Critique my listing

[Lori2651]

Hi everyone,

This is my new listing in SW, FL. We're currently trying to figure out how to get more guests.

https://www.airbnb.com/h/fishtales57tinyhouseforrentinsaintjamescityflorida

[Tamara682 · Accepted solution]

I would suggest following up with professional photos to replace the current ones. For instance, it's great to see the couch folds out but would be good to have a wider view that includes the windows. Also, I cannot tell what all that is on your deck.
Good luck! I'm new as well and the waiting is maddening lol!

[Lori2651]

Thanks 

[Anonymous]

@Lori2651  If you want to attract groups of 4, you'll need more than just a pull-out sofa. Guests who intend to use the kitchen will also want a dining table big enough for everyone to eat at the same time, and any room that people sleep in needs some dedicated space to store luggage and put away clothes. Your listing is a nice space for 1 or 2 people, and the sofa-bed gives you some flexibility to attract pairs who prefer to sleep separately. But you might be shooting yourself in the foot with an occupancy of 4 - it suppresses your listing in search results for smaller parties and risks negative reviews from larger groups who will inevitably find the small home too cramped to fully enjoy their stay.

Also, get rid of the photos that are out of focus, and add a shot from the inside of the screened-in lanai. That room could actually be one of your best selling points to visitors from colder climates, if you make the most of the space with some fun lighting, plants, and comfortable lounge/dining furniture.

[Lori2651]

Thanks 

[Kristin108]

@Lori2651 

I may not be the best person to critique your property in SW, FL, as I would never chose to go there... And I do not want to be too harsh or discouraging. However, you asked for feedback, so here goes...

Firstly, you are calling what looks like a trailer in a trailer park a 'Tiny House'. I don't think your property actually fits that description. And it could be misleading to prospective guests searching for accommodations in your area.

I would be very clear and upfront about what your accommodation is and is not.

Here are some examples of 'Tiny Houses':

https://crowsurvival.com/tiny-houses-on-wheels-for-sale/ 

Also there is what looks like a travel trailer parked next to your unit... As a perspective guest, I would be very concerned about privacy. If you are parking your travel trailer there, I would make sure to disclose in your listing the it is NOT in use...

I would also reconsider your couch in the main area... Brown in a small space is very oppressive. You may be thinking that it might not show the dirt, but actually it has the opposite effect on our brains... Brown looks dirty, even when it's clean...

Loose the blinds... Your housekeeper will thank you. Find natural shades like bamboo or Ratan...

If you must have a second sleeping area, consider instead a fold out with a washable or replaceable slipcover. Ikea and Wayfair are good resources.

I would seriously consider rethinking your bedroom bedding...

I would also remove the accordion closet door in the corner... It isn't doing you any favors. Try instead a cool beaded curtain, or cotton/linen curtains. Also available at Ikea... 

I would love to see a small bedroom that creates a sanctuary of sorts... Maybe incorporating some natural wood and natural fibers... I would stay away from stripes and patterns... Unless you run with it and create your own unique style... 

Here are some ideas you might have fun with:

https://www.realhomes.com/us/design/small-bedroom-ideas

I strongly suggest that you invest in some landscaping. Even if it's only pots around the exterior... I realize this may be a challenge, especially if you are not living in the area... And  concerned about theft, etc... But an inviting outdoor space is an important tool in maximizing your listing's appeal... 

And make sure that you remove ALL clutter from your photos... Washer/ dryer area, stuff against the house... Your biggest selling point is going to be visual... and your photos don't do you any favors... If you are unable to get a professional, you can invest in a tripod attachment for your iphone (or whatever). And there are MANY youtube videos, etc... to help you with how to take better vacation rental photos... 

Lastly, what is happening in the screened in area? 

I would invite you to make that a unique and inviting space by creating tropical oasis with real plants etc... 

Good luck!

[Lori2653]

Wow I just bought the place. Was no option to list as a trailer. Thanks for your input I guess you have nothing positive to say the prior owner apparently he was able to rent it nonstop

[Sarah977]

@Lori2653  If you are going to be defensive about criticism, there is no point in asking for a critique. You can change things according to suggestions or not, it's up to you, but everyone who has commented here has some valid points.

For instance, a photo of the washer/dryer with a bunch of storage stuff crammed up against it looks messy and unattractive.

It doesn't matter what the prior owner did. It isn't him who is going to be getting reviews going forward, it's you. 

[Lori2651]

Thanks