Furnishing an Airbnb vacation rental may be the most challenging yet enjoyable thing you need to do for your property. You will need to spend countless hours thinking of ways to fill up every nook and cranny of your home with essentials for your guests to enjoy. To do this, shopping for the best furniture for Airbnb vacation rentals is crucial for the success of your listing. 

Furnishing your New Airbnb Apartment or Property

A part of our Airbnb 101 is ensuring you have the right furnishings for your vacation rental. You first need to look around your property, divide them into sections, and make a checklist of what furniture is needed for each section. Separate indoor furniture from outdoor furniture and set a budget for everything you need to buy.

Next, research the best furniture stores and best places to buy them. You can do this online or ask your interior decorator if you have one. Look around for local furniture shops to get the best deals, especially if you are on a tight budget. You can also look for the best place to buy furniture online if local stores are not enough for your needs.

Third, consider the location and type of guests when buying furniture. If your property can accommodate families with children, you might want to buy a dark-colored or spill-safe couch. 

For country homes, you may want the best outdoor patio furniture with the best paint for outdoor use.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Airbnb Furniture

People are attracted to listings that are appealing to the eyes. The pictures are the first thing they see and having nice furniture and cool interiors will likely land you a reservation. Here are some factors to consider before buying Airbnb furniture.

Budget

The budget is the most important factor when buying the best furniture. You may want the best for your Airbnb but if you don’t have the budget for them, all your planning and designing may just go to waste.

Appearance

Remember that design is an integral part of attracting guests to your property. Your furniture must complement and enhance the design that you are aiming for.

Comfort

Another important factor that guests look for in a rental is comfort. Most people rent Airbnb properties for vacation and being comfortable in your place is a priority. Keep this in mind when you buy furniture for your rental.

Quality

The best quality furniture is one that is from durable materials. Remember that your property will be used by different people from all walks of life and it is not a guarantee that they will take care of your furniture. With this in mind, ensure you buy only the best quality furniture. 

List of Essential Airbnb Furniture

As mentioned before, the best way to start furnishing your Airbnb property is to make a checklist by section or room. Start with a list of the essential Airbnb furniture before moving on to decorations. This will help you in budgeting and buying the important furniture first. 

Living Room Essentials

The living room is the main part of your property. This is where your guests will spend most of their time relaxing and enjoying their personal time. A lovely couch or sofa can be the tie that binds your living room. Your space will be comfortable with a lovely coffee table and some good throws. 

Dining and Kitchen Essentials

Some families use the dining table more often than the living room, This is where they converge to spend quality time together. Your dining table must be of good quality and the chairs are comfortable to sit on. Make sure that you also have a good quality cupboard or storage area in the kitchen. 

Bedroom Essentials

The first thing guests do when checking out the bedroom is to sit on the bed. Buying the most comfortable and durable bed is crucial. And don’t forget the mattress. It can make a great difference if your mattress gives good support to your guests. A good night’s sleep in a great bed will put your guests in a good mood throughout their stay, leading to good reviews that every host needs. 

Other Furniture Essentials

Other areas of the property also need attention when it comes to furniture. Some have balcony areas, some have huge backyards and others have basements and attics.  

Bathroom Essentials

Bathroom furniture will include vanity units, mirrors, and cabinets. Each piece of furniture must be functional and space-saving with a clean aesthetic. 

Outdoor Furniture

If you have an outdoor area where guests can lounge and kids can run around, you may need to get the best outdoor or patio furniture that can withstand different weather conditions in your area. 

Choosing the Right Airbnb Furniture

Choosing the right furniture can be tricky especially if it is your first time furnishing an Airbnb. Buying a couch is not just about getting the most comfortable or the most durable. You need to take into consideration the color, the material, the size, and more. 

This is also true for other furniture like beds, dining tables, chairs, and others. Before buying furniture for your Airbnb vacation rental, ensure you have the sizes, color selections, pattern, and material to match the theme.

Whether you buy your furniture in-store or online, you must buy the best quality furniture to ensure durability and comfort. If you want to check out a clean and aesthetically furnished home using the best furniture, you can check out Live Sunward’s gallery which will show you how it is done. The key is to combine design and comfort to suit the needs of your guests.

Make Bank With Your Airbnb Rental

There are so many Airbnb how-to books, blog posts and forums, that it’s hard to know what to do first. Even if you find one that seems good, how can you know it’s actually a good resource? With so much conflicting advice out there, what do you do next?

Use the Airbnb Host Guide resources from CoCal Design Co to make the most of your airbnb hosting experience. Let our top tips help you with everything from preparing your home for guests, to hosting etiquette and even dealing with awkward guest situations. We’ll show you everything you need to know in easy-to-follow steps for guests have the best airbnb experience possible.

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Airbnb, VRBO, or any vacation rental should think to secure vacation rental insurance for vacation rental homes to protect them against liability claims and property damages. Of course, this is to ensure your rental business will gain you profit and will not cause financial loss.  This is why homeowners insurance for vacation rental homes should be considered.

With the increasing demands of vacation rentals, turning your second home into a vacation rental property is quite tempting. According to PR Newswire, the demand for short-term vacation rentals is fairly high despite the pandemic. Also, yes, a vacation rental business is an excellent source of passive income. But be wary, every business comes with a risk.

Though the vacation rental industry is easier to handle than other businesses, it is still important to understand and evaluate the risks involved when renting out your vacation home. So, with vacation rentals, there’s a risk of liability claims and property damage. 

Why Do You Need Short-Term Rental Insurance?

Why do you need short-term rental insurance when you already have a homeowners’ insurance policy? Also, home insurance only covers property damages and liabilities caused by family members and non-commercial visitors.

Furthermore, home insurance does not cover damages and liabilities caused by paying guests. Renting your vacation home to guests creates a gap with your homeowners’ insurance policy. That’s why you need short-term rental insurance to fill that gap and ensure your home’s protection.

What is Short-Term Rental Insurance?

Short-term rental insurance protects you and your vacation home against liability risks and property damage while it is being rented. A typical home insurance policy does not cover injuries or damages caused to your guests and home, as insurance companies consider it a business. 

What Does Short-Term Insurance Cover?

• Loss of earnings
• Liability coverage, such as liquor liability, identity theft, etc. 
• Excess usage of utilities
• Structure of your home
• Contents of your home
• Infestation

Insurance companies offer separate short-term rental insurance or as an endorsement to your standard home insurance policy. 

What Is the Cost of Short-Term Rental Insurance?

Just like standard home insurance, the cost of homeowners insurance for vacation rental homes varies. The factors that affect the cost of homeowners’ insurance rates are almost the same as short-term rental insurance. The calculation of short-term rental insurance premiums depends on:

Location of your home

The location of your home has a tremendous impact on the cost of short-term rental insurance. Insurance companies consider the risks present in your home’s location. These includes:

Natural Disasters Risk

Locations with higher risks of weather-related risks have higher insurance premiums. 

Fire Risk 

According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), structure fires caused $12.1 billion in property damage in 2020. Insurance companies consider the distance of your home from the fire station and fire hydrants. Proximity to the fire station and fire hydrants lessens the risk of property damage because of quick emergency response. 

Crime Risk

Crimes like theft and vandalism impact the cost of home insurance rates. If your rental home is in a high-crime neighborhood, it would most likely increase your property insurance premiums. Proximity to the police station and installing your home with safety features like a security alarm system and deadbolts minimize the risk of theft and vandalism. 

Coverage 

Insurance providers offer different homeowners coverage limits for home replacement. In case your home gets destroyed, insurers will pay the replacement value of your home depending on the coverage limit you chose. 

Actual Cash Value

An ACV pays for the actual value of your home minus depreciation. This coverage is the cheapest, but in the event of a catastrophic loss, it will not be enough to replace your home.

Replacement Cost

This coverage will pay for your home at its replacement cost without depreciation.

Guaranteed Replacement

This coverage guarantees the replacement cost of your home, even if the current replacement cost exceeds the coverage limit. This coverage has higher premium rates but provides the best protection for your home and family.

Deductibles

Deductibles are the amount of money a homeowner will shoulder in case of home repair or replacement. If you choose a higher deductible, you will have lower premiums and vice versa. 

Condition of Your Home

Your home’s characteristics also affect the rates of homeowners insurance for vacation rental homes. Insurance companies consider the following when calculating your home insurance premiums:

Date of Construction

The older the house, the higher the insurance rates, as older houses have higher repair costs than newer homes. 

Roof Condition

The quality and age of the roof also play an enormous factor in the cost of vacation rental insurance premiums. A new roof made with quality materials is more resistant to damage, thus lowering insurance rates. Older roofs are more prone to damage from hail or windstorms.

Increasing Home Construction Costs

Home repair and replacement costs increase year by year because of rising construction materials costs and regulatory building codes. 

Home Amenities and Activities

Additional home amenities raise the costs of home repairs and replacement. In addition, it also increases risks for injuries and liability claims of your guests. The following are additional home amenities and activities that increase insurance premiums:

• Swimming pool
• Hot Tub
• Outdoor trampoline  
• Fireplace
• A Finished basement 
• Treehouse
• Exercise equipment
• Docks                

Companies That Offer Short-Term Rental Insurance

• Foremost Insurance Group
• American Modern
• Nationwide
• Progressive

Is Your Hosting Site’s Insurance for Vacation Rental Not Enough?

Why do you still need short-term rental insurance even when Airbnb and VRBO provide insurance coverage for property owners? Even though hosting sites provide insurance plans for homes listed on their sites, still it is not enough to ensure complete protection. The hosting site’s insurance coverage can only serve as supplementary coverage.

Conclusion

Having a vacation rental home provides extra cash flow to homeowners. It is a simple business to deal with, but make sure you manage the risks to ensure financial gain rather than loss. Equip your vacation rental home with proper insurance to protect you from accidental financial losses.

Is Your Airbnb Bankable?

Hosting on Airbnb is a lot more intimidating than searching for properties to stay in. We know that you’re anxious to get going and make some major bank (we’ve all thought about it). 

With CoCal Design Co.’s Airbnb Host Guide, our resources outline all the important things you’ll need to get started right today!

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Furnish your Airbnb or VRBO

There are many ways to furnish your Airbnb or VRBO depending on the type of property you have and the readily available things. If your property is new and you need to start from scratch to furnish your home, it would be easier to mix and match decors, furniture, and other essentials. On the other hand, if you decided to list a fully furnished home or property, then all you need is to rearrange furniture and add new furnishings and decors to spruce it up. 

Another thing to consider is the type of rental home you are listing. Homes for big groups should be furnished according to different ages. Cabins or vacation homes would need more outdoor essentials but at the same time, have comfortable amenities inside the house. Here’s a checklist for some best items to buy for your VRBO.

Checklist for Furnishing Airbnb and VRBO

An Airbnb furnishing checklist is important to have before you go out and find the best items to buy. This will help you furnish your VRBO or Airbnb without spending too much and buying only the things you need. A good tip is to list according to each section of the home. Categorized by room like living room, bedroom, kitchen, dining room, and more. You can break down the list further depending on your needs. Remember that you are catering to a wide range of travelers so make it fresh and simple. 

Living Room Essentials

• For big groups, this would probably be the second most used part of the house. A good sofa that can seat at least half of the number of guests allowed will be a good fit
• If the budget allows, go for a sofa bed. It will increase occupancy number which in turn will allow an increase in rent prince
• Put sofa covers that you can easily replace and wash in between guests 
• Put accent chairs that can be easily moved around and are comfortable to sit in.

Bedroom Essentials

• Use mattresses that are sturdy and comfortable to sleep in. 
• Use mattress covers to protect the bed.
• Place a good number of pillows for the guests to use. Do not overcrowd the bed. 
• Place a full-length mirror in the bedroom
• Avoid decorating the room with unnecessary items. 

Dining Room and Kitchen Essentials

• Probably the most used part of the house especially with big groups, the kitchen and dining area must be filled with smart appliances like refrigerators, ovens, coffeemakers, air fryers, and the like. Place instructions on how to use these appliances and care for them. 
• Place table runners and make sure that there are plenty of utensils that guests can use. 
• Provide plates and cutlery that are usable but not expensive. 
• Hang some paintings on the walls
• The dining table must be big enough for the number of guests allowed and use chairs that are not only for aesthetics but for comfort as well. 

Bathroom Essentials

• Always have more than enough bath and hand towels for the guests. 
• Use shampoo and conditioner dispensers to save costs and avoid throwing away whole bottles every time new guests come in.
• Provide extra soaps, toilet paper, and other bathroom essentials. 

Other Areas or Rooms in the House

Aside from the main rooms, there are also other areas in the home that must also be filled with essentials. 

Laundry Area

• Whether indoor or outdoor, it is best to provide detergent and bleach for your guests to use. 
• Include some dryer sheets, ironing, and sewing supplies.

Garden and Patio area

• Put up hazard and safety signs to remind guests, especially children to always be careful
• Make your short-term rental kid-friendly and senior-friendly

Furnishing your Airbnb can take a lot of your time and money when it is not planned well. Aside from the cost to furnish Airbnb, you also need to think about the maintenance once you start your hosting and guests start renting your property. You may need some light cleaning in between guests and deep cleaning every quarter. 

One way to remind guests of house rules and policies to maintain the cleanliness and order of your furnished Airbnb or VRBO, you can write a welcome pack for Airbnb or a welcome manual that can be prominently displayed for your guests to read. A welcome pack for Airbnb guests or a welcome kit can also be given to greet your guests during check-in.

Make Your VRBO Look Spectacular

For more resources to help your vacation home rental look invitingly spectacular, CoCal Design Co has the best VRBO Host Guides. 

We have more awesome guides such as this one: “Best Airbnb Host Reviews Samples” if you’re interested.

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best items to buy for vrbo

best-items-to-buy-for-your-vrbo

Hosting on VRBO is easy too! So, what are the things you need to buy for your VRBO? CoCAl Design Co discusses it thoroughly!

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Preparing your new Airbnb listing is an enormous task, whether you have a small property or a large one. You will need to plan and decide for every nook and cranny of the home. And don’t forget one of the most important things— smart wifi locks for Airbnb owners! Here is a quick Airbnb wifi lock buying guide from CoCal Design Co. that you can use when buying the right smart lock for your property. 

Wifi and Smart Locks

Wifi locks or smart locks are smart home devices that let you lock and unlock doors without keys. This is often Wifi, or Bluetooth enabled and is designed to replace bolt locks on your main door like a doorknob with a keypad. Most Airbnb owners have changed to these keyless Airbnb integrations for hassle-free check-in and check-out of guests. 

Advantages of Airbnb Wifi Locks

Saves time

Smart locks for Airbnb is convenient for both host and guests. It does not require a physical meet-up that can waste time and effort, especially if one party is delayed. There will be no middle-of-the-night call just because guests lost their keys. 

Integrated with Airbnb

Most smart locks can be integrated directly into Airbnb. This will be convenient for you as a host, especially if you have multiple properties to manage. Integration with Airbnb will include automatic code generation and calendar sync. 

Added Security

Every guest will get a unique code for the duration of their stay. Any unauthorized person will not be able to enter without this code for safety purposes. Hosts can also receive notifications and alerts if attempts are made to unlock the door.

Quick Buying Guide for Wifi Locks

• Check the App that comes with the wifi lock. It should be easy to navigate with all the features you need for your vacation rental. You should be able to remotely control and access your door with your wifi connection. 
• Look for the security features of the Airbnb smart lock. If your vacation rental is in a condo building with security, you can go for a basic wifi lock. If you have a stand-alone rental, you must buy the smart lock with the best security feature— one that sends alerts and notifications. 
• The best smart lock for Airbnb is also the one with a backup battery in case of a power outage. Good after-sales service from the company that sells the wifi lock is also something you should look out for. 

Another foolproof way to guide you when buying the best Airbnb wifi lock is to ask around. You can check with other Airbnb hosts if you know any and ask for advice on which one to choose. Vacation rental owners who have experience buying smart locks can guide you through the best. 

For information about vacation home rentals, don’t hesitate to visit our Airbnb Host Guide resources. We have more articles such as this one: “Why Your Airbnb Needs a Doorknob with Keypad” if you’re interested.

The post Buying Guide To Wifi Locks For Airbnb Owners appeared first on CoCal Design Co..

Experience of an Airbnb Host

Before joining the bandwagon of property owners listing their properties on Airbnb, there are some important things you should know about Airbnb rentals. In addition, renting out your vacation house or rooms in your own home is a business activity. And also, every business needs a lot of research and preparation.

As a frequent traveler and Airbnb host, there are lots of things I realized and experienced about Airbnb. And I want to share what I wish everyone knew about Airbnb rentals before renting out their property. There are, of course, some things you must know about Airbnb.

What you need to know about Airbnb rentals

Before diving into opening your own Short-Term Rental (STR), we listed some things that you things you must know about Airbnb.

How Airbnb Works

Airbnb is one example of a sharing economy. In addition, it provides an online platform for property owners who want to rent their properties to other people.

Airbnb Rules For Hosts

Airbnb requires hosts to provide essential amenities and respond to guests. Also, Airbnb also encourages hosts to accept trip requests and avoid canceling bookings and provide high-quality stays to guests. 

How Hosts Get Paid And How Much You Can Make

Airbnb will release the payment 24 hours after your guest’s arrival. In addition, Airbnb will transfer the payment through Paypal or direct deposit to your bank account. Furthermore, according to Priceonomics, Airbnb hosts earn an average of $924 per month. But that differs from host to host, as the amount you will earn by renting out your apartment will depend on various factors. 

Factors That Affect How Much You Will Earn In Airbnb

• Frequency of bookings
• Calendar Rates 
• Taxes 
• VAT
• Discounts 
• Taxes

No matter how small or big the space you rent out, renting out a space is still a business venture. Also, IRS has particular laws about short-term rentals like Airbnb. Rental income from Airbnb is taxable except for Airbnb accommodations rented less than 14 days a year. 

Local home rental laws and regulations

Before applying as an Airbnb host, you need to ask permission from your landlord if your home is under a lease. If your neighborhood is under the supervision of an HOA, you also need to get permission from HOA. Lastly, you need to check with your local government for the permits needed.

What are the expenses of having an Airbnb? 

Turning your home into an Airbnb accommodation requires preparation and expenses. Also, to entice Airbnb guests, you need to make your property as pleasing as possible. 

Expenses of Keeping Up an Airbnb Accommodation

Amenities and Supplies

As an Airbnb host, you must provide the basic supplies and amenities to your guest. And, furnishing your listing with extra amenities and supplies guests usually look for makes your listing more competitive.

Utility bills

Expect your utility bills to rise whenever Airbnb guests are staying at your home or vacation house. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

As an accommodation provider, make sure your property is properly maintained. Cleaning and maintaining your property may need you to hire workers such as:

• Cleaner
• Plumber
• AC Specialist
• Electrician

Amenities and Supplies for Airbnb

Though Airbnb only requires hosts to provide basic supplies and amenities, it is still recommended to equip your listing with amenities that will appeal to guests. Moreover, a well-equipped home that provides comfort, convenience, and safety will be a hit with guests. 

Basic Supplies and Amenities

Airbnb requires hosts to provide a minimum of these basic supplies and amenities to guests:

• Soap
• One towel per guest
• One pillow per guest
• Toilet paper
• Linens/sheets

Other Supplies and Amenities

Being extra goes a long way. Also, most guests look for accommodation that provides hotel-like amenities in the comfort of a home. And, according to Airbnb, here are the amenities and supplies guests want:

• Kitchen
• Air condition
• Wi-Fi
• Pool 
• Free Parking
• Pet-friendly accommodation
• Hot tubs
• Laundry
• TV
• Heating 
• Multi-surface cleaner
• Disposable gloves
• Disinfectant wipes or spray
• Hand sanitizer

Safety and Security

As a responsible host, your guests’ safety and security should also be a priority. Furnishing your home with these items will help protect your home and guests in case of fire, accidents, and emergencies:

• First-aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Emergency plan and local numbers
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm detectors

Your Insurance Coverage

Whether renting out the entire property or a single room, it is still a business activity. In addition, your standard homeowners’ insurance plan does not cover business activities. So, that’s why it is important to secure additional short-term rental insurance coverage to protect you from sudden financial expenses related to liability claims and property damages. 

How To Make Your Listing Stand Out

There are more than 6 million Airbnb listings, and the competition is pretty high. In addition, to make your listing stand out, you need to provide value to Airbnb guests. So, here are some ways to make your listing stand out:

• Adding up amenities

Results from the consumer survey commissioned by Airbnb in the United States showed amenities had high significance in the travel experience of 97% of US travelers. 

• Detailed listing description

A detailed listing description helps hosts secure bookings. An honest and detailed description of your property helps set the expectations of guests on what to see when they arrive on your property. 

• Be a hospitable host

Good hospitality provides a better travel experience for guests. A well-satisfied guest will give you positive reviews which will help your listing secure more bookings.

• Make it unique

With over 6 million listings available on Airbnb’s platform, being unique will help catch the attention of guests. 

Airbnb House Rules

Airbnb hosts must provide house rules to guests. House rules provide information to guests on what you allow in your home. Providing welcome how-to guides about your home, appliances, and furniture helps guests move around your home easily and prevents damage to your property.

How Reviews Work

Airbnb allows guests to write reviews of their stay. Getting positive reviews from previous guests increases your rank on Airbnb, thus a higher chance of getting booked. Also, providing an Airbnb review of your guest can also help you get booked. This shows how engaged you are with your guests.

Starting Your Own Airbnb

Airbnb hosting can feel intimidating. You might be worried that you are a little old, or it’s just not your kind of thing, or you’re past it.

But a lot of people, regardless of age,  are using Airbnb as a way to make extra money, and it really isn’t as hard as you think. There are plenty of listings to get ideas from, but of course, there is also tons of info on the site. Who better than an experienced Airbnb host to tell you about hosting?

Taking advantage of CoCal Design Co.’s resources on Airbnb hosting can attract guests looking for a unique experience. Guests who will spend more per night with your extra touches.

The post What I Wish Everyone Knew About Airbnb Rentals appeared first on CoCal Design Co..

Why Bother With Interior Design Trends

Working on your rental home’s interior design is one of the essential parts of hosting an Airbnb. This is important because you want your guests to have a memorable experience and feel comfortable in your rental property. The best Airbnb interior design trends for 2022 are the ones that are appealing, practical, and relevant. 

Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Interior Design

Your property’s design and interior decor will depend on several key factors. These will help you plan and buy the best decor for your Airbnb.

Type of Property and Location

A vacation home rental inside a gated community on a golf course near Estrella mountain, like Live Sunward, will need a style suited for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. You will need sturdy outdoor furniture, a good griller, and a few lounge chairs.

On the other hand, a condominium unit right in the heart of the city will most likely need a minimalist design since the property will be smaller than a whole house. A nice, comfortable bed, a three-seat sofa, and a cool dining table may be all you need as your centerpieces.

Target Guests

Your target guests are also a key factor when choosing decor ideas for Airbnb. This will let you focus on your guest and give them a functional space for their needs. If your target guests are those who travel for work and leisure, you can put a working table that they can use. If your target guests are families with children, you may want to put up some board games and a bigger couch for them to bond.

Budget

Before listing down all the decor you need, set a budget. This is important because it will help you find quality cheap decor that will beautify your space without breaking the bank. Without a set budget, you will tend to overspend and be unable to get everything you need.

Choosing Essential Airbnb Furniture

When choosing the best decor for Airbnb, you will be overwhelmed at the start. Decisions need to be made. You are deciding the color of the couch, the size of the dining table, fabric patterns, bed size, and many more. But before you do all that, get a pen and some paper, and let us break down the essential Airbnb furniture.

Living Room

For the living room, essential furniture includes a couch or sofa, coffee table, good lighting, a side table, accent chairs, throw pillows, and a media stand if you plan to put a TV. From this list you can add or lessen the essentials from this list depending on the available space. 

Dining Room

The dining room is where most guests gather. It is essential to have a sturdy dining table and comfortable chairs that can double as additional seating for other room spaces. Dinnerware, glassware, and silverware are also essentials in the dining room. If you have the area, you can add wall shelves for storage

Bedroom

A cozy, comfortable bed will be your centerpiece in the bedroom. This bed must have a lovely headboard, a good mattress, and soft pillows. Other essentials include a nightstand, some dressers, and a full-length mirror, and if you have the space, an accent chair or a bench at the foot of the bed can also be of use.

Decor Ideas for Airbnb

One good tip when looking for the best decor for Airbnb is to remember that the place you are decorating is not for your personal use. Think of your guests. Know what their needs are and not what you need. Here are some tips to give you decor ideas for Airbnb.

Tips for Interior Decor

1. Use neutral colors and natural wood for your furniture. Avoid buying colorful decor and easy-to-stain furniture. You would want something fresh to the eyes and, at the same time, easy to clean when dirty.
2. Create good lighting in all major areas of the house. Use natural light when possible, but make those extra lights to make spaces brighter.
3. Put one or two accent pieces to add character to spaces. Avoid overdoing it by adding more.
4. Opt for durable and functional furniture to save money in the long run.

Tips for Finding Quality Cheap Decor for Airbnb

There are many places to look for quality and cheap decor for your Airbnb. One is to go local and look for neighborhood stores that sell furniture and decor. You can save a lot on shipping costs and, at the same time, help the local economy. 

Buy secondhand if available. New is not necessarily better. Buy it if you can refurbish a piece of old yet sturdy furniture. Just limit them to accents and decorations. Avoid buying secondhand beds or couches. 

The best Airbnb interior design trends for 2022 are customizable

It is best to pay attention to carefully planned details. Doing so assures guests enjoy their stay with comfortable furniture. Ensuring all the essentials guests need should also be part of customization. Tailor-fit your Airbnb interior design and decor to what you feel suits your vacation rental regardless of the trends that may come or go.

Hosting is a significant change for Airbnb hosts and requires hours of preparation. You need to do a lot to succeed, and Airbnb doesn’t tell you about all the hard work involved.

The solution? Browse through CoCal Design Co.’s Airbnb Host Guide today. You will learn about hosting from an Airbnb host’s point of view and discover some of their motivations and challenges. Moreover, don’t miss our list of pro tips!

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Airbnb trends 2022

Airbnb interior design trends

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Designing your vacation home rental is crucial. Live Sunward gives you tips on some of the best Airbnb interior design trends in 2022.

The post Best Airbnb Interior Design Trends for 2022 appeared first on CoCal Design Co..

Automated Self-Check-In for Vacation Rentals

A self-check-in means you don’t need keys, and no face-to-face encounter between the host and the guest. Because the smart lock is already in the Airbnb app, your guests can automatically get their unique code in time for their check-in date. A smart lock will also give guests the flexibility of arrival time and not worry about losing their keys. 

Wifi Smart Locks

Wifi smart locks are a host’s best friend. They are smart home devices that allow for keyless entry, self-check-in, and remote access. Packed with different features, you can easily install most wifi smart locks on the door. After installation, you must download the Airbnb app and set it up to your preference. 

Smart Lock Benefits for Vacation Rental

Aside from the many features of smart locks, the main advantage of having one in a vacation rental is convenience. Here are some ways where Airbnb smart locks can be hassle-free:

No waiting time

Because of its keyless and self-check-in feature, the host will not need to wait for guests’ arrival to turn over the keys. And do it again when it is time to check out. No more waiting time for both parties just for keys if you have the best smart lock for Airbnb. 

Seamless Airbnb integration

A host can conveniently integrate the smart lock into the Airbnb app for calendar sync and automatic code generation. You need to pair your smart lock with Airbnb and select the features you want to use, like auto code generation and push notifications. 

Remote Access

Hosts can easily access their vacation rental using their smartphones. They can let guests or employees in without being physically present. Instruction to guests can also be managed remotely if needed. 

Smart locks are designed to eliminate the use of keys and allow guests to self-check-in at their most convenient time. It is now easier to go on a vacation with just a few taps on your screen with technology and a smartphone. 

Conclusion

Hosting is a big change for Airbnb hosts and requires a lot of preparation. You need to do a lot to be successful. Browse through our Airbnb Host Guide resources to learn about hosting from an Airbnb host’s point of view and discover some of their motivations and challenges. Moreover, don’t miss our pro tips!

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Setting A New Trend

Airbnb and VRBO have brought a new trend to the rental property business. As Airbnb and VRBO have taken the spotlight in the rental property industry, most property owners have taken an interest in listing their properties on these two popular hosting sites. I’m pretty sure, just like those many property owners, it also took your interest. But before listing your property, it is important to understand how these rental hosting sites work. Knowing the difference between VRBO hosting vs. Airbnb hosting will help your rental property business become more profitable. 

How Airbnb and VRBO Hosting Works

Both Airbnb and VRBO are rental hosting platforms. In addition, these platforms help property owners reach massive numbers of short-term and long-term tenants. Founded in 2008, Airbnb started as Air Bed in Breakfast. This hosting site connects travelers looking for short-term rental space to homeowners who want to earn by sharing their property. VRBO, short for Vacation Rental By Owners, is a hosting site for vacation homeowners who want to rent out their property. Also, Airbnb and VRBO platforms provide easy, fast, and modern rental business transactions to numerous property owners. 

The Differences Between VRBO Hosting and Airbnb Hosting

Though both are rental hosting platforms, it is important to take note that these two rental hosting sites have differences. Both rental sites have different rules, benefits, and features. Moreover, knowing how each hosting site works will help you maximize the use of these hosting websites. Also, taking advantage of the benefits and features of these hosting sites increases your business’s market reach and revenue. To help you choose which hosting site will give your business more edge, let’s thoroughly discuss the difference between VRBO hosting vs. Airbnb hosting. 

VRBO vs Airbnb Fees

VRBO and Airbnb have different hosting fee structures. Airbnb and VRBO charge property owners of a service fee for using their hosting platforms.    

Airbnb

Airbnb takes a 3% commission from property owners for every successful rental booking. 

VRBO

In VRBO, property owners can choose between these two pricing models.

Annual Subscription

VRBO’s annual subscription costs $499 per property. Property owners who earn more than $10,000 in VRBO rentals will save more on annual subscriptions than pay-per-booking.

Pay-per-booking

The pay-per-booking listing model typically charges 8% per booking. It comprises:

• Service fee – VRBO charges 5% of the booking rate, including additional charges such as pet or cleaning fees. 
• Credit card processing fee –The credit card processing fee is 3% of the total reservation. It includes the extra fees, security deposit, and taxes. VRBO returns a portion of the credit card processing fee for the security deposit once the host refunds the security deposit to guests.

Market Reach 

VRBO and Airbnb have a distinctive market reach because of so many factors. These factors include:

Number of Users 

According to The Zebra, Airbnb has a whopping 150 million users all over the world. VRBO has an average of 44 million site visits every month.

Number of Listings

As of December 2021, Airbnb has over 6 million active listings, while VRBO has over 2 million listings on its platform. 

Target audience 

With Airbnb’s diverse locations and flexible accommodations, Airbnb is more appealing to younger audiences seeking new experiences and business travelers. VRBO leans toward older audiences and large groups looking for large and traditional accommodations. 

Site affiliation

Though Airbnb has a relatively high volume of users, VRBO has affiliations with other hosting sites, such as Expedia, HomeAway, CanadaStays, and KAYAK. Having combined listings with other travel hosting sites increase your property’s exposure. 

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies play a huge role in your property’s occupancy and revenue. It is important to weigh down which cancellation policy works best for your business.

Airbnb Cancellation Policies

Airbnb hosts can choose from these cancellation policies:

Flexible

This policy is the most relaxed one, and most preferred by guests. Guests will get a full refund if they cancel their booking not less than 24 hours before check-in. 

Moderate

The moderate cancellation policy allows guests to cancel bookings not less than 5 days before check-in for a full refund. 

Firm 

This policy requires guests to cancel their bookings 30 days before check-in to be eligible for a full refund. 

Strict

The host will only provide a full refund for canceled bookings made less than 48 hours and at least 14 days before check-in. Cancellations made between 7 to 14 days before check-in are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations made less than 7 days are not eligible for refunds. 

Long term

This policy applies to all bookings within 28 days or longer. Cancellations on bookings made within 48 hours and at least 28 days before check-in are eligible for a full refund. 

Super strict 30 and 60 days 

In special cases, Airbnb gives hosts this type of cancellation policy by invitation. Super strict 30 days policy offers a 50% refund for canceled bookings made at least 30 days before check-in. The same terms apply to the Super Strict days policy. Guests will receive a 50% refund for canceled bookings made at least 60 days before check-in.

Non-refundable option

Hosts can offer a non-refundable option in their listings. Hosts typically offer a 10% discount on their listing’s base price with a non-refundable option.

VRBO Cancellation Policies

VRBO offers 6 cancellation policy options you can choose from.

No refund policy

Property owners can opt for a no-refund policy in their listings. 

60-day policy

This policy offers a full refund for bookings canceled not less than 60 days before check-in. 

60/30-day policy

Under this policy, guests must cancel 60 days before check-in to get a full refund. Cancellations made 30 days before check-in are eligible for a 50% refund minus the service charge. No refunds for bookings canceled less than 30 days before check-in. 

30/14-day policy

Listings with this type of cancellation policy allow guests to receive a full refund if they cancel at least 30 days before check-in. Cancellations made at least 14 days before check-in are eligible for a 50% refund minus the service charge. Bookings canceled in less than 14 days are not eligible for any refund. 

14/7-day policy

Guests can cancel at least 14 days before check-in to get a full refund. The host will provide a 50% refund minus the service charge for cancellations made at least 7 days before check-in. Canceled bookings less than 7 days before check-in will not receive a refund. 

Custom policy

Sometimes, VRBO allows property owners to set their cancellation terms and penalties. 

Types of Listed Property

If you’re planning to list your property on these two popular hosting sites, it is important to check if your property will qualify. Airbnb and VRBO have criteria for determining qualified properties. 

VRBO

VRBO allows the listing of traditional accommodations, such as apartments, cabins, and suburban houses. VRBO does not allow shared accommodation of any kind. 

Airbnb

Airbnb is more flexible with properties listed on its site. Airbnb allows various types of property to be listed as long as it meets the criteria. It allows listings of entire properties, rooms, and even shared spaces. 

Reviews

Reviews play a huge role in increasing your listing’s ranking and occupancy. Both hosting sites allow guests and hosts to write a review of the stay. 

Airbnb

Airbnb allows hosts and guests to write a review within 14 days after their check-out. 

VRBO

Provides guests and hosts an entire year to submit a review of the stay. But once a party submitted a review, VRBO only allows the other party to submit their review within 14 days. 

Method of Payment

These two hosting sites also have a difference in their method of payment. Airbnb sends payments to hosts through Paypal, Payoneer, bank transfers, and Western Union. VRBO sends the payment to hosts through Mastercard, Visa, and American Express. 

Host Property Protection

Accidents happen, and so do damages and liabilities. Rental property owners must have insurance protection in case of home damages and liability claims. Airbnb and VRBO provide hosts with some protection coverage in the event of damages and liability claims.

Airbnb Host Guarantee Program

Airbnb offers $1 million as property damage protection in case guests caused damage to their property. Airbnb also allows hosts to require a security deposit from guests ranging from $100 to $500. 

VRBO Host Insurance

VRBO provides hosts liability coverage worth $1 million. Hosts can set a minimum amount of damage deposit from guests in case of damages caused by guests. 

Special Features

Both sites provide additional features to help travelers have a more convenient and enjoyable trip. 

Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb offers users online or in-person activities hosted by local hosts. Airbnb’s expert hosts share their unique skills and knowledge about travel. 

VRBO Trip Board

VRBO’s trip board allows guests to organize, save and compare properties. Trip boards help users plan and organize their trips.

How to List Your Property on Airbnb and VRBO

Reaching this far probably means you’ve already decided to list your property on these hosting sites. Here’s a guide on how to make an Airbnb and VRBO listing: 

• Review your local laws about rental hosting. Ensure you have proper permits and registrations. 
• Create your listing on your Airbnb and VRBO accounts.
• Fill out the information about your listing, such as:
  • Address
  • Property type
  • Property size and the number of bedrooms
  • Amenities
  • Unique details like pool, view, transportation, and popular nearby areas
• Submit photos of your property. Take stunning and eye-catching photos to attract guests. Take pictures of the entire property or space and neighborhood to provide guests with an idea of what to expect from your property.
• Make a detailed description of your listing, including amenities and supplies provided.
• Set your house rules. Providing rules and restrictions helps set your guest’s expectations.
• Set your calendar availability. If you’re going to list your property on both hosting sites, make sure you sync your calendar to avoid double booking.
• Set your listing’s rates. In calculating your rates, you must consider:
  • Your nightly rates
  • Cleaning fees
  • Utility and supplies costs
  • Taxes (if applicable)

Your Choice As A Vacation Rental Host

The differences between Airbnb and VRBO hosting don’t highlight which is better between the two. Their differences actually show the benefits you will get from listing your property on each platform. If you want to maximize your rental property’s market reach, listing your home on both hosting sites is the best approach. Listing your property on both platforms provides your property more exposure to a larger number of clients and increases your revenue.

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Airbnb Kitchen Essentials Checklist

Before you go online or to the store to buy everything you think you need for your kitchen, get some paper and pens and start listing down the items you need for your Airbnb. So this will make shopping easier and avoid overspending by picking up non-essential items. 

Making the List

Start by listing down the basics. These are the things that you already know for sure that you need. They are usually what you see in every Airbnb kitchen.   

Basic Kitchen Essentials for Airbnb

• Cookware
• Utensils
• Dishes
• Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances
• Pantry and cupboards
• Estimate how many of each item you need to be considered appropriate. If, for example, you are hosting a 1 room condo unit and would only allow 2 guests max, all you would need is 2 pairs of spoons and forks for your guests and at least 2 extra pairs for backup. 
• Go online and check out shopping sites like Amazon to see the latest on kitchen stuff and make an Amazon essentials checklist. Also, this will enable you to compare the same items in-store or on other online sites. 

Trimming your Airbnb Kitchen Essentials List

Once you have listed all the bare essentials and some add-ons, it is time to trim them to an acceptable level. You will not need 4 types of scissors if you only have one tiny kitchen. But you do need at least 3 kinds of knives for different uses. Here are some tips on trimming your list of kitchen essentials for Airbnb.

Cookware

Pots and Pans

How many pots and pans do you think your guests need to cook a delicious and hefty meal? It depends on the size of your kitchen. If you do have a big kitchen and a 4 burner stove, then you can have one big and one small stockpot that can double as saucepans, at least 3 non-stick frying pans in different sizes with lids, sheet pans for the oven, and some baking dishes for range and microwave use. 

If you have a small kitchen, 2 pots and 2 pans will suffice. Make sure that the sizes you choose can be used and doubled for different types of cooking and baking. 

Utensils

Knives are essential, but you don’t need like 10 of them. One all-around knife is suitable for a small kitchen, but you can have a chef’s knife and add 2 to 3 more, like a serrated and a pairing knife for a big one. 

You will need at least a ladle, metal, and silicone spatula, whisk, kitchen shears, tongs, colander, peeler, and measuring spoons and cups. If you have a big space, you can add different types, but these will be enough for small kitchens. 

Dinnerware

Consider the number of guests allowed on your property when buying plates and bowls. You can have the same number of dishes for bigger groups and add at least 4 more for backup. Buy bowls for soups and cereals that are microwave-friendly. If needed, flatware should be the same number as the plates and bowls with additional steak knives. 

Add some serving spoons and dishes and some platters for your guests. Glasses easily shatter, so put extras, including coffee mugs and wine glasses. Choose pieces that are sturdy and pleasing to the eyes. 

Other Tools and Gadgets

A good cutting board should also be on the list of kitchen essentials. One is enough. Two will be too much. A big kitchen can accommodate mixing bowls, salad spinners, rolling pins, different measuring spoons, and some fine mesh sieves. 

Gadget essentials include an electric can opener, a hand mixer, a personal blender, or a vegetable slicer. For small kitchens, you can forget about these gadgets except for the can opener, which will be helpful to the guests. 

Appliances

The most obvious will be a refrigerator. Whether you have a big or small space, this is a must. Other appliances that can also be essential to the kitchen, in order of importance, are:

• Gas Range
• Microwave Ovens
• Keurig K-Classic Coffee Maker
• Electric Kettle
• Dishwasher
• Toaster or Sandwich Maker
• Blender
• Pressure Cooker
• Instant Pot
• Airfryer

Airbnb Kitchen Cleaning

Now that you have the basic kitchen essentials list for prepping and cooking, you need to think about how your guests will clean the kitchen after every use. Everyone is obsessed with cleanliness, especially after the Covid pandemic, so be sure to stock up on cleaning essentials in your Airbnb kitchen. 

• Paper Towels 
• Hand Towels
• Garbage Can
• Garbage Bags
• Dishwashing Liquid
• Scrubbing Pads
• All-purpose cleaner

Stocking Up an Airbnb Kitchen

If you want to ensure that your kitchen is suitable for your guests, you also need to stock up on other kitchen essentials that will give you an extra edge over your competitors. This might cost you a little more, but your guests will be grateful. 

Essential Spices

Basic spices should include black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, thyme, and rosemary. 

Beverages

Coffee. Yes, coffee. Coffee. Whether you have a coffee machine in your kitchen, there should be free coffee for your guests. Teabags are good, too, as an option. Milk and sugar can be an addition if you are feeling generous. 

Baking paper, foil, plastic wrap

These things are essential but not necessarily needed by your guests. However, it is a plus factor if you can provide them as a kitchen staple. 

If you are unsure of what more to get for your Airbnb kitchen essentials, you can put up a sign and make a list of online grocery services like Amazon Fresh and others that they can use for additional supplies if they do not want to go out and buy.

You can check out CoCal Design Co.’s Airbnb Host Guide for more resources, kitchen inspirations, and tips, or its listing on VRBO.

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For first-time Airbnb hosts, the herculean task of decorating and designing a property can be daunting. Whether it is a single-bedroom condo or a three-bedroom country home, the objective is still the same: customer satisfaction. So, if you want to know how to achieve this, you can start with the bedroom. Here are some Airbnb bedroom essentials you must have!

The bedroom is where your guests can be the most comfortable. They must have a good night’s sleep to enjoy the rest of their vacation and, hopefully, give you a 5-star review because they slept soundly during their stay. Here are the top 5 Airbnb bedroom essentials that you can check out from Amazon to achieve this. 

Airbnb Bedroom Essentials List

Bed Frame

Even if you buy the most extravagant mattress you can find, it will never be enough unless you have a solid bed frame. Its primary purpose is to hold your mattress in place and stop the squeaking and creaking, which can really be annoying.

A reasonable bed frame like this elegant Rosa Jenner Upholstered Bed Frame is a great choice. It has an adjustable headboard height and is crafted with a kiln-dried hardwood frame construction and plywood panel. You have a selection of different sizes and colors that best fit your taste. 

Importance Of Having A Good Bed Frame

• Provides Support 

A good bed frame provides support for the mattress. It helps in making it stable and prevents it from sliding. 

• Good Aesthetics

A mattress will definitely look good on a bed frame rather than on the floor in an Airbnb bedroom. And most guests will probably not book a listing with beds on the floor. 

• Breathability

A bed frame helps in circulation around the mattress. This will prevent molds, dust mites, and bacteria from infesting your mattress. 

• Storage Space

That storage under the bed is definitely the best place to store the big bags and luggage of the guests. It can also be a good space to store other things used less frequently. 

Mattress And Bed Sheets

Mattresses are absolutely necessary, as everyone is aware. However, before you become overwhelmed by all of the options that are available to you, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind before making a decision.

How To Find The Right Mattress:

• Type of Mattress

You can probably find more than 10 types of mattresses when you do your research. There may be more because mattress makers will definitely produce more types to fit all types of sleepers. 

However, you need to remember that you are a vacation rental property, and you will not be able to please everyone. You choose the most comfortable and durable mattress like this hybrid memory foam and innerspring mattress from the brand Airdown. 

• Firmness

A medium level of firmness can be suitable for an Airbnb bed. This will be ideal for any type of sleeper. It will be able to give adequate support and comfort to guests. 

• Size

The size of your mattress will depend on your bed frame. The most common bed size for an Airbnb bedroom is a queen size which will comfortably fit 2 people and a small child if needed. 

• Durability

Ensuring that your mattress is durable should be the priority. A quality, durable mattress will be cost-saving in the long run. 

Nightstand Or Bedside table

Aside from aesthetics, side tables are functional, and help keeps necessary items accessible. For some bedrooms, it can also help hide wall sockets and cords. This metal end side table from Amazon can be the only piece you need as it offers a wide surface to put more things. It is also effortless to clean and move around if needed. 

Full-Length Mirror

A full-length mirror is probably the most overlooked Airbnb bedroom essential. Whatever bedroom size you may have, a mirror will give the illusion of space and will create a lovely focal point. And if you believe in Feng Shui, you would know that mirrors can activate the energy within a room.

Best Bedroom Items

The go-to place to find the best Airbnb bedroom essentials is Amazon. This is because it is the largest marketplace for all the things you may need for your Airbnb bedroom. However, the wide variety of options may confuse even the most seasoned Airbnb host. 

Choosing The Best Bedroom Items From Amazon

• Go through your list and start with what you think is the most important of the top 5 bedroom essentials. The bed frame is a good start because this is where your mattress size can be decided. 
• Compare at least 5 of the same item before deciding on the height, style, depth, and other essential features. 
• Once you have decided, you can compare prices and check out reviews from customers. 
• But before you buy, add it to the cart first and move on to the next item on the list. Repeat steps 1 to 4 till you are satisfied with the aesthetic and comfort level. 
• Click the buy button.

There are definitely more bedroom essentials that you can think of, especially if the room is big. And if your rental has more than 1 room, you also need to plan for the other rooms in terms of theme and aesthetic.

For more resources about vacation home rentals, don’t hesitate to visit Airbnb Host Guide. We have more articles such as this one: “Airbnb Kitchen Essentials – Amazon Essentials Checklist” if you’re interested.

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