Tips for Being a Great Airbnb Host

Since its launch in 2008, Airbnb has been a welcome resource for travelers searching for accommodations, as well as hosts looking to make some extra money. A busy city like Austin is booming with potential for new hosts, but it takes some effort to really stand out. If you’re planning on opening up your house or apartment to an Airbnb visitor, there are some things you should keep in mind. Here are a few pointers from Pauly Presley to get you prepared.

Starting Out

Let’s say you’re brand new to the world of being an Airbnb host. There are some key things you’ll want to keep in mind as you tackle this new endeavor.

• Consider Your Neighbors: While hosting might be a great idea for you, it’s important to consider the circumstances of those around you. If you have any doubts about them being okay with your decision, talk to them first.
• Manage Your Time: Do you have ample time to prepare your property for a guest? Once they’re staying, will anything keep you from communicating with them during an emergency? Consider these factors before taking the leap.
• Set a Reasonable Price: There are a few dimensions to this step. First, take a look at neighboring Airbnb properties and hotels to make sure you’re staying competitive. Also, it helps to set a goal for what you’re trying to achieve, financially speaking. Are you just looking for some supplemental cash, or do you plan on making your primary income from this?
• Create a Listing That Stands Out: Even a good property can fall by the wayside if its listing is poorly done. Your listing title, description, and photos should be instantly appealing to readers and offer a look at a fun, unique place to stay.
• Add Value: You can usually set a higher rate for guests if they realize they’re getting some kind of extra perk by staying at your property. For example, if you live by Town Lake and you’re okay with a guest using your paddleboard, mention it in the description of your listing.
• Gather Resources for Guests: Think of what you’d want if you were staying in someone else’s home. Things like Wi-Fi passwords, emergency contact numbers, and local points of interest should be compiled in an easy-to-access location.

Don’t Proceed Without Approval

Of course, an easy way to get into hot water is by starting your Airbnb host experience without the explicit approval of a landlord. Landlords are within their rights to take legal action against tenants who host guests without prior approval. The best thing you can do is request permission in a clear, no-nonsense manner and alleviate any concerns they might have. Should you need help putting together your pitch, Airbnb has their own guide for speaking to your landlord.

Austin is a Great Place to Host

As long as you’re making the proper preparations and getting approval from the necessary people, Austin is a fantastic place to be an Airbnb host. Music festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits bring in loads of tourists looking for places to stay, and Airbnb historically sees big surges in business during these times. So whether you’re just making some extra cash from a spare room or opening up a $5,000-per-night estate in West Lake Hills, the Austin area is rich with opportunity.

Need a hand finding the perfect home for you and your guests? Pauly Presley Realty is a full-service Austin real estate firm that can help you secure the perfect home for sale in Austin! Whether you're looking for a one-bedroom condo or a sprawling five-bedroom mansion - you can count on us to help you make the right real estate decision! Contact us to learn more today!