Want to rent out your property and generate income? Becoming an Airbnb host in Mexico can be the solution. Tourism continues to be a growing economic sector in our country. According to data from CONCANACO Servytur, 11.6 million tourists entered Mexico in the first quarter of 2024 alone. 

This represents a 7.4% increase over the same period last year. Short-term rentals have thus become an excellent investment opportunity, with Airbnb being the ideal platform to maximize your property’s potential.

Before diving in, check out this post to understand what it takes to become an Airbnb host. We’ll also share tips on standing out and attracting bookings, along with some common mistakes to avoid.

Requirements and Tips for Airbnb Hosting in Mexico  

How Airbnb Works for Hosts

Airbnb provides property owners with a platform to rent out their spaces without needing to find guests independently. Wondering, "How can I become an Airbnb host?" The first thing to know is that the process is simple.

In essence, it requires signing up as a host and creating your Airbnb listing to promote your property. Once listed, you can set pricing, availability, and even select your preferred payment methods as an Airbnb host in Mexico.

For this, DolarApp could be a reliable provider for receiving your Airbnb earnings, helping you receive income in dollars and convert USD to pesos when you want, at competitive rates.  

We also recommend you to be aware of everything that has to do with Airbnb payment for hosts.

What Are the Requirements to Be an Airbnb Host?

First, you must have a vacant property or space you can offer. It’s also essential to follow Airbnb’s guidelines to ensure guest satisfaction.

Below are the primary requirements for becoming an Airbnb host:

Local and Tax Regulations

One possible drawback to being an Airbnb host is that you may need permits or licenses to rent a property. Rental regulations are not standardized and vary depending on the city.

So, it’s crucial to get well-informed on this topic.

Profile and Listing

You’ll need to create a profile and then set up your listing. Airbnb expects you to accurately describe your space, unique features, and available services.

This includes:

• Location

• Type of space (apartment, house, room)

• High-quality images

• Number of permitted guests

• Price

• House rules

• Amenities offered

Cleanliness and Safety

One of Airbnb’s basic rules for hosts is to offer guests a clean and safe environment. It’s recommended to thoroughly clean after each stay so that your property remains hazard-free for future guests.

Communication

Being prompt with responses is another essential requirement for becoming an Airbnb host. The platform values consistent and effective communication with guests, especially as their arrival nears or in case of urgent questions or issues during their stay.

Clear communication helps boost your reputation, which undoubtedly helps increase your bookings.

Commitment to Confirmed Reservations

If you decide to become an Airbnb host in Mexico, you need to commit to the role, which includes two key points: providing clear instructions for accessing your property and avoiding cancellations.

The first ensures guests know the space well, and the second reinforces credibility and trust.

Ideally, avoid canceling reservations without a valid reason or without prior notice. Even if there is a reason, do everything possible to prevent it, as it could negatively impact your reputation.

Positive Reviews

Reviews are essential if you want to be a top Airbnb host. Guest ratings and feedback indicate whether you’re meeting these requirements. Positive reviews impact your public profile and overall success on the platform.

Reviews are often used by Airbnb to maintain quality standards, and hosts with high ratings tend to attract more guests. Lastly, be prepared for Airbnb’s service fees for using its platform as a rental intermediary.

What Laws Must I Follow to Be an Airbnb Host in Mexico?

More than a drawback of being an Airbnb host, legal regulations are a necessary process. However, if you want to earn this way, you need to know the regulations associated with hosting.

As an Airbnb host in Mexico, you’ll need to comply with several local laws and regulations, including:

• Registration: Certain jurisdictions require official property registration for short-term rentals, depending on the city or state. For example, in Mexico City, you must register the property with the public registry.

• Local licenses or permits: You may need a license or permit to operate as a host.

• Taxes: Register with the SAT, which means you’ll need to declare and pay taxes as an Airbnb host.

• Zoning regulations: Some residential zones may have restrictions on properties used for short-term rentals.

Specific laws and regulations vary depending on your location. To be fully compliant, we recommend consulting an expert before starting as an Airbnb host.

Tips to Make Your Airbnb Listing Stand Out

To ensure your listing shines, it’s essential to make it visually appealing. The first visual impact is key for the guest, so be sure to use high-resolution photos that showcase the best aspects of your property.

But that’s not all; you should also:

Create a brief, clear description

Highlight what makes your accommodation unique, such as proximity to public transport, points of interest, or amenities not typically offered elsewhere.

Showcase positive reviews

A great way to make your listing stand out is to display the best comments from previous guests. Profiles with reviews like these maximize visibility, help build trust, and attract more bookings.

Optimize your customer service

The faster you respond, the more chances you have of getting bookings. Offer quick, efficient responses by enabling “Instant Book” to simplify the process. And, of course, be available to address any questions or issues guests may have.

 Tools like Host Tools are ideal for automating Airbnb messaging.

Adjust prices strategically

Research competitor prices and adjust based on demand, special events, and seasons. This will help maximize income and keep bookings flowing.

Common Mistakes New Hosts Should Avoid

While mistakes are normal when you’re new to being an Airbnb host in Mexico, you can avoid or reduce these typical errors:

Inaccurate Descriptions

If the details of your property aren’t accurate, you risk negative feedback. The goal is for the guest to understand specific details about the space, from furniture to bed size, as well as any house rules, occupancy limits, pet policies, or restrictions.

Misleading Photos

The purpose of adding images to your listing is to attract viewers. However, some upload unrealistic photos of the property’s current condition. Avoid this mistake.  

Photos should represent the property exactly as it is at the time of booking, and quality is essential to show it meets expectations.

Ignoring Guest Feedback

Reviews are essential for building trust and getting more bookings on Airbnb. So, pay close attention to what customers say about their experience. Respond to reviews and show that you’re committed to improving.

Conclusion

The answer to “how to become an Airbnb host?” involves meeting requirements and applying key strategies, such as registering your property in line with local laws and ensuring a unique experience for your guests.  

Being a good host requires responsibility and attention to detail, so it’s also crucial to maintain transparency in your descriptions and offer prompt, effective communication.

Remember that DolarApp can be the most convenient payment method for use on Airbnb when it comes to reliability.