Quick Start Guide: AirBnB

AirBnB can be an excellent way to build some extra income into your life. If you're a creative artist, then this can readily fit into your schedule to get done what you need to get done. However, there are many things to consider before deciding if hosting is for you. Here's a post from LearnAirBnB.com that goes through some of the things you should consider.

If after going through those considerations you still think being a host is right for you and your creative life, here's a few tips on how you can get started quickly.

Quick Start Guide to AirBnB

Insurance, Insurance, Insurance

Before you welcome your first renter into your home or apartment, make sure that you have the proper insurance coverage. While I can't give you exact advice on what that insurance is going to be for your needs, but contact your insurance agent and make sure you understand how and in what ways you are going to be covered in case the worst happens. Plan for the worst before you get started so that you can be sure to avoid it.

Determine the Rate You Want to Charge (And Be Competitive)

Do some research on AirBnB and see what other hosts in your area charge. Make sure that they are offering similar amenities as they are. You want to price your place so that you will be competitive as you build your reputation. That reputation will help you raise your rate as time moves on, but in the beginning you want to be sure you are balancing out value with your location being new.

Set the House Rules

Be sure that you write clear and concise house rules for your location. You want to make sure they suit you, suit your needs, and suit any other community requirements that might exist where you live. This is one of the first steps of communicating with your guests, and the clearer you are on the rules, the more likely the transaction is going to go well for each of you.

Setup Your Hosting Account

Now that you've thought through some of the details and information that are going to get you started, it's time to setup your hosting account on AirBnB. Guesty.com offers a great article on getting your account setup, and you can view that here.

Here's a few additional tips to consider as you setup your hosting account:

A Great Profile Picture (And Other Images)

Include a great picture of yourself and your home. You want to give everyone a sense of your personality, but also a clear understanding of who you are and what your home looks like. Everything about your account is to start building the trust of your guests.

Your Bio

Your bio is also a great place for you to start building trust and show everyone who you are. Don't skimp on details or hold back - you want your guests to be comfortable and the more they know about you then the more likely they are to trust you and book with you. Trust is the most important currency.

Verify Your Identity

Go through the steps to verify your identity as a host. It goes a very long way to building trust.

Conclusion: Communicate

Ultimately, communication is going to be the key to your success on AirBnB as a host. If you want to find success, be sure to always have open lines of communications with your guest. The more you respond with interest and enthusiasm, then you'll keep building that trust.

For more information about building side-hustles to support your creative life, check out my book: A Life in Art: Building Side-Hustles to Empower Your Life as an Artist