Differentiate Your Listing
There are over 7 million active rental listings on Airbnb.
The goal of the short term rental host is to create a listing that stands out from the competition and attract guests. The easiest way to differentiate your listing is by giving guests a glimpse at what makes you unique-the thing that makes you stand out. Your uniqueness is showcased through your personality.
Your personality can be on display through your hosting persona in several different forms-in your space, your story and the above and beyond service you provide to guests.
Your Space
Your space is your canvas to show off the style you want to share with others. Guests are often drawn toward unique spaces. Those spaces that seem to come exude personality like treehouse, chalet, cabin or Airstream. If you’re lucky enough to have a unique space-flaunt it!
Other spaces can lean on their history as a differentiator. Historic repurposed industrial lofts, 100 year old brownstones or mid-century modern houses all hold history that is both interesting and distinctive.
You may choose to share your personality through your decor. Do you have legacy furniture pieces passed down from generations that you could be the highlight of a Grand Millennial theme. Or, are you a weekend sale scouter who can build a story around scouted finds and create a boho vibe?
Let you inner self shine as the theme of your space. Use what you love or what you do to differentiate your listing and connect with potential guests who may share your interests.
Are you an amateur photographer, quilter, potter, painter, or wood worker? Do you love vintage technology, sports or books? Display the tools, equipment or items that represent your interests. If you coach a team, display vintage sports equipment. If you are a librarian feature books or an old card catalog.
Consider displaying unique tools of your trade.
If you are a carpenter, consider displaying a collection of antique tools.
If you coach a certain sport, consider displaying vintage sports photographs or sports equipment.
Looking for tips on how to share a collection? Checkout displaying collectibles.
Your Story
Your culture is part of what makes you special, so show it off. Use moderation (you don't want your home to look like a gift shop selling goods to tourists). Display artwork, textiles, pottery, house wares, photographs, or other unique items from the place of your ancestors - whether near or far.
Showcase your accomplishments. Your home should represent you: your style, achievements and goals. Display artwork, medals, pottery pieces, diplomas, and anything else that makes you smile and shine.
Now that you've decided on the focus of your space, it's time to share your personal STORY with potential guests. Consider sharing the reasons you started hosting, or the places you’ve traveled. Share your passions or the charities you support. Include the special skills that you have that make you a great host.
Sprinkle your story through your personal profile, your property’s description and in your marketing. Use your authenticity to begin to build trust and a relationship with potential guests.
Above and Beyond Service
Hosting is a customer service business and providing above and beyond service to guests will separate your hosting style from others. Acts of hospitality like being responsive and pleasant during all communications with guests will be memorable and set you apart. Small gestures like a welcome note or a quick text after the guests arrive will show you are a welcoming and caring host.
These personal touches will be what sets you apart and makes your listing and your guests’ stay unique. Your uniqueness is your hosting SUPER POWER, so use it and differentiate from the competition.
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