Introduction

[Harald182]

Hello all 🙂 My name is Harald, and I live in Norway. I just joined Airbnb as a host, but I have been letting my house and my appartments directly for more than 20 years, although mostly on longer contracts (typically 3 years at a time). I now wanted to offer one or two of my houses for short term rental, and thought I might get to know the Airbnb model better. I love to travel, I ride my motorcycle, and when at home I play soccer twice a week. I'd like to go sailing for longer periods, and so I need to figure out how to manage my rental properties in a practical and convenient way. And maybe get to learn from you how to maximise the experience for my guests while also maximising my revenue streams.   

[Nandini11]

Hi @Harald182😊

Welcome to the Airbnb community!

With 20+ years of experience in property letting, you’re already way ahead of the game—transitioning to short-term rentals will just add a new layer of flexibility.

It’s great that you’re thinking about guest experience and revenue side by side—that balance is key. You’ll find that systems like smart locks, automated messaging, and reliable cleaners can really help with remote management (especially if you’re out sailing ⛵️ or on the road 🏍️).

Looking forward to learning from your experience as well. Wishing you smooth hosting and great guests ahead!

[Graham490]

Hi @Harald182 ... well done on your long term stay!

Moving to short term rentals will be different.

May I suggest that looking through the Airbnb resources will provide great collective wisdom to assist this transition:

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Host-guides/bd-p/guides

.. as will the Host Circle forum..

Best wishes with your new journey... professionally and personally.

Regards

Graham 

[Rebecca]

Hello @Harald182 👋 

Sounds like you’ve got loads of experience with property rentals, so you’ll probably find Airbnb’s short-term side pretty straightforward, just a few new bits to learn (and you're in the right place to get some fab support from our experienced hosts). 

Managing things when you’re away sailing could be a bit tricky, but some hosts sort it by using co-hosts or local cleaners – have you thought about either of these options?

[Harald182]

Hi @Rebecca, 

I’m responding rather late..

I was on a one week motorcycle ride - no pc …

phone only for calls snd music last week 😄

I do recognize these issues from sailing, but yes, this will be a challenge that I need some help sorting.

I’ll be off to India in november, so that’s my next «system test» … 

I found someone that I will ask about becoming a co host by then, so thanks for mentioning this 👍

[Rebecca]

You're very welcome @Harald182! 

It's lovely to leave technology behind sometimes isn't it? I wish you all the best with your upcoming travels. It would be lovely if you wanted to report back and let us know how the experience of recruiting and using a co-host goes 😊

[Patricia2526]

Hi @Harald182 

That sounds like an exciting shift, I suggest to go for keyless self-check-in. Automated welcome messages using Airbnb scheduled messages for welcoming your guests and check-in & checkout instructions.

Delegate on-the-ground tasks hire a reliable Cleaner (or cleaning company) with a checklist and photo proof system. Build a small, trusted network of a handyman, plumber, and electrician.

Add a Co-Host, choose someone who can handle issues you can’t remotely, even just part-time.

Best of luck!

[Harald182]

Hello @Patricia2526, 

thanks for those valuable tips! I will keep these in mind 😊 

Have a great day ! 

Harald

[Patricia2526]

Awesome! @Harald182 Have a good one as well!