With its rich cultural heritage and a constant stream of visitors, Birmingham has become an attractive place for property investors looking to set up short term rentals. In recent years, Airbnb has dominated the short-term rental market, revolutionising the way that hosts can rent out their properties and tourists can book their accommodation.
Setting up an Airbnb in Birmingham can be a lucrative venture, however, just like in any city, your property project requires careful planning and execution.
So, if you’re planning to earn some extra money as an Airbnb host, here are just five fantastic tips to help you on the path to success.
1) Choose Your Location
The right location can make all the difference to the success of your property, and while Birmingham is home to a diverse selection of neighbourhoods, if you’re looking to attract city break tourists, then a city centre apartment could be ideal.
If you’re hunting for a property, platforms such as Rightmove are a great place to start. Not only can you set your specific area or interest, but you can filter by price and number of bedrooms to find the perfect place to suit your needs.
2) Create a Comfortable Space
When seeking to give your guests a home away from home, it’s essential that you prioritise comfort. Sleep is one of the most important factors in ensuring a healthy and happy lifestyle, but many struggle to sleep when they’re travelling.
Investing in a quality mattress for your Airbnb will not only ensure that your guests sleep well but could contribute to them leaving you a positive review.
If you’re not sure where to start your mattress shopping journey, expert stockists such as Archers Sleep Centre not only offer a wide range of makes and models, but their team have the knowledge required to advise you on your purchase.
3) Make Your Listing Stand Out
With so many options for guests to choose from, making your Airbnb stand out from the crowd is essential.
While it can be tempting to take your own photos on your camera phone, it’s always better to call in the professionals.
With platforms such as Fiverr, you can hire freelance interior design photographers in your local area who have the skills needed to help your listing shine.
4) Offer Quality Amenities
One of the benefits of staying in a hotel is the wide range of amenities that are available for guests to use, so consider mimicking this for your Airbnb.
Supply high quality toiletries in the bathroom, including soaps and shampoos, to give your guests a luxurious experience.
It’s also a good idea to supply basic kitchen essentials such as tea, coffee, milk and cereal – this will be especially appreciated by guests who arrive late in the evening and can’t get to the shop before it closes.
5) Prioritise Customer Service
The success of your Airbnb is closely tied to the level of customer service that you provide. You should make sure to respond promptly to your guests and be available to resolve any issues that they might have.
Remember, while good customer service can lead to good reviews, poor service is far more likely to generate bad reviews.
Have you set up an Airbnb, or other holiday rental, in Birmingham? Share your experiences in the comments below!