How to turn your home into an Air B&B

With the trend for domestic holidays in the UK having been on the rise during the past two years, many people have become interested in renting out a property through Air B&B.

And, as Air B&B’s domestic bookings across the globe rose from 50% in January 2020 to 80% in 2021, it’s no wonder homeowners are looking to cash in.

As bookings are popular with both long and short-term letters, those wanting a whole house or simply one room, there’s plenty of flexibility whatever home you own.

We’ve put together a brief guide to help you turn your property into an Air B&B let.

Set up an account and create a profile

The first thing you’ll need to do is sign up for an account and create a profile. Ensure all contact details are correct and add any relevant additional information. It’s a good idea to try and form a connection with any potential renter so including personal facts, likes and dislikes and hobbies will help your ‘brand’ and appeal to more renters. This way of marketing your vacation rental can establish good visibility and entice more possible customers.

Sell your home

It goes without saying that you’ll need to add information such as location, type of house or room, capacity and suitability. Photographs are obviously important and will give the renter an idea of the style of your home but you should also consider:

• The property’s selling points – include information such as local area attractions, nearby pubs, parking, transport links and national parks.
• Access to the property – the renter will need to know how to gain entry to your property upon arrival. Adding a secure key safe to the exterior of the property will enable guests to access the property without you having to meet them in person at a specific time.
• Cancellation policy – Air B&B listers can choose from various cancellation policies from flexible ones to stricter options so opt for one that suits your situation.
• Price – the renter will need to know the cost of their stay and this is likely to be used in the filter options when a renter is searching. It’s helpful to state whether the price is for one night, one week and whether it includes use of a whole property or one room.
• Any restrictions – this includes pets, children, large groups and smoking as well as accessibility and check in/ check out times.
• Detailed amenities – list all amenities the guest can enjoy use of such as a washing machine, WiFi, garden facilities and safety features.

Take out insurance

It’s a good idea to think about additional holiday home insurance to protect you, your home and your guests. Usually, these policies will cover you if your home is left empty for a long period, unlike standard home insurance.

Check your mortgage and tax requirements

Make sure to check with your mortgage company to see if they agree to you letting the property or whether you need a specific buy to let mortgage.

Any extra income made on your let will need to be declared for tax purposes, although it’s worth bearing in mind there is a government rent a room scheme which allows you to rent out a room in a property tax free up to £7500 per year.

Follow these tips and you’ll be well to your way to renting out a room or property through Air B&B.