Stephanie Harris of Little Rock, who, with her husband, lists an apartment on Airbnb, has some tips for other homeowners interested in listing their properties.
• Provide all the typical travel amenities people expect.
• Provide lots of information about the neighborhood, including restaurants, and add details not found in guidebooks. "That's the whole point of Airbnb, to get that local experience."
• Show off Arkansas products. "I try to leave locally made treats to promote the local businesses when I can," Harris says.
Harris also reminds those renting out rooms in their homes to check with their municipality for zoning and tax regulations. Set up an account with the state Department of Finance and Administration and prepare to pay sales taxes.
Little Rock has a 9 percent sales and use tax as well as a 4 percent tourism tax for stays less than 30 days. "And I wouldn't have known that," Harris notes, "because Airbnb doesn't tell you, it just tells the hosts to check their local laws."
Airbnb says listings should be very specific about the room type -- is it shared (no private space), private (private sleeping area which may or may not include a private bathroom), or an entire house.
To achieve good reviews, renters should:
• Respond to inquiries and reservation requests within 24 hours and meet high standards for check-in, accuracy, cleanliness and overall experience. By frequently checking the calendar, homeowners can maintain updated availability. Those who don't follow the standards can be subject to penalties, including financial ones, if they cancel a confirmed booking.
• Provide a clean and tidy lodging. Before and during the guest's stay, clean every room they can access, focusing on the bathroom and kitchen. Make sure the towels and sheets are freshly laundered. Make room in a dresser or closet for the guest's belongings. Consider also leaving cleaning supplies in the space so guests can handle their accidental messes.
Those who can't do the cleaning themselves can add a cleaning fee to their listing price and hire a professional service.
• Amenities -- While all hosts should consider providing basics like soap, toilet paper, sheets and towels, many travelers also look for amenities like a hair dryer, Wi-Fi or a hot tub. Some look specifically for an atmosphere, like family-friendliness. Even knowing small details, like whether you provide shampoo and conditioner in your space, can help guests plan for their trip.
• Responsible hosting -- Also consider your guest's safety, emergency procedures with emergency contact numbers, a first-aid kit, working smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector and fire extinguisher, clearly marked exits and a map of the home.
• Respect privacy -- Disclose whether there are security cameras or other surveillance equipment at or around your listing and make sure you are aware of and comply with federal, state and local laws regarding them.
• Access -- Check the home for any areas where guests might trip or fall and either remove the hazard or mark it clearly. Ensure stairs are safe and have railings, repair exposed wires and remove or lock up any dangerous objects. Ensure the home is safe for children or notify guests of potential hazards. Make sure the space is properly ventilated and that temperature control is clearly marked and functional. Ensure guests understand how to safely use the heater.
• House rules -- Post your house rules regarding smoking, parking, noise, check-in and check-out times and whether parties or pets are allowed.
-- Linda S. Haymes
HomeStyle on 08/13/2016