airbnb guests Archives

How to Boost Your Rental’s Appeal for Last-Minute Bookings?

Posted on 21 November 2023 - 9:57 am

If you own or manage a vacation rental and want to increase your occupancy rates by getting last-minute bookings, this is the time to act. The travel industry is currently experiencing a surge in spontaneous travelers, actively seeking flexible and impromptu getaways. They are in search of last-minute vacation rentals, and attracting these last-minute bookers can drastically enhance your short-term rental business, maximizing both occupancy rates and revenue.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into effective strategies that will help you draw in impulsive travelers and secure more last-minute bookings for your vacation rentals. By adopting these tips and techniques, you can optimize your property’s visibility, offer compelling deals, and create an urgency that compels guests to quickly book your property for their upcoming spontaneous trips.

1. Optimize your online presence

To attract last-minute bookings, having a strong online presence is crucial. Begin by making sure your vacation rental listing is enticing, accurate, and up-to-date on popular platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO. Listing on multiple channels increases your audience and boosts your potential for bookings, helping you fill vacancies. Although this might mean more work and a risk of double bookings, using a channel manager like Keey can unify your calendars and help you streamline and automate operations across multiple channels.

Ensure that your listings draw in potential guests by featuring high-quality photos that highlight your property’s unique features and amenities. Also, craft a compelling listing description that showcases the key selling points and emphasizes the value you offer to last-minute travelers.

2. Offer Last-Minute Deals and Discounts

Create urgency by offering special deals and discounts for last-minute bookings when your property is vacant. You might offer discounted rates for upcoming dates within a few weeks or provide additional perks like complimentary late check-out or welcome amenities. Get creative by linking your rental with a local event, restaurant, experience, or even a tee time at a nearby golf course. Your offers may vary with the season, but focus on what will attract those last-minute travelers. Actively form partnerships in your community to make these offers a reality.

Actively promote these offers on your website, social media channels, and through email newsletters to catch the attention of potential guests looking for spontaneous getaways.

3. Utilize Social Media and Email Marketing

Use your social media platforms and email marketing to reach last-minute travelers. Post engaging content regularly on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, showcasing your vacation rental and any ongoing promotions. Consider creating ads on Facebook and Instagram; since Facebook owns Instagram, your ad can appear on both platforms simultaneously. Craft a strong call to action to entice last-minute travelers to book with you. Add a booking link across your social media pages to enable immediate action from your followers.

If you haven’t already, develop an email subscriber list of past guests and inquiries, and send out regular newsletters featuring exclusive deals and information on last-minute availability. Segment your email list to specifically target subscribers interested in last-minute offers or those living within a close driving distance. Ensure your subject line is catchy and relevant to your call to action – encouraging bookings for your vacant dates.

Engage your followers further and broaden your reach by offering a referral bonus for new bookings.

4. Leverage Local Events and Activities

Keep abreast of local events, festivals, and activities near your vacation rental. When you promote last-minute bookings, emphasize your property’s proximity to these events and the convenience and unique experiences guests will enjoy by booking with you. Suggest nearby attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options to attract last-minute travelers seeking a memorable getaway.

5.Implement Flexible Booking Policies

5. Implement Flexible Booking Policies

Offer more lenient booking policies to appeal to last-minute travelers who often seek flexibility in their accommodation arrangements. Consider reducing minimum stay requirements, providing flexible cancellation policies, or allowing same-day bookings. Ensure Instant Book is activated across all channels to appear in searches by last-minute travelers. Remember, these travelers are looking to book quickly—if they have to wait for your approval, they might move on to another option.

6. Engage with Previous Guests

Utilize guest loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing by reaching out to previous guests who enjoyed their stay at your vacation rental. Offer them exclusive deals for future last-minute bookings. Encourage them to leave reviews and share their experiences on review platforms and social media, thereby enhancing your property’s visibility and credibility.

7.Stay Active and Responsive

Respond proactively and quickly to inquiries, providing potential guests with prompt and helpful information. Remember, timeliness is crucial for last-minute bookings, and any delay in your response could result in a lost booking opportunity.

Embrace the world of last-minute bookings to transform your vacation rental business. Implement strategies that attract spontaneous travelers, and you’ll optimize your property’s occupancy rates, maximize revenue, and establish a reputation for flexibility and responsiveness. Continuously monitor market trends, adapt your strategies, and stay ahead of the competition. By offering enticing deals, leveraging online platforms and marketing channels, and delivering exceptional guest experiences, you position your vacation rentals as the top choice for those seeking a quick escape. Get ready to welcome a wave of spontaneous guests and convert those last-minute vacancies into thriving bookings. Start applying these tips today and see the positive impact on your rental business.

If you feel ready to outsource your property management to an expert, check out our services!

What Makes an Airbnb Truly Pet-Friendly? A Guide for Hosts

Posted on 15 November 2023 - 10:13 am

As an Airbnb host, you might notice a growing trend of guests traveling with their pets. Consequently, ensuring that your short-term let accommodates pets well is a smart move. Given the rising demand for pet-friendly Airbnbs, offering a pet-friendly listing and property can attract more bookings and business. In this post, Keey offers several tips and tricks to help you host four-legged guests and ensure their stay is as comfortable as possible.

Update Your Listing

Take the first step to ensure your Airbnb is pet-friendly by updating your listing. Clearly state your acceptance of pets in both the title and description of your rental. This approach will attract pet owners seeking suitable accommodations.

In your listing, clearly outline any rules or restrictions you have for pets. You might require pets to be well-behaved, house-trained, vaccinated, and current with flea and worming treatments. Additionally, you could ask guests to clean up after their pets or keep them off the furniture. Clear expectations upfront can prevent misunderstandings or conflicts with guests.

Create a Pet-Friendly Space

To make your Airbnb appealing to pets, create a pet-friendly environment. This could mean adapting your rental for pets, like investing in pet-friendly furniture, such as pet beds or sofas with easily cleaned slipcovers.

Consider offering pet-specific amenities, like bowls for food and water. These items, while relatively inexpensive, can significantly enhance your guests’ comfort and convenience.

Keep Your Rental Clean

As an Airbnb host, you must ensure your rental stays clean, which might require extra effort if you allow pets. After each booking, thoroughly clean your rental to remove any pet hair and debris.

If you plan to clean yourself, invest in a quality vacuum cleaner and pet-safe cleaning supplies. Alternatively, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to guarantee thorough cleaning and disinfection between guests. If using a professional service, ensure they use pet-friendly cleaning products.

Provide Information on Local Pet-Friendly Attractions

Attractions Helping guests with pets find pet-friendly activities and attractions can greatly enhance their experience. As an Airbnb host, offer information about local pet-friendly spots like parks, beaches, and restaurants.

Create a list of these places and include it in your Airbnb listing or a guest welcome pack. This can be an excellent resource for guests to plan their stay and enjoy your area.

Communicate With Your Guests

Effective communication is crucial when hosting Airbnb guests with pets. Be available to answer any questions or concerns they may have about traveling with pets.

Proactively communicate with your guests before and during their stay. You might remind them of pet-related rules or provide information about the nearest veterinarian in case of emergencies.

Continue Charging a Pet Fee

As more guests seek to book Airbnbs with dogs and other pets, often willing to pay extra, many Airbnb hosts opt to charge a pet fee. This fee helps cover any additional cleaning or damage pets may cause. If you choose to charge a pet fee, clearly state it in your listing and explain what the fee entails to avoid disputes or confusion.

When setting the pet fee amount, consider the extra cleaning and preparation effort for pets. Researching pet fee charges by other Airbnb hosts in your area can help ensure competitive pricing.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

As a host for Airbnb guests with pets, prepare for emergencies. Have a plan for situations where a pet gets injured or ill during their stay. Include information about local emergency pet clinics and vets in your guest welcome pack. Adding a pet first aid kit to your rental with essentials like antiseptic, bandages, and tweezers is also advisable.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Ensure your insurance covers pet-related incidents before listing your Airbnb as pet-friendly. Review your policy to confirm coverage for pet-caused damage. Consider additional coverage for pet-related damages if necessary.

Get Guest Feedback

After hosting guests with pets, seek their feedback to improve your pet-friendly accommodations and amenities. Follow up with an email or encourage them to leave a review on your Airbnb listing. This feedback is invaluable for enhancing your rental to attract more pet-owning guests.

If you’re starting a pet-friendly Airbnb or aiming to attract more guests with pets, Keey can assist. With experience in aiding Airbnb hosts worldwide, including those welcoming pets, Keey offers services from marketing to pet owners to cleaning and managing pet hair. Contact Keey for more information on how we can help you succeed.

Easy Airbnb Hosting Routine: Quick Tips from a Pro

Posted on 9 November 2023 - 9:58 am

In our busy lives, keeping daily to-do lists updated can be challenging. As an Airbnb host, your holiday let business’s profitability depends on maintaining an excellent hosting routine. Being thorough, punctual, and responsive is crucial. Practically, this means remembering to empty garbage bins and ensuring you have enough clean linen for your next guests.

If you tend to feel overwhelmed easily or struggle with organization, don’t worry – we’ve compiled our top five tips for a straightforward hosting routine to help you manage effectively.

Keep Track of Your Tasks

As an Airbnb host, you’ll have a long list of tasks to complete between guests, ranging from scrubbing the toilet bowl to restocking fresh milk in the fridge. Many hosts stick to the classic pen-and-paper method, jotting down their to-do lists and ticking off completed items. Some prefer using spreadsheets or Word Docs for task organization. For a tech-savvy approach to ease your workload, consider downloading apps designed for task management. Our favorites include:

Wunderlist, which allows you to create multiple to-do lists.
Calendy, to prevent double-booking.
Time Timer, for setting time limits on tasks.
TurnoverBnB, not just for finding cleaners but also for managing their schedules and informing them online of their next cleaning session.
Monday or Trello, ideal for co-hosts sharing responsibilities and tasks.

Remember, the success of your holiday let business as an Airbnb host depends on an effective hosting routine.

Clean Everything

Guests might overlook a missing welcome bottle of wine, but they won’t be so forgiving about finding hair in the bathroom sink. Make sure you clean thoroughly and everywhere. Hiring a professional cleaner will greatly ease your workload and increase guest satisfaction. If you choose to do the cleaning yourself, follow this quick checklist:

Ventilate the space by opening windows between guest visits.
Dust every surface, including each slate of Venetian blinds and the tops of cupboards.
Remove all rubbish, empty bins in the kitchen and bathroom, and replace with fresh bin liners for new guests.
Pay special attention to the kitchen, ensuring no food scraps in the fridge, no burnt crumbs in the toaster, and a spotless oven.
Make the bathroom sparkle by removing mould from shower cubicles, clearing drains, and ensuring there’s no hair left behind.
Clean all windows to enhance your guests’ enjoyment of the views.

Simplify Your Check-In Process

Ensure you provide guests with clear, written instructions on how to reach your Airbnb, and email these directions well before their arrival. If your property is difficult to locate, include photos of nearby buildings or marked maps to clearly guide guests to your front door.

Investing in a smart lock or lockbox is highly recommended. This allows guests to access your place’s keys upon arrival, eliminating the need for you to be present. While this method may not suit all Airbnb properties, especially those needing a comprehensive tour, it’s a great time-saver for simpler accommodations like basic apartments.

Stock Up on Everything

While you may think your supply of towels and bed sheets is sufficient, unexpected incidents like a broken dryer or a wine-stained pillowcase can leave you needing extras. Instead of assuming you’ll have time to wash and dry sheets between guests, keep at least two spare sets of everything on hand. This ensures you can always provide clean linens to new guests, regardless of the situation.

The same goes for kitchen supplies. If you typically host up to four guests, stock your kitchen with more than four plates, cups, knives, and forks. Guests may not want to wash dishes between meals, so it’s better to offer more. Also, keep a spare set of plates in case of any damages during their stay.

Excel in Communication

hostess explaining the house rules to a guest

As a successful Airbnb host, aim to respond to inquiries and guest questions within a couple of hours. Always answer emails promptly and thoroughly address all raised questions.

When welcoming guests, prepare what you want to say. This is especially important if you’re new to hosting and might be unsure of guests’ expectations upon arrival. Here’s how to make a great first impression:

Greet guests warmly with a smile.
Give them a comprehensive tour of the house.
Demonstrate how to operate any complex appliances.
Offer them a welcome gift.
Assure them of your availability for any issues.
Confirm their check-out time before parting ways.

Seek Advice from an Airbnb Expert

If you’re unsure about starting your Airbnb hosting routine or need assistance organizing cleaners between guests, consider hiring an Airbnb management company like Keey. We can ease your schedule’s stress and guarantee smooth check-ins every time.

How to Be the Airbnb Host Guests Can’t Stop Talking About

Posted on 3 November 2023 - 12:03 pm

Engaging with guests from around the world is a thrilling aspect of hosting on Airbnb. However, the same diversity can pose challenges.

As the competition intensifies with more Airbnb hosts and management services stepping up their game, standing out becomes essential for attracting guests and maintaining a steady income stream. How, then, can you excel as an Airbnb host?

Guest feedback about their experience is the ultimate measure of success, and while pleasing everyone is a tall order, it’s not out of reach.

Here’s our insider advice: We’re sharing some strategies that could charm most of your guests in some way.

It’s not mandatory, but the joy of seeing guests’ smiles, receiving heartfelt thanks, and earning positive reviews is a reward in itself.

Embrace these tips:

1. Master the Art of Welcoming

Remember, the first moment guests walk in is super important. You want to make them say ‘wow’ right away. This good start can make them feel happy and excited about their stay from the very beginning.

Consider offering a welcome basket

A welcome basket warmly greets your guests. Start with chocolates for a sweet welcome, add local wine for a celebratory touch, and include plush slippers for weary feet. Boutique toiletries add a luxurious feel. Each item in the basket serves to turn your space into a haven for your guests. Remember, a personal note or a local guide adds a special touch that shows you care.

Customize the basket

When you customize your welcome basket, you show that you’re thinking about who’s staying. Start with who the guests are – maybe a family with kids, a couple, or someone on a work trip. For families, add some snacks and toys that kids will like. If it’s a couple, go for something special like chocolates, a little bubbly, and fancy bath stuff. For someone on business, stick to useful things like quick snacks, quality coffee, and maybe a coupon for a coffee shop.

Picking things that fit why they’re traveling makes guests see you really care. It’s this kind of attention that can make them leave a good review and keep coming back.

Local treats are a hit

Offering a local specialty in your welcome basket does more than satisfy hunger—it’s a first taste of your community’s unique culture. Whether it’s a craft chocolate from a nearby shop or a homemade preserve, these regional delights invite your guests to explore and appreciate the local vibe from the get-go. It’s a thoughtful touch that turns a welcome into an experience.

Be accessible

Make sure guests can reach you easily by placing your contact information in the welcome basket, ideally on a stylish card that suits the aesthetic of your place. Accompany it with a friendly note, complete with your phone numbers and email, to show your readiness to assist at any time. Such measures ensure guests feel both safe and supported, a key to successful Airbnb hosting.

Provide a local guide

Help your guests discover the neighborhood with a simple map marked with your favorite spots. For example, point out the best coffee shop, a peaceful park, and where to find the tastiest local food. Share a few insider tips—like the best time to visit a spot or what to order. Your map will make their visit feel special and easy.

Go the extra mile

In the realm of Airbnb hosting, it’s smart to give your guests more than they expect. Give them bus or train passes to make getting around easy, or tickets to cool local spots and events. This kind move makes their trip special and one to remember. It could be a pass to a neat museum, a ticket to a popular play, or a way into a cool local event. Little gifts like these change a regular trip into an awesome experience and show that you’re a host who really cares.

2. Maintain Impeccable Standards

Keep the hospitality going throughout their stay.

Prioritize cleanliness

A clean home is a must for travelers looking for rest. A tidy and fresh space shows them they’ve made a good choice. Making sure every part of your place is clean and inviting is key. It tells guests you care about their stay and helps them relax right away. It’s about making them feel at home, with everything neat and ready for them to enjoy their time.

Stock up on snacks and drinks

Providing a selection of snacks and drinks is a considerate detail that guests tend to appreciate. For example, envision your guests, weary from travel, discovering an array of treats and beverages that let them unwind instantly. This is particularly thoughtful for late arrivals when shops are likely closed. Include both savory and sweet options, as well as bottled water, juice, or soda, to accommodate various tastes and offer a warm welcome.

Equip the kitchen

For Airbnb hosting, equipping the kitchen can make all the difference. Having a well-stocked kitchen is a game-changer for guests who prefer to cook. Provide cooking basics such as salt, pepper, cooking oil, and a few spices. This means guests can easily make a meal without the hassle of shopping for these staples right away. It’s a thoughtful touch that can make guests feel at home, giving them the freedom to dine in and enjoy the coziness of your Airbnb.

Ensure fresh linens and towels are available

Offering fresh linens and fluffy towels can significantly enhance your guests’ comfort, echoing the luxurious feel of a high-end hotel. Guests not only appreciate the cleanliness but also the convenience of not having to pack these bulky items. Make sure to have a supply of extra pillows, blankets, and towels at their disposal. This attention to detail in providing crisp, clean bedding and towels not only meets a basic need but also adds a sense of pampering to their stay, making it memorable and more satisfying.

Add homey touches

Make your place feel like home. For instance, use fresh flowers to add color, and decor that shows off your style or local culture. Next, stack some books, throw a cozy blanket on the sofa, and hang unique art. Small details like these make your space comfy and show you care. They turn a simple stay into a memorable one that guests will treasure.

Offer reading material and entertainment

Keep a variety of books and magazines on hand for guests who enjoy reading. Also, add toys and puzzles for children to play with. These thoughtful touches create a great spot for relaxation and show you care about your guests’ comfort. Small extras like these often get a special mention in happy reviews.

In conclusion, when it comes to Airbnb hosting, it’s the little things that count. Integrating these considerate and cost-effective details can greatly improve a guest’s experience, ensuring their stay is both seamless and unforgettable. Indeed, even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a substantial impact. We’re confident that these gestures will convey a genuine sense of care to your guests.

There are many other smaller details that should be taken on board to enhance guest experience, so if you would like to learn more, contact us at Keey today.

6 Ways to Optimize Your Airbnb Check-In Experience

Posted on 24 October 2023 - 9:54 am

Your home is spotless and ready. Suddenly, the doorbell rings. It’s time for your first Airbnb guest. What should you do next? While you’ve already prepared the house (things like putting away valuables and having enough toilet paper), how should you greet them? Let’s go through a simple guide on welcoming your guests.

1. Warm Welcome

Even if you’ve had a tough day, greet your guests with a big smile. They might be tired from their journey, so a friendly face will mean a lot.
How about offering them a cup of tea or a cold drink? Some hosts also prepare little welcome gifts, like snacks or local handmade items. It’s a great way to make them feel special right from the start.

2. House Tour

Show them around, especially if they’ve rented more than just a room. Point out shared spaces like the bathroom and kitchen and give them a little tutorial, like where they can put their food in the fridge.
Show them how to lock the doors and use any alarms. If there’s a fireplace or heater, make sure they know how to use it safely. Don’t forget outdoor spaces like gardens or patios. If they have kids, show them any kid-friendly stuff you have.

3. House Rules Chat

Having clear house rules is super important. This includes things like if they can have guests over, how to dispose of trash, and what behaviors are okay or not. Go over these rules when they arrive. If they don’t speak English well, try to explain them clearly and simply.

4. Local Tips

Besides the house stuff, share some cool info about the area. Tell them about your favorite cafe or where they can grab a tasty meal. If they have kids, let them know where the closest park is. Giving them local tips helps them feel more at home and can lead to better reviews for you!

5. Clarify Check-Out

Now’s a good time to remind them when they should check out. Let them know what they should do with the key if you’re not around when they leave.

6. Stay in Touch

Even if you sent them your contact info before, remind them. Tell them the best way to reach you, especially if there’s an emergency. Some hosts leave this info on a note on the fridge or by the front door.

Making Check-Ins Easy

Making your guests feel at home is key to being a great host. If you’re hosting often and find it a bit much, remember, there are services like Keey that can help. If you want some assistance to make hosting even better, just let us know!

How to Exchange Keys with Your Airbnb Guests?

Posted on 19 October 2023 - 10:54 am

A key handover can be quite the challenge for Airbnb hosts. While an in-person meet-and-greet provides the perfect opportunity to familiarize guests with the property and local attractions, it isn’t always feasible. So, what solutions are available if you’re preoccupied with work, vacationing, socializing, or other commitments?

Here are 6 alternatives for key handovers when you’re not around:

1. Leverage Your Contacts: Cleaner, Friends, or Family

Initially, a trusted cleaner familiar with your place could bridge the gap by offering guests a brief tour and then handing over the keys.

However, on the downside, their availability might not always sync with guest check-ins. So, the success of this method largely depends on the reliability and friendliness of the person you entrust.

2. Utilize Sharing Economy Services

Companies like KeyNest provide a novel key exchange system, partnering with local businesses where guests retrieve keys using a one-time code. It’s efficient and offers some peace of mind since addresses aren’t stored. Plus, with extended business hours, guests have flexibility.

However, the reach of such services is limited. While KeyNest operates in London and select UK cities, similar services elsewhere may cater to your location.

3. Classic Concealment: Doormat or Flowerpot

Choosing the age-old method of hiding a key under the doormat or in a flowerpot is undeniably easy. It involves zero bookings, incurs no additional costs, and requires minimal planning on your part. However, it’s essential to weigh the convenience against potential pitfalls. While it may be a familiar approach, guests may not appreciate having to search around for the key upon arrival. Furthermore, there’s an inherent risk involved. If someone with ill intentions knows about this common hiding spot, your property’s security could be compromised.

4. Enlist Airbnb Management Services like Keey

Beyond just check-ins, companies like Keey handle cleaning, upkeep, and guest communication. It’s ideal if you’re strapped for time. Premium offerings translate to a dent in your profits, as you’d part with a fraction of your Airbnb earnings. That said, sometimes it’s more economical than Airbnb’s co-hosting feature.

5. The Tech Route: Lockboxes and Smart Locks

Lockboxes are straightforward: share a code with guests, and they retrieve the keys. Smart locks up the ante with app-based controls. Security is a concern for lockboxes, from shared codes to vulnerability to tampering. Smart locks, while sophisticated, are suited mainly for individual homes or if you have control over an entire building. Retrofitting one for an apartment within a complex might be cumbersome and costly.

6. Embrace Digital Key Exchange Platforms

Digital key exchange platforms are truly transforming the way hosts and guests interact. Through these platforms, hosts can effortlessly send encrypted digital keys directly to a guest’s smartphone. This innovation means guests can gain access to the property throughout their reservation period, all without needing a physical key. This method is undeniably convenient, streamlining the check-in process.

However, as with most technological solutions, there are potential pitfalls. The entire system is contingent upon technology functioning seamlessly. Any software glitches, connectivity issues, or even a simple battery drain on the guest’s phone could pose challenges. In such scenarios, guests might find themselves unable to access the property, leading to potential frustrations and inconveniences.

How do you navigate the key exchange maze with your Airbnb guests? Need assistance? We’re here to help!

How to Start an Airbnb Business?

Posted on 4 October 2023 - 10:27 am

Airbnb, a blend of “air mattress” and “breakfast”, began in 2008 when its founders rented out their San Francisco loft. Fast-forward, and it’s a global phenomenon, transforming the way people travel. The allure of Airbnb lies in its dual benefit: travelers get a more authentic, localized experience, and hosts earn by renting out their spaces. Essentially, the Airbnb business model taps into the shared economy, allowing homeowners to make their properties, whether an entire house, a single room, or unique spaces, available for short-term rentals. If you’re looking at turning your vacant space into a potential income source or dreaming of starting a full-fledged rental business, here’s your step-by-step guide to launching a successful Airbnb venture.

1. Understand the Airbnb Model:

Before diving in, familiarize yourself with how Airbnb operates:

Hosts list their spaces, set prices, and define house rules.
Guests search for accommodations based on various parameters, book listings that appeal to them, and pay via Airbnb’s secure platform.
Airbnb earns by charging hosts a 3% listing fee and guests a service fee.

2. Research Market Demand:

Examine the demand for Airbnb in your area. Are you in a tourist hotspot? A quiet suburb? A business district? Knowing your potential audience helps tailor your offerings. Use tools like AirDNA to gain insights into occupancy rates, seasonal demands, and competitors’ prices in your area.

3. Evaluate Legal and Regulatory Implications:

Regulations for short-term rentals vary by city and country.

Some places require hosts to possess licenses or permits.
Others have restrictions on the type of property that can be rented out.
Understand local tax obligations, including transient occupancy taxes. Before listing, ensure you’re compliant with local laws to avoid potential legal pitfalls.

4. Ready Your Property:

a. Repairs & Renovations: Address any pending repairs. Consider minor renovations to make the space more appealing.

b. Furnishing: Ensure the space is furnished aptly. Basics include a comfortable bed, clean bathroom, functional kitchen, and reliable Wi-Fi.

c. Safety: Install smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure there are clear emergency exits.

5. Craft an Inviting Listing:

a. Photography: High-quality photos are crucial. If possible, invest in a professional shoot.

b. Descriptive Title & Summary: Create a catchy title and a detailed summary highlighting what makes your space unique.

c. Amenities & House Rules: Clearly mention amenities you offer and set clear house rules. This ensures guests know what to expect.

6. Pricing Strategy:

a. Competitive Pricing: Starting with a slightly lower price can attract your first guests and crucial initial reviews.

b. Dynamic Pricing: Consider tools like Wheelhouse or PriceLabs, which adjust prices based on demand, seasonality, and local events.

c. Understand Airbnb’s Fee Structure: Remember, Airbnb charges a 3% host fee and a variable guest service fee.

7. Master the Art of Communication:

Always be prompt, polite, and clear in your communication with potential guests. Address their queries and concerns. Once booked, send a welcome message with essential details about check-in and your space.

8. Focus on Guest Experience:

a. Check-in Process: Whether it’s a lockbox, digital locks, or in-person, ensure a smooth check-in experience.

b. Welcome Kit: Consider a welcome kit with local maps, transport details, nearby attractions, and a list of recommended eateries.

c. Personal Touches: Small gestures, like a handwritten note or a basket of snacks, can elevate the guest experience.

9. Manage Operations Efficiently:

a. Cleaning: Ensure thorough cleaning between stays. Consider professional cleaning services.

b. Restocking: Regularly check and restock essential supplies like toiletries, coffee, tea, and other basics.

c. Maintenance: Regularly inspect for wear and tear, making necessary repairs or replacements.

10. Collect and Act on Feedback:

a. Reviews: Encourage guests to leave reviews. Positive reviews enhance your listing’s appeal.

b. Constructive Feedback: Use any constructive criticism to improve offerings and address valid concerns.

c. Engage with Guests: Respond to reviews, thanking guests for positive feedback, and addressing any negative feedback professionally.

Conclusion:

Starting an Airbnb business can be both exciting and daunting. However, with meticulous planning, a focus on guest experience, and adaptability to feedback, it can evolve into a rewarding venture. Remember, at the heart of every successful Airbnb business is the spirit of hospitality. By offering guests a unique, comfortable, and memorable stay, you not only earn income but also enrich the global travel community by providing a home away from home.

How to Attract and Evaluate the Best Tenants

Posted on 29 September 2023 - 10:26 am

As a landlord, protecting your property means finding trustworthy tenants. This involves not only seeking those who can manage rent payments but also thoroughly screening them to reduce property management risks such as delayed payments, evictions, and damages. New landlords often ask, “How do I check a tenant’s background?” This blog will guide you.

Tenant screening is essential. While horror stories about difficult tenants abound, many of these situations could have been avoided with better upfront screening. It’s not just about trusting your instincts; it’s about the data. For those looking to maintain steady rental income, a detailed screening process is crucial, covering credit reports, criminal backgrounds, and eviction histories.

Rushing tenant screening due to vacancy fears can be costly. Effective screening services are both quick and detailed. Let’s delve into why screening matters:

Know Your Applicant’s Finances: Beyond just a credit score, a detailed credit report highlights a tenant’s financial standing, revealing debts and credit behaviors. For applicants with limited credit history, options like requiring co-signers can be considered.
Ensure Payment Reliability: A majority of landlords express concerns about new tenant payment issues. Comprehensive credit reports and checks with past landlords and employers can illuminate an applicant’s payment and employment stability.
Protect Property & Community: Criminal background checks are crucial. Evaluating potential tenants’ histories ensures you don’t compromise property or community safety.
Eviction Prevention: Knowledge of an applicant’s eviction history is vital to sidestep future problems. Detailed eviction reports can give insights into past tenant behaviors.
Peace of Mind: Regular screening procedures, including credit, criminal, and eviction checks, increase the chances of acquiring reliable tenants. Services like Houst offer swift, dependable results, saving time and resources. Proper screening increases the likelihood of securing long-term, responsible tenants.

Lastly, adhering to fair housing laws ensures you treat all applicants equitably and stave off legal issues. All UK landlords should familiarize themselves with these laws to ensure a just and inclusive rental process.

Key Responsibilities in Tenant Management

Equal Treatment: UK landlords must ensure fairness throughout the rental process, avoiding discrimination from property advertising to tenancy management.

Advertisement Guidelines: Property listings should comply with anti-discrimination laws, focusing on property features, not potential tenant characteristics.

Objective Tenant Selection: Choose tenants based on rental history, creditworthiness, and references, steering clear of discriminatory practices.

Accommodating Disabilities: Landlords should make necessary adjustments, like wheelchair ramps, for disabled tenants unless they’re excessively burdensome.

No Harassment: Tenants exercising their rights under housing laws should never face harassment or retaliation. Always promote a respectful environment.

Implement Anti-Discrimination Policies: Regularly update and enforce policies in line with fair housing laws. Ensure all staff are trained and aware.

Maintain Records: Keep detailed records, including applications and accommodation requests, as evidence of fair treatment.

Tenant Screening Process: With digital applications rising, rental fraud has increased. Thorough tenant screening is essential. This involves:

Credit & Background Checks: Evictions are costly and time-consuming. Effective tenant screening can mitigate these risks.
Gathering Essential Details: Collect comprehensive details including full name, contact, employment, and references. Ensure all provided information is complete and transparent, keeping legal guidelines in mind.

Income & Employment Verification

A TransUnion survey found 84% of landlords cite payment issues as their primary worry, with eviction costs sometimes reaching $10,000. Ensure tenants have stable incomes to afford rent by checking income, employment, and obtaining recent pay stubs. Positive references, both personal and from employers, reinforce a tenant’s reliability.

Rental History Insights

Examining a tenant’s past addresses offers a glimpse into their rental behaviors and history. Landlords can gather insights about timely rent payments, property upkeep, and tenant-landlord relations by contacting previous landlords.

Importance of Landlord References

Landlord references are invaluable, revealing:

Rental Behavior: Insights into rent payment punctuality, property care, and lease adherence.

Reliability: Assesses trustworthiness in fulfilling rental obligations.

Tenant Interactions: Feedback on their conduct with neighbors.

Potential Red Flags: Past issues like late payments or property damages.

Truth Verification: Ensures honesty in provided details.

Checking Employment & Personal References

Evaluating an applicant’s character and financial stability is crucial. Personal references shed light on character, while employment references validate current employment and financial capacity to pay rent. Always use official channels for verification to ensure accuracy.

Eviction History Consideration

Be vigilant of a potential tenant’s eviction history. Overlooking this can result in expensive, time-consuming evictions. A thorough tenant screening, including eviction checks, prevents future issues. It’s wiser to preemptively address concerns than tackle them down the line.

Lease Agreement Overview

For new tenants, set move-in dates, tenancy duration, and monthly rent. New landlords can refer to this guide. A lease agreement is a legal contract detailing the rental’s terms, protecting both landlord and tenant. Essential components in a lease include:

Parties involved: Landlord, co-lessors, and all tenants’ contact details.
Rental Unit Description: Property’s full description, including address and parking.
Tenancy Term: Start and end dates, renewal process, and termination procedures.
Rent: Due date, amount, payment methods, and any late fees.
Utilities: What’s included or excluded.
Deposits: Outline deposit use and refund.
Smoking Rules: Where it’s allowed and penalties for breaches.
Insurance: Tenant’s required coverage.
Rental Unit Changes: Permissions and restrictions.
Maintenance: Responsibilities and accountability.
Subletting: Rules for subletting or assigning the lease.
Additional Terms: Other terms, e.g., pet policy.
Agreement Modifications: Rules for making changes.
Signatures: Spaces for all parties to sign and date.

Creating a Lease Agreement

Craft it yourself or use online templates. For a foolproof lease, consult a real estate lawyer to ensure legal adherence and protection.

Breaking a Lease

Landlords must have a valid reason. Ensure provisions are in the lease for potential changes. For month-to-month leases, give 30 days’ notice. Open communication and “cash for keys” agreements might also be strategies.

Tenant Screening Tools

Rentberry:

Free for landlords.
Offers background and credit checks.
Pros: Accessible on multiple platforms, 24/7 support, free tenant screening.
Cons: No free trial for paid features.

Rentme:

Free services for landlords.
Combines background and credit checks in one report.
Pros: Free for landlords, 24/7 support, wide pool of potential tenants.
Cons: Mainly web-based.

Both services simplify the landlord’s experience, offering comprehensive tenant information.

Keey: Your Ideal Rental Management Partner

Choose Keey for a streamlined rental management experience. Keey offers powerful tenant screening tools and manages your property with care, from listings to contract management. They prioritize creating attractive Airbnb listings, maintenance, and cleaning. Rely on Keey’s expertise for competitive pricing strategies and tailored services, regardless of your experience level as a landlord.

The Top 6 Unconventional Spaces You Can Book on Airbnb

Posted on 27 September 2023 - 9:28 am

The childhood memories of playing in that old treehouse might be fading, but have you ever considered the lucrative potential that lies in that wooden haven among the branches? Or perhaps you’re the proud owner of a houseboat that mostly rests idle?

For many, Airbnb is associated with chic urban apartments or picturesque holiday homes. However, you might be surprised to know that your unconventional spaces could also be a source of income. Let’s delve into some of these quirky listings and the reasons behind their popularity.

1. Treehouses:

A treehouse, although it might lack the common comforts of a regular home such as a kitchen or toilet, holds a unique charm for many Airbnb users. The allure of treehouses taps into the wanderlust of those wanting an ‘out-of-the-box’ experience – quite literally, high amongst the trees. Whether it’s the memory of a childhood dream or the pursuit of an unusual retreat, guests are often willing to trade some amenities for this whimsical experience.

Things to Consider: Before you list your treehouse, think of the logistics. How will guests use restrooms? Is there a section of your main house they can use without disturbing your privacy? Also, ensuring your treehouse is waterproof is a must. No traveler, no matter how adventurous, wants to sleep through a drizzle.

2. Houseboats:

An anchored houseboat can be a unique travel experience. It allows guests to feel the gentle sway of the waters while still enjoying the comforts of a home. From luxury liners to more rustic vessels, there’s a demand for every kind of floating experience.

Things to Consider: Guest safety should always be paramount. It’s vital to ensure that the boat adheres to all safety standards and protocols. If guests are allowed to explore the waters, always give a thorough walkthrough of the operations and safety measures.

3. Open Spaces:

With the rise of the camping trend, your vast, picturesque lands could be the next big thing on Airbnb. From ocean-view hills to serene forests, these spaces offer a return to nature and often don’t even require a permanent structure.

Things to Consider: Evaluate the accessibility of your land, especially during adverse weather conditions. Mention phone signal availability and provide amenities like insect repellent or a campfire setup.

4. Barns and Vintage Caravans:

Old structures, like barns or vintage caravans, often ooze charm and character. With some renovation, these can become highly sought-after Airbnb listings, offering guests a taste of history and nostalgia.

Things to Consider: Honesty is key. Clearly mention the amenities available and any potential drawbacks, like the lack of running water or electricity, to ensure guest satisfaction.

5. Tents and Tepees:

With the rising popularity of glamping, tents ranging from basic setups to luxurious yurts have seen a surge in demand on Airbnb. They offer a unique blend of nature and comfort.

Things to Consider: The location is crucial. A tent in a crowded suburban area might not be as appealing as one in a secluded forest. Always be transparent about what you’re offering and consider providing basic amenities.

Promoting Your Unique Airbnb Space:

Marketing these unconventional spaces requires a delicate balance. It’s essential to captivate potential guests with the uniqueness of your space without overpromising. Determining the right price point is also key.

The Keey team boasts extensive experience in assisting hosts to curate and market such spaces effectively. If you need guidance in transforming your space into an enticing Airbnb listing, reach out to us for insights and support.

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