With the rising cost of living, many people are turning to side hustles to make ends meet. One way to do this is by renting out a room or space in your home on platforms such as Airbnb.
According to Airbnb research, hosts across the world have earned a total of $150 billion since 2010, with hosts in South Africa earning almost R12 billion in the same time frame.
Airbnb superhosts and Airbnb academy graduates give a few tips on where to start and how to become a top host.
Just get started
Justyn Palmer, a host from Bloemfontein, says that whenever someone asks him if they should be a host or not, he tells them to just do it and get started.
“People are often hesitant to get going as a host because they feel that everything needs to be absolutely perfect,” he says.
“It doesn’t have to be. You just need to take that initial first step and host to the best of your ability and according to Airbnb rules and standards.”
Know that little details matter
You do not need a five-star rated hotel to make guests feel as though they have had the five-star treatment. Zamani Khumalo, a host in KwaZulu-Natal, has a highly rated homestay in a Zulu village.
“Part of the hosting experience is making your guests feel special and at home in your place,” notes Khumalo.
“When they leave, you want them to spread the word about where they have stayed. Ensure that you have done enough to make them want to recommend you to their family and friends.”
Showcase your way of living
South Africa is a diverse and multicultural country. As a result, not everyone has the same living arrangement or traditions as the next person.
Do not be shy to showcase your way of living to your guests.
“I am keen to show guests how we do things in our home,” says Khumalo.
“For example, I would use enamel crockery and we also eat with our hands a lot.
“While you are at it, ask your guests about their daily life and learn from one another. Give them a chance to milk the cows, if they want to,” recommends Khumalo.
Decorate with purpose
Pietermaritzburg-based host Joy Chimombe’s advice for hosts who already have a listing on Airbnb is to take fresh images of the space.
“Be aware of how bright or dark your images are, do not use filters, use as much natural light as possible and take photos from an angle that makes the space look pleasant,” Chimombe advises.
“When it comes to decor, I have a colour scheme in my place. I highly recommend that other hosts choose a theme or colour scheme, too. Not only will it set you apart from other hosts, but it will make decorating easier. Make it your style – do not copy other people,” says Chimombe.
Personalise the stay
Chimombe notes that personal touches go a long way.
“I ensure that each welcome note is personalised with the guest’s name. Until now I have typed the note, but going forward I am going to handwrite each one for that added personal flair. I don’t physically welcome guests, as I have self-check-in, but I give guests the option of meeting me should they wish. This helps to add a face and personality to a name and gives more personalisation to their stay.”
Study your guests over time
Keep notes of what your guests like and what not. Perhaps you notice that the treats often go to waste or that they do not use the bicycles you offer for getting around.
By monitoring the habits and preferences of your guests, you will get to know what they like and do not like, and you can tweak their stay accordingly and tailor your package to meet their needs.
Check out other listings in your area. Do an online search for listings, look at what they recommend – what guests are complimenting them on – and see how it can help you with your listing.
Add local touches
Palmer likes to recommend local places to check out in Bloemfontein.
“Guests don’t often know where to eat or drink in the area. I have a guidebook on my profile with a few suggestions, but I also recommend things when I see my guests in person.”
Chimombe’s idea on how to add a local touch to a stay is to reach out to a local crafter and ask them to create a local keyring or something else small and cute that you can share with guests. This can be left in the room for guests as a local memento from their stay and it will always remind them of their stay with you.
- Start your hosting journey at airbnb.co.za/host/homes.
