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What Tips Do Airbnb Property Owners Have For Successful Short-Stay Management?

in AIRBNB, AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS, Uncategorised by admin

Airbnb has taken the world by storm. At any one time, there are over seven million Airbnb properties listed in over 100,000 cities and 220 countries.

These figures are hardly surprising when one compares the benefits of hosting to other investments – the flexibility of being able to use your property when you want, Airbnb’s insurance coverage and property protection services and the ability to adjust pricing to exploit peak periods are just a few of the advantages Airbnb hosting offers.

We asked Superhost Ian Harris, who has managed an Airbnb in Queensland’s Gold Coast region since 2016, for some tips on how new hosts can position their properties for success, build a brand and deliver a satisfying Airbnb experience with every single booking.

Power of presentation

Initially, Ian recalls, he and his wife tried to manage their Airbnb listing themselves but soon became overwhelmed.

“We both had full-time jobs so trying to wash linen, vacuum and maintain the property was just not viable,” he said. 

“A full-service management company like Oasis Stay literally takes the stress out of hosting an Airbnb. I wish we had known about it earlier because, in the early days, we got a bad review just because a guest found a chocolate wrapper under the couch. Small oversights like that can have a huge impact on your Airbnb profile. We leave it to the professionals now!”

Stand out from the competition

According to Ian, the key to attracting guests is to make your listing pop.  “When we first started hosting, we quickly learned the lesson that our online Airbnb listing was the key factor in attracting guests. Comparable properties in our location were consistently booked out and we realised that we were letting ourselves down by not adequately highlighting our home’s best features.”

“Our property is surrounded by transport options, walking distance to restaurants and entertainment, and it also has ramp access, which is perfect for wheelchairs or people with mobility issues, so we promote these amenities. We have since added other unique selling points like a Tesla fast charger.”

“We also discovered the power of having professional photos taken to showcase the property and make it stand out from the competition.” 

Oasis Stay understands the importance of showing properties off to the best advantage which is why we offer Airbnb photography and staging services. These services complement our housekeeping, property management and maintenance services to ensure our hosts are getting the most benefit from their listing.

Extra touches

Whether your property is at the high end of the market or a more modest home, supplying extras above the basic necessities can go a long way to increasing guest satisfaction.

Simple and affordable luxuries such as toiletries, quality towels and linen, a chocolate on the pillow, are remembered and appreciated by guests and are the little extras that encourage return custom.

“We find that guests really appreciate our welcome pack which includes thoughtful things like instructions on how to turn on the TV and Wi-Fi,” Ian explained. “The pack includes a short note wishing them a comfortable stay and also provides emergency phone numbers so we can respond to any issues before they become negative feedback.”

“This really paid off when a water pipe broke and started leaking water during a guest’s stay. Fortunately, we were able to respond quickly to avoid any disruption to their stay. Our guests understood that accidents happen and appreciated our responsiveness, giving us kudos for our commitment to ensure their comfort in their feedback.”

Pricing

Whilst money is important to most hosts, Ian stresses that it shouldn’t be the biggest driver. “There is no point in pricing yourself out of competition for a few dollars,” he says. “It is better to price your listing just below the competition and stay fully booked rather than sit vacant, even for a night. We offer significant discounts for guests staying a week or longer as this reduces the need for cleaning and maintenance costs, so it is a win-win situation.”

Feedback and Reviews

Ultimately, what guests say about you, your communication and your property will be the best (or worst) advertisement for future guests.

By focusing on these areas, you can create a successful and rewarding Airbnb hosting experience that generates positive reviews, enhances the chance of return visits, drives bookings and boosts your hosting income.

Oasis Stay is the industry expert in Airbnb property. As Ian says, “We could spend our energies and time cleaning and maintaining our Airbnb but that just wouldn’t make good economical sense. We can just build the cost of these into our pricing and leave the hard work to Oasis Stay. They take care of the property management, housekeeping and maintenance whilst we sit back knowing that our property is in good hands.”

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Airbnb hosting can be a time-intensive and difficult process if you’re handling it on your own, so why not let the experts help? With Airbnb hosting management in Melbourne, Hobart, and the majority of Australia’s most popular areas, Oasis Stay is here to assist you. If you are interested in finding out more about Oasis Stay’s Airbnb property management and maintenance services, give us a call on 0401 832 431 or drop us a line to [email protected].

 

The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Airbnb Host

in AIRBNB, AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS, Uncategorised by admin

Airbnb has become increasingly popular with investors and property owners seeking to generate an income from a vacant property, and for good reason. Airbnb offers a more lucrative rental yield than long-term tenancies, particularly in popular tourist locations. This is unsurprising as short-stay guests look for an alternative to expensive hotel rooms which offer no self-catering or laundry options and far less space.

An increasing number of homeowners are drawn to host an Airbnb due to its flexibility, allowing them to continue using their property by blocking out dates when it is unavailable. 

Whilst setting up an Airbnb is a straightforward process, Oasis Stay property management offers a wide range of services to assist in getting the most out of your Airbnb experience. If you are considering becoming an Airbnb host in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Morning Peninsula or one of Queensland’s Airbnb hotspots like the Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise regions, Oasis Stay have the expertise to put you on the road to success.

Is setting up an Airbnb difficult?

Fear of the unknown may prevent some people from considering putting their homes on Airbnb, but with the help of an experienced Airbnb management provider, the process is quite simple: 

  1. Create an Airbnb account
  2. Secure property management
  3. Prepare the property
  4. Upload photos and details
  5. Manage calendar availability
  6. Go live

Setting up an Airbnb account

Anyone who has created an account for eBay, a bank account or an online shop will be familiar with the process of creating an Airbnb account. As with many of these, an identity verification process must be followed to protect the integrity of your account. It is highly recommended that users also download the Airbnb app so they can respond quickly to property requests as they come in. Users will also need to fill out a range of personal information including bank account details for receiving payments. 

Property management

Airbnb operates on a feedback rating system, similar to eBay. Guests will apply to you for the use of your home, outlining how many guests they are booking for and why they want to stay. Hosts are able to check past guest reviews to verify they are suitable before approving their applications.

Many Airbnb hosts start their journey managing their property themselves only to realise guest expectations for property presentation are beyond their ability to deliver. A single piece of paper left under a sofa can result in a negative review, which in turn can impact the interest in your property. Laundering linen, making beds and scrubbing showers can be time-consuming and onerous – quickly becoming a drain to hosts.

Securing a professional Australian property management service with local resources, like Oasis Stay, is the ideal way to market and maintain your property. They will provide scrupulous cleaning and presentation to ensure guests are delighted with your property and secure return business. The cost of property maintenance can be offset by the one-off cleaning fee which can be included in your Airbnb quote.

Property preparation and presentation

Guests visiting your property will expect all the amenities of the home including all kitchenware, laundry items, iron and ironing board, hair dryer and coat hangers. Your home should be free from all personal items – bare cupboards in bedrooms and bathrooms. For safety, all scissors and other dangerous items should be stored in high cupboards. There should be at least two sets of linen for each bed and towels for every guest. Generally, Airbnb charges per bed, so installing locks on bedroom doors avoids the prospect of one guest booking but six staying… 

Simple things like a framed note on the kitchen table welcoming people to your home and giving them instructions on how to turn things on/off will be highly appreciated. Leave unopened sample packs of soap, shampoo and conditioner, as these simple touches make guests feel special. In the kitchen set aside an area with UHT milk, packets of sugar, tea and coffee. A coffee machine with a few complimentary pods is always appreciated. Use sugar sachets as they are more hygienic and avoid attracting ants.

A key lockbox with a code is a handy way to manage access to your home. A message can be sent to guests with the combination code and the code can be updated by Oasis Stay property managers at the end of each stay to ensure the security of the property is not compromised.

Airbnb styling and photography

It is likely your property may be competing against several similar properties in your area. Professional styling and photography are highly recommended to make your property stand out from the competition. Oasis Stay offers expert styling and photography services to ensure your property looks its best, both to attract guests and to achieve the best possible income. We will highlight the features that make your property special or unique, as these are highly prized by Airbnb guests.

Setting a price for your Airbnb listing

It can be a good idea to compare your property to similar homes in your location and, at least initially, slightly undercut their nightly rate. This is helpful when first hosting without reviews, allowing you to build your reputation and become a Superhost. Consider offering discounts for long-term stays of weeks or months. Long-term guests avoid regular cleaning and maintenance costs and are highly valued by hosts.

Managing the Airbnb guest calendar

Many hosts limit bookings to a two-night minimum to reduce the turnover of guests and leave an afternoon or day in between bookings to allow time for cleaning. When reviewing your Airbnb calendar, block off days or weeks when you may wish to use the property yourself.

Let’s talk  

If you are looking to take the next step as an Airbnb host, contact Oasis Stay today to discuss our full range of professional services. We take the stress out of Airbnb property management and our personalised housekeeping and maintenance services along with specialised photography and styling can be the key to making your foray into Airbnb hosting satisfying, successful and financially rewarding.

Airbnb Income: Why Hosting With Airbnb Makes Solid Financial Sense

in AIRBNB, AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS, Uncategorised, Uncategorized by admin

With the latest round of interest rate rises negatively impacting property investors in the hip pocket, it is unsurprising many are now turning to Airbnb to increase their rental yield. In popular tourist areas such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast or Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula and major capital cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Hobart, investors can realise the same income in two or three days with, for example, Melbourne Airbnb management, that they would normally expect to receive in a week with a long-term tenant. 

Unlike long-term tenancies, Airbnb offers hosts the transparency to personally vet guests. Airbnb also offers the security of $1 million insurance which covers a range of scenarios including injury, damage and theft.

Oasis Stay recognises the major investment hosts have in their homes and provides secure, reliable and professional Airbnb property management and housekeeping services so owners enjoy a ‘set and forget’ income.

Is my property suitable for Airbnb?

This is a question many property owners ask. Almost every type of property is suitable for Airbnb, as it aims to cater to the full spectrum of guest budgets. Airbnb stays must offer all the amenities one would expect in a home including access to clean, functioning kitchen and toilet facilities, and private, secure sleeping accommodation.

Many Airbnb hosts have a single room in a house or apartment to let for short-term stays. Naturally, whole homes and apartments are the more popular options for families and those seeking privacy.

At the other end of the scale, many Airbnb hosts are concerned that the significant investment they have made in their home may be at risk from rowdy or negligent guests. Airbnb has a feedback rating system to address these concerns and ensure that the host has the final approval of all guests who intend to stay at their property. Hosts can read through past reviews and ask potential guests questions about their intended stay prior to making a final decision.

Hosts have an option to include a one-off cleaning fee component in the pricing which can be costed to include property management and housekeeping charges. This can mean caretaking of the property becomes cost-neutral.

How to create a secure, comfortable retirement using Airbnb 

Let’s do some number crunching to compare the income generated through long-term rental as opposed to Airbnb in a popular location such as Broadbeach in Queensland. Using realestate.com.au as a guide, a long-term tenancy for a one-bedroom apartment can expect a rental yield of around $590 per week in this location. Annual expenses on this property will likely include exorbitant body corporate fees of upwards of $300 per week, making the rental yield comparatively small. 

Compare this to a similar property rented nightly through Airbnb which would attract a return of approximately $210 per night – bringing in more than the long-term rental in only three nights!

Furthermore, Airbnb’s calendar allows hosts to block out periods of time when they can use the property for a vacation or allow friends and family to stay – perfect.

Is managing an Airbnb property hard?

Cleaning and maintaining an Airbnb is demanding and time-consuming, as guests expect every level of property to be immaculate, regardless of their budget. Using a professional property management service like Oasis Stay takes the guesswork out of being an Airbnb host. Our local operators deliver full-service property management including maintenance and housekeeping. We can even assist with property styling and photography!

Contact the team at Oasis Stay today and let’s start the conversation that can lead you to a secure financial future through Airbnb hosting.

Queensland Airbnb Guide: What Makes QLD the Perfect Airbnb Destination?

in AIRBNB, AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Ah, Queensland. Beautiful one day, profitable the next. 

What comes to mind when you think of Queensland? Perhaps the pristine beaches, Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, natural wildlife or the year-round sunshine. Whatever it is, Queensland has the lot. It is no wonder then that it is one of Australia’s top destinations for local and overseas tourists – the perfect Airbnb destination that can be a property investor’s key to a secure, stress-free future. 

As a leading provider of Airbnb management services in Queensland, let’s take a deep dive into why hosting an Airbnb property in Queensland makes good financial sense.

Number Crunching

Consider this – every year approximately 27 million domestic and international visitors flock to the Sunshine State. In fact, Queensland is one of the top three states in Australia where visitors spend most of their time. Furthermore, according to Airbnb statistics, four Queensland cities – Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Cairns and Brisbane are in the top 10 list of the most profitable locations to run an Airbnb in the whole country!

Coastal cities north and south of Brisbane are significantly cheaper to purchase an investment property than either Sydney or Melbourne yet with far greater abundance of attractions. Numbers don’t lie – coastal property in Queensland translates to significant returns on investment.

Benefits of Airbnb

Before considering leasing out your property, it may be wise to take the time to analyse the pros and cons of short versus long-term leasing of your Queensland property. 

On the long-term rental market, the average 3-bedroom home on the Gold Coast is fetching between $500 and $600 per week. During peak periods that same home may yield that return in just one or two days with Airbnb!

An added bonus is that, unlike permanent rentals, with Airbnb your property is available to use whenever you want – just block out the days, weeks or even months on your Airbnb calendar when you want to take up residence.

Irresistible Attractions

The beauty of Queensland is that there are so many attractions to make your property desirable. Some of the most popular sought-after areas are around the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Surfers Paradise where tourists and visitors are drawn to the stunning beaches, world-class shopping and vibrant nightlife.

It is no surprise that the magic expanse between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast has become a mecca for local and interstate buyers looking for strong returns on their property investment. 

Gold Coast

With its myriad of five-star hotels and seminar venues, the Gold Coast has become the conference capital of Australia. With Airbnb operating on seasonal peaks and trough pricing, the Gold Coast is a goldmine of peak pricing for hosts. The demand for accommodation for popular events can see the overflow extend in a wide arc into the surrounding suburbs. 

The Gold Coast is also home to the best theme parks in Australia including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet ’n’ Wild. For Airbnb hosts, this area is a goldmine as families with children seek accommodation that can house their children and provide cooking facilities, to save on the crippling cost of eating out every night.

Surfers Paradise

We can’t talk about the Gold Coast without mentioning the iconic Surfers Paradise. As the Gold Coast’s tourist hub, Surfers Paradise attracts over 4 million visitors per year – a magnet to bronzed, barefoot wave worshippers drawn from across Australia and around the world. Many Southerners, from Melbourne and Sydney have invested in the magnificent apartment blocks which dot the horizon down the coast. Tenanted only for short periods throughout the year by the owners, furnished and with all the amenities in place, these apartments are ripe to be utilised as Airbnb accommodation.

Being an Airbnb host can also mitigate any body corporate fees that are a hidden cost all apartment complex owners must pay on an ongoing basis. Setting up your property to pay for itself just makes good logical sense.

Where to Now?

If you are thinking about investing in an Airbnb property in Queensland or you already have a property available – rather than rent it, why not Airbnb it? With exceptional property management specialists like Oasis Stay, Airbnb hosts can have a ‘set and forget’ high-yield investment. With all the benefits of Airbnb plainly evident, finding a management service that prioritises your home and protects your investment, is the first step. At Oasis Property Management we are here to take the guesswork out of Airbnb hosting. Contact us today to discuss what we can do for you.

How To Write The Ultimate Airbnb Property Description

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

The right Airbnb property description will lead to higher conversions. Learn how to perfect your description with this guide. 

When marketing a property, you only have one chance to make the right first impression. You can capture the interest of your audience with the right pictures or title, but it’s the description that earns you the booking. Once you have their interest, you need to show them why they should book your property. 

Let’s explore some of the best ways you can write the perfect description for your Airbnb listing that will convert readers.

Show Your Personality

First, guests will want to know who you are and what makes you different. Let your personality stand out in your description. Make it quirky, fun or friendly and give your audience an idea of why they should trust you. 

Tell Them A Story 

In the world of marketing, storytelling can be a powerful tool. Tell your guest a story and it will help them know what it’s like to stay at your property. They will be able to envision themselves staying there. 

Think about what you would think stepping into your apartment or house for the first time. Is it grand and luxurious or cosy and welcoming? Position your property as the perfect place for the start of an excellent adventure or getaway. 

Devil In The Details 

Little details can count for a lot when describing your property. Focus on the small details that paint a picture of what its like. Think about the elements that will matter to guests. This could include a balcony for sunbathing or a few bathrooms for a big family. When you learn how to optimise Airbnb SEO pages you’ll discover some of these details are tied to vital keywords. These must be included. 

Find Your USP 

Every property will have a USP or unique selling point. Consider what makes your property stand out from the rest. Your USP could be a beautiful bathroom or incredible view. An Airbnb photography service can help you find your USP and make it stand out. 

Don’t forget, a USP can also be the location. If your property is near great places to eat, mention this. If security is a top selling point, that needs to be included too. If you are unsure about the right USP, speak to your Airbnb manager. They can help sell your property the right way. 

Preemptively Answer Any Questions 

Guests will always have queries that make them pause in the process of booking your property. Your description should answer any and all questions that could be causing them to question whether they should book a stay. 

Common questions include:

  • Does the property allow pets?
  • Are they able to plan parties?
  • What kind of beds are available?
  • How close are the nearest transport links? 
  • Do they have to control noise levels 

Answers to these questions must be both clear and honest. Guests will value honesty more than anything else. Misleading a guest could lead to a negative review if they do decide to book a stay. 

Don’t Stretch It Too Far

You must keep your description brief and concise. Highlight the main points without boring or confusing the reader. 

A potential guest won’t read the entire description. They will scan for the points of interest. You need to make this easy. Language should be succinct. Don’t go into detail on every aspect. Focus on the key areas and then add a little with all the features at the end. 

Doing so will ensure your article shows up if they search with specific keywords. To keep your writing short and to the point, cut out meaningless words. Be more creative with the language you use. 

Include A Call To Action

Finally, you should include a call to action (CTA). Provide the reader with instructions on what they should do next. Give them a clear path to follow. Since these are rarely used, it will help your listing stand out. 

Use a CTA to tackle the pain points of a guest. Tell them to book now if dates are filling up fast or that you will discuss pricing. Let them know how to contact you and why they should. Take this step to ensure that your description will lead to increases in query numbers. 

Writing the perfect Airbnb property description is far from easy. There are a lot of points to get right. This is just as important as choosing the right host management service. By focusing on key details you can boost conversion numbers and guarantee more success with your property. 

Airbnb Family Friendly: Make Your Property Secure For Visitors And Children

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Airbnb is a platform that anyone can use to find the perfect accommodation for their trips. Whether you have room for a huge family or one child and parents, you will want to ensure that your property is safe and secure for everyone. 

Although you might have thought about making your accommodation child-free, as they are prone to breaking things and drawing on your freshly white walls, there are many benefits of making your accommodation family-friendly. 

Family Friendly Airbnb Swimming Pool

The benefits of a family-friendly Airbnb property 

Even if you have considered the disadvantages of allowing children into your property, there are many benefits,

Access to more guests

A family-friendly accommodation means that you can fulfil families as well as groups of friends and couples. You can attain more customers by offering your property to all groups of people. 

Better reviews

Parents are more likely to leave reviews behind so that they can recommend the property to other families with children. Although younger people do leave reviews, it is more common for families to leave reviews to assess whether or not the property is fit for other families. On that note, how do you make your property safe for everyone?Bedding Safe Airbnb

How to make your property secure for visitors and children

Making your Airbnb property secure for visitors and children is more straightforward than you think. Although it takes more than offering enough space and a secure building, it can be easy to family-proof your property. 

Think about the bedding

Your property will host guests for one or more nights. Thus, your beds will be slept on by various families. To protect the bed/mattress while making it as comfortable as possible, you might want to consider mattress protectors. If a child wets the bed, then your mattress will be protected. Plus, the bed might be more comfortable, which will encourage guests to leave good reviews. 

Safe staircases

Staircases can be very dangerous for children as well as elderly visitors. Making the staircases safe with gates is ideal for preventing children from climbing the stairs unsupervised. 

Cupboard safety latches

Children are prone to investigating cupboards that are closed. Although the items inside might be safe to touch, they might not be if they are put in the mouth. Adding safety latches to the cupboards will make the cupboards child-proof to keep children safe at all times. 

Remove sharp objects

If you are transitioning your property into a family-friendly one to please and attain more guests, then you will want to remove any sharp objects. Any decorative pieces with sharp edges or floor mirrors should be removed.Alongside making your property child-proof, you will want to consider adding feel-good family touches to enhance a family experience while staying at your property. Simply adding a cot or free toys will boost your guest’s experience. 

How To Write A Good Airbnb Listing Description?

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Writing a good Airbnb listing description is key if you want to draw as many customers as possible. The listing description is likely the first thing that customers will look at after eyeing up your photos. The more detail you add to the description, the more the customer will know about your property. A description should answer all of their questions to engage them and encourage them to book. 

It is essential to not skip a lengthy description as those will likely attract more people. On that note, here are some tips for writing a good Airbnb listing description.

Include unique amenities

Your Airbnb listing description does have a word limit. Thus, you will want to add your property’s best and most unique features that others do not offer. Unique amenities will engage customers and make your Airbnb property stand out among the rest. For instance, if you have a smart TV or an outside firepit, add that to the description as it might be exactly what a guest is looking for and cannot find in other properties. When thinking about your Airbnb listing’s unique features, try to imagine your property from an outside perspective. Quite often, landlords overlook valuable features of their listings simply because they are used to them. If you’ve spent time renovating your bathrooms, turning your bedrooms into luxurious suites, or even just have a beautiful garden area, all of these things will draw in people who are interested in adding a dash of luxury to their stay.

List smart items

Alongside unique amenities, letting your customers know that your property features smart items for added convenience will likely pique their interest. The more convenient and cool your place is, the more it will stand out. That said, also remember that guests will use any smart items that you list. So, make sure you’re okay with this beforehand and ensure that your property has instructions on how these items should be operated.

Entertainment aspects

Although guests will spend time out of the accommodation, they will likely spend some quality time in too. Thus, you will want to offer options for entertainment and let them know that they exist. If you offer board games or cable TV, then say so in the description so that guests know what entertainment they can treat themselves with. 

Positive adjectives

As well as listing what your property offers, you will want to think about the language that you use. Positive adjectives, such as ‘luxury’ and ‘peace’, will encourage the customers to know that your place offers a positive experience in turn. 

Be honest

The more honest you are in your Airbnb listing description, the more satisfied customers will be. If you fulfil your guest’s expectations, then they will likely leave a good review. 

Information about the neighbourhood

Your guests will want to know about the neighbourhood too. If you have local shops and restaurants, then let them know that. The more conveniently your accommodation is located, the more interest you will attain. 

Make your title pop

Alongside a great listing description, you will need a great title. A short title that boasts your unique selling point will grab the customers attention. For instance, if you have a hot tub then add this to your title as well as your listing description. Unique features will look attractive to customers and likely encourage them to click your listing over others. 

10 Airbnb Bathroom Essentials: A Checklist For Airbnb Hosts

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Offering your guests a few common or luxury comforts for their stay in your Airbnb is a great way to win them over. 

Bathroom essentials are ideal so that guests can maintain comfort and good hygiene on their trip. To ensure that your Airbnb property is kitted out with the best bathroom essentials, here is a list of the top 10.

1. Shampoo and conditioner

No matter if someone is staying in your Airbnb for one night or seven, they might want to wash their hair. Therefore, offering shampoo and conditioner are bathroom staples so that guests can wash properly during their stay. The most affordable way to keep them topped up is by adding a huge dispenser for each product and filling them up after each guest. Keeping them full to the top looks good and means that the guest can feel that they can use as much as they like, which will make them feel that they are getting the most for their money. 

2. Body wash

Another bathroom essential for good hygiene is body wash. There is nothing worse than going on holiday, getting in the shower, and realising that there is nothing to wash with.Make sure to add one to both the shower and the bath so that guests can be ready to wash at any moment.

3. Hand soap

For the sink, hand soap is key. Add a new one for each new guest; otherwise, it can be unsanitary. A hand soap that is nicely packaged will amp up your bathroom aesthetic and make your guests feel like they are in a hotel. Hand Sanitiser

4. Hand sanitiser

For one step further and to amp up your hygiene rating, offering your guests hand sanitiser in the bathrooms will allow them to keep safe and hygienic all day long. Adding these to the vanity alongside the soaps and towels is a nice touch so that your guests can attain good hygiene throughout their stay.

5. Bath towels

Every guest will likely shower or bath in the Airbnb. They might not think to bring towels with them. When you stay in a hotel, you don’t need a towel. Thus, guests will expect the same experience. Offering fresh bath towels is ideal for guests to feel at home. It will keep down their costs and be super convenient for them.

6. Toilet paper

Not only should you add toilet paper, but you should add extra toilet paper for your guests. Having enough toilet paper will ensure that your guests do not need to spend extra on toiletries, and they can feel like they are at home with a large stock.

7. Towel rack

A warm towel is the best feeling after stepping out of a warm bath or hot shower. Adding a towel rack to your Airbnb bathroom is a nice way to upgrade its aesthetic and comfort. It gives guests a place to hang their towels to dry. Plus, it is ideal if it warms up and keeps the towels toasty.

8. Trash can 

For hygiene reasons, it is essential to add a trash can to your Airbnb bathroom. There, guests can dispose of their sanitary items without having to find another bin on the property. 

9. Bath mat

A bath mat is essential for health and safety reasons. Adding one to a bathroom not only creates more comfort when a guest steps out of the shower or bath. But, they prevent slipping and reduce the amount of water that goes on the floor. Cleaning A Mirror

10. Mirror

Your guests will likely rely on the bathroom as a place to get ready for the day or evening. They will not be used to the bedrooms to get ready in. being able to place their toiletries in one place and get ready when they are settled is ideal. Most people add their toiletries to the bathroom of guest accommodation. Thus, adding a mirror to your Airbnb bathroom will be convenient and home-like for the guests. There, guests can get ready and check themselves before they leave for the day. To amp up the comfort and luxury of your Airbnb, adding these simple bathroom essentials will help. A simple towel rack full of fresh towels and in-shower amenities can make your guests feel at home. 

 

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Want to learn more about preparing your home for Airbnb? Stay up-to-date with the Oasis Stay Airbnb management blog, or contact us today to see what we can do for you!

Airbnb Messages – How To Create A Message Strategy

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Using a messaging strategy is useful as an Airbnb host. You can automate message responses so that customers are not left in the dark. Plus, a message strategy will help you maintain positive and satisfactory communication with your customers. 

Messaging can take up a lot of your time, which can be an issue if you have a full-time job alongside being an Airbnb host. So, if you don’t think that you’ll be able to maintain consistency with it, working with an Airbnb management company is also a fantastic option.

Whether or not you have a job, keeping up messaging is key. On that note, here are some tips for how to create a message strategy as an Airbnb host.

Why use the Airbnb platform to chat?

Using the Airbnb platform to chat, you and your customers can be protected. The Airbnb Terms of Service limits communication and ensures that no bad language or threats can be sent or received. Likewise, it protects any private details that the host and customer wish to discuss. 

How to use the Airbnb messaging service

Luckily, the Airbnb messaging service is simple to use. Simply log in to your account (as a host you will need to login to the hosting version of Airbnb). Click on the messages tab and search for threads, messages, and message requests to chat with your customers.

How should I message as a host in Airbnb?

As an Airbnb host, you will want to keep your customers satisfied at all times. You might want to consider setting up automated messages before starting so that your customers can receive a response immediately. Automated messages can also let your customer know when to expect a reply. Likewise, you can set up automated messages so that you do not need to respond to frequently asked questions. For instance, if a customer requests information about available dates, the keywords ‘available dates’ will allow the message to send over the relevant information. Moreover, an automated message can send your customer information before they check out. It simply reduces your admin.

Airbnb message templates

Next up, you will want to consider creating messaging templates for easy admin. These can be used for message automation or for you to use instead of retyping the same (or similar) responses time and time again. To be the best host possible, you will want to maintain positive and friendly language. Here are some message templates to take inspiration from or use for messages as an Airbnb host. Living Room Airbnb

Pre-booking message

When customers wish to use instant book (the service that requires no communication between customer and host), you might want to speak to your customer before they continue with booking. This simply allows you, as a host, to say hello and hand over any extra details that you think your customer might need. In this message you should introduce yourself, talk about Airbnb (what it offers), and follow up with some questions:

  • What is the purpose of the stay?
  • Who is travelling to the Airbnb?
  • What is the check-in time?
  • Are there any special requests?

Always sign it off with friendly ‘best wishes’ or ‘kind regards’ to show that you are a welcoming host. 

Confirmation message

After a customer books their stay at your Airbnb, you will want to send them a message for confirmation of the booking. This allows them to verify that the booking has been accepted. In this message, simply thank the customer for their business and let them know that you look forward to welcoming them. Also, include a short sentence to let your guests know that they can contact you should they have any questions. 

Touch base with your guests before check-in

Before the check-in date approaches, you might want to touch base with your customer. Simply let them know that you look forward to their visit. A touch base message also gives you the opportunity to share any last-minute details such as Wi-Fi passwords, check-in details, and information about the area.A good host should share recommendations and tips for the customer to get the most out of the area.

Check-in’s and check-up’s

If you are not physically attending the check-in process, which is pretty common to save you time as a host, then you can send a confirmation of check-in. Whilst the guests stay, you could send a message to ask if they are enjoying their time and let them know that you are available should they need help. 

Check-out messages

Finally, you will want to conclude a stay with a check-out message. Simply thank them again for their business. You could also use this as an opportunity to ask for a review. The better your reviews, the better your Airbnb hosting business will be.

How To Get Good Airbnb Reviews

in AIRBNB HOSTING TIPS by admin

Airbnb hosting has become popular since the apartment-booking service was launched over a decade ago. This community allows homeowners and travellers to review each other after the experience, which adds to their reputation. But, making a few mistakes can negatively impact your Airbnb reputation. The question is, how do you get that 5-star review and establish yourself as a trusted member of the Airbnb community? Well, here are great tips for Airbnb hosting and how to get positive Airbnb reviews.

Be Accurate And Detailed With Your Descriptions

Guests who are signing up for your service always want to be sure about their expectations. As a landlord, you should try to give accurate descriptions of your apartment and its amenities such that your visitors will have a clearer picture of the property. A detailed and accurate description will help you meet your clients’ expectations, and they will be more likely to rate you five stars. Resist the tendency to promise things you cannot deliver, and always stay genuine and professional in your relationship with guests. Try your best to avail yourself 24/7 to respond to questions and queries concerning your properties. And even if there is a small problem like a broken lamp, see it as a big challenge and fix it.

Have Ultra Modern Amenities

While the Airbnb community loves affordable housekeeping, having extraordinary amenities in your properties can help you stand out in the market. Streaming services like Netflix can keep vacationers entertained as they use your building. If that investment is what it takes to get 5-star reviews, do it. Fast and secure WiFi, premium tea, and good lighting systems are all critical investments that can add extra value to your guests’ lives. A whole family can reward you with 5-star reviews if you practice good maintenance and make their stay memorable. 

Get To Know Your Guests

Rather than seeing all your guests as the same, you may want to understand their unique requirements. Airbnb reviews their guests, too, so find out what other people are saying about your potential guest before you invite them to your home. Understand how often your guests use Airbnb when travelling and whether they leave reviews or not. When you identify the Airbnb profiles of each guest in great detail, you will know how to impress them with your property and win their 5-star ratings. It’s also a good idea to travel yourself and be an Airbnb guest. This will allow you to gain vital property management skills.

Let Your Location Count

For property management service providers who have been hosting Airbnb guests for a long time, they don’t have to be reminded that good location counts in getting excellent reviews. You may own a fantastic house, but if its location is not appropriate, clients will probably give you only four stars. Different guests interpret locations differently. In general, homes situated at walking distance from towns and shops rank high in Airbnb reviews. On the other hand, a home that’s in a noisy environment will convince buyers to think that the location is not conducive enough, which means getting a 5-star review will not be a guarantee. Whether your house is far from town or in a noisy neighbourhood, it’s always better to tell the truth about the location.

Send A Check-In Message

Responsible Airbnb Management often drafts instructions on how clients can check-in. Include your phone number and street address, and stay in touch with your guests from the beginning of their stay to the end. Prepare a welcoming message to your guests at least 24 hours after their arrival. You could use the chat feature in the Airbnb service application or your phone to text your guests. Set the tone for friendly interaction with visitors and assure them of their safety and comfort. You may also want to let them know the basic information, such as the locality’s dos and don’ts. Make an excellent first impression, and stand a good chance to earn a 5-star review. You can subtly remind your guests to rate you high by texting a check-in message like “it’s our goal to offer you a 5-star experience in your short stay”. In Australia, you can find a reputable Airbnb management service Melbourne has to offer, such as Oasis Stay, that emphasises good communication skills as the key to gaining positive reviews. Besides the standard check-in message, a check-up message also matters. You can use that to express your willingness to help your guests get what they need.