How To Become The Perfect Host

Every day, all over the world, people are opening their doors and creating unforgettable experiences for guests staying in their home. The development of the "sharing economy" - where people share their existing assets in exchange for money or other forms of currency - has seen the rapid growth of sites like Airbnb that are today enabling thousands of people in the UK to rent out their spare room - or entire home when they're away - to guests looking for unique travel experiences.

But hosting paying guests – turning your humble home into something more like a slick hotel - can be a daunting experience. What do guests expect? How should I prepare? What if something goes wrong?

In fact, as more and more people take the plunge, the importance of perfecting those hosting skills has never been greater. In this busy online marketplace, you will need high standards to ensure your visitors give stellar reviews when they leave – vital for getting future bookings and money making opportunities.

So to help you rack up those five star reviews, I have devised a nine-point hospitality checklist that absolutely anyone can use. Follow these and become the perfect host!

Cleanliness: Clean as if royalty are on their way for a slumber party. The cleaner your space, the more glowing your review.

Availability: Manage your calendar meticulously and get to know a bit about your guests before you approve their request to stay.

Welcome: Show 'em your world-class hospitality with a prompt check-in time, transportation tips, and a tour of your space.


Accuracy: Be sure everything (and the kitchen sink) in your online listing—photos, details, house rules, pricing—accurately reflects what guests will experience.
Don't skimp on photos - listings with better photos get more bookings.

Amenities: Fresh bedding, towels, soap, and toilet paper are a must. Always, always have them available upon arrival. Plus, feel free to add your own little luxuries too, like maps, wine and locally roasted coffee beans!

Communication: Keep in touch! Get to know your guests' travel plans so you can personalise their experience. Aim to respond to all guest inquiries and reservation requests within 24 hours.

Support: Check in on guests, be easily accessible, and go way out of your way to offer alternatives if things don't flow according to plan. Our world isn't perfect. Pipes burst and ankles twist, but you have the power to help remedy these situations.

Commitment: If you can't keep a reservation, keep it classy and contact your would-be guest pronto. Apologise profusely and bend over backwards to find back-up accommodations.

Reviews: Many short-term rental sites, including Airbnb, rely on your reviews. Write a review within 30 days of checkout. Approach this as if you were writing a thank-you note or a friendly letter encouraging one how to be a better guest.

So that's the fundamentals of hosting. If you think you're ready to become the perfect host then give it a go – visit www.airbnb.co.uk to find out more and get started.