Episode 33: Navigating Heritage Property Hosting with Matt Collins

In this episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, hosts Ray and Silvia sit down with Matt Collins to dive into the unique world of hosting a heritage property. Matt shares his experience of converting a 19th-century church into a stunning Airbnb getaway, including challenges, rewards, and lessons learned along the way.

Key Highlights:

• Selling Airbnb Properties: Silvia discusses the logistics of selling an Airbnb, including handling bookings and cancellations. She shares a case where a host successfully canceled bookings after providing a signed sales contract to Airbnb.
• The Church Conversion: Matt talks about his passion for repurposed architecture and the fascinating journey of transforming a heritage-listed church into a charming guesthouse. From the stained-glass windows to the original slate roof, every detail honors the building's history.
• Managing Heritage Properties: The intricacies of managing a heritage-listed property are explored, from navigating council approvals to working with specialized restorers. Matt gives invaluable advice for those considering similar projects.
• Creating a Memorable Guest Experience: Learn how Matt’s property offers guests a mix of history, comfort, and unique amenities, from extensive kitchen supplies to record players in a vast sanctuary. Feedback from guests highlights the special atmosphere of staying in such a historical setting.
• Building a Guest Network: Discover how Matt manages the property remotely, relying on local help, technology like Ring doorbells, and property management software to streamline operations.
• Future Plans: Will Matt acquire more churches or continue with unique properties? He shares his vision for the future, including plans to expand his offerings.

Matt’s Advice for Hosts:

If you’re passionate about hosting, be prepared for the work, but also for the rewards. If you’re not, consider bringing on a co-host or property manager to help manage the workload.

Want to Stay at Matt’s Property?

Visit Haven on High for more details, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook. You can also book through Airbnb, Booking.com, and other platforms.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram – Superhosts Down Under

Featured Properties:

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia’s Property – ⁠

https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠

Sponsor:

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In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we chat with Tania, a dedicated host from Rockdale, NSW, who turned to Airbnb hosting out of necessity—and discovered a passion for hospitality along the way.

Tania shares her experiences managing longer-term guests, including setting expectations, handling challenges like maintenance and cleanliness, and offering exceptional hospitality. She also reveals how thoughtful gestures lead to memorable stays and lasting friendships.

Listen in for practical insights on vetting guests, managing your property while working full-time, and how to provide a welcoming yet well-boundaried shared living experience.

https://www.airbnb.com/l/vJR6W4xx

• Instagram – Superhosts Down Under

• South Yarra Property – https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5
• Silvia’s Property – https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X
• North Melbourne Property – https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with coupon code: superhostpodcast50
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Airbnb Superhosts Down Under – Episode 31Interview with Airbnb Superhost: David Wang

Welcome to Episode 31 of Superhosts Down Under, the podcast that dives into the real stories and practical tips behind Airbnb hosting in Australia. Your hosts Ray and Silvia sit down with David Wang, a Sydney-based Superhost managing four successful Airbnb listings in Croydon Park.

David shares how he transformed a family home into a thriving multi-room setup, the systems he’s built to automate guest experience, and the surprising way hosting led him to community, church, and even his wife. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about scaling an Airbnb operation with heart and purpose.

Featured Listings

David’s Properties – Croydon Park, Sydney:

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia’s Property:

• https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X

Helpful Resource

Learn more about Airbnb’s fee structures:
https://www.airbnb.com.au/help/article/2700

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@superhosts_down_under

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In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we chat with Phil and Sandy, the creative duo behind The Shack, a beautifully restored fibro beach house in Culburra Beach, NSW.

They share how they transformed a rundown coastal shack into a vibrant retro-inspired Airbnb—complete with vintage furnishings, a tiki bar, and curated mid-century design touches. Learn how they overcame early hosting missteps, connected with the local community, and built an unforgettable guest experience.

Whether you’re starting your own Airbnb, restoring a themed property, or simply planning your next weekend escape from Sydney, this episode is filled with practical tips, entertaining stories, and loads of inspiration.

Stay at The Shack – Culburra Beach

https://www.airbnb.com/l/v1aNcZ0J

Connect with Us

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/superhosts_down_under

Featured Properties

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia’s Property – https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X

Sponsor

KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with the coupon code: superhostpodcast50

https://www.keynest.com

Looking for a luxury farm stay in Orange, NSW? In this episode of super hosts down under, we sit down with Helen, the visionary behind Black Sheep Inn, a unique boutique accommodation in the heart of wine country.

Helen shares how she transformed a heritage-listed shearing shed into a top-rated country retreat, offering a one-of-a-kind escape for wine lovers, foodies, and weekend getaways.

In this episode, we explore:

✅ Best places to stay in Orange, NSW and why it’s becoming a top travel destination

✅ The challenge of restoring heritage accommodation while maintaining modern comfort

✅ How Helen built a successful Airbnb business with a unique farm stay experience

✅ The booming wine and food tourism industry in Orange

✅ Top things to do in Orange NSW, from wine tasting to local farm tours

If you’re looking for the best boutique stays in NSW, or want to learn how to start a successful Airbnb, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and must-know travel tips!

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

KeyNest - 50% off first month coupon code: superhostpodcast50

In this episode, Ray and Silvia sit down with Pierce from Keynest to explore how short-term rental hosts can simplify their Airbnb check-in process, eliminate lockbox confusion, and deliver a seamless guest experience. They discuss the challenges of late arrivals, complicated key handovers, and building restrictions—plus how Keynest’s automated solutions and 24/7 pickup points offer a game-changing approach to property management. Learn about integrations with Airbnb, pay-as-you-go vs. subscription pricing, and upcoming proptech innovations like key lockers. Whether you’re a single host juggling flight delays or a co-host scaling multiple listings, discover how Keynest can streamline your Airbnb hosting operations and boost your check-in ratings.

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

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In this episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, we chat with the host of the Mona Vale Beach Cottage, a charming and highly-rated Airbnb retreat just steps from the ocean in Mona Vale, NSW.

This beautifully designed space has captured the hearts of guests, earning Superhost status and a loyal following. We uncover:

✅ The inspiration behind transforming this coastal cottage into a successful Airbnb

✅ Key strategies for maintaining a top-rated listing and achieving Superhost status

✅ Challenges and rewards of running an Airbnb in a sought-after beachside location

✅ How to create a seamless guest experience with thoughtful touches and hospitality

✅ Tips for setting the right pricing strategy and optimizing bookings year-round

If you’re an Airbnb host looking for inspiration, a traveler searching for unique stays, or curious about what makes a top-performing Airbnb in Australia, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

🎧 Tune in now to learn how to create an unforgettable Airbnb experience!

🔗 Check out the property here:Mona Vale Beach Cottage - Airbnb Listing

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

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In this episode ofAirbnb Superhosts Down Under, we chat with Alina Zhao, Director of Coolibah Downs Private Estate in Mount Nathan, Gold Coast. Alina shares her journey from running a wedding venue to expanding into luxury Airbnb stays, offering a blend of nature, relaxation, and retreat-style accommodations. Learn how Alina transformed her family home into a high-demand short-term rental, overcame challenges with large group bookings, and introduced smart tech to manage her properties.

Key takeaways:

Managing large group bookings with smart tech solutions

The importance of guest qualification and setting expectations

Creating unique guest experiences with luxury and nature at the forefront

We also discuss exciting future developments, including luxury modular homes and wellness amenities like saunas and cold plunges. Tune in for inspiring stories and tips for Airbnb hosts looking to expand and diversify!

Alina’s property

https://www.airbnb.com/l/JNxMrjsH

https://www.airbnb.com/l/eaXgUZHI

https://www.airbnb.com/l/VQOEBoHz

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

KeyNest - 50% off first month coupon code: superhostpodcast50

In this episode, Alex shares his experiences as an Airbnb host and traveler, discussing his journey from Berlin to Boulder, the challenges and rewards of managing an Airbnb, and the importance of flexibility in lifestyle. He emphasizes the need for reliable cleaning services, navigating regulations and taxes, and offers advice for those looking to adopt a similar lifestyle.

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

KeyNest - 50% off first month coupon code: superhostpodcast50

In this episode of 'Airbnb Superhosts Down Under,' we chat with Tony, a multi-property Airbnb host with listings across multiple states. Tony shares his journey from hosting a single property to building 'The Brass Room' brand, complete with unique and luxurious features. We dive into the challenges of interstate property management, creative renovation tips, pricing strategies with tools like PriceLabs, and the importance of building a strong brand identity for direct bookings. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and actionable tips!

Tony’s properties

https://www.airbnb.com/slink/GR1wLlqQ

https://www.airbnb.com/slink/2h6Hysyx

https://www.airbnb.com/slink/ZR2Q0ioK

Ray's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.raymondyee.com.au/airbnb⁠⁠⁠

Silvia's Property

⁠⁠⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠⁠⁠

Direct Message Us on Instagram

⁠⁠⁠@superhosts_down_under⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor

KeyNest - 50% off first month coupon code: superhostpodcast50