The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Successful Airbnb

If you’re thinking about launching an Airbnb or optimizing an existing one, you don’t need to spend thousands on expensive courses. Tyler Shirk has a growing Facebook post of tips that he keeps adding too as he thinks of them.  Here’s a complete guide based on real experience, covering everything from furnishing to pricing strategies and guest management as of March 17, 2025

1. Choose the Right Property

Larger homes tend to perform better on Airbnb. Properties with four or more bedrooms generate the most revenue, but once you hit four bedrooms, you must have at least two full bathrooms.

2. Optimize Entertainment Options

Each bedroom should have a TV, but you don’t need to pay for cable. Instead, invest in high-speed internet (at least 1 gig) and smart TVs, allowing guests to log into their own streaming services.

3. Maximize Amenities for Visibility

When listing your property, make sure to include as many Airbnb-listed amenities as possible. If a guest selects an amenity in their search that you don’t have, your home won’t show up in their search results.

4. Invest in Quality Beds

Every bedroom should have a king-size bed—yes, even yours. If you’re wondering if it will fit, the answer is yes, it will fit. Never use bunk beds.

5. Furnish Bedrooms Properly

Each bedroom should include:

• A bed
• Nightstands
• Lamps
• Two pieces of wall art
• Four king-sized pillows
• A mounted TV
• A quilt
  Nothing more is needed. Keep it simple, clean, and comfortable.

6. Stock Up on Linens

Have at least three complete sets of linens for every bed.

7. Create a Functional Outdoor Space

An outdoor seating area with a propane grill and a table with chairs is a great way to enhance the guest experience.

8. Don’t Skimp on Furniture

Cheap furniture will reflect in both your photos and guest reviews. Invest in quality furniture that looks good in pictures and holds up over time.

9. Provide Ample Kitchen Supplies

Stock your kitchen with enough dishes and silverware to serve twice the maximum number of guests your property accommodates.

10. Install Curtains

Curtains provide privacy and add warmth to the space. Make sure every window is covered.

11. Add Decorative Touches

Décor is essential. Add wall art, plants, and accessories to make the space feel inviting. Each room should have at least two pieces of wall art to avoid looking bare.

12. Invest in Professional Photos

Professional listing photos are a must. A well-photographed home will perform significantly better than one with poor-quality images.

13. Add Fun Features

Consider adding arcade games (like Arcade1Up) and an Instagram-worthy wall to make your listing stand out.

14. Use the Right Pricing Tools

Skip Airbnb’s dynamic pricing tool. Instead, learn how to use PriceLabs properly. It will help you maximize revenue while keeping occupancy rates optimized.

15. Have 24/7 Customer Support

Always have a dedicated team answering messages and phone calls around the clock. Missing a message could mean losing a $10,000+ booking.

16. Hire Local, Not Overseas Virtual Assistants

Many gurus recommend hiring overseas VAs, but local representatives tend to provide better service and communication.

17. Optimize Your Airbnb Listing Title

Your listing title should highlight amenities, not be a generic name. Instead of “The Little Red Bungalow,” use something like “5KingBeds3FullBathsWalkToBeach” to grab attention and improve search rankings.

18. Refresh Your Listing Regularly

Update your title, description, and photo order every two weeks. Airbnb’s algorithm rewards active hosts who refresh their listings frequently.

19. Focus on Nightly Rate, Not Occupancy

Don’t aim for 100% occupancy. Instead, focus on average nightly rate. It’s better to book 70% of the month at $250 per night than 95% at $150 per night.

20. Invest in High-Quality Cleaning Services

A spotless home leads to better ratings. Pay your cleaners well and ensure they are willing to return if they miss something.

21. Prioritize Communication with Guests

Guest communication should be your highest-rated category. Focus on solving problems rather than proving who’s right to secure five-star reviews.

22. Screen Your Guests Thoroughly

Vet all potential guests before approving a booking. Avoid renting to young locals, especially on weekends. Exceptions can be made for older locals staying due to home repairs.

23. Build Good Relationships with Neighbors

Give your neighbors your direct contact information and even offer to pay them to take out trash or mow the lawn. A happy neighbor is less likely to report issues.

24. Install a Front Door Camera and Smart Lock

A camera at the entrance and a smart lock with a backup lockbox are essential for security. Avoid unnecessary noise monitors or other gimmicks.

25. Longevity Leads to More Revenue

The longer you host successfully and collect positive reviews, the more money you will make over time.

26. Build a Direct Booking Strategy

Encourage guests to book directly with you by placing contact info and direct booking links throughout the home.

27. Expect to Invest $25,000 in Furnishing

A properly furnished Airbnb requires an upfront investment of about $25,000.

28. Keep Communication Inside Airbnb’s Platform

Never communicate outside of the Airbnb app to protect yourself and your bookings.

29. Handle Complaints Strategically

If a guest immediately complains upon check-in, offer a full refund if they leave right away. This allows you to reopen your calendar for another booking.

30. Avoid Falling for Expensive Courses

Gurus selling courses often overcomplicate things. You don’t need a course to succeed in Airbnb.

31. Consider Hiring a Professional Manager

If you don’t have the time to manage a short-term rental properly, hire a reputable property manager.

32. Manage Trash Collection

Ensure trash is handled efficiently by either paying your neighbors or hiring someone.

33. Keep the Exterior Maintained

Mow the lawn, remove snow, and salt driveways in the winter to keep the property safe and appealing.

34. Fix Issues Immediately

If something breaks or a guest requests an item, address it immediately.

35. Have a Washer and Dryer

A washer and dryer are essential for long-term and family guests.

36. Make the Space Unique

Design your home to stand out, not just to be functional. Avoid making it feel like your personal residence.

37. Respond to Messages Within 15 Minutes

Quick responses lead to better reviews and more bookings.

38. Network with Key Professionals

Build relationships with realtors, insurance companies, restoration services, and vacation agents to generate more bookings.

39. Avoid Nickel-and-Diming Guests

Never charge extra fees unless the damage or loss exceeds $200.

40. Use High-Quality Mattresses

Invest in Zinus 12” or 18” thick foam mattresses for comfort and durability.

41. Set Strategic Booking Rules

• Minimum two-night stays (except for gap nights)
• Thursday bookings require a three-night minimum

42. Accept Pets for More Bookings

Since guests can claim any pet as a service animal, you might as well allow pets and charge a pet fee to increase visibility.

By following these steps, you can maximize your Airbnb’s potential and increase profitability while providing a great guest experience.