So you’ve taken the plunge and decided to turn your space into an Airbnb - it’s a great idea and can become a fabulous source of passive income (as long as you’re properly registered!). However, there are a lot of moving pieces that come along with hosting guests.
Yes, Airbnb is full of beautiful photography and carefully curated spaces, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a ton of work. I’ve put together a great list of “Do’s and Don’ts” for you to consider before you go crazy on the Urban Barn website!
Don’t slack on your listing. You have to consider that there are hundreds of places to stay in your area, so what is setting your Airbnb apart from the rest? Number one, splurge on professional photography. Having carefully curated photos showcasing your space will bump up your bookings! It’s also important to invest in a good cleaner who understands your Airbnb setup (you can add a cleaning fee to your listing to offset this cost.) Try to remember that you are investing in your own little business, and while it may seem silly to buy a brand new dishware set that you’ll personally never use, it will mean the world to your guests. No one wants to show up to a space they’ve paid good money for to find there are mismatched plates.
Do make yourself aware of the regulations. It would be awful to have spent tons of time and energy on your listing and find out you didn’t check all of the boxes required to make it legal. First and foremost, it’s important you obtain a business license. Airbnb has a great article about the possible regulations in the Lower Mainland and Victoria, but it's important to look into your local laws on the matter. In February of 2019, Nanaimo counsel recommended seven actions to regulate short-term rentals, which included: ensure that zoning regulations that apply to bed and breakfasts are extended to short term rentals, and determining an appropriate fine for listing a short-term rental without a valid license. For more information on the proposed regulations for short term rentals in Nanaimo, click here.
Don’t overdo it on the rules. People don’t want to feel like they’re in high school again (does anyone?!) Of course it’s fine to put common rules and regulations like no smoking or quiet hours, but spending hours on a thick “RULES” book left dramatically in the middle of the coffee table will not make your guests feel welcome. Sure, the house manual needs some guidelines about how to operate the baseboard heating, but not the manifesto of behaviour! Pro tip: Don’t forget to specify on your space being pet friendly. If you’re okay with pets, be sure to decide what size you’re going to max out at. 
Do communicate often. As with anything, the easiest way to avoid conflict is to keep the lines of communication open and straightforward. People will not read four pages of your listing, so try to keep crucial points at the very top. Make sure you have filled out as much as possible on the Airbnb listing, and automate the check in process as much as possible. The more you communicate with your guests, the more likely you are to build a great rapport and have them refer friends to your listing. Or rebook the next time they vacation in your town!
Don’t overlook the small details. Make sure you spend some time in the space to get a sense of the guest’s experience: is there enough space in the closet? Is the kitchen stocked with enough equipment to prepare a meal? Pro Tip: Stay in the space yourself for at least a night, preferably longer in order to learn what finer details you might miss otherwise! And don’t forget about those little finishing touches. Leaving a small gift like a bottle of wine, beer, or fresh local baked goods for when your guests arrive will make them feel welcome and excited to explore your area. Another great idea is having a guest book with local tips, great places to adventure, and where to grab a bite in your town!
Do be prepared for problems. It's always better to under promise and over-deliver than seemingly guarantee an amazing place but fail to mention any little issues that could have a negative impact on your guest’s stay (it’s also a great idea to charge a security deposit through Airbnb.) Identify potential hazards, such as exposed wires or possible tripping hazards, and resolve or clearly mark them. Replenish the first aid kit, and supply emergency instructions, including a list of contacts for local services and the closest hospital. If the emergency exit is not already marked, provide a map for guests.
And there you have it! What kind of do’s and don’ts have you considered when trying to decide whether or not to host an Airbnb in your home? I would love to hear your ideas!