@Liv
Thanks.. But I'd argue it's not really amazing... it's just good business, and of course, a lot of work. Nothing is free or easy.
Yes, we stay in the villa occasionally, usually in the off season, just a few days at a time. But otherwise, we spend a lot of time there whenever there's no guests. At least a few weeks per year, we block it for maintenance and upgrades.
But aside from that, we've used Airbnb off and on when travelling, and while we've found the accommodations to be generally good, there's always been a few irritations, such as uncomfortable beds, spartanly outfitted kitchens, limited dinnerware (one piece for each guest the place can accommodate) small or nonexistent dining areas, appliances not working. Poor lighting, Limited tv channels... But price is often a factor for us, so it's hard to complain when you're booking budget.
But it does illustrate what we or other guests might find "less than ideal", and it does rather indicate that if you're wanting to command good prices, (and as hosting experience reinforces - better quality guests), then you need to make sure there's a lot of detail that delivers an unexpectedly good experience. And to distinguish your listing from the competition. But that's another essay.
Also, we've made a conscious effort to avoid over selling. We don't mention many of these details in our description. We let them discover it. Under promise, over deliver.
That consistently seems to lead to happy guests... and that leads to good reviews... which leads to attracting good guests... and ultimately, increase attraction and visibility, which gives you the luxury of being picky about who you let book it, because inevitably, you'll have another come knocking in fairly short order.
Last but not least, guests tell us a lot. Not necessarily verbally, but you see what they've moved around, what they couldn't find, or how they make use of things. It tells you a lot, if you're looking 🧐
It's work. You have to be passionate and committed. Otherwise, many would say it's just too much work. And honestly, they'd be right. Some of our friends think we're a bit crazy, and they're probably right. But they seem to admire the passion, and seem enthusiastic to contribute whenever they can. "A little help from our friends".
Anyway, you asked. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it 😊