Airbnb can give you an extra income – and it’s never been easier. Whether you’re on holiday, away on business or staying at a partner’s house, Portico Host is now on hand to deal with the hassle.
We spoke to Airbnb Management London, company, Portico Host, to find out everything you need to know first…
Self-Manage or Outsource?
Being an Airbnb host can be an extremely rewarding experience, but it’s also a full-time job. From photography and setting up the property listing, to advertising, replying to all guest queries and managing check-in and check-outs, there’s a lot of work involved.
If you don’t have the time or know-how to self-manage, call the experts. At Portico Host, we provide a complete Airbnb management service, so all you need to do is let us know when you’d like to rent out your property and we’ll get to work.
Insurance Options
Temporarily letting your home on Airbnb can make you thousands, but you need to ensure you’re properly protected in case things go wrong.
Airbnb’s own insurance policy does offer some level of protection, but theft and accidental damage is often excluded.
It’s really important you discuss your liability coverage with your insurance provider before opening up your home to guests, or opt for an Airbnb management package that includes full Airbnb insurance.
Extra Status
If Airbnb rate your property as ‘Business Travel Ready’, it’s much more visible to potential guests. According to the site, to qualify for this status your listing must be an entire property that is smoke-free and pet-free. It also has to include the following amenities:
- Wireless internet
- A laptop-friendly workspace
- Self-check-in (this includes a key lockbox, doorman, keypad, or smart lock)
- A smoke detector
- A carbon monoxide detector
- Essentials (toilet paper, clean towels, and fresh linens)
- An iron
- Hangers
- A hair dryer
- Shampoo
Your home must also have at least three star-rated reviews before you can be eligible, so it’s important you provide all the necessary amenities, respond in a timely and friendly manner to guest queries, and that your property lives up to its description and photos.
Home Away From Home
Airbnb’s uniqueness is that it offers a home away from home – this is a key draw for fans of the service, who love getting a glimpse into local life through people’s properties. There’s no need to take down pictures, photos or personal furnishings as most guests are looking for that homely feel.
Extra thoughtful touches like a welcome book, a list of local hotspots or a complimentary bottle of wine will also go a long way.
Professional Cleaning
Though guests expect a homely feel, they still expect hotel-standard cleanliness. If you’re lacking in time or cleaning skills, consider bringing in a professional between guests, or opting for Airbnb management.
At Portico Host, we ensure each of our properties is spotless before a guest arrives, providing hotel-standard linen and towels, as well as a welcome book, a local discount card, all essentials and full guest insurance.
Find out how much you could make on Airbnb in 60 seconds with Portico Host’s Airbnb Valuation tool, or give the friendly estate agents a call today on 0207 099 4000.
Portico Host are also London estate agents offering sales, rental and letting services.
