The $25 I Spent That Keeps on Getting Me 5-Star Reviews and More Bookings
Hello, fellow Airbnb hosts! Ever felt like you’re just one in a million in the vast sea of Airbnb listings? Today, I want to share three mistakes that may be holding you back from standing out. I’ll also show you how to fix them. So grab a cup of coffee (or a piña colada if you’re feeling tropical), and let’s dive in!
Mistake #1: Ignoring Competitive Analysis
I have an internet marketing background and hired a coach when I first started out. One of the very first things I did was research the biggest competition in my market. If you haven’t done that and are not continuing to do that, you’re making a big mistake! Not keeping an eye on your competition is like playing a game without knowing the rules.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Missed Opportunities: You might be missing out on features or amenities that guests are flocking to in your area.
- Pricing Pitfalls: You could be overcharging or undercharging without knowing how others price their listings.
My Personal Tale:
Back when I purchased my property in Big Bear in 2019, I thought I had an incredible cabin. I was excited and confident that guests would flock to it. That’s when I discovered AirDNA, a tool that became my new best friend. After some digging, I realized that the top listings were offering amenities like hot tubs and game rooms.
By analyzing competitors, I added a hot tub and a couple of arcade machines. I immediately saw a significant boost in bookings. Since then, my competition has gotten even better. Many of my top competitors when I first started out sold their cabins. The new top properties are being run by high-end luxury management companies. I’ve had to step up my game in order to keep up.
What You Can Do:
- Regularly Check Competitor Listings: Make it a habit to browse through top listings in your area. Because I regularly check on my competition, I could see the new competitors moving into the market and what they were offering.
- Use Tools Like AirDNA: Get insights into market trends, pricing, and occupancy rates. Also, realize the data is imperfect. It’s important to do some manual searching to find properties that are most similar to yours. Don’t just blindly trust the data; you need to do some legwork manually as well.
- Establish a List of Competitors: I personally maintain a top 10 list. I regularly review these listings, remove those that are no longer competitive, and add new ones that are taking their place.
- Adjust Accordingly: Don’t be afraid to adapt. Whether it’s updating your décor or adding a new amenity, small changes can make a big difference over time.
Mistake #2: Not Providing the Right Amenities
Ever stayed somewhere and thought, “I wish they had thought of this”? Your guests might be thinking the same about your place.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Guest Dissatisfaction: Lacking key amenities can lead to lukewarm reviews.
- Lost Bookings: Guests might skip your listing if it doesn’t meet their needs.
Story Time:
At my Maui condo, I noticed families were a big part of my guest demographic. Parents with kids eager to hit the beach but stressed about packing all the gear. So, I invested in a simple beach wagon filled with sand toys, snorkeling gear, and beach chairs.
My ideal guest is normally a family with two children. Do you know what they really appreciate? It’s the $25 in sand toys. That $25 worth of sand toys is getting me five-star reviews over and over again. Parents love the convenience. They don’t have to pick these up at the store—they can just head straight to the beach. Like I said, it’s the little details that can make a big difference.
Here’s a Couple of Reviews:
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was a great 2-bedroom condo directly across from a nice beach. Very clean and well stocked with beach toys for kids and adults.”
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Easy access in and out, parking was a breeze, lots of amenities, and they provide all the beach equipment and toys you’ll need! Loved it!”
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “We walked to the beach every day. Thank you for providing a wagon, beach chairs, toys for my son.”
Tips to Nail the Amenities:
- Know Your Guests: Are they families, solo travelers, business folks? Tailor your amenities to their needs.
- Think Convenience: What small additions can make a big impact? Maybe it’s a high-speed blender for smoothie lovers or a curated list of local coffee shops.
- Ask for Feedback: Sometimes, the best ideas come straight from your guests. Encourage them to share suggestions.
Mistake #3: A Poorly Thought-Out Guest Experience
You can have the fanciest place in town, but if your guest experience is lacking, your reviews (and bookings) will suffer.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Negative Reviews: Guests remember how you made them feel more than the thread count of your sheets.
- Reduced Loyalty: Happy guests become repeat guests—and they tell their friends.
Been There, Learned That:
A lot of hosts starting out think a welcome email and a clean space are enough. Then comes the late-night call they missed because they were asleep, and the guest couldn’t find the Wi-Fi password. Prioritize clear communication, easy check-in instructions, and personalized recommendations.
Enhancing the Guest Experience:
- Clear Communication: Use automated messages to send check-in details and answer common questions. Make sure guests have all the info they need before they even ask.
- Personal Touches: Leave a handwritten welcome note or a small local treat. These little gestures make guests feel special.
- Local Guides: Create a guidebook with your favorite spots. My guests love the list of kid-friendly beaches and restaurants I provide.
Wrapping It Up
To stand out in the Airbnb market, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Focus on the details that matter. Avoid these three mistakes:
- Don’t Ignore Competitive Analysis: Keep an eye on your competition and adjust accordingly.
- Don’t Skimp on Essential Amenities: Small, thoughtful additions can lead to glowing reviews.
- Don’t Neglect the Guest Experience: Clear communication and personal touches make all the difference.
Doing this will help you become the high-occupancy host in your area.
Remember: It’s the little things that can make a big difference.
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Thanks for reading, and happy hosting!
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, a small investment—like the $25 I spent on sand toys—can yield significant returns in guest satisfaction and bookings. By focusing on your guests’ needs and going the extra mile, you’ll not only enhance their experience but also set yourself apart in the crowded vacation rental market.
