What is Airbnb and how does it work? Everything you need to know

What is Airbnb?

Airbnb is one of the most widespread platforms worldwide in terms of tourist rental management.
Great business opportunities can be found on the platform, but there are also many competitors. The objective of the advertiser on the platform should always be to persuade the guest to rent their home , as well as to reach potential guests who are looking for accommodation.

How does Airbnb work?

What are the requirements to be an Airbnb host?

To be a host on Airbnb, you generally need to meet several basic requirements . Although these may vary depending on location and specific Airbnb policies, below are common requirements:

1. Have a space suitable for lodging:

Before publishing your ad on the platform, make sure you have your accommodation ready.

This must have, at a minimum, the basic amenities covered, although if you want to get more out of it and attract a greater number of guests, you will have to take care of it so that it is attractive to the users of the application.

It may be a good idea to prepare a welcome letter to the vacation rental, as well as some basic rules in the accommodation.

The accommodation can be a private room, an entire house, an apartment or any type of property that meets habitability standards.

2. Create a profile on Airbnb:

You must register and create a detailed profile on Airbnb.
In the profile, you will need to provide personal information, as well as verify your identity.

It is a very basic and simple process where the platform itself will guide you to do it successfully, providing all the corresponding data, as well as the type of home to advertise.
You must also add title, description and photographs of the home.
We recommend that you convey maximum trust and be as transparent as possible from the beginning with communications in your listings, as well as towards guests.

3. Comply with local laws and regulations:

It is essential to know and comply with local laws regarding short-term rentals, obtaining necessary permits or tourist licenses.

4. Detailed property listing:

You need to create a listing for your property that includes detailed descriptions, high-quality photos and established pricing, cancellation policies, and house rules.

5. Provide basic amenities:

Ensure your space has basic amenities such as clean sheets, towels, toilet paper, and other guest essentials. These types of basic goods, if they are present, are usually the usual trend, but if they are not found they can lead to a lot of discomfort.

6. Accept as many requests as you can

This is something important to have a presence on Airbnb, keep in mind that the platform's goal is to provide the best possible experience, so try to accept as many requests as possible, as well as cancel as few reservations as possible.
As a host, you must reach the minimum possible quality standards.

With the Check-in Scan , you can manage the check-in process of your guests completely automatically. You can also make the integration with any intelligent lock, so that, when the guest does the check-in, it can access the accommodation without the need for physical contact with the host.

7. Maintain positive communication with your guests:

Responding to guest queries in a timely manner and quickly is highly valued by the platform.
It is recommended to respond within the first 24 hours of receiving the message. It is not only about the platform's algorithm seeing you favorably, but also that communication with users and guests is fluid.
The host must be available to resolve any issues guests may have during their stay.

8. Get positive stay reviews

Getting positive reviews is the result of offering good service or the service expected by the guest themselves.
Encourage reviews by reminding guests via message or email. If you manage to obtain positive comments and a high average rating, the platform will value it positively.

9. Security and maintenance:

Ensure the property is in good repair, safe and clean before each guest arrival.

These are general requirements, but it is advisable to review specific Airbnb policies and guidelines and applicable local laws to ensure full compliance.

Important tips on operating Airbnb for hosts

Create attractive and original ads to persuade the platform user to choose your rental. You can also take inspiration from other ads in case you don't have much time to make a creative ad.

Attractive and eye-catching content

Titles: Use direct titles

• Use direct titles that have the ability to persuade , keep in mind that this is the first thing a user will see. Avoid words like “nice” or “good location” and focus on aspects that only your accommodation can offer.
• Upload quality images of the property you are going to rent , many users will be attracted simply by the quality of the images. Always make sure to show the best possible angle.
• When writing a description of the accommodation, make sure to refer to nearby places of interest (monuments, parking, places of interest...), with the intention of highlighting the location of the apartment. If it is an accommodation on the coast, you can also include the distance to the beach.
• You must also refer to the equipment that the accommodation contains , this is an important point for the user when making a decision.
• Always make sure to keep in mind the positive opinions of previous clients.

How does Airbnb pay the host?

Airbnb pays hosts through various payment methods, which can vary depending on the country the host is located in. Common methods include:

• Bank transfer : Money is transferred directly to the host's bank account.
• PayPal : Funds are sent to the host's PayPal account.
• Payoneer Prepaid Debit Card : Hosts can receive payments on a prepaid debit card.
• Western Union : Some hosts may choose to receive payments through Western Union.
• Other methods : Depending on the host's location, there may also be other payment methods available.

Payment is usually made 24 hours after the guest check-in, and it may take several days for the funds to appear in the host's account depending on the payment method chosen.