The Ultimate Guide To Becoming An Airbnb Host

Everything you need to know, do, and expect before you open up your home as an Airbnb host.

Looking to become a "hostess with the mostest?" Well, it's easier than you'd think! Before you get started, familiarize yourself with Airbnb's policies, local regulations, your HOA rules, and/or your rental lease to make sure you're eligible.

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It’s pretty simple in most areas to open up your home to Airbnb guests. Places like Denver, Vancouver, Nashville, and Seattle have passed laws that make it easy to host. In other places if there are local requirements, Airbnb has resources where you can learn about your specific city’s requirements in the United States and in Canada. Some cities like Chicago require hosts to register with the city, but Airbnb breaks it all down and answers all those head scratching questions you might have. There's even a fun list of hosting tips you'll find yourself referring to over and over as you try to score that coveted 5-star rating.

Just make sure it's allowed within the rules of your HOA/lease, and if it is, give your neighbors and landlords a heads up. They could end up being a great resource in the event you need some help with your guests — maybe they can house a spare key or give you references for a trusted plumber.

Pictured above is this charming beachfront Malibu apartment.

Airbnb provides free Host Protection Insurance, but make sure you're covered from things like property damage for your space and with liability insurance for yourself.

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Turning your home into a business can be complicated, but for things like liabiltiy insurance, Airbnb has you covered! Through your Airbnb agreement you get $1,000,000 property damage protection. So in the rare case of property damage, Airbnb’s Host Guarantee provides free protection of up to $1,000,000 USD in property damage for every booking, every time. There are restrictions though, so you may want to consider purchasing additional insurance that will cover you and your property for losses caused by guests in the event your loss is not within the terms of the Host Guarantee.

Airbnb's free Host Protection Insurance covering liability claims up to $1,000,000 USD. This insurance is for the unlikely event that someone files a lawsuit or claim against you for bodily injury or property damage that occurs in a listing, or on your property, during a stay.

Check out this serene Washington, DC, area townhouse.

Check out the competition and figure out how much to charge.

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Becoming a host is going to take a lil' time and elbow grease, but you're definitely up for the task! You need to set up your home and then be there for your guests. Constant communication, organizing smooth check-ins and checkouts, cleaning up your space, and stocking up essentials are all services you should expect to do as a host — and that your guest will expect. These expectations will take money and time that should hopefully be covered by how much you charge.

The price you charge for your listing is completely up to you. A good way to figure out where to begin is by utilizing Airbnb's Smart Pricing application. It'll let you set a minimum and maximum price setting and will automatically update within those prices.

You can incorporate additional fees (cleaning, pet, late checkout) into your nightly price or you can add them separately into your pricing settings. Airbnb will automatically disclose these potential charges to guests prior to booking — you can also use their Resolution Center to securely request payment for additional fees.

Compare all the amenities in and near this eclectic Los Angeles loft.

Give yourself a leg up and make a really freakin' awesome listing.

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Write up an informative and attention-worthy title (point out highlights about your space like size, view, amenities), get really detailed in the description (write out everything you'd want to know about the space and then break down the details. Have a comfy mattress? Point out the size, if you use a pad, and maybe even the brand), take really great photos — like really great (we'll get into that more), and have a thorough host profile so people can get to know you and see how awesome it'll be to stay in your space.

Find some inspiration from these incredible listings in Los Angeles, Chicago, Vancouver, Seattle, Toronto, Denver, Nashville, San Diego, and Washington D.C.

Swoon over the amazing views and gorgeous decor in this three-story Denver townhouse.

The pictures will speak a thousand words — seriously, a good set of photos will bring people in and often be the determining factor of whether or not they book.

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You've probably worked pretty hard making your space comfortable, inviting, and just plain beautiful. So why not show it off? Take pictures that showcase the awesomeness of your space and that would entice people to click through. Make every picture you take something you'd post on Insta.

How do you do that? Be honest, use good lighting, take photos during the day, a good camera, and have it staged beautifully. Just think of all those really great listings you swoon over — and do that!

Get inspired by all the beautiful photos from this colorful Toronto space.

Make sure you set very clear and simple house rules for your guests.

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Do you allow pets? Smoking? How many people fit comfortably? If you have a pool, are there specific rules? Are there spaces that are off-limits? Can you allow for a late checkout? Is it a kid-friendly space?

Your space will require its own set of unique rules that you should determine and communicate to your guests before you open up your doors. Be clear and concise about what these are before they arrive but also, consider printing and laminating/framing them so your guests have a reference when they're in the space.

And make sure your space is safe. Have an emergency plan, functioning carbon monoxide and fire detectors, and a resource guide filled with information of local hospitals, vets, and utility companies for your area.

Check out this gorgeously renovated Washington, DC, area loft.

Pay attention to details when setting up your rental.

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Sometimes it's the little things that can take your space from "eh" to "Wow!" Things like making sure it's thoroughly clean, has a welcoming scent, and is organized in an easy and thoughtful manner can really make a big difference.

There are also small things you can do to show off just how much attention you've put into your space. Things like framing the Wi-Fi network and password and having it on a shelf as an easy reference, providing toiletries for your guest the way a fancy hotel would, and greeting them with a welcome note and a few relaxing treats to enjoy after their journey. They're easy, simple things that can really make an impact.

See all the awesome details at this cool and modern Chicago apartment.

Don't skimp on decor that'll give your space personality but make sure not to clutter it up.

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Throwing in a bunch of old, slightly broken, mismatched furniture doesn't exactly scream, "Welcome to my home!" Try giving your space a cohesive look, that matches with the destination. If you're renting out your house by the beach, chances are your visitors are really excited to be visiting the beach! Bring decor and accessories that emphasize the sandy laid-back culture. If you're renting out your spare room in the mountains — make it cozy with throw blankets and pillows.

Explore all the fantastic decor in this eclectic Nashville home.

Keep your place clean! Fresh linens, sparkling floors, and organized shelves speak volumes to the comfort your space can bring.

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Ultimately, nothing is more inviting than a clean space. You can dedicate a few hours after every guest to getting this done or you can have a trusted cleaner on hand to help out with a bit of the legwork.

Explore the attention to detail in this cozy San Diego studio.

Invest in some upgrades for your space that'll make all the difference for your guests — like a comfy mattress, cozy sheets, sturdy pillows, and luxurious towels.

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For the most part, your guests are using your place for one thing in particular: sleep. A good mattress can really be the deal breaker. If you look through Airbnb reviews, it's often one of the most frequent things mentioned. So investing in a solid mattress, or mattress pad, can really help in making their experience amazing and giving you those glowing reviews.

Also, great pillows, sheets, a mattress cover, and towels can really help. They don't take a **huge** investment, but they make a big difference in the overall experience for your guests.

Curl up with some of the charming details in this cozy Seattle cottage.

Stock the bathroom and kitchen with essentials like cotton swabs, coffee, and lots and lots of toilet paper.

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There are certain things people will expect when they get to your home — like toilet paper and towels (paper and bath) — so make sure you're fully stocked up. Consider turning a small closet or shelf into a “concierge station” filled with all the essentials they may need along with some extras to help them feel well taken care of.

If you're not sure what essentials you should have in your home — the below list is a great place to start:

- Smoke and carbon monoxide detector

- Fire extinguisher

- First-aid kit

- Nonslip bath mat

- Apple TV/Fire Stick/Roku

- Coffee maker/coffee

- Mugs

- Wi-Fi

- Hair-dryer

- Iron/steamer/board

- Toilet paper

- Mattress covers

Check out just how fully stocked this historic Denver carriage house is.

Remember, your guests are probably new to the area, so give them tips, recommendations, and resources to help them along on their trip.

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You probably know your neighborhood better than anyone, but especially better than your guests. Put all your knowledge to good use by writing out a little guide with all your recommendations that you can send and resend to all your guests. Putting in the work once will end up being a great resource to anyone who stays with you.

Get inspired by all the whimsically colorful details and resources available at this downtown Nashville oasis.

Stuff happens. Leaks can spring, doors can lock, and electricity can...stop electrifying — so make sure you have some trusted resources on speed dial!

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Who you gonna call? Probably not a bunch of guys in coveralls chasing ghosts but it wouldn't hurt to have their number just in case, along with that of a local handyman, plumber, exterminator, and an electrician. Things happen; it's life! Being prepared and flexible can make all the difference. Airbnb's Community Center can be a great resource for finding those trusted people.

Check out the charming details in this refreshing Seattle cottage.

Make sure to avoid some pretty big don'ts and save yourself (and your guests) the headache!

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There are certain things that proper planning can help you avoid. Running out of toilet paper, showing up unannounced, having no spare key, and not providing towels are all basics that should never happen for a guest and that for the most part, you can avoid.

It's important to be flexible and consistent with your guests. Something as simple as having a lockbox or keypad entry for when guests arrive can make the world of difference after a long journey.

Explore inside this sun-soaked Los Angeles home.

You can find additional details about becoming a host with Airbnb here. By following a few simple rules, you'll be ready to transform your home into a coveted vacation spot in no time!