Lessons learned over 12 years as an Airbnb host
I am sharing 10 lessons learned over 12 years as an Airbnb host.
Disclosure: I have included some affiliate links below, and I may receive commissions for purchases made through these links.
Hosting on Airbnb has been one of the most rewarding and profitable experiences of my life.
Not only has it provided a steady stream of income, but it has also allowed me to meet incredible people from all over the world while maximizing the value of my property.
But let’s be honest—it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. There have been plenty of lessons along the way, from navigating tricky guest situations to fine-tuning my pricing strategy.
If you’re thinking about becoming a host (or already are), here are ten lessons I’ve learned to help make your hosting journey successful.
1. First Impressions Are Everything
When guests walk through the door, their first impression sets the tone for their entire stay.
A sparkling clean space, cozy ambiance, and thoughtful details—like a handwritten welcome note and a welcome basket of goodies—can turn a good experience into a great one. Small touches matter more than you think!
2. Communication Can Make or Break the Experience
Good communication isn’t just about responding quickly—it’s about making your guests feel heard and valued.
From the moment they book to when they check out, being available and proactive goes a long way. I use automated messages for routine updates but always add a personal touch when guests reach out.
I also have the Airbnb app on my phone, so I am immediately alerted when a guest sends me a message. Knowing I respond promptly to their messages reassures them I am on top of their booking.
3. Smart Pricing Is an Art
Finding the sweet spot with pricing is a game-changer. Set your rates too high, and you’ll struggle with bookings.
Too low, and you’re leaving money on the table. I’ve learned to monitor local trends and events in my area and adjust my prices seasonally. I occasionally use Airbnb’s Smart Pricing tool, but I don’t swear by it.
4. Vet Your Guests—It’s Worth It
While most guests are excellent, it only takes one bad experience to learn that screening is essential.
Reading past reviews, setting clear house rules, and even asking a few simple questions about their stay can help ensure you’re hosting responsible guests. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.
5. The Little Extras Make a Big Difference
The baseline is providing a comfortable bed and a clean space. If you want to stand out, go above and beyond.
High-quality linens, travel-sized toiletries, local restaurant recommendations, and a small welcome basket can turn a one-time guest into a repeat visitor and often help towards receiving 5-star reviews.
6. A Reliable Cleaning Routine Is Non-Negotiable
Cleanliness is the #1 factor in getting great reviews. Whether you hire a professional cleaning service or do it yourself, a strict, detailed cleaning routine ensures that your space meets hotel-level standards every time.
Trust me—guests notice the little things, like spotless mirrors and fresh-smelling linens. After replacing my home windows, a guest mentioned how she loved my new windows, which were installed months before her booking.
I always have cleaning supplies on hand, as some guests like to freshen up their areas after a few days at the property, or if there is a spill, they want to clean up.
7. Expect the Unexpected
No matter how well you prepare, things will go wrong—plumbing issues, power outages, last-minute cancellations.
The key is to have a plan. I keep a list of trusted handymen and backup cleaners on speed dial. Being flexible and solution-oriented has saved me from many headaches.
You may even consider having one of those home warranty plans that cover repairs and wear and tear of appliances not covered by your insurance.
8. Keep Your Neighbors Happy
Your neighbors can make or break your hosting experience.
Be proactive about maintaining good relationships—let them know you’re hosting, set clear house rules about noise and parking, and encourage guests to be respectful.
Post a ‘quiet time’. A little consideration goes a long way in keeping the peace.
9. Reviews Are Gold
Great reviews attract more guests, plain and simple. I always ask happy guests to leave a review and take the time to respond to every review, whether good or bad. I ask them to please let me know if they have an issue so I can handle it before their stay ends.
I aim for positive reviews; however, if I get negative feedback, I see it as an opportunity to improve. Constructive criticism has helped me refine my hosting game.
10. Know the Business Side of Hosting
Airbnb hosting isn’t just about hospitality—it’s a business.
Understanding taxes, permits, and local regulations is crucial to avoiding legal headaches. I also keep track of my earnings, set aside money for taxes, and ensure I stay on top of and follow all the rules and regulations in my area.
Final Thoughts
Being an Airbnb host has been an incredible journey—one that has taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of hospitality. While it has its challenges, the rewards far outweigh them.
If you’ve been thinking about hosting, go for it! You can turn your space into a profitable and enjoyable business with the right mindset and strategies.
Have you learned any valuable lessons as an Airbnb host? I’d love to hear your experiences—drop them in the comments below!
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