5 Airbnb Host Tips to Earn 5-Stars Every Time

One of the great things about Airbnb is the variety of hosts and accommodations guests can choose from when booking a stay.  Every host is different in how they communicate with guests, the amenities they offer, and the experience they provide. While there are many ways hosts can delight guests and earn a great review, these are my tried-and-true methods  that work every time:

1. Respond to every new guest within one hour.

Great communication with guests is key. Send a quick response to their first message. It is always appreciated (and often times expected). Even if they don't ask any questions, ask if they have any and answer them promptly. After your initial exchange with the guest, be sure to provide them with all the important details they need for their stay including how to access the home or apartment, where to find keys, parking, local coffee spot, etc. 

2. Leave a handwritten note

Say 'hi' and welcome your guests. Let them know you're happy they are there and to make themselves at home. This is also a great place to leave wifi and emergency contact info. If you want to go the extra mile, provide a map or list of your favorite local spots.

3. PYOB - provide your own booze

Whether it's a bottle of wine or local craft beer, provide your guests with a welcome drink. It doesn't cost much, and goes a long way. You don't have to offer a full bar (unless you want to!); figure $10 per reservation. Leave the wine out in the open or a note to indicate the "Welcome Pack" of beer you've left them in the fridge.

4. Pay attention to dust

It sounds like common sense, but if you're renting out your own place, sometimes you don't realize how dusty your ceiling fans or entertainment center shelves have gotten. Even if the rest of your place is tidy and spotless, guests will notice dust in even the most benign places. Pay extra special attention to the nooks and crannies behind doors, around picture frames, in closets, on the fireplace mantel, even on top of your fridge. 

5. Have treats

A bowl of peanut M&Ms, yogurt covered pretzels, Halloween or Easter candy- whatever you choose, leave a simple sweet treat that's easily accessible in your living room. It provides an extra welcoming touch and guests will appreciate it.

*Bonus Tip*

If you really want to delight your guests and guarantee a fantastic review, the trick is in the towels! While it will cost you a few bucks more, opt to purchase bath sheets instead of towels. Bath sheets are the extra large and long towels you expect to find in luxury hotels. Guests LOVE these towels and they really aren't that much more expensive. So grab your 20% off Bed Bath and Beyond coupons or head on over to Amazon to get some. 

Lastly, while we're on the topic of towels, here's a *bonus* bonus tip: always buy white. I know it's tempting to get the beautiful colored towels to match your shower curtain, but you can't bleach them. Depending on how often your guests leave the towels on the floor, if they ever take on a mildew smell, you can't get that out without the power of bleach. If you must have color, get a few decorative hand towels.