Running a Rental Business

5 Things You Can Do to Make Your Airbnb Stand Out

Although the Airbnb business is booming, its increasing popularity has led to a congested market and increased competition. For example, New York City alone had over 52,000 listings as of 2018, the entire United States with more than half a million. With so many rental options, it’s important that you make your Airbnb stand out […]

By Freya Haven

Last updated: September 01, 2023

Although the Airbnb business is booming, its increasing popularity has led to a congested market and increased competition. For example, New York City alone had over 52,000 listings as of 2018, the entire United States with more than half a million. With so many rental options, it’s important that you make your Airbnb stand out from the rest. Setting up an Airbnb is difficult because there are so many things to consider when starting a short-term rental business. But the struggle will pay off once your guests leave with a great experience. 

Here are five simple additions you can have on your Airbnb to help it stand out:

Maintain Your Facilities

Before adding anything new, make sure that important facilities such as water supply, heating, and electricity are fully functional. Plus, in an increasingly technological era, Wi-Fi is another necessity for any Airbnb listing. So it goes without saying that a zippy connection can make the difference between a good and a great home. 

Use Clean and Simple Decor

One of the worst feelings in the world is being in a cramped and cluttered Airbnb. As a property owner, you need to make good use of your rental space to make it appear larger than it really is. For example, don’t clutter the place with unnecessary objects, such as a variety of small décor, that can easily break. Plus, always remember to keep your Airbnb simple with clean lines and isometric silhouettes to make your space appear both modern and classic at the same time. 

In addition, consider including other elements to make your Airbnb homier, such as plants and wall art, to help guests feel more at ease. 

Photo by Sarah Dorweiler on Unsplash

Adopt a Relevant Theme

Your Airbnb doesn’t necessarily have to be trinket-free. If you go for a thematic space or one that’s relevant to its location, then it adds to the appeal of the rental. For example, a Mingei-themed room in Tokyo, a medieval-themed room in the South of France, or an Olympus-themed room in Athens would make for a lovely, geocentric experience.

Add Good Lighting

If there’s anything that guests are likely to do in your Airbnb, it’s to take photos of the space, and of themselves. A report from Pixlee reveals that about 77% of Airbnb’s Instagram engagement involves “regramming” user-generated content. In other words, Airbnbs typically rely on the kind of photos its guests upload on social media to be noticed. True enough, researchers from Maryville University highlight the ongoing shift towards digital environments, especially as more rely on social media to dictate every aspect of their lives. And that includes knowing which Airbnbs are “Instagramable”, as they say. 

To cater to this demand of social media-friendly accommodation, ensure that your rental is well-lit. Have enough windows for natural light to enter your abode and ensure that artificial light isn’t too harsh. Also, consider adding interesting lighting elements such as fairy lights and lamps.

Post Photos and Other Relevant Information

Perhaps one of the most overlooked aspects of renting out an Airbnb is the photos and information you post on the platform. You can include must-knows about popular itineraries, as well as necessities in the area such as commuter guides and city maps, amongst other things. You can also include photos of your property’s add-ons such as floaties for the pool, a stocked fridge, snacks, or whatever is applicable.

When thinking of how to decorate your space, it always helps to put yourself in your guests’ shoes. Think of what you’d like to see before renting an Airbnb yourself.