What I’ve Learned from Hosting on Airbnb: 8 Tips for Getting It Right

Hosting on Airbnb is less about having the perfect space and more about helping guests feel at home. You want to create a stay they’ll remember—one that leads to glowing reviews, more bookings, and less stress in the long run.

And it all comes down to how you set up your place. I’ve learned a lot in my 4 years hosting on Airbnb. If you’re renting an Airbnb-friendly apartment and are ready to start hosting, this guide breaks down my eight pro tips to help you nail the setup and keep guests happy.

Key Takeaways

• A clean, comfortable space sets the tone for a great guest experience.
• Clear communication and upfront expectations help make every stay smoother.
• Thoughtful extra touches often lead to positive reviews and boost your reputation as a host.

1. Start With a Clean, Welcoming Space

The first thing guests typically notice is how clean your space is. Before taking your listing photos, do a deep clean of your entire apartment, and maintain that standard with every stay.

Store personal items and valuables out of sight to avoid clutter. Guests want to feel at home, not like an intruder in your place. Keep it neutral with a few cozy finishing touches—throw blankets, plants, or artwork. Small details make your apartment more inviting, without overdoing it.

2. Stock the Essentials (and a Few Extras)

A well-stocked apartment tells guests you’ve thought ahead. Make sure you’ve got the basics:

Going for that five-star review? Guests appreciate small extras: bottled water, locally produced snacks, an umbrella, or even a reusable shopping bag.

3. Prioritize Comfort and Safety

Guests love feeling like they’re staying in a home away from home. For home comforts, think soft sheets, blackout curtains, and extra pillows and blankets. Going a little above the basics makes it feel welcoming.

Wi-Fi is another guest favorite. Make sure it’s fast, reliable, and easy to connect to. Posting the password in a few places is helpful, and entering it into your listing on Airbnb will ensure guests have easy access.

For safety, verify that locks work properly, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional, and a fully stocked first-aid kit and fire extinguisher are available. Steps like these reassure guests and give you peace of mind, too.

4. Write Clear and Helpful House Rules

Rules aren’t about being strict; they’re about setting expectations before guests book with you. Your building will have a set of standard rules—think quiet hours, guest policies, trash disposal—and you’ll likely have some rules on top of those. Clearly lay out all the rules so your guests don’t have any surprises.

Keep the rules fair and firm. The right guests will appreciate your transparency, and you’ll avoid awkward situations during their stay.

5. Create a Smooth Check-In and Checkout Process

Guests appreciate a streamlined check-in process. Each building will have their own system or requirements for check-in, and as the host, making this as clear and straightforward as possible will go a long way with guests. Clear, step-by-step instructions (with pictures if possible).

Checkout should be just as simple. For example: strip the bed, leave used towels in the bathroom, and return keys to the lockbox. Clear instructions will save you both time and stress. Guests hate to have a laundry list of check out instructions, so keep these minimal.

6. Build a Digital or Printed Welcome Guide

Think of your welcome guide as a cheat sheet to your apartment and the neighborhood. Include Wi-Fi login information, thermostat and TV instructions, and any quirks they should know about your place. Using Airbnb’s feature to schedule messages to guests is especially helpful.

Then add the fun part: your local recommendations. Guests love insider tips, whether it’s your go-to coffee shop, a late-night takeout spot, or a park for morning walks.

7. Add Thoughtful Extras That Wow Guests

The basics are expected, but extras are what make you stand out as a host. Seasonal touches, like thick blankets in winter or chilled drinks in summer, add a homey feel that guests love.

Entertainment helps, too: streaming services, board games, or even a stack of good books can enhance a guest’s stay. A handwritten welcome note or small gift adds a personal touch that’s unique to your place.

8. Remember Communication Is Key

Fast, friendly communication is key to a great guest experience. A warm welcome message sets the tone, quick responses build trust, and a simple midstay check-in shows you care.

And if issues come up—like a late arrival or maintenance hiccup—you’ve got this. Most Superhost’s aim to reply within 24 hours to all messages. Guests don’t expect you to be the perfect host, but they do expect you to be responsive and helpful.

Hosting With Care and Comfort

Life as a renter already comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and hosting adds a new layer on top of all that. It requires effort and consistency, but it can be rewarding. You get the chance to earn income while renting, and have more control over how your space works for you.

Plus, with an Airbnb-friendly apartment, you decide how hosting fits your lifestyle. Whether it’s every other weekend or a few times a year, you can host as often or as little as you want within your building's rules—it’s totally your call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should every Airbnb have for guests?

Each host can decide what they offer. My Airbnb always includes the basics: clean linens, adequate toiletries, a stocked first-aid kit, and reliable Wi-Fi. If your Airbnb has a kitchen space, guests expect to have coffee, dishware and silverware, and basic pantry staples like salt, pepper, and sugar.

How do you make guests feel welcome in an Airbnb?

A clean, neutral space is key. Small gestures, like a handwritten welcome note or snack basket with local goodies, can take their stay—and their review—to the next level.

What are the best amenities to include for higher ratings?

After they check out, guests rate the stay on cleanliness, accuracy, check-in, communication, location, and value. Extra amenities might not influence higher ratings, but having some thoughtful additions might help when guests think about the value of the stay. Think blackout curtains, quality mattresses, fast Wi-Fi, and easy self check-in. Bonus points for extras like streaming services, local guides, or a coffee and tea bar in the kitchen.

How do you handle a guest who breaks house rules?

Clear expectations up front make all the difference. List your rules in your listing and reinforce them in your welcome guide. If issues arise, address them directly and calmly with your guest.

Straightforward communication usually resolves the problem, but if you require further support, visit Airbnb’s Resolution Center. In the case of an accident, like property damage, Airbnb’s AirCover for Hosts has your back.