Hi there @Daniel15183 ! Congrats on getting your listing up, that’s a huge first step. I’ve been hosting for almost three years now and have learned a lot along the way, so hopefully some of this helps.
Since your place is in a golf resort community, you’re absolutely right that your main competition is other similar units within the same resort. When you have fewer bedrooms or bathrooms than some of the higher-end properties, pricing yourself at the lower end of the competitive range is a solid strategy. It takes a little time to find that sweet spot (not too low, not too high), but you’ll dial it in as inquiries start coming through.
One thing I’ve learned is that if your unit isn’t the top-tier option in the area, you can still make it feel like the best experience through thoughtful touches. Our property is one of the smaller units in our lake community, but guests constantly come back because of how we’ve made the space feel. We keep the kitchen stocked with everything a guest might need pots, pans, spices, coffee, blender, cleaning supply basics, storage containers, etc. That “feels like home” atmosphere goes a long way. We also leave a bottle of red wine and a simple welcome card for every guest. We buy the wine in bulk at Costco, but guests really appreciate the gesture.
Over time, we’ve had guests try “better” or larger units, but they often return to us because we’re a bit more affordable and they felt genuinely cared for. That’s the part you can control: responsiveness, warmth, thoughtful amenities, and a space that feels lived-in rather than staged.
Stick with it, by year three, you’ll be amazed at how many repeat guests you have. You’re already thinking about things the right way. Have fun with it, and best of luck as you keep refining your listing! Yes, keep refining your listing, constantly change photos or tweak wording. Little changes keep your post active and AirBNB seems to like activity/involvement.
Thanks, MT
