Airbnb reported a net income of $4.7 billion in 2023, marking its second consecutive year of profit – it seems more and more people are turning to Airbnb for their travels over hotels. Airbnb has expanded massively over the years, so much so, it was recently reported Barcelona are set to even ban apartment rentals to tourists in a bid to cut housing costs.
Despite its controversies, Airbnb’s success hinges on allowing virtually anyone to list an extra room on their platform. On average in the UK, there are 320 monthly searches surrounding “how to start an Airbnb”, this is 19% higher than last year (260 average monthly searches).
With this in mind, unoccupied property insurance provider Alan Boswell Group set out to put together their best tips for us, for turning your apartment into a successful Airbnb business.
7 tips for turning your apartment into an Airbnb
- Install a vertical garden to bring an element of nature inside, without taking up space. A vertical garden won’t only improve your home’s air quality but also creates a visually appealing and calming environment. To do this, we recommend choosing low-maintenance plants suited for indoor conditions.
- Use hidden storage solutions to maximise space and reduce clutter is perfect for a small Airbnb. Opt for furniture with built-in storage like ottomans, beds with drawers, and wall-mounted fold-out desks. This helps keep your apartment tidy and functional.
- Install a wall bed or high-quality sofa bed to provide a comfortable sleeping space that can be easily stowed away when not in use. This allows the space to serve as multi-functional, making it more versatile and appealing to guests.
- Invest in multi-functional furniture. A dining table that doubles as a workspace, or a coffee table that can be extended for dining, makes the most of your limited space and caters to various guest needs (whatever they might be using your Airbnb for).
- Master smart zoning. Smart zoning is your use of curtains or folding screens to create distinct zones within the apartment, which helps it to feel larger and more organised. For instance, use a curtain to separate the sleeping area from the living area, providing your home with more privacy and making the space feel more structured and spacious. Do you have a loft or mezzanine? You could consider converting those spaces into extra rooms.
- Use layered lighting to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your space. By combining overhead lights with floor lamps, table lamps, and under-cabinet lighting you instantly create a versatile and inviting experience that enhances functionality and aesthetic appeal. Adjustable lighting options create different moods and improve the overall guest experience.
- Create a personalised mini-bar or coffee station stocked with local (if possible) beverages, snacks, and gourmet coffee or tea options. This thoughtful touch can significantly enhance your guests’ experience and make your space memorable.
