10 Services and Tools Every Australian Airbnb Host Needs to Become a Superhost
Becoming an Airbnb Superhost in Australia is not just about providing a comfortable place for guests to stay; it's about delivering an exceptional experience that leaves a lasting impression. To achieve this status, you need more than just a well-decorated space.
In this blog post, we'll explore 10 essential services and tools that every Australian Airbnb host needs, especially if you’re just starting.
And if you’re interested in detailed instructions on how to become a Superhost, click here.
KeyNest
Let's kick things off with KeyNest, a must-have tool for any Airbnb host (yes, that’s us! And it’s not a shameless brag - we know once you use our service, you will change your Airbnb operations for the better).
KeyNest offers secure key storage and collection for your guests, eliminating the need for you to be present during check-ins. Guests can pick up keys from convenient locations, like nearby convenience stores or hotels, and you can remotely manage access, ensuring a seamless check-in process.
This allows you to score higher points for convenience and guest communication - and potentially offer earlier check-ins, and later check-outs if you want to.
Quality Linens and Towels:
Linen:
Keep in mind: the greater the thread count, the more luxurious the sheets will feel. When aiming to offer top-tier bedding for your Airbnb, a good guideline is to ensure a minimum thread count of 300 for cotton sheets. Although cotton sheets are the most common choice, there's also the opportunity to experiment with alternative materials for your bedding.
Consider these alternative fabric options for your Airbnb sheets:
Microfiber: Microfiber sheets are not only fade, stain, and wrinkle-resistant but also hypoallergenic. Crafted using advanced weaving techniques, they have a tight weave that allows for easy stain removal, quick drying, and enhanced durability. Microfiber sheets are an excellent choice for budget-conscious hosts seeking quality bedding.
Egyptian Cotton: Egyptian Cotton sheets are renowned for their superior strength and longer lifespan compared to regular cotton sheets. They also boast a higher thread count, which contributes to their luxurious feel and appearance.
Bamboo: Bamboo sheets are an eco-friendly option made from renewable resources. They have the added benefit of staying cool, making them particularly comfortable for guests sleeping on foam mattresses. Bamboo sheets exude a luxurious look and feel, making them an excellent choice for those aiming to offer a touch of opulence in their Airbnb.
Linen: Linen sheets typically have a rougher texture compared to other materials, but they have a unique appeal that some guests adore.
When you invest in sheets with a higher thread count, be sure to highlight this feature in your property's description. Luxury-conscious travellers are more likely to be enticed by the prospect of indulging in 600-thread Egyptian Cotton sheets, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay.
Some places to buy quality linen for your Airbnb:
Towels:
When selecting towels for your Airbnb, hosts must weigh several factors, including the texture (softness), absorbency, drying speed, stain resistance, and longevity. Additionally, cost should be factored in since these items will frequently require replacement. When it comes to beach and pool towels, considerations primarily revolve around quick drying and durability.
Towels crafted from Turkish cotton are highly regarded in the industry due to their exceptional softness. This is attributed to their remarkably long threads, which often deliver an even softer feel compared to Egyptian Cotton.
Guest Communication Platforms:
Tools like Guesty, Duve, Hostaway, can help you automate guest communication, provide important information, and even offer local recommendations.
These tools allow you to set up automated messages that are triggered at specific points in a guest's journey. You can send welcome messages upon booking confirmation, provide check-in instructions a day before arrival, and even send a thank-you message after check-out.
Guest communication tools often also come with a chat widget and guests can reach out to you with questions or concerns directly through the platform.
Pricing Optimization Software:
Use dynamic pricing tools such as Beyond Pricing or PriceLabs to ensure your rates are competitive and reflect market demand. These invaluable tools leverage advanced algorithms and real-time data analysis to ensure that your listing's rates are not only competitive but also aligned with current market demand.
They work just like the algorithms that set up prices of flights or hotel rooms - depending on demand, time of the year, and local events happening, you will receive a suggestion for price level for a particular day.
Home Safety and Security Tools:
Install security cameras like Arlo Pro or Ring by the main door, to provide a sense of security for your guests. In the case of managing the property remotely, it will also allow you to control how many people arrive at the property.
Besides a camera, ensure that your property meets safety standards and is equipped with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Noise Monitoring:
To prevent potential disturbances, invest in noise monitoring solutions like Minut or NoiseAware, which alert you to excessive noise levels in your property. These devices don’t record the conversations, just measure the level of noise - and alarm you in case the atmosphere starts to sound too much like a party.
Maintenance and Repairs:
Establish a network of reliable handymen and contractors for quick responses to maintenance issues. Airtasker can be a handy resource.
Home Automation:
Consider integrating smart home devices like Nest Thermostats, security cameras, and voice assistants to enhance the guest experience and property security.
Especially in the winter, a smart thermostat can help you save a decent amount on bills!
Guest Welcome Packs:
Consider creating welcome packs with essentials like snacks, toiletries, and local maps. Here are some ideas on what to put in the basket, as commented by fellow hosts:
Channel Managers:
Services like Channel Manager.com.au , Guesty or Hostaway can help you list your property on multiple booking platforms simultaneously, ensuring maximum exposure.
There are tons of channel managers to pick from - we recommend diving deep into the Airbnb forum, to read about what others recommend.
About Us
KeyNest offers you a convenient service for storing and exchanging your property keys. You can drop off a key at any of the 5,000+ locations in our network, so there’s one such Point located next to your property already.
Guests, cleaners or contractors can then collect the key securely from a KeyNest Point, which is usually open 24/7. You'll be notified each time the key is picked up or returned, and you can even customize check-in and check-out times.
KeyNest has an ever-expanding global network of locations located just minutes from your property. To find out more, visit our website: https://keynest.com/
