3 Steps to Relaunch Your Short Term Rental Business

airbnb host planning on relaunching their short term rental business

So, you're thinking about diving into the world of Airbnb hosting, or perhaps you already have a listing that's gathering virtual dust? Well, you're in the right place because we've got some fantastic tips to help you relaunch your Airbnb successfully. Let's transform your space and your online presence to welcome guests with open arms.

Wondering Why your Airbnb is Not Getting Booked? Check out this blog post.

1. Revamp Your Online Presence

The first step to relaunching your Airbnb is to give your online presence a makeover. Your Airbnb listing is essentially your property's digital storefront, and first impressions matter. We'll explore how you can enhance your online presence to attract more guests.

High-Quality Photos: The Foundation of Success

It all starts with your listing photos. High-quality, well-lit photos can make a world of difference. Consider hiring a professional photographer to capture your space in its best light. Images are your virtual handshake with potential guests, and they need to leave a lasting impression. Bright, well-composed photos can make your property look more inviting and appealing.

photographer taking photos of airbnb listing

Solution: Upload New Photos and Videos

However, don't stop at just one photoshoot! To keep things fresh and show up higher in search results, update your photos regularly. A weekly rotation of images can give the impression of an active and attractive listing. Airbnb advises hosts to refresh their photos regularly to keep the listing engaging and appealing. High-quality photos and videos can truly make your listing stand out, enticing potential guests to click on it. Check out Airbnb’s advice on the matter!

Why Video Matters

  • Immersive Experience: Video offers a more immersive experience for potential guests. It allows them to virtually tour your property, getting a sense of the layout, flow, and ambiance that static photos alone can't fully capture.
  • Transparency: Video provides transparency. It allows you to showcase your space as it truly is, helping manage guest expectations. This can lead to more satisfied guests, fewer misunderstandings, and better reviews.
  • Storytelling: Video enables storytelling. It's an opportunity to narrate the unique story of your Airbnb, whether it's the history of the space, the neighborhood's charm, or the experiences guests can enjoy during their stay.
  • Local Insights: You can use video to highlight local insights, such as nearby attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems that guests might not discover on their own. Sharing your local knowledge can enhance their overall experience.
  • Trust Building: A well-made video can build trust with potential guests. It shows that you've invested time and effort into presenting your property in the best light, which can instill confidence.

What to Include in Your Airbnb Video

Creating an effective Airbnb video requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some key elements to consider:

  • Virtual Tour: Start with a virtual tour of your property. Walk through each room, capturing the layout and showcasing the features that make your space unique. Use smooth, steady camera movements to provide a professional look.
  • Amenities: Highlight the amenities that guests might be searching for. If you have a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room, or a private balcony with a stunning view, make sure to showcase them.
  • Local Area: Share glimpses of the local area. Film nearby attractions, parks, restaurants, and any activities guests might enjoy. You can also use this opportunity to introduce yourself as the host.
  • Guest Experiences: Capture moments of guests enjoying your property. These clips can add authenticity and show the positive experiences that past guests have had.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Pay attention to the video's aesthetic. Good lighting, framing, and steady shots are essential. Consider using a tripod or stabilizer to avoid shaky footage.
  • Narration: If you're comfortable with it, you can add a narration to the video. Share your enthusiasm for your property and the local area. Explain why it's a great place to stay.

You don’t have to get fancy with equipment. All you need is a smart phone with good video quality, and an easy editing software like capcut

Embrace the World of YouTube

Since you already have the video, another exciting way to revamp your online presence is by creating a YouTube channel dedicated to your Airbnb listing. You can take viewers on a virtual tour of your property, showcase its unique features, and even share vlogs about the local area.

Explore the Power of Social Media

In addition to revamping your listing, consider leveraging the power of social media to boost your online presence. Create dedicated social media profiles for your Airbnb listing on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Share stunning photos of your property, local attractions, and even guest reviews. Social media provides an excellent opportunity to engage with potential guests and build a loyal following.

2. Consider the Pet-Friendly Option

If your listing doesn't already allow pets, it might be time to reconsider. Allowing pets can open up a whole new world of potential guests. Many travelers are looking for places where they can bring their furry companions, and they often stay longer because of it.

dog enjoying the fenced-in backyard of an airbnb

Solution: Embrace Pet-Friendly Hosting

Making your space pet-friendly can be a game-changer. Provide pet amenities like food bowls, a cozy bed, or even a small fenced outdoor area if possible. Just be sure to set some ground rules to ensure both humans and pets have a great stay. Create a pet policy that outlines any fees, size restrictions, and behavioral expectations for the furry guests. Turno provides an informative article on creating a Pet Friendly Airbnb, guiding you through the process of making your space welcoming to both humans and their pets.

Here are some considerations to help you determine a reasonable pet fee:

  • Location: The pet fee may vary depending on the local market and demand. In areas where there are many pet-friendly accommodations, you might need to keep your fee competitive. Conversely, if your property is in a location with limited pet-friendly options, you could charge a bit more.
  • Property Type: The type of property you offer matters. A larger house with a yard may justify a higher pet fee compared to a small apartment with limited space.
  • Amenities: If your property is well-equipped for pets with features like a fenced yard, pet-friendly furniture, or nearby pet-friendly parks, you can charge a higher fee.
  • Cleaning Costs: Consider the additional cleaning required after a pet stay. Pet owners often expect a thorough cleaning to remove allergens and pet hair. You can factor this into your fee.
  • Pet Size and Type: Some hosts differentiate fees based on the size or type of pet. For example, a small dog might have a lower fee than a large one. Cats are usually charged less than dogs.
  • Number of Pets: You can charge per pet or per stay, depending on how many pets guests bring. Charging per pet can add up, especially if there are multiple pets.
  • Competitor Analysis: Research what similar properties in your area charge for pet fees. This can give you a benchmark for setting your fee.
  • Refundable Deposit: Some hosts opt for a refundable pet deposit in addition to the pet fee. This deposit can be returned if no damage or excessive cleaning is required.
  • Pet Amenities: If you provide pet amenities like pet beds, food bowls, or toys, you can justify a higher pet fee.
  • Length of Stay: Consider whether your fee will be per night, per week, or for the entire stay. Longer stays might warrant a lower per-night fee.

As a general guideline, pet fees typically range from $20 to $100 per pet per stay, but this can vary widely. It's essential to be transparent about the pet fee in your listing, and it's a good practice to explain what the fee covers (e.g., cleaning, potential damage). Remember that reasonable pet fees can attract pet-loving guests, but excessively high fees may discourage bookings.

Ultimately, the right pet fee for your Airbnb property should strike a balance between being competitive in your market, covering any extra costs associated with hosting pets, and attracting responsible pet owners.

3. Redesign Your Space

If your Airbnb space feels outdated or uninspiring, it's time for a redesign. Luckily, you don't need to break the bank to do it. The key is to work with what you have and make strategic changes.

Solution: Affordable Redesign with Nomadic Nooks

Nomadic Nooks specializes in crafting Airbnb designs that make a lasting impression like the Countryside Charisma design below. They can help you decide what stays and what needs to go in your space. For items you no longer need, consider selling them on platforms like Facebook Marketplace to recoup some of your investment. Redesigning your space can breathe new life into it, making it more appealing to potential guests.

Capture the New Look

After you've redesigned your space, make sure to update your listing photos. Show off the changes you've made and highlight the unique features of your property. Hosttools has 8 Tips to Taking the Perfect Airbnb Photos!

Solution: Snap Away

Take new, high-quality photos of your revamped space. Show off the updated decor, cozy corners, and any new amenities you've added. A picture is worth a thousand words, and great photos can help your listing shine. Hosttools has 8 Tips to Taking the Perfect Airbnb Photos, offering guidance on how to capture your space in the best possible light.

Craft a Compelling Listing Description

Don't forget the importance of your listing description. Paint a picture of the experience guests can expect. Highlight nearby attractions, special amenities, and the unique charm of your space.

Solution: Be a Storyteller

Write a captivating description that invites potential guests into your world. Use descriptive language to convey the ambiance and personality of your Airbnb. Make them feel like they're already on vacation. Describe not only your property but the neighborhood, the local culture, and the experiences they can enjoy during their stay. Share your passion for your city and your property, and guests will be more inclined to book.

Include Key Words and Amenities: To ensure that your listing is easily discoverable, incorporate relevant keywords and popular amenities in your description. Think about what potential guests might be searching for. Words like "king-sized bed," "Netflix," "private balcony," "fully equipped kitchen," and "close to the beach" can grab the attention of travelers seeking specific features. These keywords can improve your listing's visibility in search results and attract guests looking for those amenities.

In summary, relaunching your Airbnb involves revamping both your online presence and your physical space. Upgrade your listing photos and consider allowing pets to attract a new audience. Redesign your space affordably with the help of Nomadic Nooks, and don't forget to capture the transformation with new photos. Craft a compelling listing description to seal the deal, and you'll be well on your way to hosting success. Happy hosting!

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