So, you think you have a property that is perfect for Airbnb, but you’re not sure how to get started?

Read this easy, this five-step guide with all you need to know to begin your hosting experience adventure.

Step 1. Prep Yourself

Listing your property on Airbnb is not for everyone, so it is essential to weigh up your options before taking the plunge.

Manage Your Expectations

Is this a side-hustle, or do you want it to be your primary source of income? How you answer should let you know how much time and capital you are willing to spend.

Know That You Will Have Strangers on Your Property

If this part of the process makes you a little uneasy, you may need to consider whether it is right for you.

Know If Your Area Is Suited to Host

The amount of money you can earn depends on more than just the quality of your property. The market force, known as “rental arbitrage,” will play a role in your income, so make sure you know what it is and how it affects your property.

Do A Price Check

Be sure that hosting is worth your time and money. Airbnb has a free calculator to help you decide whether your property will pay dividends as a host.

Step 2. Create Your Listing and Make It Sing

The best way to get as much interest as possible in your listing is to make it as appealing as you can. While you want to emphasize what’s great about it, you must always remain honest.

Start at the Beginning

Make sure all the basics are correct.

This includes the location and address, the type of property that is on offer, and some basic details such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as basic facilities like car parking and outside areas.

It’s also a good idea to note mobility issues like stairs or steep access points.

Take Flattering Photos

When you upload photos of your listing, make them clear and use natural light whenever possible. Guests love browsing through photos, so the more, the merrier.

Just make sure you tidy up beforehand and include a shot of each space, including the entrance and bathroom.

Highlight What Makes Your Place Special

Each listing is unique, and the trick is to highlight what elevates yours above the rest. Make sure you sing the praises of your spa bath or the excellent views from the bedroom.

Don’t forget to include the highlights of the neighborhood as well.

Step 3. Get Yourself Organized

To make your hosting experience as smooth as possible, it’s a great idea to think ahead and consider all potential problems before they happen.

Make Your House Rules Clear and Concise

With clear rules and regulations, your guests will not doubt your expectations. Include things like restrictions on smoking, noise levels, pets, and the house’s cleanliness.

Keep your Airbnb Calendar Up to Date

This ensures that you get reservations only when you’re available to host, and you can adjust the settings on how far in advance people can book.

Choose the Nightly Price That’s Right for You

Using AirBnB’s Smart Pricing tool and considering rental arbitrage, determine and set your fee. Remember to consider custom pricing controls for weekends and seasons, or more popular events than others. Check on the blog on Once in A Lifetime Journey for more hosting tips.

Make Sure It’s All Legal

Check your local laws on the rules concerning home sharing so that you are fully aware of any nightly host limits, registration requirements, or other fees and taxes.

Step 4. Get Your Space Ready

This might seem like common sense, but a clean and tidy space goes a long way towards attracting guests. And extra touches like flowers and guest goodies such as chocolates or a bottle of wine might be worth the cost and effort in the long term.

And remember to have plenty of basic supplies like soap, toilet paper, linen, and towels.

Tidy the Space

Make sure everything is neat and tidy, including the outside and entryways. Everything must be as clean as a hotel room, so make sure there is no hair, dust, or mold.

Keep your Valuables Locked Away

If you can’t keep your valuables like jewelry, passports, and cash on another property, consider a safe or locked cupboard.

Have Clear Check-in Details

Make sure your guests know how to check-in and check-out and give them details on the appropriate times for both.

Step 5. Have Fun

Work does not have to be a slog, so take the time and enjoy sharing your property being an Airbnb host.

Image by [Photographee.eu] via [Shutterstock.com].