Things To NOT Do In The Airbnb Business
There are many systems and processes that you should implement when running an Airbnb business in order to make it more profitable. However I thought I'd provide a short list of some things that you should NOT do as an Airbnb business owner. These actions will neutralize your profits and obliterate your business if you're not careful.
Photos Don't Match The Property
It may be tempting to use stock photos or highly altered photos of your listing in order to get more attention online, however this is one of the quickest ways to irritate your guests. When expectations don't match reality friction is created and that friction will be taken out on you in the form of bad reviews and customer complaints. Instead of trying to short cut the process try focusing on providing the best experience that you can possibly create for your guests.
Ignoring Resolutions
Just because you ignore something doesn't mean it's going to go away. This is a childish way of doing business and living life. If there's an issue then handle it as quickly as possible even if it's not your fault, because in business everything is your fault. On Airbnb resolutions that are not answered in 72 hours will automatically be settled in the guests favor whether it was justified or not.
Not Respecting Guest Privacy
Most people want to use Airbnb because it is easier and cheaper than going to a hotel. However just because they're staying in your property doesn't mean that they want to interact with you. Most people on travel just want to be left alone by the host unless there's a problem or a request. Set up the systems to have your guest do a self check-in so you don't have to coordinate arrival time. This makes things less awkward and will save you time in the process.
Now it is ok to send a welcome text, a text to check up on their stay about halfway through and a thank you text at the end. However that's the max amount that I would suggest interacting with the guest.
Not Providing Essential Amenities
Most guests won't ever notice whether or not you have toiletries, soap, towels, etc. However if you fail to provide these things that might be the only thing they remember. This will definitely reflect on your views and make for a terrible guest experience if they have to go into town to buy these things. Every one of your listings should have:
- Towels
- Soap
- Toiletries
- Silverware & Plates
- Cleaning Supplies
- Clean Linens
- Furniture...
Canceling Reservations
This is a HUGE mistake that will potentially get your account deactivated. You should never cancel a guest's reservation unless there's a real emergency. Sometimes people make their travel plans months in advance and the last thing they want is to have their reservation canceled last minute.
Having A Dirty Space
One of this biggest complaints on Airbnb is people having dirty properties. This usually happens if someone is self managing their property because cleaning the entire place multiple times a week gets old. Most people don't have the stamina for this and I don't blame them. The last thing I want to do is spend an afternoon cleaning. But if you're going to do it yourself at first make sure you do a great job. This way you can get the cashflow needed to hire a professional cleaning service that will do it for you allowing you to scale your business. A dirty space will get bad reviews and this could ruin your profits if you're not careful. If you have maids make sure they do a good job by keeping them accountable.
Bad Customer Service
You are running a business here so it's in your best interest to provide a world class service to your guests. If they have a question or request make sure you get back to them promptly. If there's a problem make sure you handle it immediately or at least make it look like you are. There will always be rude customers so don't take it out on them. Remember that it is a privilege to be a business owner that not everyone gets. Treat it right and treat your customers right and you just might get rewarded by the market place.
These are just a few things that you should NOT do as an Airbnb host. If you can suggest any others feel free to write them below.
Good Luck!