I've been a Superhost for two years on two listings, with hu...
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I've been a Superhost for two years on two listings, with hundreds of five-star reviews. Recently, we had a guest who stayed ...
Latest reply
Hi everyone,
I’ve had a property listed for over two years and would love to receive your feedback and constructive criticism to continue improving it.
Here is the link to my listing:
Any suggestions regarding the description, photos, pricing, or any other aspects would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time and help!
Best regards,
Andry Cruz
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You place is super cute and your reviews are awesome.
The only ideas I Would have is
You say studio Guests say apartment. Guests are correct haha, maybe your not showing yourself in the right place. A studio is one room, your kitchen is a second room.
Your ad is written highlights tourist activities but reading your Guest reviews they mostly seem business related and they have found a hidden gem.
I read more than one review that highlights what a business traveler desires.
Clean - Business travelers because on a schedule have no patience for even minor hair in the shower inconvenience.
Bed comfort- Your bed is raved about endlessly and comfortable linens.
Towels -More than one guest talks about luxurious towels
Kitchen Goodies- If your coming into a different state for 3 days of meetings not having to deal with coffee is a giant plus.
Patio-Many Guests commented on having their morning coffee or even working in a beautiful private courtyard.
You place is super cute and your reviews are awesome.
The only ideas I Would have is
You say studio Guests say apartment. Guests are correct haha, maybe your not showing yourself in the right place. A studio is one room, your kitchen is a second room.
Your ad is written highlights tourist activities but reading your Guest reviews they mostly seem business related and they have found a hidden gem.
I read more than one review that highlights what a business traveler desires.
Clean - Business travelers because on a schedule have no patience for even minor hair in the shower inconvenience.
Bed comfort- Your bed is raved about endlessly and comfortable linens.
Towels -More than one guest talks about luxurious towels
Kitchen Goodies- If your coming into a different state for 3 days of meetings not having to deal with coffee is a giant plus.
Patio-Many Guests commented on having their morning coffee or even working in a beautiful private courtyard.
Hi, Marie
Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback and kind words about my place and reviews!
You bring up some excellent points. I hadn’t considered the distinction between a studio and an apartment in the way guests perceive it, and you’re right. I’ll definitely adjust the listing to better reflect that it’s more than just a studio.
It’s interesting to hear that many of my guests are business travelers. I’ve always highlighted tourist activities, but I’ll make sure to also emphasize the aspects that appeal to business travelers, based on their reviews.
I really appreciate you pointing out specific details like cleanliness, bed comfort, luxurious towels, kitchen amenities, and the private patio. I’ll make sure these are highlighted more prominently in my listing.
Thanks again for your valuable insights. They’re incredibly helpful!
Best regards,
Andry
Just a thought but someone was talking about setting up a work station and another Host said that was a big deal to her sister. The chair at the station is what the sister looked most closely at. If you provided a sitting chair for work that got as much free advertising as your bed, Haha
@Andry34 Clearly you put a lot of effort into getting the basics right, and you are successful.
It seems to me that the big question would be:
Is the extra effort that goes into creating the theme and offering the special packages worth it?
Have you had many orders for the special packages?
The ads for those packages take up a lot of time and photos. If there's not much demand, then the ads could be reduced to one small blurb: "Contact us for special decoration packages for your special event" with a photo illustrating one.
The same for the extensive photos of locations 10-20 miles away.You could reduce those to either a map illustrating the location of the unit, with attraction locations and distances marked. And move those photos to your house guide (online in ABB and printed in the house).
That would make the listing easier to browse. People looking at your listing likely have a good idea of how far your location is from various points--they probably found it by browsing the ABB map.
There must be a certain demographic that is attracted to the disco sort of environment--flashy colored lights lining the walls and ceiling of the bedrooms, etc. But there's just as likely to be a demographic that is turned off by that sort of decor.
Toning down the flashiness might lose some demographic, but a less flashy vibe might attract more interest.
Clearly you're providing a great experience for your guests. Take the above thoughts for what they're worth! Good luck!
Thanks you
@Andry34 I would say most guests care about something clean, comfortable and location desirability.
Keep your description concise and highliight the best parts up front. I would think in your area, access and distance to the beach is pretty important. Mention that right away. What about access to restaurants or night life?
I was a little unclear on the amenities of the place it’s located. You mentioned 15,000 square feet. Is there a pool, hot tub, community gathering patio? Let them know about those amenities.
I also wouldn’t mention the hotel being nearby. To me, hotels are competition. No need to give them a name of somewhere else to check out and stay there instead.
Finally, I agree that the packages are probably not worth the time and take up unnecessary space in your description. That’s not why most people stay at Airbnbs.
Finally, the twinkle lights in the photo kind of put me off. A lot of people like twinkle lights outside. But inside, it’s think it distracts from the how your place looks.
Thank you
Hello @Andry34
Being an Airbnb owner always provides unique challenges and feedback is truly helpful. I think some of the suggestions that have already been made, make sense regarding photos of maps and distinguishing between studio vs apartment. I also agree that the LED lights are a bit "disco-y." Do you follow any Airbnb decorating groups? I would suggest this to any potential and current Airbnb owner. Decor is the 1st impression people get when they are scrolling thru photos. When they see color schemes that are harsh, decor that is mismatched or appears to be "cheap" or even uninviting they will keep scrolling past a listing. You have a red/black/white color theme with orange sunset artwork above the bed that doesn't match the colors or the theme and what appears to be a floral/butterfly decal on the wall - none of which flows or makes sense. The photo of the bed w/towel art, are those towels blue or grey and how does that match your color scheme? Either way, are you catering to a cruise ship guest or a businessman who needs a place for a few days - why would they chose your place over a more polished motel? My point is, there should be some cohesiveness with your color & style choices. Try adding larger scale lamps, a large area rug under the bed to ground it and possibly eliminating the bulky black couch and replacing it with comfortable chairs. I think you should consider adding some warmth to the space as well by using medium wood tone night stands and dresser. The R/B/W theme is very harsh. I like that you have a nice table with umbrella but the white plastic picnic style table looks cheap. I would remove it and since it's redundant and perhaps using that space for something else like a conversation area. When I read "charming" and "retreat" I am looking for character and inviting, I am not getting that feel from the patio. I would also not list the kitchen or bathroom "full" since they both are more efficiency. All in all, you have had a lot of success with what you have done so far based on the reviews so congrats on that! Personally, I think you can probably increase your views, stays and revenue by knowing who you cater to, what demographic you are looking for, what price bracket you are trying to draw in and truly making your place charming! If you need inspiration or design trends that will withstand some time, Pinterest is a great place to start or Airbnb design groups can also be helpful. You have good bones to work with and lots of unreached potential. It's very exciting! Good luck!
Thanks
Hi @Andry34 I have 4 Airbnb's a long way off in New Zealand.
Your reviews are tremendous and agree with the others it looks like business packages may be your bread and butter market. However never limit yourself to one clientele. Agree never mention hotels maybe look to see it there is a way to set up the apartment with table desk space if people need somewhere to work.
I find the packages very interesting but for rather staid antipodeans its a bit Las Vegas. I see how Americans put special packages on the photos, its a brilliant idea and I'll likely take it and run with it.
Your photos could maybe do with a refresh, not sure if open cupboards add value they would not in Godzone but may work in the States. Is there a different way to position the fridge so its not on an angle or move it to where the table is. The outdoor furniture in the kitchen would not work here. I would build a foldup/ shelf type table (potential desk space) with stools or hang the folding chairs on the wall may where the fridge is.
The mirror at the end of the bed is a complete and utter No-No in this part of the world. We would not have it adding clutter and taking up floor space it would be hung on a wall hopefully with space that you can stand back and get a full appearance check before heading out. I would be trying to see how to have less in the room but more flexibility in the furniture's use. Tub chairs not couch. Full wall dressing table-desk so there was place to spread out for work or dressing.
Airbnb sent me a request to review. Not sure why or if any of this will help, as we are very different countries with likely diverse beliefs and values but its a wonderful world if we care and share.
All the very best, take care and keep doing the bulk of what you are doing because it looks to be working well so far. If you are able to see mine, check them out.
Kathy Jarrett, Palmerston North, New Zealand
Hi @Andry34 , I noticed that experienced Hosts @Kathy888 @Marie8425 @Kim3331 and @Leslie810 have shared very thoughtful advices in regards to your listing!
Did you have a chance to review and consider them? Are you planning to change your listing descriptions or photos?
Hi @Bhumika ,
Thank you for your message. Yes, I have reviewed the thoughtful advice shared by Kathy, Marie, Kim, and Leslie.
I’m always looking to gather different perspectives to expand my ideas when improving my listing.
The comments I’ve received have been incredibly useful in helping me see things from another angle.
I greatly appreciate the cooperation and effort from everyone in taking the time to assist me in enhancing my listing and teaching me new things.
Thank you all for your valuable input!
Best regards,
Andry
Hi Andry,
Thank you for sharing your listing! I reviewed it and have several suggestions to help you improve its appeal and potentially increase your bookings.
Firstly, let’s discuss the importance of **photos**. High-quality, bright photos can significantly impact a potential guest's first impression of your property. I noticed that some of your current photos show open cupboards and a fridge positioned at an angle. It might be beneficial to refresh these images to make the space appear more organized and appealing. Consider taking photos that highlight the best features of your property and present it in the best possible light.
Next, the **description** of your listing plays a crucial role in attracting guests. It’s important to keep your description concise and to the point, highlighting the best features right at the beginning. Many of your guests seem to be business travelers, so emphasize aspects they appreciate based on their reviews, such as cleanliness, a comfortable bed, luxurious towels, and kitchen amenities. Additionally, clearly mention how close your property is to key locations like beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. This can help potential guests quickly see the benefits of staying at your place.
**Amenities** are another important aspect to clearly communicate in your listing. If your property has amenities such as a pool, hot tub, or community gathering patio, make sure these are mentioned prominently. The mention of 15,000 square feet could be confusing, so it’s crucial to clarify what this includes to avoid any misunderstandings.
Given that many of your guests are business travelers, it’s important to tailor your listing to meet their needs. **Target Audience** focus is essential. Highlight features like a comfortable workspace, fast Wi-Fi, and a quiet, relaxing environment, especially the private patio, which many guests seem to enjoy for morning coffee or working. It’s also advisable to avoid mentioning nearby hotels, as they are your competition.
When it comes to **decor**, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere can make a big difference. Consider simplifying your color scheme and removing mismatched items. For example, adding a large area rug under the bed, using medium wood-tone nightstands, and replacing the bulky black couch with comfortable chairs can enhance the overall appeal of your space. While twinkle lights can add charm, they might be better suited for outdoor areas rather than inside, where they can sometimes feel out of place.
While special packages can add a nice touch to your listing, they might not be the primary draw for your guests. **Special Packages** should be mentioned briefly, allowing you to focus more on the core aspects that attract bookings, like the quality of the space and its amenities.
Lastly, consider the **flexibility and functionality** of your furniture arrangements. Providing multi-functional spaces can appeal to a broader audience. For instance, a wall-mounted fold-up table can serve as both a desk and a dining area, and tub chairs can offer more versatility than a large couch.
Your reviews are excellent, which shows that you’re doing many things right. By implementing these changes, you could potentially attract even more guests and increase your bookings. I hope these suggestions are helpful, and I wish you the best of luck with your listing!
Best regards,
Nalin