lighting

It can be as simple as changing a light fixture or investing in a tasteful floor lamp, but lighting has a dramatic effect on making your Airbnb a welcoming and inviting place. It’s all about the ambiance!

8. Communication is king

Communication should not stop just because your guest has arrived. Make sure to check in with guests a few hours after they arrive by dropping them a text. Depending on the length of their stay, a follow-up message to confirm they are enjoying their Airbnb experience is a good shout. If you don’t use a property manager, you will need to be contactable at most hours of the day in case of emergencies. 

9. Leave a gift for your guests 

Whether it be quality wine, locally sourced food, or a fresh bouquet, guests are sure to be delighted by an unexpected, thoughtful gift. Guests will start their stay at your property off on the right track and a thoughtful gift is likely to be mentioned in their review.

10. Be hands-on if you meet guests on arrival

From helping carry luggage, pouring them a drink, or giving them a brief house tour, be proactive and attentive. Remember that guests may be tired from traveling and it may be wise to keep it brief. 

11. Don’t scrimp on extras

It’s handy to keep extras around the house for any unforeseen circumstances. Having extra pillows, towels, toilet paper and light bulbs will be appreciated if needed during a stay. 

12. Always do more than expected

Surprise guests by going the extra mile and going beyond what you promised in your listing. What exactly you do may vary from guest to guest but it could be sharing your gym membership, sitting down with them to provide personal recommendations or

13. Be friendly, but firm

9 times out of 10, your guests will give you no cause for complaint but always make sure you lay out a clear set of expectations and rules for guests to follow. This way, if guests behave inappropriately, they cannot claim a lack of knowledge.

14. You reap what you sow

Airbnb hosting can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and to get the best out of being an Airbnb host, a little effort can go a long way! Design a space that you would love to stay in and keep standards high; your guest reviews will do the rest.