Advice for a new Host and hosting challenges

[Walid99]

I live in Saudi Arabia and was born abroad. I have a lot of experience in the best places and the best options, but I am new to hospitality. What advice do you give me and the challenges?

[Title updated by Community Manager for relevancy]

[Peter4167]

good luck to you.

I encourage you to be patient and have fun and look forward to learning and helping others.

Sincerely,

Peter

[Walid99]

Ok 👌 

[Michele1724]

If you have stayed at a hotel or someone’s home or short term rental try to think about what stood out to you as above and beyond what you expected and see if you can offer that

[Walid99]

Ok 👍 

[Pascale653]

@Walid99

• Going the extra mile in making your guests feel comfortable and welcome within the first twenty-four hours or so goes a long way in making their stay a smooth and friendly one. 

• Revisit the meaning of the word ‘clean’ and improve its scope multiple times: work on the principle that what you think is clean is never good enough for your guests and strive for perfection, knowing that perfection can never be achieved.  However, it’s not worth having a nervous breakdown over it:)

• Demanding and difficult guests do and will happen, keep your calm, don’t give up when you have such a guest and, seek advice or read relatable topics in the community, or if necessary, reach out to Airbnb for support from.

• Spending time reading community questions and comments is informative and very useful.

• Don’t hesitate to lay strong rules to protect your property and yourself, and to revise them as you go.  You might find it useful to ensure that your guests read them not only by confirming it to you but also by inserting one or two key words in the house rules which they have to mention to you to provide you with the evidence that they read them.  Then, you may also provide a copy of the house rules with a welcome note when the guest arrives, for example.

• Last but not least: enjoy the opportunity to make friends with your guests (when possible), even if for a brief period of time.

[Miss201]

Hello,

I think you have had some good replies.

Communication with your guest is key.

Set and meet expectations.

Clear instructions.

Clear check-in instructions every time.

Clean rooms, squeaky clean bathroom.

Signage in the house helps to make your guests feel welcome.

Let them know if they are expecting a hosted or self-check-in.

A welcome letter and house manual add a nice touch. 

Warm Regards

Jacky.

[Walid99]

Ok 

[Walid99]

Ok

[Michael8120]

@Walid99 @Your photos must look as your place is. If it's too staged, the guests get disappointed. Check your Airbnb listing to make sure you cover all the information that a guest will need. Think about what a guest wants, and the ease of using things like appliances and document the same

[Walid99]

Thanks