How to transform your rental property into an Airbnb sensation
Each year, tens of thousands of Australians list their properties on Airbnb and are making the switch from long term rental to short term stays. Below are our top five tips on how to make your property stand head and shoulders above your competition.
Most people who own an investment property prefer to rent it out long term. It’s more a set and forget approach. But for some, short term letting on platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz is becoming an increasingly appealing option providing additional income and flexibility.
In fact, in 2017 more than 30,000 people listed their homes on Airbnb across Sydney and Melbourne alone.
Below are our top 5 tips on how to transform your property into an Airbnb sensation :
1. Professional photos
First impressions last, and these days the first impression is the website impression of your Airbnb property.
A good photographer has the skills and equipment to highlight the beautiful little details that makes your property sing, and crop out the less desirable qualities that may turn a potential guest away.
Obtaining high quality images from a professional real estate photographer can be relatively easy, and costs between $150-$300 via websites such as Snappr or Airtasker.
Even if they get you just one extra two to three night booking they’ll have already paid themselves off.
2. Your guests home away from home
There’s no point in having a photographer take wonderful photos of your property only for the guest to show up and feel like they’ve been conned!
You’ll need to put in that extra bit of effort to make their stay memorable. After all, they’ve chosen your place ahead of a hotel, and all their other Airbnb options.
There’s a good chance your guest is from out of town and visiting your local area. So try and include local artwork, local guidebooks and information including transport options.
Install comfortable and luxurious bedding and the bathroom should also always be spotless with quality bath towels. Make sure good quality tea and coffee is available, and ensure all the basic kitchenware is easy to find.
Other tips include providing menus for local takeaway, tips for local sightseeing, entertainment, basic electrical appliances, and some cleaning equipment and products.
3. Play host, but don’t be That host
It’s important that you’re available to your guest should they need to query anything.
That may range from “where is the frying pan?” all the way to “where’s the local hospital?”.
It’s critical that you never show irritation towards your guest, no matter how trivial or inconsiderate a inquiry might appear.
That’s because one scathing review can undo a lot of the money, time and effort you’ve invested into building your reputation.
However, it is equally important to give your guest the privacy they require. Be on hand to offer any simple suggestions,but don’t pin them down for hours chatting about your own travels.
This is their holiday after all!
4. Consider using a property management service
If hosting isn’t for you it is worth considering outsourcing your property management to a professional service.
Cath and the team at Citysleepz look after a number of our clients properties. They offer a wide range of services including bookings management, guest sceening and communication, the meet and greet of clients as well as the maintenance and cleaning of the property.
Additionally it is important to have the right insurance cover for your property. A popular choice with our clients is Coverwise insurance. This agency offers a range of covers including Landlord and Building Insurance, Owner Occupied Household Insurance and Tenant Insurance.
5. Thank guests for their reviews
Taking the time out to thank every single guest for their review shows you’re a super attentive host who’s always aiming to please.
Additionally, it also gives you the opportunity to further highlight the positive aspects of your property.
For example, if a guest writes in their review that they had great ocean reviews, reply: “Thanks for the review Craig! Stoked that you enjoyed the ocean views from your bedroom!”
The best thing about this trick is that it even works for negative reviews.
That’s because most negative reviews will also mention something positive about the property. So make sure you thank them for that, acknowledge their complaint and thank them for bringing it to your attention, and advise that you’ve taken steps to rectify the issue for future guests (and actually do so!).
This shows other guests that you’re a very reasonable person who takes all concerns seriously – and will be approachable if they need you during their stay.
Guess who else is approachable?
We are!
If you have any queries or questions about your property and think we might be able to help out, don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’d love to help out. Just call us.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute financial advice, whether general or personal nor is it intended to imply any recommendation or opinion about a financial product. It does not take into consideration your personal situation and may not be relevant to circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.
