Avoid These Mistakes For Airbnb Hosting In Calgary 2024: Do This Instead!

Times Are Changing, Don't Get Left Behind!

Guests have quickly become very savvy with booking on Airbnb and other short term rental platforms. They know exactly what they want and how they want it. It's our job as professional hosts to meet these demands and service them the best way possible to ultimately earn more on our bottom line.

Many hosts, especially those who have been doing this for a while are often stuck in their ways and getting left behind in the rapidly growing short term rental industry. Here are 3 of our biggest takeaways to capitalize on areas, where other hosts may be missing out on!

Cancelation Policy

DON’T: Unreasonably Strict Cancelation Policies

Guests have become wise on they search and book properties through online platforms and many search for properties with more flexible cancellation policies.

DO: Moderate Cancellation Policy

Even though guests often don’t plan on canceling their reservations, the peace of mind with having a more flexible cancellation policy being in effect. A moderate policy will still cover you for last minute cancellations but will also give the guest a full or partial refund pending on how far out they cancel, also giving the host some notice needed to try and get those dates booked out again.

Instant Booking

DON’T: Leave Instant Book Off

Similar to the previous point with cancellation policies, Instant Book is also a search filter guests use to look for properties that they can book quickly and with no hassle.

DO: Turn Instant Book On!

You will notice an immediate increase in bookings and inquiries on your listing. You are also able to create settings on “WHO” is able to Instant Book. Don’t just allow anyone to book with Instant Book - apply filters to: “verified users” and “guests who have been well reviewed” to better vet your upcoming guests.

Property Maintenance

DON’T: Neglect Your Property

Too many hosts just put their properties online, get a booking, turnover clean and continue to rinse and repeat until it's too late. Overtime your property will start to show wear and tear, furniture will break down, inventory will go missing, etc etc and this will directly translate into the way you are reviewed, ultimately impacting your reputation and cash flow.

DO: Set A Maintenance & Care Schedule

Nothing shows guests that you are a PROUD host then the quality and care you put into your property. This is why it is extremely important to stay on top of all the maintenance with each property. Schedule in your calendar: weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual tasks to complete. These items can include: furnace filters, furniture inspections, window cleaning, deep cleaning, spring and fall yard maintenance, clean gutters and eavestroughs, paint touch ups, service air conditioners etc etc.. each schedule should be unique to each property depending on what each property will require.