In a study where 13,000 listings and 380,000 photos were analyzed at Airbnb properties, researchers discovered that professional photos increased bookings by seven percent. That number may sound insignificant, but that would apply to all seven million property listings. Knowing how to make your Airbnb look more appealing can mean more cash in your pocket.
1. Invest in Professional Photos
Professional photographers will know how to present your listing in the most attractive light. Write a list of the rooms to photograph to avoid forgetting one of the rooms. You may request the photos taken from multiple angles to present it in the best fashion. Beware of clutter before a photo op because it can turn guests off from your property. Show photos of the amenities and the essentials.
2. Prepare a Welcome Basket
Whenever possible, add a personal touch to your Airbnb listing for branding. One of the easiest ways to do that is by giving a welcome basket to your guests. The welcome basket depends on your Airbnb listing, and you shouldn’t overdo it.
Gifts that we have seen do well include:
- Bottle of local beer or wine
- Locally roasted coffee
- Personal toiletries
- Comfort items
- Healthy foods
In many cases, past Airbnb guests would leave a review about how they loved the gift basket.
3. Provide a Local Guide
We have seen this make your Airbnb listing more attractive since guests will know where to direct their attention in the city—it’s just a nice thing to do for guests. They may have had ideas before arrival, but giving them a guide can show them the attractions and encourage them to explore. The guidebook makes your Airbnb feel more hospitable since it shows them that you wish for them to have a positive experience. This gives them the chance to form a personal connection with the area.
4. Give the Right Amenities
You can make your Airbnb stand out with the right amenities. Think of personal touch and what would add a unique memory for them. For example, you might add an infrared sauna to the property. Unlike a traditional sauna, they don’t heat the air but use infrared lamps that use electromagnetic radiation. You can buy an infrared sauna for sale easily enough to add to the property. Other unique amenities that have attracted more Airbnb guests include jacuzzis, pools, bottled mineral water, hammocks, and patio furniture.
5. Plan Your Decor
Good interior design skills can make your Airbnb property more attractive to potential guests. Think about how you present the home. Artwork, flowers, rugs, and plants can boost the appeal of the photos of your Airbnb. Consider taking photos during the daylight hours since natural light has a more welcoming vibe.
6. How to Post Photos for Your Listing
We emphasize that not all photos were created equal, and we would strategize putting the best five photos first. At the same time, the first five photos should highlight the most attractive features of the home. In many cases, captions can add context to make the amenities easier to understand.
7. Don’t Put Photos of People
You want to highlight the most important things about your Airbnb listing that will sell the property and the reasons to book there. Everything in the photos and description should focus on bringing them to that point. Mistakes like taking photos of yourself can work against your property. As charming as you might be, most guests don’t come to visit you. They have other businesses in the city, or they want to vacation in a relaxing space, so it’s more effective to highlight the features in the home.
Conclusion
Learning how to make an Airbnb listing more appealing will increase the number of bookings. It’s not that you can’t make a mistake with your listing, but you want to present it in a way that maximizes the demand for it. On average, Airbnb hosts add an extra $924 to their monthly income and $9,000 to their yearly income. The income, however, will vary based on region and how you present your listings. Take the time to think about the listing and make it as attractive as possible.
