Critique my listing - Chelsea, Catskills NY

[Chelsea566]

Listing link 👉 Home in Fleischmanns · ★5.0 · 3 bedrooms · 3 beds · 1 bath 

I would love some feedback on pricing, pictures, or anything else folks want to comment on. We are having trouble booking(though it is the slow season where we are. I appreciate any help you can give me.

[Content edited by OCM]

[Andrea6232]

Buongiorno @Chelsea566 ,

I took a quick look at your listing and it seems to me that you could improve your photos, here are some tips on how to best photograph your home:

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Community-Guides/GUIDE-How-to-best-photograph-your-home-with-you...

hope it helps

Andrea

[Chelsea566]

Thanks, Andrea! I need to update the photos!

[Aleli9]

@Chelsea566 There are a few areas where improvements could enhance its appeal and clarity. Here are some suggestions:
1. Photography:
- Angle and Lighting: As you mentioned, the angle of the picture is not ideal. Consider taking photos from different angles that showcase the space better. Use natural light to your advantage; photos taken during the day can look much more inviting.
- Highlight Luxury Features: If the living room is meant to convey luxury, ensure that the photo captures its best features. Consider staging the room with tasteful decor, plush throws, and elegant lighting to enhance its luxurious feel.
2. Descriptive Language:
- Emphasize Luxury*: In your description, you mention a "luxurious living room," but it would be helpful to elaborate on what makes it luxurious. Is it the furnishings, the decor, the view, or the ambiance? Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture for potential guests.
- Highlight Unique Features: Mention any unique or high-end features in the living room, such as a fireplace, high ceilings, or designer furniture. This can help guests envision the space better.
3. Visuals and Amenities:
- Showcase Amenities: If there are any luxury amenities (like high-end kitchen appliances, a beautiful dining area, or a cozy den), make sure these are highlighted in both the photos and the description.
- Outdoor Spaces: Since you have a great front porch and outdoor areas, consider including photos of these spaces as well. They can add to the overall appeal and showcase the relaxation opportunities available.
4. Guest Experience:
- Personal Touch: Consider adding a personal touch to the description, such as your favorite activities in the area or recommendations for local attractions. This can help potential guests feel more connected to the space and excited about their stay.
- Clear Access Information: Make sure the guest access section is clear and emphasizes the privacy and space available for guests to enjoy.
5. Overall Presentation:
- Formatting: Use bullet points or sections to make the listing easier to read. This can help potential guests quickly find the information they are looking for.
- Call to Action: End with a friendly invitation for guests to book their stay, emphasizing the unique experience they will have at your farmhouse.

[Chelsea566]

Amazing! This is all so helpful! I appreciate the time you took to look at my listing.

[Jeffrey849]

@Chelsea566 Here are some of the recommendations for you, based on my experience: your home could have everything a traveler wants!

• Invest in Professional Photography: High-quality images are the first hook, as suggested by Andrea6232. Use photos that capture natural light, show the whole expanse of the acreage, and strategically highlight the home’s best features.
• Revise the Copy: Update the listing description with bullet points and descriptive sections that set clear expectations:
• Emphasize both modern conveniences and the charm of a historical building.
• Address any potential downsides (like the size or older appliances) by explaining how they contribute to the “authentic countryside” experience.
• Staging and Minor Refreshes: If budget allows, consider small renovations that elevate the guest experience without eradicating the vintage vibe. For instance, modernizing the kitchen for improved functionality or adding subtle décor updates that nod to the farmhouse’s history can help balance tradition with comfort. My experience would be to put curtains that material that is new, but represents farm living.
• Gather and Showcase Reviews: Encourage past guests to leave detailed feedback emphasizing the serenity and unique experience of staying in a historic property. Authentic testimonials can outweigh concerns about minor, outdated features if the overall experience is clearly enjoyable.
• Consider Adding a “Modern Amenities” Section: If there are any unnoticed modern touches (like reliable Wi-Fi, safe heating options despite the wood-burning stove, or well-maintained bathrooms), make these clear to ensure guests know what comforts they can expect. I truly like your AirBNB, and these statements are me trying to be helpful and in no way trying to offend. I believe that by reframing the narrative around the authenticity and charm of the historic farmhouse—while strategically mitigating concerns about outdated appliances and limited space—you can better attract guests who are looking for a unique, nature-connected experience. A refined, clear visual and descriptive presentation will help set the right expectations and cast the property in its best light for the target market.

  This critique should provide a solid starting point for revising the Airbnb listing, ensuring that the natural serenity and character of the home come through, and that potential guests understand both the pros and trade-offs of a quaint rural retreat. From our rural area in Canada, many come for just that: to get away and get back in touch with nature!

[Chelsea566]

All. makes sense! I think I definitely need to highlight some of the more "modern" amenities as a background to the rural setting:) 

[REAfrica-HOMES0]

@Chelsea566 You’ve styled it beautifully! Consider testing different price points and updating the title or description with seasonal keywords.

[Suraj58]

Hi @Chelsea566, here are a few suggestions:

1. Add a TV to the House: Many guests expect entertainment options during their stay. Adding a TV with access to popular streaming services (like Netflix or Amazon Prime) can significantly improve the overall comfort and enjoyment of the space.

2. Clear and Clean Photography: High-quality, well-lit photos are essential to attract potential guests. Make sure all rooms are clean and staged before taking photos, and consider hiring a professional photographer if possible. Include wide shots as well as close-ups of unique amenities.

3. Clear Check-in and Check-out Instructions: Guests appreciate transparency and ease during their stay. Ensure your listing includes clearly stated check-in/check-out times and step-by-step instructions, especially if it's a self-check-in process.

4. Accurate and Detailed Description: Highlight key features of your space—like fast Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, a workspace, or an outdoor area. Mention nearby attractions, restaurants, or transportation options.

5. Stock Essential Amenities: Provide basics like toiletries, fresh towels, extra bedding, coffee/tea, and kitchen essentials. These small touches can make a big difference in reviews.

6. Guestbook or Local Guide: Create a printed or digital guestbook with local recommendations for food, shopping, and activities. This personal touch can enhance the guest experience and earn you better ratings.

7. Highlight Unique Features: If your place has anything special—like a great view, a cozy reading nook, or a backyard garden—make sure it's clearly featured in the listing.

8. Competitive Pricing: Keep an eye on similar listings in your area and adjust your pricing accordingly. Offering discounts for longer stays or early bookings can help attract more guests.

[Chelsea566]

Thanks so much for the detailed feedback!

[Bhumika]

Hi @Chelsea566 , thank you so much for coming back and appreciating the feedback from fellow hosts. I will tag @Casey464 @Suraj58 @REAfrica-HOMES0 @Andrea6232 @Jeffrey849 @Aleli9 @Youssef282 for them to see your thank you note! 

I also wanted to share a tip 💡: To tag members in your comments and notify them, simply press @ and choose their name😊

If you want more tips for navigating the CC or related to hosting, feel free to ask—we are here to help!

Best wishes,

Bhumika

[Casey464]

@Chelsea566  I apologize in advance for this feedback because there isn't much you can do about it. I'm afraid this issue is that you have 1 bathroom for 3 bedrooms.

I once stayed in an Airbnb in NYC with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. The rooms were rented separately. There was an instance when I needed to get in the restroom but had to wait until someone got out of the shower. It was not an ideal situation. I vowed never to get a place like that again.

Perhaps it's different since your rooms are rented together, but that is just what popped into my head.

One possible solution is to add a half bath or even an outhouse. Just a thought. Given your location, an outhouse would be cute.

Otherwise, I think your listing looks great!

[Chelsea566]

Thanks! Yes, hopefully sometime in the future. For now, we are limiting the Airbnb to 5 guests:)

[Casey464]

@Chelsea566 Thank you so much for not being upset at my reply! Like I said, I know it's not easy. I'm sure many people won't mind. I just figured some might. Just like many won't want to book my place because it's my spare bedroom!

But I also can't stop thinking about a super cute outhouse with a little moon on the door. Haha

[Youssef282]

مرحبا @Chelsea566 

يمكنكي إلتقاط صور من زاوية بعيدة داخل المسكن وخارجه

يمكنكي أيضا إضافة شرح لما هو مميز في المنطقة

أيضا أقترح إضافة  عروض تخفيضية

مكان جميل يستحق الزيارة بالتوفيق

[Google translation]

Hi @Chelsea566

You can take photos from a far angle, both inside and outside the property.

You can also add a description of what's special about the area.

I also suggest adding discount offers.

A beautiful place worth visiting. Good luck.