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New Host

HI! My name is Sam, I am a new host and I really need help to get started. I have almost everything in place, but I really need someone to help me review my listing, and also a guide to forge ahead and succeed in this business. 

 

I will really appreciate any assistance.

Top Answer

@Samson36 I just looked at your listing and you're doing everything right. The apartment looks crisp and clean. I am totally in love with that coffee table.

 

I'm not sure how long you've been up and running but there's so much competition right now it might take time to build a track record but don't settle and don't compromise. If someone tries to "negotiate" a lower fee, or pay outside of the platform, just pass. Saying no is hard, but dealing with demanding difficult guests who mess up a place is harder.

Hosting up to 10 people is as hard way to start (I can legally host 7 but limit my apartment to 4-5 people to reduce wear and tear). So play that by ear and determine if you really want to max out the house while you're getting a feel for hosting.

I tested your listing by choosing random dates and increasing the number of people. Good job charging based on occupancy. There are some people who will book for one person assuming the rate is the same even if they show up with a crowd. I make it clear on my listing that only those on the reservation may enter the apartment without prior permission. And I do charge for each additional person over 2 people. It's a lot of space and still less than a group would have to pay at a hotel.

On the dining room, sometimes people want to "see" themselves in the space. Since you put plates on the table for the photo shoot, why not finish and set the table (place mats, or glassware, etc.). I don't think people expect to see it when they arrive, but it gives the "feel" of being at home.

Over time, I would add lamps or a small chair to the bedrooms (find some at a high end estate sale in your area - you'll get better quality furniture then buying new) Eventually something on the wall (photos, wall hangings, etc.). Doesn't have to be much, but would help give the rooms more character and look less like a "rental." You want to give people the illusion they're staying in someone's home so they'll take better care of it.

But the decorating part is a long term thing. Wait to find pieces you love that work with the space. No rush. Keep this a work in process and then key off of the comments you get from guests.

Overall, it looks like a place I would book if I was in the Houston area. So far, I think you're off to a great start. Welcome to hosting!




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11 Replies 11
Helen3
Top Contributor
Bristol, United Kingdom

When you set up your listing it should have given you the option to access an ambassador to help you set up your listing @Samson36 

Thanks for your response, unfortunately I don't think I see anything of such. Or may be because the system used my old existing profile which was opened as a users, not host thou.

Bhumika
Community Manager
Community Manager
Toronto, Canada

Hi @Samson36, I am reaching out to one of the Hosts @Roca7 who shared about getting in touch with Superhost Ambassadors in another thread here: https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Help-with-your-business/Considering-becoming-an-Airbnb-host/m-p/...

I thought it would be a great idea to connect with each other and share tips. I hope it helps!

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Please follow the Community Guidelines

Sure! Thank you, 

Hi @Samson36 

 

I am a Superhost Ambassador and can certainly provide guidance on your Airbnb hosting journey and help you navigate the landscape.  We can also connect through Zoom to go through any settings you may need help with.  Please feel free to reach out to me here: https://www.airbnb.ca/r/helpfulhosting

 

I look forward to hearing from you.

 

David

David

Superhost Ambassador ~ Host Club Community Leader ~ Experienced Co-Host

Thank you for lending your helping hand to me. I would have love to have a zoom meeting with you at your available time, unfortunately the system says that I am ineligible to use the service. Do you know why?

Hi @Christine615 !

 

My name is Sam, I am a new host and I really need help to really get started. I have almost everything in place, but I need help to review my listing, and also a guide to forge ahead and succeed in this business. 

 

I will really appreciate your help

@Samson36 I just looked at your listing and you're doing everything right. The apartment looks crisp and clean. I am totally in love with that coffee table.

 

I'm not sure how long you've been up and running but there's so much competition right now it might take time to build a track record but don't settle and don't compromise. If someone tries to "negotiate" a lower fee, or pay outside of the platform, just pass. Saying no is hard, but dealing with demanding difficult guests who mess up a place is harder.

Hosting up to 10 people is as hard way to start (I can legally host 7 but limit my apartment to 4-5 people to reduce wear and tear). So play that by ear and determine if you really want to max out the house while you're getting a feel for hosting.

I tested your listing by choosing random dates and increasing the number of people. Good job charging based on occupancy. There are some people who will book for one person assuming the rate is the same even if they show up with a crowd. I make it clear on my listing that only those on the reservation may enter the apartment without prior permission. And I do charge for each additional person over 2 people. It's a lot of space and still less than a group would have to pay at a hotel.

On the dining room, sometimes people want to "see" themselves in the space. Since you put plates on the table for the photo shoot, why not finish and set the table (place mats, or glassware, etc.). I don't think people expect to see it when they arrive, but it gives the "feel" of being at home.

Over time, I would add lamps or a small chair to the bedrooms (find some at a high end estate sale in your area - you'll get better quality furniture then buying new) Eventually something on the wall (photos, wall hangings, etc.). Doesn't have to be much, but would help give the rooms more character and look less like a "rental." You want to give people the illusion they're staying in someone's home so they'll take better care of it.

But the decorating part is a long term thing. Wait to find pieces you love that work with the space. No rush. Keep this a work in process and then key off of the comments you get from guests.

Overall, it looks like a place I would book if I was in the Houston area. So far, I think you're off to a great start. Welcome to hosting!




Bhumika
Community Manager
Community Manager
Toronto, Canada

Hi @Samson36 , Hope the advice from @Christine615 helps you make effective changes to your listing.

I just wanted to drop a note that I noticed this conversation on another Host's feedback thread and moved it here, in order to keep all the feedback for @Samson36 in one place. I hope you don't mind!

 

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Please follow the Community Guidelines

Wao @Christine615 ! You really amazed me. I couldn't believe you did all that and still spent time detailing it in writing. Your response is a true reflection of your profile. I really appreciate your time and support. I will work on those recommendations. Hope requesting a follow- up review wouldn't be too much.... lol

 

Once again, Many thanks.

Love the property. Retro and crisp. I think it's beautiful.