Table Of Contents
There’s no doubt that Airbnb is one of the fastest-growing online marketplaces in the world. In fact, more than 100,000 Australian homeowners are using the platform to meet new people and earn extra money on the side. However, if you’re new to Airbnb, there’s more to hosting than creating a listing and booking guests. You need to prepare your house to maximise comfort and minimise risk – both to you and others. In this article, we reveal how you can create a clean, safe and clutter-free space that will delight guests and make hosting a breeze.
Declutter
Airbnb guests expect the same minimalist aesthetic as they get in hotels. This means you need to give them plenty of space for suitcases, prams, laptops and other belongings. Look at your house and decide what needs to go. You may have an unused sewing machine or sideboard that is taking up valuable space. Put these into self-storage until you need them again. The more you declutter, the more guests you can accommodate – and the more facilities you can provide.
Remove valuables
There’s nothing worse than going into your Airbnb only to find that your Matisse etching or antique Persian rug is gone. These objects may lend character to your space, but they can also be tempting for thieves. If you’ve got a valuable item in your Airbnb, consider relocating it or putting it into storage. Replace it with something less expensive.
Make it safe
Make sure all electrical fittings, gas appliances and fireplaces have been checked by a professional to ensure their safety. If you don’t already have them, install fire alarms in every room and keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit handy. It also helps to check that shelves are properly secured to the wall and that you don’t have any tripping hazards. Again, if you’ve got dangerous items in the house or garden, like a hedge trimmer or paint stripper, relocate it to a safe area or put it into storage.
Keep it clean
Everyone has different standards of cleanliness, but you need to lift your game if you’re hosting an Airbnb. Of course, guests will undo all your hard work after they leave, but that’s to be expected. Make sure all spills, stains, crumbs and dirty glasses are removed before the next guests arrive. Not only is this important for hygiene and pest control, but it can affect the look and comfort of your home. No one wants to see a photo of their mouldy shower recess in the guest reviews! If you’re too busy or you can’t get that professional finish, find a local cleaner who can do the job for you.
Provide creature comforts
Additional services or equipment can set you apart from other hosts! This could include a welcome hamper, free coffee and tea, cooking basics, expensive toiletries, board games, DVDs and WiFi. You could even provide a cooked breakfast or laundry service for a small fee. All these perks can help you attract guests and earn great reviews.
Write up house rules and instructions
To avoid dozens of calls about minor issues, provide a detailed list of house rules so guests know what they can and can’t do and what parts of the house are out of bounds. It also helps to have detailed instructions on how to use the stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine and any other appliance in the house/apartment. This will make your life – and their stay – as hassle-free as possible.
Conclusion
Getting your Airbnb ready for guests is easy with the right preparation. All you need to do is declutter, put excess furniture and valuables into storage, remove hazards, maintain cleanliness, provide extra services, and leave detailed rules and instructions. This should ensure a safe and enjoyable stay for your guests, and give you – the host – peace of mind!
If you’ve got excess furniture or valuables that can’t be accommodated in your Airbnb, consider storing them in one of our units. There are no lock-in contracts, and you get clean, secure storage at an affordable price. What’s more, first-time customers get the first month free when they sign up for four months! Want to know more? Contact our friendly team to discuss your Airbnb self-storage needs.
