Opening your home to the Airbnb market is a great way to earn some extra cash, whether you’re funding your own trips, or just as a side gig. But in order to make the most of your space and your ad, you have to know what Airbnb customers are looking for.
How do you get more people to choose you, over the competition?
Make The Most Of Your Interiors
We’ve all seen the Instagram photos from our friends’ stays at the gorgeous Airbnb with the perfect view that happens to be close to the best places for fun and adventure. But if you’re not living in a tropical oasis, or near a city hotspot, the only way to get the word of mouth you’re looking for is through your interiors.
There are plenty of people who would advise to keep it hotel simple: Choose a nice, safe neutral, color, and fairly generic prints. But is that really the best way to go?
Don’t Be Afraid To Show Off Your Style
The truth is, people don’t just stay in Airbnb to save money. Not everyone is comfortable in a hotel. Going a bit minimalist is a good idea. You don’t want to leave out thousands of dollars worth of expensive art and decor for strangers to get their hands on, or damage. But don’t be afraid to show off who you are.
Market your cute artists’ loft as a place for those with eclectic and creative tastes. If your home is on the rustic side, take advantage of the relaxed rural atmosphere in your home. Tailor your ad to suit your own tastes. It’s the best way to get the guests who’ll appreciate what you have to offer. And that will ensure good reviews, and more guests!
Storage Solutions
Make sure that your Airbnb is functional for your guests. That might mean needing to increase storage options for your guests. Choose furniture that is multi-functional and doesn’t take too much space. It’ll make your room feel bigger to your guests, and look bigger in photographs.
Attaching hooks to walls, and building shelves in closets is also an inexpensive way to add storage solutions. Keep in mind, some of your guests are on long trips, and they’ll love the opportunity to spread out their stuff and relax!
Keep It Simple
Speaking of spreading out. As important as it is to show off your style, you don’t want to clutter the space up with personal mementos. It’s still a space for guests, so you don’t want to make it too busy. Choose a single large piece of furniture, like a vintage vanity from a second-hand place, or a large print as a focal point for the room.
Nice-sized modern rugs are another great choice for a focal point for the room. Choosing a bold print or trendy color is a sure way to get that Instagram-worthy photo that’s sure to boost your bookings.
Keep Things Fresh
If your floors are dirty or stained, or your carpet is old, it’s likely to hold on to odors. Your guests are sure to notice any smells in your Airbnb. Even mild smells can affect your rating. If you have carpets, make sure to get them steam cleaned between stays. If they’re old, you may consider swapping them out for some nice tiles or laminate flooring. Then, you can add some color and warmth with rugs in various sizes and colors.
Choosing to turn your home into an Airbnb is a great way to make some extra cash. But if you don’t live in a prime location, it can be hard to cut through the competition. In most cases, you’ll get more guests the more positive reviews you get. Tailor your ad to the guests who will appreciate your style.
Keep the place clean and simple, but don’t be afraid to inject a little personality into the space. With the right personal touches, you’re sure to get the word of mouth to all the right guests, to keep your bookings coming.
