After you successfully purchase a short-term rental property, it is wise to begin setting up your Airbnb listing. This can be a confusing and overwhelming  process, so we created a step-by-step list to help new hosts. We also share the insider details and best practices for the first 2 steps of setting up your listing so you're set for success as your listing goes live! Stay tuned for our upcoming posts of the remaining listing steps.

The First 2 Steps to Creating a Successful Airbnb Listing

Step 1: Sign up as an Airbnb host 

Step 2: Create a new listing 

Step 1: Sign Up as an Airbnb Host  

It is important to note that you canget started on your Airbnb listing before you are actually ready to go live. Beginning the process will allow you to slowly fill in the blanks for your listing and will prompt you to start thinking about the best ways to describe your rental to potential guests.  

Creating your host account with Airbnb is very straightforward. If you would like my guidance with setting up your listing, use my ambassador link to set up your account. If you choose, this will permit me to access and review your listing with you before it goeslive.   

When setting up your host account, besure to use the email and phone number at which you want to receive all communications from the Airbnb platform. You will want to download the Airbnb app if you do not currently have it on your smart phone. The app will send you notifications about guest bookings, messages, cancellations, and more. It gives you a convenient pulse point for your listing and communication with your guests. This is it! You are at the cusp of your journey as a short-term rental host!   

Step 2: Create a New Listing   

Now that you have created a host account with Airbnb, you can create your first listing. Select the type of rental you have and add your rental address. Then select the number of guests you can accommodate. If your rental has a pull-out couch or futon, be sure tofactor these into your guest number. Next, select your space’s amenities from the list provided. This is not the time to be shy! Check off every single amenity that your space includes.

The amenity list on Airbnb ranges from central air conditioning to board games to outdoor dining areas. It is a great source for amenity ideas to include in your space and descriptions. Make a list of amenities you would like to add to your space. You can either add them before your listing goes live, and check them off. Or, you can use revenue from guest stays to fund purchasing more amenities.

Airbnb's amenity list is constantly updated, so check back every few months to see if there are more things you can share as amenities. I was just able to add an existing property sauna as an official Airbnb amenity last week!

Now that you have the first two steps mapped out for you, go do them! These are the baby steps that lead up to bigger steps like listing descritipns and pricing. Stay tuned for future posts that will guide you through the entire process!