Setting up Your Airbnb Property
Getting your Airbnb investment up and running isn’t as simple as you might think. There’s much more involved than simply buying a property, listing it on Airbnb and welcoming guests. The way that you set up, dress and present your place will determine how successful you are in the long term.
You’ve completed on your purchase, so what’s next? Be prepared for some hard work but get it right at this stage and it will pay huge dividends. You know your area and you know your market(s): prepare your place with this knowledge at the forefront of your mind.
With regard to décor and style, think about photography and maintenance. There’s a huge difference between neutral and drab. Neutral with splashes of colour and a hint of Brighton (or your own location) can be great and help your place to stand out for all the right reasons without it being too bold as to put people off.
What sleeping arrangements can you offer? Combine single and double beds - even zip-link beds - and sofa beds where possible to give the guests flexibility.
Dress the place with some colour using throws and cushions; add some different lighting effects with ceiling and side lamps. Both will really help when your place is professionally photographed. Remember, photos sell on Airbnb so think of it as online dating for your property and get the very best pics from the very best angles.
Finally, make sure your place is insured for paying guests. Insurers are slowly getting up to speed on the short let market but you’ll need to carefully check the caveats in any policy.
What do I need to provide?
You’re aim here is to create a convenient and smooth guest experience.
WiFi is a must so make sure you get the best deal.
A TV – one is enough.
Think about installing a remote heating sensor as the utility bills fall to you.
Fully equip your kitchen so guests can make a proper meal and include the basics like salt, pepper, cooking oil, tea and coffee - there’s no need to go OTT with Prosecco; it won’t win you any Brownie points and it will hit your pocket.
Don’t forget spare bedding and pillows for extra beds plus extra blankets in winter.
A hairdryer, iron and ironing board, microwave and coffee machine are great additions at not much extra cost.
Provide toiletries in the bathrooms.
These extras add to the convenience for guests creating a better, slicker guest experience which will ultimately reward you in ratings and reviews.
Depending on the size of your property and your plans to scale up, you may wish to hire your bed linen and towels, or bulk buy (several sets and spares) and pay for a laundry service. There are a number of options to suit different scenarios but good quality, white bed linen, bath towels, hand towels, bath mats and tea towels are essential.
