Airbnb has become the world’s largest platform for connecting travellers with hosts who offer unique accommodation options, whether that’s a cosy spare room or a full holiday home. It provides a flexible way for people to earn extra income or build a business in short-term rentals.
While the rewards of hosting can be significant, competition is growing. With over 6 million listings and more than 4 million hosts, new hosts must be prepared to stand out.
Thinking about becoming a host on Airbnb?
Let’s explore what it means to be an individual host on the platform.
What Does It Mean to Be a Host on Airbnb?
Individual hosts rent out spaces they personally own or live in. This could be a spare room, an apartment sublet while the owner is away, or even an additional property. Individual hosts usually bring a personal touch, offering local insights and a welcoming atmosphere that can make the guest's experience more authentic and memorable.
Private vs. Professional Hosts
Private Host
A private host typically uses Airbnb to earn a side income, renting out their property on a part-time basis. Hosting might not be their main source of revenue, and they may do it alongside other jobs or activities.
Professional Host
Professional hosts, on the other hand, operate Airbnb as a full-time business. They might manage multiple properties, often as part of a business or property management company. Hosting is their primary profession, and they usually offer accommodations year-round to generate a steady profit.
Key factors like the number of properties you manage and the frequency of bookings can help determine whether you’re hosting as a business or on a personal basis. Hosting consistently to generate significant profit usually puts you in the professional category.
How to Start Hosting on Airbnb as a Private Individual
Starting your Airbnb journey in the UK as an individual host is relatively straightforward, especially if you have a single property to list. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Create Your Listing: Start by setting up your property on Airbnb. High-quality photos and a well-written description can make a huge difference.
Understand Local Rules: Research local regulations regarding short-term rentals, including any licences or permissions required in your area.
Manage Taxes: Keep a record of your earnings and ensure you understand your tax obligations as a host. Seek advice if necessary.
Getting Started with Your Airbnb Hosting Account
Signing Up
You can begin hosting by visiting Airbnb’s website or downloading the app on your smartphone (available for Android and Apple devices).
Android
Apple
To access your account:
Login: Go directly to Airbnb’s login page or open the app. Use your email or phone number to sign in, or log in with Facebook, Google, or your Apple ID.
Creating Your First Listing on Airbnb
Property Options
Airbnb allows you to list various types of properties such as flats, shared homes, bungalows, or boutique hotels. When listing, you can specify whether the property is a cottage, townhouse, cabin, or something else.
Airbnb is unique in that it lets you rent shared spaces as well as private rooms, not just entire homes. You’ll also pinpoint your property’s location using a map tool.
Customising for Guests
You’ll need to detail how many guests your property can host and the number of bedrooms, beds, and bathrooms available. When sharing your home, list only the spaces and beds that guests will be using.
Highlighting Amenities
Select the amenities your property offers, from essentials like Wi-Fi and a kitchen to luxuries such as a hot tub or fireplace.
Photos
High-quality photos are crucial to attracting bookings. Airbnb recommends uploading at least five images, but more is better.
Crafting a Title
Your property’s title, limited to 50 characters, should highlight key features. Airbnb provides suggestions based on your title, such as ‘quiet’ or ‘family-friendly’, which you can select to make your listing stand out.
Writing a Description
Use 500 characters to describe your space. Focus on its unique aspects, and be clear about booking rules. Share what makes your property a great choice for guests.
Pricing
Set your nightly rate and decide if you want to offer a 20% discount for your first three bookings to attract guests. You can adjust your pricing over time to match demand.
Final Confirmation
Once your listing is complete, Airbnb will ask a few final questions, including whether you're hosting as an individual or business, and if there are any safety considerations like cameras or pets. After confirmation, your listing will go live pending review.
Setting Your Fees
Instead of relying on Airbnb’s default pricing suggestions, take control of setting your own fees to optimise guest bookings. This includes costs like cleaning fees and any additional charges you may want to include.
Managing Bookings and Availability
Once your property is live, it’s time to start accepting bookings. To attract guests, it’s worth checking other local listings to see how your property compares in terms of price and features.
You can allow guests to instant book—which lets them book your property immediately if they meet Airbnb’s criteria—or you can require approval for each booking.
Communication is key. After a guest books, send a confirmation email with details like check-in/check-out times and house rules. Keep in touch to answer any questions and ensure a smooth stay.
You’ll need to manage your availability carefully by marking dates as ‘available’ on Airbnb’s calendar. Blocking off time for cleaning or personal use is easy, and offering availability during busy seasons (e.g., holidays and weekends) can help boost bookings.
Typically, payments are processed within 24 hours of a guest’s check-in, but this can vary.
If managing an Airbnb sounds like a lot of work, services like The Upgrade Authority can help. They handle everything from guest communications to bookings and property maintenance, giving you the benefits of hosting without the day-to-day tasks.
The Upgrade Authority’s expertise in pricing, marketing, and property management ensures your Airbnb runs smoothly and maximises income, while giving you the freedom to focus on other things—or expand your Airbnb portfolio.