Airbnbs and other short term rental sites like Vrbo allow you to make vacant properties and rooms a lucrative asset. They can even grow from being a side hustle to a full-time job. So, what’s the catch? All you do is have the guest book the space then show up to clean, right? Not entirely.

There is more work than expected to become (and remain) a great Airbnb host and we have a few pointers of our own. At Arth Group, we are seeing downtown Wilmington and Carolina Beach Airbnbs book up months in advance, even in the slow off-season. So, opportunities abound to make extra cash in the hospitality business as a short term rental owner.

Above keeping everything immaculately clean, safe and traveler-friendly, here are a few of our tips in securing the best income from an Airbnb:

You can judge a book by its cover

Potential guests choose between homes and apartments by largely looking at pictures. We recommend taking the time and money to get a wide collection of photos done by a professional. It’s important to accurately capture the place, while not giving off the wrong impression.

Note: You could land a bad rating if someone feels they were promised tall ceilings, but in reality they were short.

Spend time crafting a great profile with alluring yet accurate descriptions.

Be a true host or hostess

To secure your chance at an Airbnb income, you’ll need to be more than an Airbnb host on paper, but an all-around conventional host as well. It takes return visitors and good, strong ratings to earn money over time.

Make sure to include supplies on your property someone would find at a hotel, such as a hairdryer or iron. Anticipate a guest’s needs, like a coffee maker or mini-fridge.

Add a personal touch by creating a guest book with recommended activities and restaurants for guests to better enjoy their stay in your community. 

Check out our local guide for the Salty Seahorse in Carolina Beach.

Become a concierge

Airbnb hosts earning high ratings all have one thing in common — they constantly remain open for guests to communicate with them. Schedule check-ins, be available for questions and be ready for a guest to need you at any point.

Ask guests if they have everything they need. Be upfront with guests about when you’ll be available and how. 

Stage your space

Make sure your place is furnished with character, but not too cluttered. Have beds made with plenty of pillows and couches that are comfy so guests can really unwind.

Creating a bar space (even if there is no kitchen) could go a long way for weary travelers too. You can learn more about our Arth Group tips for staging homes here. 

Make it a destination

You can check out one of our very own short-term rentals, The Salty Seahorse in Carolina Beach. Notice this short-term rental has its own website, Facebook page, and geotags on sites like Facebook and Instagram.

The Salty Seahorse truly is a one-of-a-kind location and experience, but your place can be too. Be sure to love your Airbnb or Vrbo space — your guests will notice!

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