I want to hear someone's story on how they got started on Airbnb.

[Justin1858]

Hi there! As someone who is new to the game and would love to get involved in Airbnb, I want to hear some managers stories on how they got started at Airbnb. What went well when making your first listing/space, how did you even get there, and some mistakes you made along the way. Any advice and knowledge that can be shared is greatly appreciated.

[Jennifer4037]

@Justin1858 #1. Never cancel. I made a mistake and opened too large of an area and had a short term come into a space where I had to cancel 2 stays.  Really did a number for my cancellation rate.

 #2. Also, vrbo and airbnb calendars had timing issues, be mindful if you get a booking from one and it’s not reflected on the blocked time quickly.

#3. Be honest, be kind.  Ask for reviews, ask for ways to make it better especially for the first guests! Good luck on your adventures!

[Jeri121]

Hi @Jennifer4037 

I hear you about the cancellation thing at the beginning of starting in business. A couple who booked 7 nights showed up in a handicapped van with a dog not registered (not a service dog and we are not equipped for people with physical disabilities) the poor man was in his 80’s, a Vietnam veteran, very sickly weighed over 300 pounds, was barefoot and could not take care of himself.   His wife was frail too. They did not have cell phone minutes and no computer, it was awful. They drove over 2 days to arrive to stay and visit friends. They were so upset I wouldn’t let them stay. But I graciously found them a hotel that would suit their needs. I canceled their reservation giving them a full refund. I lost out on $900 p/o that week.  And it showed up as a hit on my demographics. I eventually had it resolved to be removed with AirBnB.
I now have it noted in several places that we are not ADA compliant. 
As far as combining the VRBO and the calendar on this portal, I found it easier to just block days as needed because VRBO web app I find is just unpredictable. Plus from what I understand is if you cancel a guest on VRBO your calendar stays blocked. I could be wrong but I think I read that somewhere. 
best always! Jeri Coventry, CT

[Jane4085]

@Justin1858 ,

I began opening my open to both Int'l and domestic guests in 1981, hosting people for up to 6 wks. at a time GRATIS. When I found myself single and relocating to TX a couple of yrs. ago, I opted to take those 40+ yrs. of hosting and open an Airbnb. It has been a wonderful experience, but so many in my area are now "in the game" that my guests have slowed down. I'm hopeful my guests will increase in the next month or so.

I provide a lot of "special" touches, but always did that when I had other guests in my home, so that hasn't changed. It's just that most Airbnb hosts don't do all the "extras" +++ I DO NOT expect nor require my guests to do "house work" while they are here, which some Airbnb's do and that is a "turn off" to the guests (change sheets-wash dishes-do laundry, etc). I want them to enjoy their experience, not be burdened down with chores.

Jane Woods, Denton, TX

[Jeri121]

Good day @Justin1858 ,

When I think back a year ago, so much has evolved for the better. Constantly updating the app. Taking probably too many pictures. But 5 star ⭐️ is where we are at. 

I’ve travelled a lot, embarrassed to say I have never stayed in an Airbnb. I’ve  spent a lot of time in hospitality though. “Clean” and uncluttered is the most trait in my opinion.   

*BnB is “Bed and breakfast”. We have made clear it’s DIY BnB. There is a lot of competition in our area now, we have chiseled our prices and offer more services. So many lovely places around us. 
*Guest love privacy, so chose, options for no contact “I follow my guests preference”
*fresh eggs, cream,  local farm to table.
*Close to door parking,
*using the word “safe” in description seems to be of value

*Room Darkening shades
*no-shoe house (means super clean!) boot tray and cheap slippers by door
*welcoming low music
*clear guidelines & instructions, don’t call them “rules” 
*An extensive VIP Guide book* of activities and places to eat or order in
*send a text and offer late checkout night before they plan to checkout, if you aren’t already booked and have the time… you’ll give them time to clean up and will most likely guarantee a positive review or feedback 

*I use 3-4 mattress covers for quick changes after several nights used. Just pull one off when remaking a bed. 
*I often iron pillow cases and fold over of the top sheet if very wrinkled… not my favorite thing to do but cotton sheets often aren’t compliant coming out of a sanitizing hot dryer
*do not use fragrances or plugins, they are toxic

*rotate your mattresses monthly

*use square footage in description 

*always start with fresh roll TP and new sponge

*binder with local eateries menus 

* lots of games and unique books, local history of town

*lots of amenities: toothbrushes, paste, razors, nail polish remover, hairspray,  moisturizer, ear swabs, covid test, aspirin, shower supplies. 
*well lit paths and motion sensors

*don’t clutter (over time we found ourselves removing things to make it look more open) 

*if pets are allowed, have pet guidelines clear… this is still one of our biggest issues… owners walking dogs along landscaping and foundation of house, peeing on ornamental plants, around veggie garden ugh… we have groomed wooded areas and walking trails), Buy pet furniture protectors… dogs will stain & saturate your couch licking themselves, learned that first hand on brand new $1800 couch we didn’t scotch guard, use lower end attractive bedding for pets bookings 

*put baking soda in refrigerator to defray odors

*flush sink drains with peroxide to kill bacterial smells… especially bathroom, snake shower drains monthly

* offer extra pillow choices and cotton bedding

*rocking chair, if fits your decor’, mommas with babies love rocking

Our style is old, and people seemingly love the warmth of it. It’s not perfect, but it is… Hope some of these ideas help you too draw successful bookings. 

Best wishes to you! Jeri   Coventry, CT