5 Common Mistakes New Airbnb Hosts Make —and How to Avoid Them
Airbnb hosting is really exciting, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Over the years, I've seen many new hosts make the same mistakes — ones that can lead to poor reviews, low occupancy rates, and unnecessary stress. In this post, I’m going to walk you through five common pitfalls that new hosts often encounter and how you can avoid them. By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful and confident host.
Mistake 1: Over-Personalising the Space
When you’re setting up your Airbnb, it’s natural to want to infuse your space with personality. However, there’s a fine line between creating a unique, welcoming environment and making the space feel too personal. Guests are looking for a place where they can feel at home, not like they’re intruding on someone else’s life.
Solution:
Remove personal items like family photos, personal collections (unless they’re a cool focal feature), or anything that might make guests feel like they’re invading your privacy.
Mistake 2: Underestimating the Importance of Cleanliness
One of the quickest ways to earn a negative review is by overlooking cleanliness. Even if your space is beautifully decorated and well-organised, guests won’t remember that if they find dust, dirt, or any signs that the space hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned.
Solution:
Develop a detailed cleaning checklist and stick to it. Ensure that all surfaces, floors, and high-touch areas (like doorknobs and light switches) are cleaned between every guest stay. Seriously consider hiring a professional cleaning service if you don’t have the time or inclination to do it yourself.
Mistake 3: Poor Communication with Guests
Communication is key to providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for your guests. If your communication is slow, unclear, nonexistent or rude, it can lead to confusion, frustration, and ultimately, poor reviews.
Solution:
Respond to inquiries promptly, ideally within an hour. Utilise the ‘scheduled messages’ inbox in your app to automatically trigger welcome messages and helpful tips when guests book. Provide clear instructions for check-in, check-out, and house rules. Be proactive in communicating any potential issues (like maintenance work or neighbourhood events) and always be available to answer questions or address concerns.
Mistake 4: Neglecting to Optimise Your Listing
Your Airbnb listing is your first impression, and if it’s not optimized, you’re likely missing out on bookings. This includes everything from the photos you use to the description you write.
Solution:
Invest in high-quality photos of your space. Highlight the key features that make your listing stand out, whether it’s a stunning view, a cozy fireplace, or proximity to local attractions. Write a compelling, detailed description that answers any questions a potential guest might have. And don’t forget to update your listing regularly to reflect any changes or improvements you’ve made to the space.
Mistake 5: Setting the Wrong Price
Pricing your Airbnb too high can scare off potential guests, while pricing it too low can leave money on the table. Finding the right balance is crucial for maintaining a steady stream of bookings and maximizing your revenue.
Solution:
Research similar listings in your area to get an idea of what others are charging. Use Airbnb’s Smart Pricing tool to adjust your rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events. Consider offering discounts for longer stays or last-minute bookings to keep your calendar full.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can set yourself up for success from the very beginning. Remember, hosting on Airbnb is a journey, and like any journey, there will be bumps along the way. But with preparation, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing a great guest experience, you’ll soon find your stride and start reaping the rewards of your hard work.
In the next post, I’ll be sharing some insider tips on how to make your Airbnb stand out from the competition. Stay tuned!