Welcome to my Airbnb hosting guide! I’m Sarah, and I am proud to be one of the top-rated superhosts on the Airbnb platform! I have four studio and one-bedroom condos located on 30A and gross almost 400k annually. My occupancy rates average 96%, and I consistently earn rave 5-star reviews from my Airbnb guests.
How do I do it? I credit passion and attention to detail as the keys to my success. As a family travel blogger with a background in hospitality, I can put myself into my guest’s shoes, and that makes all the difference! Anticipating needs, managing expectations, and clear communication are skills every Airbnb host needs.
I am just like you! I am a 40-something mom living in Southern Alabama. Five years ago, I had a dream and knew I had what it takes to be a successful Airbnb host. Now, I am able to provide for my family, travel the world, and enjoy time with my kids, all while running a successful Airbnb business.
So, again, welcome! I am glad you are here. I have an overwhelming amount of knowledge and first-hand experience to share with you!
FREE 5-Star Airbnb Hosting Guide
You’re in luck because I have created and compiled all of my Airbnb hosting guide resources into one place!
So, whether you are just dreaming about purchasing an investment property or a seasoned host with specific questions, there is something for you here! Use my popular Airbnb Buying Guides to set up every room in your short-term rental. There are a lot of things you don’t want to forget!
Click the images below to browse each category.
Join My 5-Star Airbnb Hosting Facebook Group
Also, I am excited to have just launched my brand new 5-Star Airbnb Hosting Facebook group! I invite you to join me there and connect with fellow Airbnb hosts. It’s a safe place to bounce ideas off one another and share some of the highs and lows that come along with Airbnb hosting.
And we all know the highs are high, and those lows can be very low!
Click here to join: 5-Star Airbnb Hosting
Airbnb Hosting Guide FAQ
If you have a question, I can absolutely answer it!
My various Airbnb Hosting blog posts are detail-oriented, answering most questions before you even ask them. You are always welcome to leave a comment on my blog. I reply to all of them! In addition, my new 5-Star Airbnb Hosting Facebook group is a great place to ask questions.
Here are some Airbnb hosting questions that I get asked frequently!
How do I know where to buy an Airbnb?
Without a doubt, I recommend buying your investment property in a location that you are very familiar with and enjoy visiting yourself! This allows you to be a great host, knowledgeable about the area, and able to answer questions and provide top-notch recommendations. Additionally, I find it helpful if you live within two hours of your property so that you can lay eyes on your space as often as possible.
READ: Where Should I Buy an Investment Property?
Is owning an Airbnb expensive?
You can host on Airbnb in various ways, from renting out a single room in your home to renting out a yurt in the mountains. However, most Airbnb hosts rent out a condo or home as a short-term rental. In my case, they are vacation rentals.
The largest cost is purchasing your investment property. After that, you can expect to spend around $10,000 per 700 sq ft getting it furnished and set up. Then, once your listing is active, your operating costs include cleaning fees, maintenance, HOA and condo association dues, insurance, and taxes. My expenses equal about half of my revenue each year.
Should you self-manage your Airbnb or hire a management company?
Actually, I have a blog post sharing all of my thoughts here. In a nutshell, it comes down to have much time you have. If you are able to manage it yourself, do it! If you hire a management company, you often can cover costs but not create a positive cash flow. Essentially, you are leaving your 40% profit on the table!
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