How do I start hosting?

[Nadia1469]

hi ,kalau nak jadi host apartment macam mana ye 

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Hi, how do I become an apartment host?

Title updated and Google Translation added by Community Manager:  

[Bhumika]

Thanks for sharing these fantastic pointers @Tim4517 ! I really like how you mention adding small touches to listing be it adding a welcome note or snacks. 

Do you offer these additional touches to your listing too? How do you guests respond to these gestures?

Regards,

[TCI-Blue0]

Have an apartment that is ready for accepting guests by:

-having the correct legal documents and permissions from your country/municipality

- ability to host with great and clear communication as well as support team

- create your Airbnb Ad, use examples to give you inspiration

- remain focused, positive and happy

[Bhumika]

Thank you so much @TCI-Blue0 for sharing your tips with @Nadia1469 ! 

Many hosts in our community often ask about which legal documents or permissions they need to take care of before publishing their listing. Do you often follow a checklist for the same?

[Wendy2005]

Hi @Nadia1469  a great question!

Becoming a host can be a rewarding way to earn income from property, but it’s important to understand that hosting is hospitality, not just renting out a place. Guests expect a hotel-level experience: clear communication, cleanliness and responsiveness.

Here are the key steps:

1. Choose the space
It can be a spare room, your home when you’re away, or a dedicated rental property. Check local rules first — some areas require short-term let registration or permits.

2. Prepare the property
Furnish it, equip it with essentials (bedding, towels, Wi-Fi, kitchen basics) and make it guest-ready. The goal is comfort and ease of use.

3. Insurance (very important)
Standard home/landlord insurance usually does not cover short-term lets. You’ll need:

• Short-term let / holiday let insurance

• Public liability cover

• Accidental damage cover (recommended)

This protects you and gives peace of mind.

4. Pricing strategy
Price is one of the most dynamic and critical elements of hosting. Getting pricing right can be the difference between running a profitable property or losing money. Prices fluctuate daily based on demand, events, seasonality and supply in your area.

Manually adjusting rates is time-consuming, so consider using dynamic pricing tools — they automate pricing and react to market conditions, often outperforming fixed-rate pricing and saving you time and money in the long run.

5. Cleaning & maintenance
Plan how you’ll manage turnovers — either doing it yourself or hiring cleaners and laundry services.

6. Guest communication & reviews
Respond promptly and stay professional. Great communication leads to good reviews, and good reviews attract future bookings.

Hosting can be an excellent business — just be prepared, organised, and treat it as hospitality rather than a simple rental.

Happy Hosting...🏡