If you’re looking to create some extra income, then property investment has always been a popular choice.
However, the rise of services such as Airbnb has made it easier than ever for you to let out a property as a short-term rental to holiday makers from all over the world.
With more than 150 million users across the world, listing your property on Airbnb can help you ensure that your accommodation is always full.
Of course, reviews are everything, so you’ll need to make sure that you go the extra mile to impress your guests. If you’re looking to turn your second property into a rental or are just at the start of your buying journey, then here are just five fantastic tips to help you create an awesome Airbnb.
1) Find the Ideal Location and Property
If you’re yet to buy, then you’re at the perfect place to start thinking more about location and property type.
Some areas are more popular with tourists than others, so if you want to become an appealing option, then you should ensure that you choose a location close to local attractions – or at least with good transport links.
If you’re looking to buy, services such as Rightmove can help you find the perfect property for you.
2) Ensure Your Guests Will Be Comfortable
Creating a comfortable environment is essential for ensuring you have happy guests, and one of the most important factors to consider is the quality of the mattresses in your accommodation.
If your holiday makers get to come tuck themselves up in a cosy bed after a long day of sightseeing, they’ll really appreciate it. Take the time to research the best choice of mattresses; the experts at Archers Sleep Centre can help you to find the right choice for your property and ensure that your guests get a good night’s sleep.
When you can provide your guests with a relaxing retreat, not only might they come back for more, but they may also recommend you to their friends and family.
3) Provide High Quality Amenities
While many guests will bring their own toiletries, giving them the option to use fancy soaps and shampoos provided by you will help to give your Airbnb that luxury hotel feel.
While this is something small, it can go a long way. And, given that most of us tend to forget something when they pack, being able to supply them with the one necessity that they’ve forgotten will help to endear yourself to them as a host.
Similarly, while some guests pack their own food, shop while there, or simply eat out, providing some basics like tea, coffee, and milk is not only kind, but expected. If you want to go the extra mile, also consider supplying bread, cereal, and even some sweet treats.
4) Provide an Information Pack
The UK is full of some incredible attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. When setting up your Airbnb it’s a good idea to provide your guests with an information pack.
This should include local attractions, how to get there, along with any admission costs to give them ideas of things to do during their stay.
You could also provide them with a list of local restaurants and menus, often particularly useful to guests in their first few days while they’re still getting to know the area.
5) Find a Reliable Cleaning Service
Unfortunately, guests are far more likely to leave a review if they’ve had a bad experience than if they’ve had a good one, and cleanliness is one of the top aspects that are complained about if it doesn’t meet expectations.
Of course, after each guest leaves, you could carry out the cleaning yourself, that way you’ll know that the job meets your standards, however if you work full time or have children to care for, this isn’t always a viable option.
If your time is already stretched thin, you need to ensure that you secure a reliable and skilled cleaner who will leave the place looking as good as new.
Have you set up an Airbnb? Share your tips and tricks for becoming a great host in the comments below!