Secrets from a seasoned Superhost

[Stephanie]

Superhosts are experienced hosts who work towards delivering top notch experiences for guests. They are experienced in hospitality and communication who know how to meet the expectations of numerous guests. 

Some of the most popular ways to upgrade your hosting practice is to take great photos of your listing with a detailed description, setting the expectation of guests at the same time. Many members in the community like to share how they built their listing from scratch to superhost. Take a look at these topics to get informed: 

@Alexis140  says “I have a very simple rule. I treat all of my guests the way I would want to be treated if I stayed in their home.” in How to be a Superhost 

@Clara116 started a topic on [Festival] 7 things that seem to be 5 star makers which gives you a great overview of things that you as a host can prepare to create a 5 star experience. 

As a superhost, what kind of tips can you give to hosts who have just started hosting? What do you think is the most important thing that you did to maintain the status?

[Susan17]

@Stephanie 

Secrets from a Seasoned Superhost??

Ah, don't tempt me, Steph...!! 😉

[Stephanie]

It may not be always positive but we do appreciate your feedback @Susan17 ! Can't speak to your taste in footie teams mind you... 

[Susan17]

@Stephanie 

Ha! Truth be told, I've actually always been a Gooners fan on the quiet, Steph, but I was forced to switch allegiances to Man U when my sons came along and it soon became clear that United - and only United - would be the team of choice in our house!

I've never had the heart to admit to them that I once bought an Arsenal season ticket as a birthday present for an old boyfriend, back in the halcyon days when London was still my playground... they'd disown me on the spot if that dirty little skeleton ever fell out of the closet (the season ticket skeleton, I mean, not the ex.. he did manage to make it out alive...) 😉

[Alice595]

@Stephanie 

As a superhost, what kind of tips can you give to hosts who have just started hosting? What do you think is the most important thing that you did to maintain the status?

Here are my answers to your questions

1. Most important tips to start hosting are

(1) to work hard and devote your time and energy entirely to prepare your listing ready for every guest.

(2) Take it seriously even if you do it seasonal and just have one listing

2. The most important thing that you did to maintain the status

Beg the guests to leave 5 stars 🙂

[Scott1631]

While I have all 5 stars as a superhost, I have never even mentioned to my guests to give me a review. Airbnb does that automatically.

I would say the most important thing I have done to update my listing is to create several timed automatic replies to contact the guests along the way. I tell them that it is an automated email right within each email. 

Secondly I spent $300 + to have the bedroom door keyed for guests and I have a master key. Also important has been to install the keypad on the front door. Previously I had a lockbox which was not as easy to use. That way if I am not home they can let themselves in. 

[Ann72]

@Stephanie  One simple rule:  The guest always comes first.

[Joyce535]

I agree with that statement.  I put myself in my guest place which helps me to forsee their expectations.

[Jill1477]

It’s that true? Even when the guest didn’t follow the rules of the house ? 

[Kira32]

Very important rule! 

Give your guests some space and don't offer too much free stuff because a lot of guests can get oncomfortable when they are not used to great hospitality! 

[Helen427]

@Stephanie @Kira32 @Ann72 @Alice595 @Susan17 

Shhh, they are no longer a seceret if posted in here are they @Stephanie ??? 😉

I won't tell @Alexis140  or @Clara116  that you have shared their secrets with us....

[Stephanie]

Oops! I don't suppose they would mind if their tips help their fellow hosts though @Helen427 !

[Rita662]

Hello everyone,

Treat your guest as you liked to be treated, that's my golden rule 🙂

And receive them with a great smile.

[Nancy115]

It doesn't matter if you have an upscale apartment or a small room in your home. Guests want to feel comfortable. That means different things to each guest. Here are my tips

1. Make your guests feel welcome.

2. Make their space comfortable with a selection of pillows, blankets and toiletries.

3. Be there when they need you, otherwise melt into the background

4. Know the types of guests that fit your space and tailor your listing to attract them. Ex don't accept young children if your place isn't child proofed

[Peter2547]

In my short experience, i have found out it is key to be able to provide:

1- A sparking clean place, since a dirty or disorganized place will never we welcomed regarless of price.

2- Outstanding hospitality will always be important,  since people want to feel that, welcomed and appreciated to visit a place is not theirs.

3- A stylish place will also make feel the visitor at ease, reflecting the level of detail the host has gone to provide something else besides a bed.

There are more things to look after such as ammenities and a good bed are also important, but the 3 items just listed will certainly get the ball rollin'!