How to Compete with Hotels: Unleashing Your Short-Term Rental's Potential
BY MIKEL HUBBARD
FORMER HGTV PRODUCER | CO-FOUNDER, THE HOST CO |
OWNER, TIMES EIGHT PROPERTY & DESIGN
To stay ahead in this competitive market, it's crucial for short-term rental owners to maximize their offerings and provide exceptional guest experiences.
Elevate Your Airbnb Listing with Irresistible Amenities
When guests choose a short-term rental over a hotel, they seek a sense of home away from home. By curating a thoughtful selection of amenities, you can enhance their experience and differentiate your property from hotels. Here are some ideas to consider:
a) Comfortable and Luxurious Bedding: Invest in high-quality mattresses, cozy pillows, and soft linens to ensure a restful night's sleep for your guests. Highlight these features in your listing to attract weary travelers seeking ultimate relaxation.
READ: THE BEST BATH LINENS TO SAVE YOUR TIME, MONEY AND SANITY.
b) Fully Equipped Kitchen: Offer a well-stocked kitchen with essential appliances, cookware, and utensils. Travelers appreciate the ability to prepare their meals, fostering a sense of convenience and cost-saving.
c) Entertainment Options: Consider providing entertainment amenities like a smart TV, streaming services, board games, or a collection of books. These options can keep guests entertained during downtime and make their stay more enjoyable.
d) Toiletries and Personal Care: Supply high-quality toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other personal care items. Displaying these essentials ensures a hotel-like experience, where guests don't have to worry about packing them.
e) Additional Perks: Think outside the box and offer unique amenities that align with your property's theme or location. This could include bicycles, beach gear, or even better, features that aren’t typical for someone’s day-to-day and scream vacation like an outdoor shower and bathtub.
Create a Host Co Store
Creating a Host Co store can be a game-changer for your short-term rental business. Host Co stores are the minibar and concierge for your Airbnb so you can feel like a real hotel. These self- curated marketplaces allow you to offer a wide array of essential products and services for your guests.
READ: HOW TO SET UP YOUR HOST CO STORE
Minibar: A Host Co store can provide your guests with that 2am don’t-want-drive-to-the gas-station minibar experience, allowing them to purchase beverages, toiletries, or earplugs without leaving the property. This added convenience will elevate their stay and can help keep your reviews positive and get you repeat bookings.
Concierge: Many Host Co stores offer services from local businesses, giving guests access to things like massage, private chefs, or guided tours. And best of all, when a guest books one through your store - you get a cut as the host!
By optimizing your Airbnb listing with enticing amenities, you can stand out from the crowd and cater to the evolving needs of travelers. Remember, it's the thoughtful touches and convenience that can turn a stay into an unforgettable experience. So, go the extra mile, and let your short-term rental shine in the ever-expanding world of hospitality.
MIKEL HUBBARD
is the co-founder of the Host Company. He's run a property management company in California’s high desert and has owned three Airbnbs since 2013 in Lake Tahoe, Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Mikel is a former HGTV producer and is the owner of Times Eight Property & Design, a real estate investment and interior design firm.