Avoid These 9 Common Mistakes as an Airbnb Host

Being a successful Airbnb host takes more than just listing your space. It involves attention to detail, a personal touch, and a deep understanding of what guests are looking for. Unfortunately, there are several common mistakes that hosts often make.

In this post, we have sourced some tips from seasoned property managers and Superhosts, to help you avoid these common problems.

1. Neglecting to Check the Competition’s Listings

Failing to research your competition can result in your listing blending in with the rest. Just because everyone’s homes have white walls and grey sofas, doesn’t mean fitting in is the best choice!

Solution: Take the time to view other listings in your area. Make your lead photo stand out with unique colours and style. Do you have a unique, retro doorway? Or an accent wall in one of the rooms, covered in strong navy paint? Showcase those!

2. Using Robotic Messages and Templates

Of course, it’s crucial to use automations and message templates. But sending cold and robotic messages can (and will!) make guests feel unwelcome.

Solution: Add warmth to your messages and brainstorm ways to make guests feel more comfortable. Instead of a generic "Thanks for your message," try a more personal approach like, “Appreciate your excellent communication – wishing you safe travels and wonderful adventures ahead!”.

3. Taking DIY Photos of your Airbnb

DIY photos clicked using your phone camera can make your property look unprofessional and unattractive (even if you add some filters or edit them afterwards).

Solution: Invest in professional photographer session and do 1 high quality shoot of your place. Show transitions between rooms to give guests a virtual tour. Professional photos can make a world of difference!

4. Being Lazy with the Listing Setup

Filling out your listing form while skipping some sections can lead to a lackluster listing. And, practically, to your listing ranking much lower on Airbnb than expected. And who would want that! We actually wrote a separate article just about crafting your profile, find it here.

Solution: Be thorough and detailed when setting up your listing. Use all relevant filters and keywords, and list every detail and amenity your space offers, even down to "spa-quality shampoo."

You don’t have to complete the listing in one go. If it’s too much work, break it into 2-3 creative writing sessions.

5. Overloading on Beds for Profit

Cramming too many beds into your space can lead to discomfort for guests. Putting beds in every possible space may seem like a great idea, but just ask your guests to find out that it may actually backfire.

Solution: The number of beds should match the dining table seating capacity. Don’t go overboard!

6. Lacking Basic Kitchen Supplies

Neglecting to provide essential kitchen items can deter longer-term guests, especially those who specifically pick Airbnb for their stay for the ability to cook their own meals. Read more about it here.

Solution: Ensure you have basic kitchen utensils, salt, pepper, and oil available. These items are crucial for guests who prefer to cook at home, especially digital nomads and contractors coming to stay for a longer term.

7. Relying Solely on Airbnb

Restricting your listings to just one platform limits your reach. Numerous alternative platforms exist for property listings. Options include booking.com and Expedia - and that’s just a start. By limiting yourself to a single platform, you miss out on reaching a vast pool of potential customers.

Solution: Explore other booking websites like booking.com and Expedia, which open up new opportunities for attracting guests. You can also look for more specific websites, like pet-friendly rentals, or portals for digital nomads. We covered some of these platforms in this post.

8. Overlooking Basic Amenities

Sometimes, not providing basic amenities can lead not just to long message exchange with your guest, but also a lower star review. It’s something that’s so easy to fix though!

Solution: Ensure your space includes a hairdryer, at least 2 mirrors, hangers, an ice cube tray, an iron, and an ironing board. Some items that could easily be forgotten include: extra trash bags and toilet paper.

9. Never staying in your Airbnb overnight

It’s easy to just assume your property is comfortable, if you only visit every now and then. A lot of issues could go unnoticed!

Solution: Be a guest in your own home, before opening it up to other. Go through the whole guest journey: from check-in (test your local KeyNest Point or key safe) through entering home, default space to put the luggage in etc. Stay overnight - make sure everything is in place for a comfy stay!

Remember, avoiding these common pitfalls can help you become a better Airbnb host and enhance the overall guest experience. By providing a comfortable and unique stay, you'll earn positive reviews and gain a reputation as a top host in no time.

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.