First-Time Hosting Wins & Lessons — Plus Feedback on Photos, Amenities & Backyard Ideas

[Dimingo0]

We recently opened our home on Airbnb (late October 2025) and have been fortunate to stay booked in our small town since launching.

We’ve learned quickly that hosting is more than the space itself — it’s about communication, systems, and setting clear expectations early. We’ve already made a few adjustments based on early stays and feedback, and it’s been a rewarding learning curve.

I’d love insight from experienced hosts on a few areas we’re actively refining:

• Listing photos — what tends to make the biggest difference for you in clicks or bookings?

• Amenities — which additions have actually mattered most to guests (not just looked good on the list)?

• Backyard/outdoor spaces — any simple ideas that increased guest enjoyment or reviews without overdoing it?

For context, we’re in a smaller town and didn’t expect this level of early interest, so we’re focused on building the right foundation rather than rushing upgrades.

Appreciate any perspective — especially lessons you wish you’d implemented sooner.

[Elisa]

Hi @Dimingo0 😊, 

Welcome to the Community Center, and congratulations on this new beginning!

I love your approach to hosting. How has it been so far? How many guests have you welcomed so far?

I’m tagging a few hosts to see what advice they can share with you: @Gregory781, @Michele-and-Dana0, @David11470, @Kirti18, @Kwabena9, @Evan1118 and @Gunarto-0.

Thank you in advance, everyone and happy new year!

[Elise43]

Hi Dimingo, 

Outside space is a big draw for my guests, and hammocks are easy, fun upgrades (get quality ones so you don't have to replace them) and truly comfortable, attractive outdoor furniture matters. Think about view lines, and nigh time.  (I wrote a whole blog post about outdoor styling last month!  https://www.hostwithelise.com/thecheckin/airbnb-outdoor-styling-why-vintage-furniture-beats-big-box-...

For amenities, don't over look the power of great bedding. A great nights sleep leads to longer, better reviews. I always encourage hosts I mentor to lean into high quality bedding, regardless of your listing's price point! 

And use the amenities checklists within the airbnb description to brainstorm for easy things to add. And the power of an attractive basket of bathroom supplies and a small sewing kit cannot be overstated. Ditto for bath salts -- so cheap, so powerful. 

Hope this helps!

Elise

[DiMingo1]

@Elise43!

Thank you — this is incredibly helpful. I’m already leaning into outdoor comfort and bedding quality, so this really confirms I’m on the right track. I love the reminder about view lines and nighttime vibes, too — easy to overlook but huge for experience.

And you’re spot on about the little things. Those baskets and small touches really do punch above their weight. I appreciate you sharing the blog as well — great insights.

Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience.