Many homeowners are using Airbnb to help pay off their mortgage. If you live in Queens or Brooklyn, you could be making a ton of extra cash by renting out that spare basement or bedroom for a couple of days a week.
I know it might be scary having a stranger in your dwelling but for the most part, privacy is the key. If you are worried about thieves or being the next inspired horror film on Netflix, it's wise to use the following safety tips.
AIRBNB SAFTEY TIPS:
- Lock up pricey things out of reach of your guest (s) .
- Stay at a friends house while renting out your space
- Use the buddy system by always telling a friend or family member about what's going on.
- Have a plan.
As an Avid Airbnb-er in most cases, I never had an issue with my host.
Focus on Price. Price it Right.
Research your area and make sure you are not overpricing the space you are renting out. Make sure you price low at first and raise your price little by little as the reviews come in!
Clean the Space.
I've walked into an Airbnb with the nicest host. He was friendly and accommodating but it looked like he didn't clean in a while which really swayed my experience. You don't have to make your home look like a hotel but make sure it's tidy and the bed is at least made.
Customer Service and Reviews Should Be Your Focus.
When you start hosting focus on going the extra mile because reviews are what's going to bring more business. So be friendly. Leave towels out. Leave enough toilet paper for their stay. Go as far as offering them food and coffee. I had one host make me French Toast. I left that guy a tip!
Kill the Bugs.
This might seem obvious but make sure your place has no bugs! I never had to deal with roaches but if I did I would leave the worst review possible.
Professional Pictures.
Take nice pictures with professional lighting to make your place look its best. Even if you had no reviews people will take a chance on a nice looking space. It will also make your spot more appealing compared to all the bad camera phone pictures I tend to see.
Offer More.
Chances are you are on a mobile device or at home sitting behind a mac right now. Let's face it Wi-Fi is mandatory. Offer more than just Wi-Fi!
Here's a couple of things to offer outside the norm:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Books
- Paid Tours
- Breakfast
- Video Games
- Bottle of wine
Get creative and watch how great reviews start rolling in.
