Holiday Hosting Unveiled: Airbnb Hosts Share Stories and Pro Tips for Your Festive Stays

Embarking on a journey as an Airbnb host during the holiday season is like stepping into a festive adventure, filled with surprises, challenges, and heartwarming moments. We have asked 3 seasoned Airbnb hosts to share their real holiday stories, offering a glimpse into the unique experiences that come with welcoming guests during the most wonderful time of the year.

From unexpected freezing escapades in beachside towns to ingenious solutions for last-minute Christmas displays, these hosts have weathered it all. Come along as we share stories and valuable tips from seasoned hosts, creating a rich resource for both new and experienced hosts navigating the enchanting realm of holiday hosting.

1) Unexpected Christmas Freeze 

Kourtney Shepard, host at Starfish Swim-up

Our property is located in a small seaside town. We had a group of 16 checking out of our rental on the 23rd of December, and another big family checking in on Christmas day. 4 days before check-in, our cleaner called us and said that a freeze was expected, and we needed to ask our current guests to leave before the town shut off the water supply!

Because all the houses are raised about 12 feet above the ground on piers, and all the plumbing is exposed, you can’t just drip the faucets when it freezes, you have to shut off the water and drain the whole house!

When we explained this, our guests were unbelievably understanding and kind, and they made plans to leave early (we gave them a partial refund for the lost days).

Due to the unfortunate weather and no water, our cleaners were unable to clean or do laundry on the 23rd. Our amazing contractor came over on Christmas Eve and fixed the pipe, but we felt a sense of panic when it became clear there was not enough time to finish before our new guests arrived.

Fortunately, our cleaning team worked late Christmas Eve (and even dropped by on Christmas morning to finish up), and our guests checked in as scheduled for a wonderful family time together, and they never knew anything was ever in doubt 🙂

As a seasoned host, what tips would you give to someone setting up their first Airbnb listing for the holiday season?

From this experience, as new Airbnb hosts, we learned to try to avoid guest check-ins on holidays. But more importantly, we learned the value of having a solid local team who is engaged and committed to our guests having a great time. We are extremely blessed and grateful to have such an amazing team.

2) Water Woes on Thanksgiving: Navigating Unexpected Challenges with Grace

Tyler Coon, an Asheville North Carolina Airbnb host and short term rental Realtor, 5 properties:

Be prepared for the unexpected! On Thanksgiving Eve, our well went dry... and our guests had to spend Thanksgiving and the following 48 hours without water. We sent an Instacart and sold Dollar General out of water for them but sometimes there are things you just can't prepare for. How you respond to your guests when these things happen shows them your character and will make or break your next 5-star review.

As a seasoned host, what tips would you give to someone setting up their first Airbnb listing for the holiday season?

Being in the mountains, our clients want creature comforts! We always add some fluffy warm blankets for the firepit outside so guests can cuddle up and enjoy a nice fire even if it's chilly outside. Don't hesitate to decorate a little! You don't need to go overboard - but a small tree and a few strands of lights make all the difference.

3) Snowstorm Surprises: A Cozy Cabin Christmas Tale

Emma Thompson, host in Lake Tahoe, California, managing 3 properties.

One Christmas, we had a group of friends book our entire property for a festive getaway. They were excited about spending the holidays together in a cosy cabin. Everything was going smoothly until the power went out due to a snowstorm on Christmas Eve! It was a challenge to keep the guests comfortable and entertained without electricity.

We provided extra blankets, lit candles, and even organized some impromptu games (luckily we were nearby to provide some entertainment). Despite the unexpected turn of events, the guests later mentioned in their review that it turned out to be one of the most memorable and magical Christmases they've ever had.

As a seasoned host, what tips would you give to someone setting up their first Airbnb listing for the holiday season?

Always have a backup plan for unexpected situations like power outages. Stock up on essentials like extra blankets, flashlights, and board games. Additionally, consider offering special holiday amenities, such as a welcome basket with festive treats or a guide to local holiday events. These thoughtful touches can enhance the guest experience and make their holiday stay truly memorable.

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