The short-term rental market has seen a surge over the last few years as Airbnb has risen in popularity. Our sister company, Short and Suite BNB, manages over 150 short-term rental properties in Ottawa – so we know a thing or two about hosting on Airbnb. It got us thinking – what can long-term rental landlords learn from Airbnb hosts?
Communication
When it comes to hosting, communication with your guest can make or break property’s success. Landlords should take a note from hosts and prioritize communicating with tenants regularly. For example, you should send your tenants an email a week prior to their move in date. You should then send a follow up email one or two weeks later to check in and make sure everything is running smoothly. Clear and consistent communication ensures that expectations are set. This will help avoid misunderstandings and help you build a good relationship with your tenant.
Welcome packages
Often times Airbnb hosts will leave welcome packages for their guests. Traditional rental landlords can add value to their tenants experience by doing the same. For example, a move in basket could include cleaning supplies or small gifts like mugs or coffee. Include a handwritten note for a thoughtful, personal touch.
Small details go a long way
Because reviews are so crucial to being successful as a host on the Airbnb platform, you’ll often see hosts go above and beyond to impress their guests. Traditional landlords can do the same to improve the landlord tenant relationship and improve tenant retention. Don’t overpromise, but always do a little bit more than you promised. One example of this could be to provide recommendations for local coffee shops and restaurants when a tenant moves in. This is especially helpful if they’re new to the city!
Added value
You can add value to your rental property by offering premium services. Think cleaning service, laundry service or grocery delivery. Offering added value services will allow you to set rents at a higher price point as well as attract high quality tenants.
Go digital
Part of the appeal of short term rental websites like Airbnb, VRBO and HomeAway is that rentals can easily be booked online. These days, everything seems to be online – yet the rental industry is still behind when it comes to technology. If you want to attract quality tenants, consider going digital where possible. Consider offering an online portal, or online maintenance request forms. You can also take rental applications online. Going digital can go a long way to not only help improve your communication with tenants, but maintain proper records and streamline your entire process.
At the end of the day, when it comes to your rental property, you’ll get what you put in. You’ll improve tenant retention and attract quality tenants by creating an enjoyable renting experience.
Need support? Consider hiring a property manager in Ottawa. Contact us today to learn more.
