Host with pride this Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a perfect time to become an Airbnb host.

Whether you have a spare bedroom, apartment or entire house, you can make a significant amount of extra cash by sprucing up your pad and listing it on Airbnb.

If you haven’t hosted on Airbnb before, it is one of the easiest ways to monetise your home and showcase it to an audience of millions. As a host, you’ll get to meet people from different cultures, from all around the world. So not only will you have some extra cash, but you may make some fabulous new friends.

Star Observer caught up with local “Superhost” Peter, from Darlinghurst, to get his top tips on how to be a host with the most this Mardi Gras.

1. Communicate clearly and quickly​

Be as upfront as you can about your home. Your place doesn’t have a coffee machine but it does have a toasty machine? Mention that. Access to a pool and gym in the building? Let the guest know. The more accurate you are about explaining the perks of the apartment, the better chance you have of someone booking your place.

2. Attention to detail​

I’ve always included little touches to make my guests feel at home and get positive reviews. Whether it’s an extra set of towels, free WiFi or tips on how to explore the neighbourhood, I always include these little magical things that make guests enjoy their stay. After all, happy guests = a happy host.

3. Coordinate arrival and departure​

Airbnb’s messaging system is a great tool to chat to guests before they stay, learn about who they are but also arrange details of my guest’s arrival and departure times. As a guest, there’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination only to find nobody home. I always try to meet them in person to add a personal touch.

4. Be available

It’s good to remember that guests are exactly that, guests. They have little to no knowledge about your home and the local area, so it is essential to be available to answer any questions they may have.

5. Write a review​

Genuine reviews are the foundations of a community like Airbnb and are huge value to all hosts when choosing the right guest. After every guest, make sure you write up a review about your experience and share it with others in the Airbnb community.

6. Enjoy The Experience​

The last tip of all is simply to have fun and enjoy the experience. I know many people who have become great friends and kept in contact with their guests. The human connection between guests and hosts is what makes Airbnb so unique.

For details, visit www.airbnb.com.au or download the app on your smartphone.