Platforms like Airbnb have transformed the travel industry, making it easier to list a property, reach potential guests from around the world, and earn income from your space.
While setting up an Airbnb, short term let or holiday let might seem pretty easy, there’s more to it than meets the eye. From getting your space ready to managing guest expectations and dealing with important legal and insurance considerations, this beginner’s guide is here to help.
Getting your space ready
The first step is deciding what kind of property you want to list. Whether you own this property already or are looking to invest in a new property to rent out, there are loads of options to choose from.
From holiday cottages and apartments to more unique spaces like cabins, treehouses, or even camper vans, there will be a market for all of these on Airbnb. It’s good to think about your space’s size, layout and location.
Even a small, well-decorated room with charm and character can attract bookings if it’s near desirable attractions or offers a unique experience. A top tip is to be super clear about what your property offers, as you’ll be far more likely to attract guests who’ll enjoy their stay.
Once you know what you’re listing, you must consider what you will need to make your space feel welcoming, warm and comfortable.
From quality bedding and mood lighting to comfy furniture and decor that adds personality, there’s plenty to think about. Don’t forget about the little extras, such as toiletries, kitchen supplies, maps and local guides, which will go a long way with guests.
The goal is to create a space that’s comfortable yet stylish. If your space is visually appealing and inviting, guests are more likely to share photos and leave positive reviews, which can boost bookings.
With any holiday let or Airbnb, safety is key, so make sure your space includes all the standard precautions like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers. Clearly label emergency exits and provide guests with a list of emergency contacts.
As most standard home insurance policies won’t cover your holiday let or Airbnb from damage, theft and public liability, it’s also worth considering investing in holiday let insurance tailored to you.
Creating a listing that stands out
You don’t need us to tell you there’s no shortage of holiday lets and Airbnbs online, so writing a great description for your listing is crucial.
Your description should clearly explain the benefits and features of your holiday let, to ensure it stands out in a crowded market.
Whether your space is family-friendly or a cosy retreat for two, using descriptive language will highlight what makes it special. You should also include the distance to local attractions, experiences and amenities.
Photos also play a big role in getting guests to book. Aim to capture high-quality images of each room, paying close attention to details like bedding and unique features.
Good lighting, clear angles and small touches like fresh linens and pretty pillows can make a big difference. If all of this feels a bit out of your depth, you will definitely see the benefits of investing in a professional photographer.
If you commission an experienced Airbnb photographer, they will know how to best style and capture your property to get the best engagement online.
Next, include any house rules to set boundaries and expectations for guests. By doing this, you can ensure the experience is positive for you and your guests whilst protecting your space. From noise restrictions and the number of guests to smoking policies and check-in/out times, make sure to include the key things that matter the most.
To appeal to a broader market, you can include amenities which will appeal to business travellers. This can be something as simple as listing and including fast and reliable wifi, and having a small desk in the property.
Legal, financial and tax considerations
Regulations for short-term rentals can vary depending on the location, so you must know the rules in your local area.
I would advise to carry out fire risk assessments and have interconnected smoke alarms, it you don’t already have them, fire doors and keyless exits doors (definitely required if letting a whole property). Make sure you also have Gas Safety checks, and incoming EICR, PAT. The requirements are much stricter for AST's and HMO's han short term lets howver stricter regulation is incoming so while a lot of “AirBnBs” currently don’t have all these things, there may well be less chance to get away with it in the future and its better to be safe than sorry.
For example, in some regions, permits may be required, occupancy taxes may apply, and there may be a limit on the number of days a property can be rented. To prevent fines or penalties, make sure you find out and follow the guidelines that apply to you.
It’s essential to keep accurate income records of your holiday let or Airbnb as it will be subject to tax. In many cases, you can offset your expenses by claiming deductions for utilities, property maintenance and some furnishings. If this is all new to you, it may be worth speaking to a tax professional with experience in this field to help you stay compliant.
Although Airbnb offers a Host Guarantee, you might consider further coverage for added peace of mind. As standard home insurance policies don’t tend to cover properties that are left unoccupied for more than 30 days, it can leave you financially exposed if something goes wrong.
If your holiday let or Airbnb is likely to be empty for long periods, you may want to think about taking out an unoccupied home insurance policy to cover you for losses which may occur due to the house being unoccupied.
How to set up a holiday let that guests love
It can be both financially and personally rewarding starting a holiday let or Airbnb.
By spending the time to properly prepare your space, making guest experience a real focus, and getting a clear understanding of legal and insurance requirements, you can create a successful Airbnb that guests love while having peace of mind as the host.
Taking the steps in this holiday let guide and getting support from specialised insurers like i4me sets you up for a smoother, more profitable hosting journey.