New Host- Month of October

[Audrey1278]

Hi Everyone

I am a new host, just started my Airbnb literally a day ago. Still trying to figure out the ins and outs of Airbnb. 

if you know of tips and tricks on airbnb to assist with special offers, promotions, specific pricing on specific days please let me know. i would really appreciate it .

[Helio51]

Good mornig! How have you been Audrey?

As a brand-new host, your main priority is securing those first few 5-star reviews to boost your listing's visibility. Here are the most important tips and quick links for your coastal property:

1. Prioritize Initial Reviews: Your goal is getting three 5-star reviews quickly for listing credibility.

2. Use New Host Discount: Activate the "New Listing Promotion" for a 20% discount on your first three bookings.

3. Offer Weekly/Monthly Deals: Enable discounts for longer stays (7+ or 28+ days) to ensure higher occupancy and less turnover.

4. Special Offers to Message Inquirers: Send a "Special Offer" with a custom price to guests who message you before booking.

   • Link: **

5. Dynamic Pricing is Key: Adjust your rates based on seasonal demand, weekends, and local events.

6. Analyze Local Competitors: Check 3-5 similar coastal listings weekly to ensure your price is competitive.

   • Link: **

7. Start Low, Then Increase: Price your first few weeks slightly lower than the market to attract bookings.

8. Professional Photography: Invest in high-quality photos of your space to make a great first impression.

9. Allow Instant Booking: This is crucial for new hosts; it makes booking frictionless and boosts search ranking.

10. Desable Self Check-in: A smooth, secure, and flexible check-in process is highly valued by guests.

11. Be Super Responsive: Reply to all messages and inquiries promptly to show professionalism and care.

12. Create a Detailed House Manual: Include Wi-Fi details, appliance instructions, and emergency contacts clearly.

13. Provide Coastal-Specific Amenities: Highlight great Wi-Fi, beach towels, a braai area, and local guides.

14. Focus on Safety: Ensure you have smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and a well-stocked First Aid kit.

    • Link: **

15. Over-Deliver on Essentials: Provide quality linens, extra towels, and basic toiletries (shampoo, soap).

16. Welcome Gesture: A small welcome basket with local South African treats is a fantastic personal touch.

17. Set Clear House Rules: Clearly state your rules on noise, guests, and check-out to manage expectations.

18. Avoid Cancellations: Never cancel a confirmed booking, as this heavily penalizes your host rating.

19. Keep Your Calendar Open: Open your calendar as far in advance as possible to appear in more search results.

20. Listen to Feedback: Use your first reviews to quickly fix any minor issues mentioned by guests.

**[Links removed in line with the Community Center Guidelines]

[Audrey1278]

Thanks for the tips 

[Helio51]

My name is Hélio, and I can help you with all your Airbnb online needs. Do you have a trusted cleaner? Does the apartment door have an electronic lock?

My profile: www.airbnb.com.br/p/apto-6pessoas-toninhas-ubatuba

[Joan2709]

@Audrey1278 

Here are some helpful links and Guides for New Hosts: 

New Host Guide

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

New Host Resources

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/3116

Help Articles

https://www.airbnb.com/resources/hosting-homes/t/make-hosting-easier-83

Webinars

https://introtohostingonairbnbwebinars.splashthat.com/

[Audrey1278]

Thank you for the links

[Alex]

Hi @Audrey1278!

Congrats on starting your new listing and your journey as a host! How long have you been preparing?🏡

I saw that you’ve already received some comments from members in the Community! Did you have time to check their advice? I'm going to tag a few more experts to see what they suggest: @Greg2406, @Leigh625, @Peter4167, @Joe771 and @Marie8425. 

Hope we can help you and thank you everyone in advance! 

Best, 

Alex

[Marie8425]

@Audrey1278 

Congratulation so cute!

Okay suggestions

Your title, I don't think Renta; Unit is stimulating to a target vacationer market.  Something more enticing to encourage.

Turn on Airbnb New Listing Discount really helps.

Check your amenities, average is usually like 50 for a unit, include like stove, you forgot.

Beaches just encourage laundry.  Just include telling how close a laundromat is to your place.

Your description is very good.  Photos, remember unlike a LTR who visits tnen decides, STR are decided on photos and descriptions.

Identify your target market.  Beach and sites usually families.

Think lika a couple with two children.  The person deciding has to see picturres that encourage a great vacation.  They want to see views, any balconies, cook out areas, a good sense of flow of apartment rooms.  Maybe 7 or 10 days of enjoyment then they go home.

Also, once you identify market make sure your limited check in times work.  A lot of people visiting from another country my experience in Hawaii would regularly land late.in the evening.  

[Audrey1278]

Awesome tips 😁 thank you so much. Will definitely consider them.