tips Archives

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.

UK Airbnb Income: Tax Tips for Hosts

Posted on 26 October 2023 - 10:06 am

Renting out your property when you’re not there, also known as a Furnished Holiday Let, is a great way to make extra money. However, if you live in the United Kingdom, you need to know about the tax rules.

Many Airbnb hosts have faced challenges when it comes to paying income tax on their rental earnings. Taking action early is much better than facing potential tax fines later on. Plus, as a host, you have the chance to take advantage of different tax breaks and allowances.

Does my property qualify as a Furnished Holiday Let?

Understanding Airbnb Income Tax requires familiarizing yourself with the term ‘Furnished Holiday Let.’ For your property to qualify, it must:

Be open for Airbnb bookings for at least 210 days each year.
Be well-furnished for everyday living.
Be situated in the United Kingdom or the European Economic Area (EEA).
Be rented out for commercial purposes to guests for at least 105 days annually.

Why should I pay Airbnb Income Tax?

You might have started renting out your property on Airbnb as a small side project to make some extra money. However, being an Airbnb host is essentially like running a small business. As a result, just like any business owner, you are required to pay taxes on your income.

In the UK, you can earn up to £11,850 per year without having to pay any tax. So, if you make a small amount of money each month from Airbnb and it adds up to less than £11,850 over the year, you don’t have to pay tax on that income. However, if you earn more than this amount, you need to report your income and pay the necessary taxes.

It’s important to be proactive and stay informed about Airbnb taxes to avoid penalties later on, especially since there are tax benefits and allowances available that can help hosts save money.

How much tax do I owe on my Airbnb income?

Understanding the tax differences between renting out a room in your home versus renting out an investment property is key for Airbnb income tax.

If you rent a room in your home, you could qualify for various tax-free allowances and benefits. On the other hand, if you are renting out an investment property through Airbnb, you’ll be taxed like a business owner.

In the UK, owners of furnished holiday lets might have to pay business rates. Specifically, in England, a property available for rent for 140 or more days a year is considered a self-catering property and is subject to business rates. In Wales, the rules are the same, but the property must also be actually rented out for at least 70 days. In Scotland, local assessors decide if business rates apply, considering the property’s type, size, and location.

If you run a larger guest house or B&B that accommodates more than six people at once, you may also need to pay business rates.

Who is responsible for council tax on a holiday let?

For holiday homes or investment properties on Airbnb available for less than 140 days yearly, council tax applies instead of business rates.

Can I offset letting losses against other income? The UK government ceased allowing Airbnb hosts to offset furnished holiday letting losses against other forms of income after April 2012. Now, you can only offset losses against future profits from the same property.

Don’t overlook VAT

Remember, surpassing a total Airbnb rental income of £85,000 triggers the need for VAT registration.

You might opt to pass the VAT costs onto your guests, absorb them yourself, or find a middle ground by slightly raising your accommodation’s nightly rate.

Qualifying as a Furnished Holiday Let unlocks various benefits:

Profits contribute towards your pension eligibility.
You can claim allowances for fixtures, furniture, and certain equipment.
Capital Gains Tax relief programs like Entrepreneurs’ Relief or Business Asset Rollover Relief might apply.

Tax-free threshold for Airbnb

In the UK, Airbnb earnings contribute to your taxable income, potentially attracting corporation tax, income tax, business rates, and VAT, contingent on your annual earnings. Since 2016, the Rent A Room Relief scheme has elevated the tax-free threshold for furnished holiday lets to £7,500, applicable to renting rooms in your primary residence. Investment properties follow different regulations.

Micro-Entrepreneurs Allowance and Airbnb

The UK government’s scheme for micro-entrepreneurs, including Airbnb hosts, permits a £1,000 deduction from gross income to determine taxable rental income, bypassing the need to calculate and subtract actual incurred expenses.

Note that claiming both the Micro-Entrepreneurs Allowance and Rent A Room Relief on the same income is not permissible.

Capital Gains Tax Relief

Investment property owners converting to Airbnb may access capital gains tax relief if the property qualifies as a Furnished Holiday Let. Benefits include a reduced 10% capital gains tax rate under Entrepreneurs’ Relief and the ability to defer or avoid capital gains tax under specific circumstances, alongside capital allowances for property furnishings.

Need guidance with your Airbnb? A wealth of online resources exists to assist you with Airbnb tax matters. Here are a few we recommend:

UK Gov website – Self Assessment Tax Returns
Airbnb – UK Rental Income Taxation Guidance
Go Simple Tax Software – Self Assessment Tool

Additionally, our Keey team in London stands ready to help you navigate the complexities of managing an Airbnb.

Managing an AirBnb Remotely: 5 Essential Tips

Posted on 11 October 2023 - 10:40 am

In recent years, working from anywhere has become a big thing, and even companies like Airbnb are getting on board. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, Airbnb now lets its employees and hosts work and handle their properties from anywhere they want. If you’re interested in managing your Airbnb remotely, this blog has you covered. We’re sharing tips on how to do it, and we know a thing or two as we’re one of the top Airbnb management companies in the UK.

1. Build a Reliable Team

To make sure your Airbnb is in good shape, especially when you can’t be there in person, you’ll need a reliable team. This team helps with tasks like cleaning, fixing things, and making guests feel comfy. Since you can’t always be there, it’s essential to have them ready to help.

Here’s who you should think about having on your team:

Handyman: This person can fix all sorts of home problems, even if they happen at odd times.
Housekeeper: They keep your place clean after guests leave, making sure everything looks great.
Electrician/HVAC Specialist: These experts handle heating and cooling issues so your guests are always comfortable.

Make sure you can talk to your team whenever you need to, day or night. It’s crucial for them to reach you 24/7 in case they have questions about your place. Being available helps provide the best Airbnb experience.

Also, tell your team what you expect from them and how they can make guests happy. This is why many owners like using Airbnb management companies like Keey.

2. Ensure Safety

You want your guests to feel safe at your place, so they leave good reviews. Making sure it’s secure is super important for a great guest experience. Here’s what you can do:

Bright Lights: Good lighting keeps bad stuff away. Make sure your place is well-lit, and check outdoor lights to make sure they work.
Security Cameras: Think about adding cameras to your property, like at the front and back doors, hallways, and anywhere else needed. But, be sure to tell Airbnb and respect people’s privacy.
Clear Entry: Make sure there’s nothing blocking the way to your place that could be unsafe. An open path makes guests feel secure since there’s no place for anyone to hide.
Emergency Info: Share important numbers, like the local police and fire departments, plus your emergency contact. Put them on a notice board or in an email.
Alerts and Sensors: Install these to know if anything unusual happens around your place. For instance, Ring Security Systems help you keep an eye on who’s at your front door.

3. Make Check-in Easy

You can make things super smooth for your guests by having a keyless way to get into your place.

With a keyless entry system, guests can easily come and go. You won’t have to be there when they arrive or leave.

Here are some keyless options for your guests:

Lock Boxes: These are like storage boxes for keys. Guests enter a code to get the key. You can hide it or put it on a door or wall. Change the code after each guest leaves.
Keypads: No need for a key here. Send your guests a code before they arrive, and they can use it during their stay.
Smart Locks: These don’t need keys either. Guests use a mobile app or keypad. You can link them to your Airbnb account, and your guests will get an email with the code to enter your place.

4. Create a Helpful Guest Guide

If you’re running your Airbnb from afar, a detailed guest guide is a must. It’s a great way to make guests happy and keep your place in top shape.

A guest guide is super useful. It helps your guests enjoy their stay without any stress. Here’s what you should include:

Local Stuff: Tell them about cool nearby places like attractions, restaurants, and facilities.
Getting Around: Share info on transportation options.
Check-in and Check-out: Explain how they can arrive and leave smoothly.
Using Appliances: Give them guidance on using stuff in your place.
House Rules: Let them know what’s okay and not okay.
WiFi Info: Share the WiFi code and how to fix any issues.

Put the guest guide in an easy-to-spot spot, like the living room or kitchen table.

You can even make different guest guides depending on what you want to know from your guests or how long they’ll stay. For example, if you want them to leave reviews, include that in the guide.

5. Partner with Airbnb Pros

When you’re not available all the time or don’t want to chat with a bunch of folks like housekeepers and handymen, consider teaming up with an Airbnb management company.

Unlike having your own team, these pros handle everything without bugging you for every little thing. They greet your guests, tidy up, and keep things running smoothly without hassling you.

They know the Airbnb game for owners inside and out. They’ll make sure your guests leave rave reviews, so more people want to book your place. Plus, they boost your listing’s visibility, helping you earn more.

At Keey, we handle all the guest talks for our hosts. We also give you an account manager to keep your money matters in check, so you can make the most from your property.

Conclusion

Running an Airbnb business from a distance may seem tricky, but it’s doable. Airbnb’s flexibility allows you to work from anywhere.

However, if you want to skip the hassle of hosting, Keey has you covered. We’re experts at running Airbnb businesses remotely. We can help you earn more by increasing your property’s visibility, responding to reviews, adjusting rates, tracking metrics, and more.

So, if you’re looking for more earnings, better control, and a host of other benefits, get in touch with us at Keey. We’re here to help!

Where to List Your London Apartment: Top 5 Sites

Posted on 5 October 2023 - 10:24 am

London, with its grandeur and bustling life, remains a prime location for real estate. For property owners, the city offers a golden opportunity to lease out their apartments to a diverse set of clientele – be it tourists, professionals, or students. But where exactly should you list your London apartment to attract potential renters? With a multitude of rental platforms available, it becomes essential to cherry-pick the best ones. This blog will unveil the top five sites where you can list your London apartment for maximum visibility and returns.

1. Rightmove

The UK’s Number One Property Website

Rightmove stands tall as one of the UK’s most dominant property listing sites. With its user-friendly interface, extensive database, and innovative features like ‘Draw-a-Search’, it caters to millions of monthly visitors. Property owners can benefit from the site’s vast reach and credibility. Rightmove offers comprehensive analytics, enabling landlords to track the performance of their listings and adjust accordingly. Moreover, its mobile app ensures potential tenants can view your apartment even on-the-go.

2. Zoopla

Delivering Smarter Property Choices

Zoopla has carved its niche in the property listing world, not just by its vast collection of properties but also through its unique tools. The site’s ‘SmartMaps’ feature provides a visual exploration of a neighbourhood, allowing renters to understand the local amenities, schools, and transport links. For landlords, Zoopla’s ‘Property Valuation Tool’ can be a game-changer, helping to set competitive prices. Additionally, its engaging blog section offers insights into the latest real estate trends, keeping both landlords and tenants informed.

3. Spareroom

Transforming the Room Rental Scene

If you’re looking to rent out a single room or a shared space in your London apartment, Spareroom is your go-to platform. As the UK’s leading flatshare website, it connects landlords with potential roommates, ensuring compatibility. With features like ‘Buddy Up’, tenants can even team up with others to find a shared space, ensuring your apartment is always in demand. For those concerned about security, Spareroom offers an ‘Advanced Member Verification’ feature, giving an added layer of trust.

4. Gumtree

The Classic Choice for Direct Listings

Gumtree, although a classified ads platform, has a robust property listings section. Being one of the UK’s largest digital brands, it offers landlords a wide audience without getting confined to just property-seekers. The platform allows direct interaction between landlords and potential tenants, eliminating the need for middlemen. With its easy-to-use listing procedure and the option to highlight ads for better visibility, Gumtree remains a favourite for many London apartment owners.

5. OpenRent

Empowering Landlords with Flexibility

OpenRent is more than just a listing site; it’s a comprehensive rental platform. It integrates property advertising with tenancy creation and rent collection. Landlords have the flexibility to choose the services they need, making the entire rental process seamless. OpenRent also lists your property on major platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla, ensuring maximum exposure. Its transparent fee structure and landlord-friendly tools make it a top choice for many apartment owners in London.

Conclusion:

Listing your London apartment on the right platform is crucial in today’s competitive rental market. Whether you’re aiming for broad exposure, unique features, or flexibility, the platforms mentioned above cater to varied needs. By strategically choosing where to list, landlords can ensure their property not only reaches a vast audience but also finds the right tenant. After all, in the world of property rentals, it’s not just about finding a tenant, but the right tenant.

If you feel you could benefit from Keey’s services, take a look at what we can do for you at Keey!

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.

How can you boost Airbnb earnings?

Posted on 28 September 2023 - 10:14 am

Delving into the world of Airbnb can be a goldmine, especially when the property is managed effectively and reaches its fullest potential. However, this success comes with the prerequisite of understanding and managing every intricate aspect of the hosting business.

In the contemporary, fast-paced hospitality arena, expectations have skyrocketed. Guests, nowadays, not only expect Airbnb accommodations to meet but often exceed the standards of traditional hotels. They desire top-notch amenities, seamless and swift customer service, and an experience that’s memorable. Being an Airbnb host isn’t just about responding to a couple of emails—it’s about managing a full-fledged business venture.

Managing one or multiple Airbnb listings can very well turn into a demanding full-time commitment. From handling guest queries and ensuring meticulous cleaning to formulating marketing strategies and setting the right price, there’s a myriad of tasks to juggle. For many, this isn’t just a side hustle but a primary occupation. The truly successful hosts manage to generate a substantial income, showcasing the lucrative potential of the platform.

So, what strategies can be implemented to enhance Airbnb revenue?

1. Dynamic Pricing:

One of the simplest yet effective strategies to amplify your Airbnb earnings is by employing dynamic pricing. Adjust your rates for weekends, peak seasons, and off-peak times. The crux lies in ensuring you don’t undervalue your property. Research the pricing strategies of nearby hotels and other Airbnb listings, especially during significant local events. Despite a hotel offering luxurious amenities like a spa, the spaciousness, garden, or the charm of your neighborhood might have a unique appeal to many guests.

2. Listing Optimization for Maximum Conversion:

It might sound fundamental, but it’s staggering how many hosts overlook the potential of listing optimization. To drive interest and secure bookings, you must make your listing stand out. High-quality, captivating photos that truly represent your property and its unique features can make a world of difference. The title of your listing should be catchy and immediately grab attention. Finally, an elaborate description highlighting the amenities, local attractions, and exclusive insider tips can be the cherry on top, providing a comprehensive view of what you offer.

3. Strategically Set Cleaning Fee:

Consider slightly elevating the cleaning fee to augment your earnings from the listing. However, it’s pivotal to maintain a balance to ensure it remains attractive for short stays as compared to hotels. For hosts who hire external cleaning services, negotiating a long-term contract with a trusted provider can prove beneficial. Efficient communication can also ensure that the cleaning process is swift and seamless.

4. Swift Response to Guest Inquiries:

A timely response can significantly boost your bookings. Given the global nature of Airbnb, hosts often receive messages at inopportune times due to time zone differences. Regardless of the hour, potential guests anticipate immediate answers. In the service industry, the axiom “the customer is king” holds. If you cannot manage timely responses, consider enlisting a dedicated professional to handle guest communication.

5. Professional Management for Assured Success:

Engaging with a professional short-term rental manager or company can be a game-changer, particularly if managing your Airbnb becomes too time-consuming. Companies like Keey provide comprehensive concierge services, handling every aspect of your property and listing, ensuring an uptick in your rental income.

By adopting these strategies and giving due attention to every detail, hosts can truly harness the potential of Airbnb and ensure a steady and impressive income stream.

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.

Preparing for Airbnb Guests: 5 Essential Steps

Posted on 26 September 2023 - 9:32 am

Preparing your Airbnb for guests goes beyond just clean sheets and a quick vacuum. Achieving success as a host requires meticulous attention to detail and ensuring your space is not only clean but also welcoming. Here are five crucial steps to take before your guests arrive:

1. Bins:

Cleaning and emptying the bins should be a top priority before your guests’ arrival. Don’t limit this to just the kitchen; check all bins, including those in the bathroom. Nobody wants to discover remnants from previous travelers in the bathroom bin. Be thorough in your cleaning, reaching under beds, between couch cushions, and behind doors. Don’t leave any area untouched. Mop tiled floors and vacuum carpets meticulously.

Tip: Consider providing separate bins for recycling and general waste, along with clear labeling. This not only encourages eco-friendly practices but also makes it easier for guests to dispose of their trash correctly.

2. Sheets and Towels:

If you plan to host guests frequently, it’s wise to maintain a substantial supply of sheets and towels to avoid last-minute shortages. Always keep clean sheets, towels, and essential amenities readily available in the cupboard. This ensures not only that you can provide fresh linens for new guests but also that they have access to additional towels or sheets during their stay. If you’re uncomfortable with this access, be prepared to deliver fresh linens upon request.

Tip: Invest in high-quality, durable linens that can withstand frequent washing. Guests appreciate the luxury of soft, fresh sheets and towels, and it reflects positively in their reviews.

3. Toilet Paper:

Few things are more inconvenient for guests than running out of toilet paper. Ensure you stock an ample supply within easy reach of the bathroom, preventing any awkward situations.

Tip: Store extra rolls of toilet paper in an easily accessible and visible location in the bathroom, so guests can quickly find them when needed. A decorative basket or wall-mounted holder can be a stylish solution.

4. The Kitchen:

While many hosts expect guests to clean up after themselves in the kitchen, it’s your responsibility to ensure they’ve done a thorough job. Cutlery, glasses, plates, pots, and pans should all be spotless and neatly stored. Replace used tea towels with fresh ones, check and refill salt and pepper shakers and other condiments, and clear out any leftover food from previous guests. Make sure the kitchen appears clean and organized.

Tip: Create a simple instruction manual for kitchen appliances like the oven, microwave, and dishwasher. This helps guests feel more at ease and minimizes the chances of any accidental damage due to improper use.

5. Valuables:

Safety should never be compromised. Lock up your valuables, whether by taking them out of the house or securing them in a safe. Remove items of value from areas accessible to guests, including jewelry, personal documents, credit cards, electronic devices, antiques, or collectibles.

Tip: Consider installing a secure lockbox or a small safe within the rental property. This offers guests a place to store their valuables during their stay, enhancing their peace of mind.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with Airbnb hosting responsibilities, consider enlisting the help of Keey. We specialize in managing short-term rentals across the UK. Our team can arrange for professional cleaning services to ensure your home is in top condition for your guests. For more ideas on preparing your home for guests, be sure to check out our other posts.

Hosting guests on Airbnb can be a rewarding experience, but attention to detail is key to earning positive reviews and ensuring a smooth guest experience.

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