Sofia Santos
10/7/2024Airbnb has become a growing business model in Mexico in recent years, offering great income opportunities for hosts. However, as with everything, this journey isn’t so simple. So, how can you become the perfect host?
The key is in carefully planning every step, from conducting market research to meeting guest expectations. If you want to maximize your opportunities, keep reading.
We’ll talk about the important aspects to consider and give you the top 10 tips to succeed on Airbnb.
Being an Airbnb host can be a profitable option for anyone who has an unused property.
But before embarking on this adventure, there are certain aspects you need to know to get the most out of it.
This includes the pros, cons, and the basic qualities every host should have.
Let’s take a closer look:
You can block dates when you don’t want to host guests or adjust rates according to demand. The platform allows you to adjust availability and prices at your convenience.
Keeping your space attractive for guests can increase its long-term value.
Hosting helps you develop skills in various areas, such as logistics planning and ad marketing, which could open new business opportunities for you.
Despite the security measures Airbnb offers, there’s a risk that guests may damage your property.
Being an Airbnb host can be time-consuming, especially if you have a high guest turnover.
Communication: Clear and prompt communication is necessary if you want to succeed, from before guests arrive to after they leave. This helps resolve problems efficiently, creates good expectations, and ensures everything runs smoothly.
Hospitality: How can you be the perfect host? Offer a warm and memorable experience that fosters a lasting relationship with your guests and attracts positive reviews.
Attention: You need to pay close attention to cleanliness, the services offered, and any detail that can enhance your guests' stay.
If you decide to become a host, it’s time to register on Airbnb and complete your profile. But before launching your listing, follow these tips to succeed on Airbnb:
Research Your Market and Competition
Analyze your competitors by reviewing listings in your area, noting their prices, availability, and how they present their properties. Also, check out their photos, descriptions, and services offered.
Identify what they do well and where you could stand out. In other words, include something unique or offer additional services that enhance the guest experience.
The better you understand your target audience, the more bookings you’ll secure.
What type of guests are they? Business travelers or tourists? Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers?
Each group has different needs, so make sure to adapt your property to them, along with the services you’ll offer, like fast Wi-Fi for business travelers or extra space for large families.
Learn about the taxes for Airbnb hosts in Mexico or if there are any updated local laws regarding vacation rentals.
Staying informed about permits, licenses, and regulations is essential for success.
Airbnb charges hosts a fee for every booking, typically 3% of the subtotal. This fee covers costs like payment processing and marketing.
It’s important to account for this percentage when setting your prices to cover all your expenses without losing competitiveness.
These were some tips to succeed on Airbnb, but want to be the best? Check out the next section.
Once you're in the business, you can achieve Airbnb’s "Superhost" status. This is a rating system based on guest experiences, with benefits including higher income potential and visibility.
How can you succeed on Airbnb and earn your Superhost badge?
Follow these 10 tips:
Ensure the quality of your accommodation remains at a high level, where your guests have the best experience. This includes offering a spotless, well-maintained, and welcoming space. It’s not just about cleanliness but also about the details, which will earn you better reviews.
To achieve Superhost status, you need to know the conditions set by Airbnb and meet them.
Some of them are:
Maintaining an average rating of at least 4.8.
Completing at least 10 stays in the past year.
Ensuring a 90% response rate.
Avoiding unnecessary cancellations.
Familiarize yourself with these points, work on them, and track your progress.
To attract more guests, it’s important to showcase the space in the most appealing way. Upload several high-quality photos that highlight its best features, allowing potential guests to imagine themselves in the space.
Posting at least a dozen images can make a big difference.
The fourth in our list of tips to succeed on Airbnb is informing your guests about the house rules. Especially if it’s a condominium, as this will help avoid potential fines and issues with neighbors.
You can send an email with a copy of the rules for them to read before arriving. The same applies to your own rules or restrictions for the property.
Take guest feedback as an opportunity for growth.
Use constructive suggestions and comments to make adjustments, both in your property and your service. This way, the experience for future visitors will improve, and your positive reviews will increase.
Anyone looking to succeed on Airbnb should stay informed about the latest travel and hospitality trends.
By following the latest trends in these industries, you can adjust and optimize your services and accommodation. This ensures that they always align with current guest expectations and preferences.
For a successful Airbnb listing, offer premium services that truly make a difference. This means enhancing the comfort and overall experience for your guests.
Think of unique offerings, like a Smart TV with streaming access or a well-equipped workspace with a desk.
While you should be available for your guests, you also need to respect their privacy.
Ideally, have a channel where they can contact you if they need assistance. This way, you won’t interrupt their stay unless necessary, allowing them to enjoy their space peacefully.
Clarity is key to avoiding misunderstandings.
If your property has any peculiarities or limitations, for example, external noise, let your guests know in advance. Also, mention anything they may need to add to their travel checklist.
Being transparent builds trust and prevents unpleasant surprises for both parties.
How can you be the perfect host? Strive to become part of Airbnb's “Guest Favorites” program.
This is a recognition given to the best accommodations worldwide, based on reviews and ratings. You can achieve it by focusing on providing top-quality service, as this will earn you high scores.
Lastly, we recommend adding DolarApp as a payment method on Airbnb. With this option, you can receive your earnings in dollars and convert them to pesos whenever you want, always at the best exchange rate!
Airbnb facilitates communication through its website. You just need to send messages when necessary, whether before or during your guests’ stay. That said, you should set clear expectations from the beginning and respond quickly.
Install smart locks, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and place a first aid kit. Regularly check the appliances and make sure to comply with local safety regulations.
Almost any space can work on Airbnb, from a private room to an entire house. The most important thing is to meet safety standards and local regulations.
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