My husband and I are newbies too and I was very nervous when we went 'live'. We turned 'er on a few weeks ago and within 30hours had our first booking request!
Gosh, it was a lot of work getting it ready physically and creating the listing but it was also fun!
I was SO nervous with the first 2 stays wondering how they would treat and leave the place (it is our home after all!) Happy to report they were very respectful and left our house so clean and tidy. Upon viewing the property after these 2 stays and seeing how well our cleaners cleaned, my nervousness has settled down.
My tips:
-Create a check list of everything that you need/want done.
-Have another set of eyes look at your listing to check for errors and be sure it's thorough.
-Book experienced guests at first.
-Make sure you give ample time for the place to be cleaned before next guest arrives.
-Find a couple of good cleaners
-I agree with the rest....BREATHE!
All the Best!