Short-term rentals in Melbourne are popular with travellers who want a comfortable and unique place to stay. Platforms like Airbnb have made it simple for property owners to earn extra income by renting out their homes or apartments.
Whether you’re planning to manage your property yourself or want help from a short-term rental agency in Melbourne, following these steps will ensure your rental runs smoothly and keeps your guests happy.
1. Get Your Property Ready For Guests
The first step is to make your property inviting and functional for travellers. A well-prepared home attracts more bookings and leaves a good impression on your guests.
Clean Thoroughly: Ensure every corner of your property is spotless before guests arrive.
Comfortable Furniture: Provide cosy seating, a good mattress, and essential kitchen equipment. Guests appreciate comfort.
Essential Amenities: Offer basics like Wi-Fi, toiletries, clean towels, and a few extras like coffee or tea.
Style Your Space: A beautifully decorated home grabs attention. Use neutral colours, simple decor, and good lighting to make your property feel warm and inviting.
2. Write a Great Listing
Your listing is the first thing guests see. A clear, attractive listing will help you stand out and attract more bookings.
Professional Photos: High-quality pictures of your property are essential. Showcase every room, highlighting key features like a cosy living space or a lovely view.
Engaging Description: Describe your property in a friendly and detailed way. Include information about the location, nearby attractions, and unique features.
3. Set the Right Price
Pricing your short-term rental correctly is crucial. It needs to be competitive while ensuring you earn a good profit.
Research Similar Properties: Look at what other short-term rentals in Melbourne charge for similar features.
Use Dynamic Pricing: Adjust your prices based on demand, seasons, or events happening in Melbourne.
Offer Discounts: Encourage longer stays or early bookings with special offers.
4. Communicate Clearly with Guests
Good communication is key to a smooth and positive experience for you and your guests.
Respond Quickly: Be prompt in answering questions about availability or your property. Guests appreciate quick replies.
Send Instructions: Share clear details about check-in and check-out processes, parking, and how to use appliances.
Stay Available: Be reachable during their stay for any concerns or questions. If this feels overwhelming, an Airbnb management company in Melbourne can handle guest communication for you.
5. Keep Your Property Clean and Safe
Cleanliness and safety are top priorities for guests. Maintaining these standards will ensure good reviews and repeat bookings.
Hire Cleaners: After each stay, have professionals clean the property thoroughly to ensure consistent quality.
Check for Damage: Inspect the property regularly and fix any issues quickly.
Safety First: Equip your property with smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and secure locks. Let guests know where to find these safety features.
6. Use Technology for Efficiency
Managing a short-term rental involves juggling many tasks. Technology can help simplify the process.
Management Software: Having an online portal or software can help you organise bookings, schedules, and guest communications.
Smart Locks: Install key-less entry systems for easy check-ins and check-outs.
Automated Messages: Set up automatic messages for booking confirmations, arrival instructions, and thank-you notes.
7. Work with a Short-Term Rental Agency in Melbourne
If managing everything alone feels overwhelming, consider hiring a short-term rental agency in Melbourne. They can handle everything for you:
Expert Knowledge: Agencies understand the Melbourne market and know how to price and promote your property for the best results.
Save Time: With professionals managing your property, you have more time to focus on other things.
Boost Earnings: Agencies often use advanced tools and strategies to maximise their rental income.
8. Follow Melbourne’s Regulations
Melbourne has rules for short-term rentals; staying compliant is crucial to avoid fines or other issues.
Register Your Property: Check with your local council to see if registration is required.
Pay Taxes: Report your rental income and pay any taxes owed.
Insurance: Get proper insurance to cover potential damages or liabilities.
9. Monitor Performance and Improve
To stay successful, you must monitor your property’s performance and make changes as required.
Read Reviews: Use guest feedback to improve your property and service.
Track occupancy rates: Adjust your pricing or marketing strategy if you notice slow periods.
Stay Updated: Keep up with trends in the Melbourne rental market to stay competitive.
Wrap Up
Managing a short-term rental in Melbourne can be a rewarding experience, but it requires effort and attention to detail. You can attract happy guests and earn positive reviews by preparing your property, setting competitive prices, communicating effectively, and maintaining high standards.
If you’d rather focus on other things, partnering with a trusted short-term rental agency like Airbricks in Melbourne is a great option. Our experts will take care of everything from Airbnb management to property maintenance, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of hosting without the stress.
Start implementing these key steps today and watch your short-term rental thrive in Melbourne’s competitive market.
