How to Manage an Airbnb

If you've ever used a home-based business opportunity before, how to manage an Airbnb might seem like a daunting step - but chances are you'll immediately recognize the similarities between running your own business and running a home business. There are still plenty of things to know about how to manage an Airbnb before you’ll be fully familiar with the nuances of doing so, however, the associated headache is well worth the learning experience.

Before learning how to manage an Airbnb you will need to determine what you're attempting to accomplish with your property. Will you concentrate on renting out your residence to others and providing a great experience? If so you’ll need to learn how to manage an Airbnb like a small one or two room hotel. Do you want to focus on making rental income from rentals? Then you’ll need to learn those parts of how to manage an Airbnb that let you maximise occupancy and rental rates. Choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and your objectives.

When learning how to manage an Airbnb it’s also useful to outline the work you will be taking on. Break it down into specific tasks -- not more than 10 at a time for each -- that you will be taking on. You can think of it as a chore, a business opportunity, or a life mission.

How to Manage an Airbnb - Some Initial Thoughts & Research

o The first step is to look for potential hosts in the area you wish to host in - scope out your competition. Most guests will want to know about your background and what you're interested in doing in their community. They may provide a referral or testimonial.

o Get literature from reputable support organizations. Avoid activities that have a negative impact on your health or that may be off the beaten path.

o Try to contact prospective support services and gauge their response. Many will want to converse with you to get more information about what you plan to do.

o Make contact with local organizations and churches. Places like the local chamber of commerce and medical associations will be good places to start.

o Keep business cards with you at all times that including your full name, your Airbnb’s address, your email address, and phone number.

o Visit and review websites offering tips on how to manage an Airbnb, and check out the hosting sites themselves to see what your competitors are doing (and offering) there.

o Stay away from people who promise too much. Also, avoid people who want you to pay up front to reserve places on things like Airbnb seminars and the like.

o Pursue leads that match your lifestyle and avoid those that don't. If you are traveling to a country where the currency is lower, be willing to exchange your dollars slowly for goods and services. Going to restaurants that don't exchange currency can leave you with a considerable hole in your pocket.

o Know what you need to do and turn it into a ‘to-do’ or checklist. You could even make several of these breaking each individual task down into a procedure.

o Prior to unpacking, find out if the item in question has a guarantee or not. If a guarantee is available find out what it is. Currency varies from place to place and unwary travelers are advised to research what their limitations are prior to making a purchase.

o You might think about offering a secure space where things like medications can be stored for guests’ planned stays and see to it that they are properly stored away while their luggage is out of your sight..

o You will need to offer laundry services, and many guests will appreciate the ability to keep their things separate from yours - it’s a mark of respect and personal space on both sides. Storing your washed clothes separately from guests’ is a good way of doing this.

o A good rule of thumb when learning how to manage an Airbnb is to not book stays too close together - you do need time to to clean and re-stock your property after all.