Help a Rookie Out! 🏡😅

[Spongebob0]

Hey, fellow Airbnb-ers!So, I’ve officially taken the plunge into the world of hosting, and let me tell you, my excitement is rivaled only by my confusion! 🤪 As a first-timer, I’m here to soak up all the wisdom you seasoned pros have to offer.

I’ve read the official rules (you know, the ones about cleanliness, check-in times, and not hiding the Wi-Fi password like it’s a state secret), but I’m curious about the unspoken rules too! Like, is there a secret handshake I need to know?

Do I have to pretend to be a local tour guide, or can I just point them to Google Maps?And what about those quirky guest requests? Should I stock up on extra pillows or just embrace the chaos?

Any tips, tricks, or goofy stories from your own first-time hosting adventures would be greatly appreciated! Let’s make this journey a fun one together! 🎉

Cheers to new beginnings and hopefully not too many awkward encounters! 🥳

[Elisa]

Hi @Spongebob0 😊,

Thank you for asking these questions here!

Have you already welcomed your first guest? How did it go?

I'm tagging a few experienced hosts to see what advice they can share: @Guy991, @Patricia2526, @Laurelle3 and @Helen3.

Thank you in advance, everyone!

Warm regards 🌻

[Patricia2526]

Hi @Spongebob0 

No, you don’t need to be a tour guide. Provide a local guidebook or welcome manual. 

List popular attractions, food spots, local tours, transport tips, emergency contacts, etc.

Create your own Airbnb Experience (only if you’re interested) This is a separate offering where you host an activity like a walking tour, food crawl, or art class.

Quirky doesn’t always mean bad. Most common requests early check-in and late check out, be polite but set clear boundaries, If it’s not feasible or offer alternatives like they can leave their luggages in the storage or something. I provide 2 pillows per guests, only because thats how I sleep haha

Do a “Test Stay”  1 or 2 nights It helps you write a better, more honest listing description. You’ll notice issues guests might face (e.g., poor lighting, uncomfortable bed, hard-to-find light switches).

it’s one of the best ways to experience your space like a guest.