My first time hosting

[Su100]

Hello 

I am going to host my first guest in a few days. Any tips and suggestions are appreciated. When should I give my address to the guest? Should I give the address when they message me before booking is confirmed. 

Thank you. 

[Joan2709 · Accepted solution]

@Su100 

Welcome!

Never provide your address unless the guest has actually booked for security reasons. Guests automatically receive the address of the property from Airbnb after booking. Most hosts will also send a check-in message the day before or the day of arrival with the address and other information. However, most of that info is available to the guest in the App if you have set up the Arrival Guide correctly on the listing.

Here is a Guide for New Hosts that has some tips:

https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Host-guides/A-Guide-For-New-Hosts/m-p/2073093#M2346

[Su100]

Thank you very much.

[Ann72]

Cute listing @Su100 - you're smart to have a simple place to host guests near the airport.

I would suggest you put captions on every photo.  Make it clear in the captions and multiple times in the description that guests will be sharing the living room and kitchen (if that is indeed the case - it's not totally clear to me).

[Su100]

Thank you. I will update later. I normally won’t be using that kitchen that much. I will let the guest use if they are staying. 

[Nathan146]

Congratulations on hosting your very first guests! 🌟 Try to soak in this moment—these early experiences become memories you’ll carry with you throughout your hosting journey.

I’ve been hosting for nearly 9 years now, and over a thousand people have stayed in our listing—slept in the beds, brewed morning coffee, shared meals at our table. And yet, I still vividly remember our very first guest.

Over the years, I’ve learned that one of the most beautiful things about Airbnb is the flexibility—it can be whatever you want it to be. Personally, I go for a warm, welcoming vibe, and I tend to attract guests who appreciate that energy. Other hosts run things more like a business, and that works wonderfully for them and their guests too.

You’ll find your own voice and hosting style soon enough. In the meantime, focus on being warm, thoughtful, and making sure your guests have everything they need. You’re off to a great start! 🙌

[Su100]

Thank you very much for your encouragement and sharing your experience.I am excited and also nervous at the same time. My fist guest stayed only one night and I try my best to make sure they have everything they need during their stay. I am a bit disappointed that they took the towels and I am not sure if they miss understood and took them by mistake.  
Again, thank you for replying me and hope I will have warm experiences with future guests like you do! 

[Matthew2416]

“Hi Nathan, I totally understand how you feel hosting your first guest can be both exciting and overwhelming. You did a great job ensuring they had everything they needed! Sometimes guests do take items unintentionally, especially if they assume certain amenities are complimentary. One tip I’ve found useful as a co-host is to add a small note or welcome guide to clarify what’s for guest use and what should remain in the home. If you ever need a hand managing communication or setting up systems that make hosting smoother, I’d be happy to help. Wishing you lots of 5-star guests ahead!

[Helen3]

If the guest stole your towels you can ask for them to return them/cover the cost of replacing them @Su100 

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

Hi @Su100,

Congratulations on hosting your very first guest! That’s an exciting milestone, and it’s completely normal to feel both enthusiastic and a little nervous. You’ve already taken a smart step by reaching out to the Airbnb Community—this is a valuable space filled with experienced hosts who are always willing to help.

I’d like to highlight and build on some excellent advice already shared by fellow hosts:

🔒 As @Joan2709 wisely noted, never share your property address before a booking is confirmed. For security reasons, Airbnb automatically provides the guest with the address once the reservation is accepted. Many hosts also send a personalized check-in message the day before arrival, which can include address details, Wi-Fi information, parking instructions, and more.

🌟 @Nathan146 made a wonderful point—your early hosting experiences truly stay with you. Each guest interaction helps you develop your unique style, whether that’s warm and personal or streamlined and businesslike. There’s no one right way to host—just the way that works best for you and your property.

🧺 Regarding the towel issue you mentioned, I completely understand your concern, especially on your first booking. As @Helen3 suggested, if an item was taken intentionally, you can open a claim via Airbnb’s Resolution Center. On the other hand, as @Matthew2416 helpfully noted, guests sometimes assume certain amenities are complimentary. A best practice here is to include a simple welcome guide or note inside the home clarifying what is for guest use and what should remain in the unit after checkout.

📸 @Ann72 also raised a great point about listing clarity. Be sure to caption your photos and describe shared spaces clearly in both the listing and welcome message. Setting expectations up front will help prevent misunderstandings later.

Here are a few additional tips for new hosts:

🗂️ Create a printed or digital house manual outlining house rules, check-out procedures, and FAQs.

🔖 Use friendly, professional signage for items like towels or kitchen equipment to clarify usage.

📬 Maintain prompt, courteous communication before, during, and after the stay.

🛏️ Take detailed, dated photos of your space after each cleaning—this helps in case of disputes.

Lastly, don’t let one small hiccup discourage you. Hosting is a learning process, and even the most seasoned hosts face occasional challenges. The most important thing is your thoughtful approach and willingness to grow—that’s what makes a great host.

Wishing you many positive experiences and 5-star guests ahead!