With the popularity of Airbnb, turning your home into a short-stay rental can be a great way to generate extra income.
However, the process requires careful preparation to ensure your property appeals to guests and maximises your earnings. Whether you’re new to hosting or looking to optimise your setup, here are six essential tips to help you prepare your home for the short-stay market.
1. Declutter: Simplify and Streamline
The first step in preparing your home is to declutter. Remove personal items such as family photos, valuable antiques, and knickknacks. While you want your home to feel welcoming, remember that accidents can happen, so it’s wise to put away anything with sentimental value. A clean, uncluttered space with tasteful, minimalistic decor will appeal to a broad range of guests and help them feel comfortable.
2. Clean: Make It Sparkle
Cleanliness is critical in the short-stay market. A spotless home makes a great first impression and plays a key role in guest satisfaction. While The Stay Hub offers a deep cleaning service as part of their onboarding process, you can reduce costs by thoroughly cleaning your home beforehand. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, and make sure carpets, upholstery and all surfaces are immaculate. A sparkling clean home is more likely to earn positive reviews, which can lead to more bookings.
3. Furniture: Comfort is Key
The condition and comfort of your furniture can significantly impact a guest’s experience. Start by inspecting all your furniture and removing or repairing any broken items or showing signs of wear and tear. Invest in comfortable, stylish furniture, especially when it comes to beds and seating. A cosy, well-furnished space will make guests feel at home and encourage them to leave favourable reviews.
4. Amenities: Equip Your Home for Convenience
Providing essential amenities is crucial for guest satisfaction. Make sure your kitchen is fully stocked with dishes, cookware and a coffee maker. Additionally, offer entertainment options such as a TV, books and board games to keep guests entertained during their stay. If you have any unique or high-end appliances, be sure to provide clear, detailed instructions on how to use them. Well-equipped homes with thoughtful amenities are more likely to attract repeat bookings and positive feedback.
5. Linen: Invest in Quality
High-quality bedding and towels are a must for creating a comfortable and inviting environment. Guests expect hotel-level comfort, so investing in good quality linens is important. The Stay Hub offers a special linen package that includes pillows, protectors, bed bug covers and duvet inners. They also provide hotel-quality sheets and towels, ensuring that your guests enjoy a luxurious experience. Fresh, premium linens can enhance the overall guest experience and make your property more desirable.
6. Highlight Special Amenities: Showcase Your Unique Features
If your property has special amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, sauna, tennis courts or a basketball hoop, be sure to highlight these in your listing. Parking can be a significant selling point in urban areas, as it is often in high demand. Additionally, features like heat pumps that double as air conditioning are popular with guests seeking comfort throughout the year. Special amenities can set your property apart from the competition and may allow you to charge a premium rate.
Once your home is ready, The Stay Hub will guide you through the onboarding process, including deep cleaning, professional photography and creating an attractive listing. With their expertise and your well-prepared home, you’ll be ready to start earning money in no time. By following these tips, you can turn your home into a sought-after Airbnb that guests will love and that will keep them coming back.
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