Becoming a successful Airbnb host or achieving Superhost status takes more than just having a nice space. It requires honing a few underrated skills that can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience for your guests. Whether you’re new to hosting or looking to up your game, these five skills will help you provide a standout experience and thrive in the short-term rental market.

How to be a good Airbnb host

1. Staying organised is essential

The backbone of a great Airbnb experience is organisation. It goes beyond simply keeping things tidy; you need clear systems to ensure your property is consistently prepared for guests. Develop routines for tracking inventory, scheduling regular maintenance, and managing cleaning schedules. This attention to detail ensures your property stays in top shape and consistently meets guest expectations.

Pro tip: Use a simple checklist for each guest turnover. This way, you’ll cover all the important details, like restocking essentials or replacing batteries. Keeping yourself organised helps you to keep your property running smoothly and leads to happier guests.

2. Getting comfortable with home maintenance

Being handy around the house can make hosting much easier. The quicker you can handle cleaning tasks and small repairs, the more efficiently you can prepare for your next guest. For example, using a colour-coded system for linens (white sheets, coloured towels) can speed up the laundry process, making turnarounds faster and more straightforward.

Investing in good-quality cleaning supplies also pays off in the long run. When you manage your property’s upkeep efficiently, you save time and create a cleaner, more welcoming environment for guests.

Need help with your Airbnb's property maintenance checks? Use our printable short term rental maintenance checklist!

3. Communicating clearly and warmly

How you communicate with guests can set the tone for their stay. Beyond responding promptly, your messages should always be clear, welcoming, and helpful. From the moment a guest reaches out, your communication should make them feel welcome and well-informed.

Stay proactive. Send a welcoming message with all the essential details before they arrive, and always be ready to answer any questions. Being responsive and thoughtful helps build trust, leading to better reviews and future bookings.

Hometime tip: Our Automated Airbnb message templates can improve your guest communication skills.

4. Keeping an eye on local events and trends

Staying informed about what’s happening in your area can significantly boost your hosting success. By staying updated on local events, holidays, and seasonal trends, you can adjust your pricing strategy and make the most of high-demand periods.

Pro tip: Maintain a local events calendar to help you plan ahead. Share your insights with guests to enhance their experience and make your property more appealing, especially during peak seasons.

5. Adaptability and problem-solving

Things don’t always go as planned when you’re an Airbnb host, and your ability to adapt and solve problems on the fly is a valuable skill. From handling unexpected maintenance issues to managing last-minute guest requests, being adaptable allows you to respond quickly and maintain a positive experience for your guests.

Pro tip: Stay calm and think on your feet when challenges arise. Have a list of local service providers or resources you can rely on for emergencies, such as a 24/7 plumber or nearby cleaning service. This proactive approach can help you address issues promptly and keep your guests satisfied.

Stay ahead and be a good Airbnb host with Hometime

Developing these skills will not only help you become a great Airbnb host but also ensure your guests have a top-notch experience. If you want to take your hosting journey further and make the most out of your property, Hometime is here to support you. With our expert property management services, we take care of the details so you can focus on welcoming guests.