retiree guide to hosting airbnb: In Airbnb’s most recent annual survey, about 35% of hosts around the world said that they host to help pay for the rising cost of living. This group includes retirees, and with the way the economy is, more and more retirees are renting out their homes on Airbnb.
If you’ve never used Airbnb to host before, you might be nervous. After all, you will be letting strangers into your home. Even though you need to do your research before putting your property on the platform, being an Airbnb host can be more than just a way to make more money.
Greg and Teri Gault are retired and run the Vasquez Mountain View Ranch on Airbnb in Agua Dulce, California. Since they started hosting, they haven’t looked back.
“At first, we were worried about strangers being on our property, but all of our worries have been put to rest,” said Teri Gault. “We knew we had to take the plunge, so we put our Airbnb on the market just three days before New Year’s Eve. Since then, it’s been full all the time. Every guest is welcome to come back at any time, and we’ve enjoyed meeting wonderful people, dogs, and even cats from all over the world. Here’s what first-time Airbnb hosts who are retired need to know.
Find out what makes a good listing.
Kym Tolson, LCSW, CSAC, also known as The Traveling Therapist, said, “If you’re a retiree and want to list your home on Airbnb, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your listing is successful.”
“First, look at other listings in your area to see what kinds of things people are looking for. Then, take photos of your space that are clear and well-lit and show off any unique features. Next, write a detailed and accurate description of your property that includes any relevant amenities and nearby attractions. Lastly, set a price that is competitive and reflects how valuable your listing is. By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure to get guests and get top ratings on Airbnb.”
Get the Kitchen Ready
“Stock the kitchen with basics like coffee, cream, sugar, vegetable oil, a spice rack, napkins, paper plates, toothpicks, salt, and pepper,” said Gault. “Make a list of the things you offer in your amenities so that your guests don’t have to bring too much stuff.”
Get the Bathroom Ready
“Put shampoo, body wash, and conditioner in the bathroom and list those things on the amenities,” said Gault. “Put a sign in the medicine cabinet that says, “Did you forget something? Take and keep it.’ Stock up on things like deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, etc. that have never been used. No one has ever taken all of our food; they’ve only taken what they needed.
Make safety your number one goal.
Tolson said, “First, do a thorough background check on everyone who might come.” “You can do this by reading reviews from people who have stayed there before and doing your own background check.”
You should know that Airbnb does background checks on guests before they stay, as long as their first and last name and date of birth are correct.
Tolson also said, “It’s always a good idea to know exactly what your insurance covers in case of any damages or accidents that might happen during your stay.” “Finally, be sure to leave clear instructions for your guests on how to use any amenities in your home, as well as any safety features like fire extinguishers or carbon monoxide detectors. By taking a few simple steps, you can help make sure that all of your guests feel safe and welcome.
Expect things from your guests.
Leonard Ang, CEO of iPropertyManagement, said, “Hosts should absolutely expect guests to keep a rental space clean, act well, and keep noise levels down.” “Don’t be afraid to limit things like parties, alcohol, or renting to people who are going to certain events, like sports games.”
Be there for your guests if they need you.
Amy Stride, a longtime Airbnb host and owner of Oakwood West Holidays, said, “As a host, you should expect to have to deal with questions and problems at any time of day.” “Some guests will be able to handle everything on their own, while others will expect you to be there for them at all times. If you rent out your home while you’re away, you’ll need an agency or a local person to handle these things. The price will have to take this cost into account. If you rent out part of your home, it’s important to think about how being on call 24/7 might affect you.
Stride suggests giving your guests as much information as possible before they arrive, so they don’t have to contact you as much while they’re there.
Be ready to give your guests their own space.
“Allow check-in and check-out without a key,” said Gault. “Know that some people will want to be alone. Other guests may start talking, which has been a great way for us to get to know them. Many of them come back often, and we’ve become friends with them. But again, let your guests start a conversation with you.”
