June 24, 2025

#069 Your Guests Know ... But Do You?

19 minutes

In this episode, Neil shares insights from a recent stay as a guest in an Airbnb property, highlighting both the positives and areas for improvement. While the stay was enjoyable and well-located, Neil discusses several minor oversights that could have transformed a good experience into a great one, such as unclear check-in instructions, inadequate amenities, and the absence of basic conveniences like a table and towel rail.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Hosts should maintain clear communication with guests, especially after booking. A simple message confirming the booking and providing check-in instructions can enhance the guest experience and reduce anxiety.

Important information such as parking instructions should be included in the joining instructions. This helps guests feel more at ease and shows that the host is attentive to their needs.

Small adjustments, like providing a full-length mirror, a towel rail, or a table for dining, can significantly improve a guest's stay. These details contribute to overall comfort and convenience.

Ensure that basic supplies, such as toilet paper and refreshments, are adequately stocked for the number of guests and duration of stay. This prevents guests from feeling inconvenienced during their visit.

Hosts are encouraged to stay in their own listings for at least one night. This first-hand experience can help identify potential issues and areas for improvement that may not be obvious from a host's perspective.

BEST MOMENTS

"This podcast aims to share the highs and lows, the opportunities and challenges that I've had over the last decade of hosting with Airbnb."

"How much better would it have felt to get a message right after booking back in March that said, thanks for booking with me?"

"A simple QR code linking to a quick how-to video would have been perfect."

"A simple, humble suggestion. Install a second, independent, low-wattage light positioned so that it doesn't shine into the main room."

"Sleep in your own Airbnb for at least one night so that you discover these things before your guests do."

CONTACT DETAILS

Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil

Email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE HOST

Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera.

Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours.

Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

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By Neil Harvey

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