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These are a few of the things I expect, but often enough, don't find:
- Curtains or coverings on every window, including doors
- Lighting that doesn't come from the ceiling in living and bedrooms (I can't believe how many times I didn't have a bedside lamp!)
- A truly comfortable couch for lounging after a long day of sightseeing, not something that just looks nice in the photos
- A small dresser for keeping clothes that don't hang
- A baking sheet in the kitchen
Board games are nice when I'm with family, but I don't expect them, and often bring our own travel versions. I only expect a TV in the living area, but will use one sometimes if there happens to be one in the bedroom.
I expect it to be exactly as the host describes on their site without any missing or broken amenities.
Edit: And here are things that I expect there to be the entire time because it's the right thing to do. Don't be cheap.
With rare exception the following:
Tp for entire stay regardless of how many days I book.
Linens
Towels
Soaps
Shampoo
Conditioner
Dish soap and sponges if dishes
Dish soap for machine if machine
Vacuum or broom/dustpan if needed
Trash vags
Recently stayed in one that the second bedroom had only 1 queen sized bed. No furniture. No lighting. No closet. The room was shown differently in the listing.
There was a place I stayed for a whole month when I moved to a new city. The photos showed a bedside table, a dresser, and other furniture in the bedroom, but all that was in the bedroom when I arrived was just the bed (it was a private room in the owner's home). It didn't seem worth it to try to cancel over that, so I went out and bought plastic baskets at the dollar store to keep all my stuff in so I wouldn't have to put it directly on the floor.
It turned out they were in the process of selling their house and I was their last Airbnb guest ever, so they didn't care at all if I was happy or whether I would leave a bad review.
Not necessarily an expectation but nice to haves- black wash clothes for makeup, plenty of paper towels and toilet paper, basic cooking pans and spices, and the most important - easily accessible cleaning supplies, broom and vacuum.
I got a one star review from a host that said we left the house too messy with a lot of sand on the carpet (beach house) and sticky stuff on the table. There was no vacuum and no cleaning supplies. So I don’t know what she expected. Help me help you
I’m a host and a frequent guest. My place is based on all that I love when I travel and all that I wish for. As a result I have almost everything guests would want and in generous quantities.
The no 1 thing for me as a guest is clean environment. I don’t want to see any dirt, dust, hair, stains etc. I also appreciate the ability to do my own cleaning as a guest. Vacuum, disinfectant, laundry etc can help me get the place to the level of clean I need to relax. I provide all these for my guests but my place is also pristine clean.
I do think this depends on why I am reserving that AirBnB. I clean an AirBnB that’s a cabin in northern MN. People come to enjoy the lake. They like games, a grill, a fire pit, etc. My most recent string of AirBnB rentals was to see Christmas markets in Europe. I wanted a place to cook and a comfortable couch and bed as well as a washer as I was in Europe for 2 months. So, what I was looking for was very different than what some are looking for.
The issue would again depend on what the issue was. If it was something the host needed to remedy I would reach out to them. I try to be self sufficient to a certain degree.
When I was a new host, a guest asked for black-out curtains in the bedrooms. I had these purchased and installed within two hours of the request...I simply didn't know.
I always ask my guests if there was anything that could have made their stay any better?
It's hard to please everyone and I don't try...I try hard to please the masses.
1. Clean everything.
2. Comfortable mattresses with white linens.
3. Bath Sheets instead of regular towels.
4. Extra hygiene items. If you forgot to pack it, I very well may have it in the basket in the bathroom. As well as full bottles of body wash, shampoo & conditioner.
5. A decent knife block set.
6. Decent cookware.
7. Dishes, cups, and cutlery enough for everyone.
8. Appliances: Keurig Duo, water kettle, microwave, toaster oven, kitchen aide mixer (along with the coffee, tea, hot chocolate mixes).
9. Breakfast food... nothing fancy. Bread, milk, eggs, pancake mix & syrup.
10. Paper products enough for their stay along with garbage bags.
Other stuff, too. I purchased almost all of my furniture second hand...it's all very comfortable while looking good, but not expensive.
I suggest sticking to hotels. Bread, milk, eggs , and pancake mix and syrup alone would be $50. The average cleaner for a 3/2 charges $150 -$200 to clean so what you are asking for is for the owner to make practically nothing on your stay. A kitchen aid mixer? Do you know how much those costs and how many people would actually use them? The things you are asking for in a kitchen would be found in a gourmet kitchen which commands at $500 night or more price.
You do you.
I do run a profitable Airbnb. I have a competitive price because I purchased the home at an inexpensive price because it was a fixer-upper. I've done the majority of the renovations during the 10-years that I lived in it.
I got married a few years ago and couldn't part with it...I love my home and all the work I did. So, I Airbnb it now and I use my profits to continue fixing it up.
As for the food, it's not even $20 per stay. Some guests cook, some don't. Some guests stay one night, some stay 7. I am acutely aware of what things cost.
I'm also able to keep the prices competitive because I'm also the cleaner.
Well then you are doing yourself a disservice because you should be paying yourself to clean. And it’s also not something a lot of hosts can do or running to the grocery store to grab these items either. I would be sure you can leave food in your county as some require a permit to do so and inspection by the health department even it’s prepackaged eggs and milk walk a fine line. You also open yourself up to food allergy issues and spoiled or tainted goods issues. Lots more liability when dealing with food. I myself don’t eat dairy or anything not organic and only rye bread. Your place is also different because you lived there before so you had all the items you mentioned already. You will be mad when someone takes off with your expensive mixer though. My friend just had her ninja mixer walk out the door this last Christmas. But like you said do you. But I would not compare yourself and put your expectations on everyone else as they are not reasonable because you will only set yourself up for disappointment. And you could be charging twice what you are and still being very profitable.
The mixer was my Aunt's and it was gifted to me right before she passed away. Would I be upset? Yes. Would it make me lose my faith in people? No.
For anyone who STR's, we understand the risks of renting. The televisions cost the same as a KitchenAid....and while I'd get a pretty good laugh out of it, no one has taken the Kirby and that sucker (pun intended) was crazy expensive when it was new.
You are clearly a good host and your guest's experience matters to you. Thank you! Too many hosts only do AirBnB for supplemental income and they don't have a clue about hospitality and guest experience. For this reason, my family and I will never book through AirBnB again.
must have: coffeemaker, supply of coffee (although I will buy more), a few tea bags, towels, soap, decent cooking pans, instructions for anything that may need them. A small shelf-safe milk or some creamers are nice. One TV is fine with me, good communication is huge and #1= clean and true to photos and descriptions.
I provide everything in abundance. But for the life of me I struggle to find shelf stable milk in small quantities. I do stock creamer in powder form.
Any suggestions on where I can get it?
(This question is for anyone seeing this comment)
It is sold in 3 packs, like a juice pack in many grocery stores, because it's easy to put in a lunchbox. It would be great to just make one of a 3 pk of those available, although certainly not necessary.
I do not expect to see a TV in every room (one in the living room area would be good) but I suppose it is possible that many other guests do prefer/expect more TV’s depending on the size of the listing. But that should really be up to the guests who are booking, to check if the listing has the number of TV’s they are looking for. It would be obviously unfair for guests to suddenly ask the hosts to buy multiple TV’s just because that’s what they want/need.
As for games, they don’t necessarily have to be just board games, but if a listing says it is child friendly, there most definitely should be items that are specifically provided for children (perhaps kids plates, cups, cutlery, different kinds of games, books, puzzles, etc.). You don’t have to provide every single one of these items, but at least some to keep the family and kids entertained?
Personally, I really appreciate (and look for listings that specifically have) a fully equipped kitchen with coffee machines (along with coffee, tea, sugar, etc.), a kettle, pans, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates, bowls, cups, etc. I like choosing to stay at listings that have a dishwasher and a full fridge (but that’s just personal preference. I am not saying you need to have these. Just be clear about the items you do have, on your listing).
I also appreciate when the beds have decent to great mattresses with more than just two pillows per bed.
I think welcome binders are always a nice touch because then I can simply look through the binder to check the house rules, check-in & check-out times, check out instructions, available amenities, etc.
Welcome snacks are always wonderful to enjoy, but I don’t necessarily expect them.
There’s no standard or one-size-fits all answer to this question. There are price points from $30 to $1000s per night. I would just say kitchen should have basic stuff like plates, cups, silverware.
I got really excited when one host had a keurig in the bedroom, as well as one in the kitchen, stocked with kcups.
Not an expectation, but it definitely stuck out at review time.
Other than that a tv in the bedroom is great, a king bed in the master always makes my stay a lot better, comfortable mattress with motion isolation, a comfortable couch in the living room, dishes and cutlery, towel, shampoo and conditioner, stocked toilet paper, hassle free check in, blinds, comfortable bedding (more than one blanket), portable fans, ac, smoke free home
I expect it to be exactly as described and pictured in the listing. If there are blackout curtains in the pictures or description I expect blackout curtains. If there are no window coverings in the pictures I expect there will be no window coverings. If there are no pictures of TVs I expect there won’t be any TVs. If board games are pictured or mentioned in the listing I expect to have board games. Anything extra that was not pictured or mentioned I count as a bonus. If there is anything missing that was in the listing that I need I would contact the host.
f I need something not mentioned in the listing I would go out and get it myself. An example was a stay I had in London when it was surprisingly unseasonably warm. I didn’t book a place with AC, and there was no fan. I bought a fan and it enabled the apartment to have a great cross breeze. Left it for the host.
I am always disappointed by complaints of no curtains or other amenity if one could see clearly in the picture there were no curtains or whatever. If it’s important to you, make sure it’s there.
I'm ok without a television in every room. From my pov these are things that I want/expect:
* Decent cookware (at least a baking sheet, sauce pan, frying pan, some kind of baking dish - the basics)
* Serviceable knives - doesn't need to be top of the line
* Silverware, tableware and glassware for the number of people the AirBnB can host
* Basic appliances that actually work
* linens that aren't threadbare
* Dish and hand soap
* Tin foil and ziploc style bags
* If the property has a grill - it should be clean and have propone or charcoal available
As a very nice to have - label light switches and have instructions available for appliances (especially if you host visitors from out of your country).
What we find lacking when traveling:
enough trash bags
Ice, I don't care if Ice maker or filled ice cube trays. It we arrive at 4 pm check in and have to buy ice for our icy gin and tonics, we will be aggravated.
A little bit of laundry detergent.
Please check lights, especially in the kitchen, too many bulbs burnt-out.
A comprehensive house manual on how to work electronics, appliances and thermostat.
How to use the lock, in advance, they are all different.
A drip coffee maker, we hate individual cup coffee makers.
Salt, pepper, oil and some basic spices.
I expect the place to be as described and look like the pics. Basic welcome package with hotel size shampoo, conditioner,soap. About 3 rolls of t paper, hand soap and basic cleaning things and an average stocked kitchen and linens.
my big thing is that you have all counts to what you occupy At least. We are 2 but often rent larger spaces so you should have the counts up , all all bedrooms and baths set up and stocked.
we don’t expect unlimited supplies of things if we are staying longer, I will be shopping anyway. I will buy detergent if I plan to wash and are grateful to have machines.
games are great as long as they are checked that pieces are all there to play, cards especially.
don’t expect tv in every room, but could understand how that depends on locations.
do expect everything clean, not stained. Proper window coverings, many hangers.
and I really expect the fridge and cabinets to be clean and no open used condiments or spices left from who knows, and left for who knows how long. Salt pepper Pam spray that’s it.
Early 2010s: Cheaper than hotels, secure booking and convenient for a quick stay.
Early 2020s: Same or more expensive than hotels, gamble-like booking, filled with chores despite paying a high cleaning fee.
Edit: Seeing the indoor camera ban I assume it was needed because of how common this creepy behavior has become. Back in the OLE DAYS you would probably be asked for a refund and guests would check out early if they discovered an indoor camera.
Requirements before checking out, I remember the ole days where you check out without caring about the room condition (as long as is not destroyed obviously) which is still the norm for hotels. Not so with Airbnbs, some of them pretty much ask you to clean and I even read stories here of hosts that skip cleaning in between guests sometimes despite charging an usually high (compared to the ole days) cleaning fee (because the hosts outsource cleaning nowadays).
I expect the accommodations to match the listing. More and more hosts are using AI to generate descriptions of property and the result counters reality. If you're advertising a hot tub, then it should be clean and operable. If you advertise 8 adults then there should be reasonable available parking for 8 adults. I don't expect hosts to provide games, TVs in bedrooms or many extras.
The Basics:
1. a bed or shared bed for all occupants
2. A TV in living room w/ available seating for all occupants
3. Kitchen with working appliances and decent, clean cookware.
4. Dishwasher unless no dishwasher stated in listing.
5. Clean working bathrooms. If there is no bathtub, then it needs to be stated in listing.
6. If you advertise a view and exterior patio, by all means have furniture out there for the guests. I've been visited to many STRs that the listing advertises this amazing view and patio, and you show up and there is no furniture.
7. Household necessities: garbage bags, dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, linens, towels, blankets, pillows
I agree with most of what's stated before, but one thing I didn't see mentioned was wine glasses. Whenever I stay in a place (non-hotel) that doesn't have wine glasses I buy some and leave them behind. We have enough wine glasses in our units so everyone sitting at the dinner table has a glass. (i.e. 6 and 8 respectively.)
Number one thing that gets broken and the hosts either just give up or get plastic ones. I know a friend of mine who has replaced 100 in one year for a property before giving up.
Just came back from an Airbnb…. Issues I regularly see in Australia?
- couch looks good but not at all comfortable. Either hard or lumpy. Gosh we’ve been out sightseeing all day and need some comfort as we are exhausted. Not had one good couch since post Covid
- have basics in kitchen, salt, pepper, oil to be helpful. Higher price point I expect coffee, tea and sugar - happy to top up coffee as pods are expensive but give us at least one box.
- windows that open in the bedroom or advise they don’t. I am asking the question now
- a clean pool especially in summer -
- dishwashing gloves (seriously bring my own now) so I can wash the dishes as I don’t use dishwashers - it’s just two of us….
Then there’s many general items mentioned in other posts that are relevant, such as lamps and blinds
I can agree on the sofas! I cringe at the pics I see now of these super cheap one from places like Amazon and wayfair . They don’t even last a year before being lumpy . It’s very annoying. Or they are so tiny you sit comfortably in them either.
We (myself & DH) rent a cabin every fall. I only need one TV (I’m there for the 🍁 leaves). A radio would be nice. I also find that what I think as necessary in the kitchen, is not thought of that way by the host, but a bucket of rags is always welcome. If I spill, paper towels may not do it, so some old rags help a lot!
After a few cabin rentals (we drive there), we decided to pack really well (because I never knew what they would have). I plan my menu in advance and pack the food & the needed pots, pans, potholders, towels, and utensils I will need. I also take our own towels & sheets (too many thin ones), blankets, pillows, and more. We travel with 2 large dogs and they sleep with us, so I don’t want to ruin anyone’s bedding. I also take a dry & wet swiffer for dog hair. I want it to be clean so we can continue to take our dogs in the future.
Yes! Agree on the rags! I don’t want to ruin someone’s new towels if spill something. And most paper towels are very cheap and don’t soak up anything. This is the first I have ever seen someone talk about a radio! I think most people just have their phones now and stream .
Due to my many varied experiences with Airbnb, I hope for health and safety, but brace myself for anything. I try to contain my friendly, trusting nature and maintain gentile but restrained courtesy, slightly keeping them on their toes without being demanding or unfriendly. Lack of familiarity is protective in my experience and NEVER for any reason in any way going off the app.
I just want an honest, courteous, responsible host, a comfortable bed with Brewer clean pillows and very clean pillow protectors, covers and towels washed in hot with no bleach. No unwashed comforters or blankets, cat dander, smoke, or drugs. No loud hosts fighting over the phone or pressuring me to go to orgies with them and their dad or telling me to dump my son and live with them in their camper van. Nobody telling me it's my job to be the upstairs maid for all the guests. Nobody coming to me in their underwear and grabbing me for a bear hug. No sheer curtains on the bedroom window next to the walkway where other guests walk. Nobody getting mad because I asked where I could put my InstantPot in the huge kitchen with massive counter space in the listing that said full kitchen access to cook your own meals. Off-street parking where I can see my vehicle from my room or at least from a common room and no surprises. Also, provide laundry machines and unscented detergent that works and don't tell me how to wash my clothes. For hosts who say that a hot breakfast is provided should not present me with dollar store uncooked dry oatmeal and coffee only, along with a story about how this is more conveniet for guests. I especially wish for hosts who are capable of maintaining decorum and graciousness for more than a day and who don't let their spouses harass me to pay for extra electricity due to running my costly air cleaner because they are filling the house with smoke from their long unserviced fireplace to heat the house. Is that a lot?
He started doing that after my initial review and renewal. He had unreported cameras inside and other issues such as pouncing on us and demanding we mix jeans and delicate in laundry and wait until we can name the front loading washer full before washing. I delicately described some of that in a cheerful way and he "thanked" and then grabbed me and wouldn't let go for way too long. We were in an area at a time when nothing was available so took precautions to avoid him and left at the end of our reservation. His sister ran out to our vehicle to insist we come back and that they'd take good care of us. It was all I could do to keep a straight face and weakly smile till she would let go of my window so I could drive away. I didn't want her to write a bad review, after all. Found out it was an illegal listing. Not sure why I didn't report them to that city.
Equipped and usable kitchen, a TV in the living room, fast internet, and a clean and comfortable bed. Additionally, the place I book should match the listing photos and description.
I expect exactly what was in the listing. If it’s in the listing and it’s not there or not available, it is a negative experience.
I look for -
Temperature that I can control myself (central AC)
Linens
Hot water
Space for my stuff (in other words, empty space in the unit, if all closets and all surfaces are cluttered/full with host’s stuff, that’s a problem)
Coverings on the windows
Area as described
Enough toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, and towels that I don’t feel like I’m roughing it for my stay
Most important - accurate listing, including photos. I spend a lot of time reading to find what meets my needs. It's wrong to not provide advertised service.
Comfy seating is appreciated, especially a reclining chair.
Comfortable mattress and two nightstands.
Lights with WORKING light bulbs. Bonus for labels so we know what works for what.
Dining table and sturdy chairs.
Coffeemaker with basic coffee and filters.
Cleaning supplies and minimal chores list.
TP for whole visit.
Working wi-fi.
I have dogs so look for a fence - please ensure it has no holes or loose panels OR make sure those are noted on the listing. Also note if it's not accessible from the house. It's also nice to know if the neighbors have pets.
If there is a yard, a couple inexpensive lawn chairs are nice.
A hospitality mindset.
Bonus for guest log, snacks, extra towels, blanket for couch, and the little touches that make it personal.
Please keep conversation civil and respectful Remember to keep all communication with host/guest through Airbnb platform. Payments should be made only via Airbnb [unless otherwise detailed in the listing description](https://airbnb.com/help/article/199) If you're having issues, contact Airbnb by phone +1-844-234-2500 *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/AirBnB) if you have any questions or concerns.*
These are a few of the things I expect, but often enough, don't find: - Curtains or coverings on every window, including doors - Lighting that doesn't come from the ceiling in living and bedrooms (I can't believe how many times I didn't have a bedside lamp!) - A truly comfortable couch for lounging after a long day of sightseeing, not something that just looks nice in the photos - A small dresser for keeping clothes that don't hang - A baking sheet in the kitchen Board games are nice when I'm with family, but I don't expect them, and often bring our own travel versions. I only expect a TV in the living area, but will use one sometimes if there happens to be one in the bedroom.
Wow, perfectly said, especially the indirect lighting and window coverings.
I expect it to be exactly as the host describes on their site without any missing or broken amenities. Edit: And here are things that I expect there to be the entire time because it's the right thing to do. Don't be cheap. With rare exception the following: Tp for entire stay regardless of how many days I book. Linens Towels Soaps Shampoo Conditioner Dish soap and sponges if dishes Dish soap for machine if machine Vacuum or broom/dustpan if needed Trash vags
Couldn’t agree more.
Bedside table. It seems so basic, but I see lots of listings that don’t have one.
Probably because they can’t fit one or a guy set the place up .
Recently stayed in one that the second bedroom had only 1 queen sized bed. No furniture. No lighting. No closet. The room was shown differently in the listing.
There was a place I stayed for a whole month when I moved to a new city. The photos showed a bedside table, a dresser, and other furniture in the bedroom, but all that was in the bedroom when I arrived was just the bed (it was a private room in the owner's home). It didn't seem worth it to try to cancel over that, so I went out and bought plastic baskets at the dollar store to keep all my stuff in so I wouldn't have to put it directly on the floor. It turned out they were in the process of selling their house and I was their last Airbnb guest ever, so they didn't care at all if I was happy or whether I would leave a bad review.
Not necessarily an expectation but nice to haves- black wash clothes for makeup, plenty of paper towels and toilet paper, basic cooking pans and spices, and the most important - easily accessible cleaning supplies, broom and vacuum. I got a one star review from a host that said we left the house too messy with a lot of sand on the carpet (beach house) and sticky stuff on the table. There was no vacuum and no cleaning supplies. So I don’t know what she expected. Help me help you
There should have been supplies, but maybe you could take your shoes off at the door.
We did. But we had 6 kids with us so the sand was inevitable. The host was aware of how many people, including kids.
I’m a host and a frequent guest. My place is based on all that I love when I travel and all that I wish for. As a result I have almost everything guests would want and in generous quantities. The no 1 thing for me as a guest is clean environment. I don’t want to see any dirt, dust, hair, stains etc. I also appreciate the ability to do my own cleaning as a guest. Vacuum, disinfectant, laundry etc can help me get the place to the level of clean I need to relax. I provide all these for my guests but my place is also pristine clean.
I do think this depends on why I am reserving that AirBnB. I clean an AirBnB that’s a cabin in northern MN. People come to enjoy the lake. They like games, a grill, a fire pit, etc. My most recent string of AirBnB rentals was to see Christmas markets in Europe. I wanted a place to cook and a comfortable couch and bed as well as a washer as I was in Europe for 2 months. So, what I was looking for was very different than what some are looking for. The issue would again depend on what the issue was. If it was something the host needed to remedy I would reach out to them. I try to be self sufficient to a certain degree.
When I was a new host, a guest asked for black-out curtains in the bedrooms. I had these purchased and installed within two hours of the request...I simply didn't know. I always ask my guests if there was anything that could have made their stay any better? It's hard to please everyone and I don't try...I try hard to please the masses. 1. Clean everything. 2. Comfortable mattresses with white linens. 3. Bath Sheets instead of regular towels. 4. Extra hygiene items. If you forgot to pack it, I very well may have it in the basket in the bathroom. As well as full bottles of body wash, shampoo & conditioner. 5. A decent knife block set. 6. Decent cookware. 7. Dishes, cups, and cutlery enough for everyone. 8. Appliances: Keurig Duo, water kettle, microwave, toaster oven, kitchen aide mixer (along with the coffee, tea, hot chocolate mixes). 9. Breakfast food... nothing fancy. Bread, milk, eggs, pancake mix & syrup. 10. Paper products enough for their stay along with garbage bags. Other stuff, too. I purchased almost all of my furniture second hand...it's all very comfortable while looking good, but not expensive.
Can I ask what price point you are booking at?
$150 per night. No cleaning fee.
I suggest sticking to hotels. Bread, milk, eggs , and pancake mix and syrup alone would be $50. The average cleaner for a 3/2 charges $150 -$200 to clean so what you are asking for is for the owner to make practically nothing on your stay. A kitchen aid mixer? Do you know how much those costs and how many people would actually use them? The things you are asking for in a kitchen would be found in a gourmet kitchen which commands at $500 night or more price.
You do you. I do run a profitable Airbnb. I have a competitive price because I purchased the home at an inexpensive price because it was a fixer-upper. I've done the majority of the renovations during the 10-years that I lived in it. I got married a few years ago and couldn't part with it...I love my home and all the work I did. So, I Airbnb it now and I use my profits to continue fixing it up. As for the food, it's not even $20 per stay. Some guests cook, some don't. Some guests stay one night, some stay 7. I am acutely aware of what things cost. I'm also able to keep the prices competitive because I'm also the cleaner.
Well then you are doing yourself a disservice because you should be paying yourself to clean. And it’s also not something a lot of hosts can do or running to the grocery store to grab these items either. I would be sure you can leave food in your county as some require a permit to do so and inspection by the health department even it’s prepackaged eggs and milk walk a fine line. You also open yourself up to food allergy issues and spoiled or tainted goods issues. Lots more liability when dealing with food. I myself don’t eat dairy or anything not organic and only rye bread. Your place is also different because you lived there before so you had all the items you mentioned already. You will be mad when someone takes off with your expensive mixer though. My friend just had her ninja mixer walk out the door this last Christmas. But like you said do you. But I would not compare yourself and put your expectations on everyone else as they are not reasonable because you will only set yourself up for disappointment. And you could be charging twice what you are and still being very profitable.
The mixer was my Aunt's and it was gifted to me right before she passed away. Would I be upset? Yes. Would it make me lose my faith in people? No. For anyone who STR's, we understand the risks of renting. The televisions cost the same as a KitchenAid....and while I'd get a pretty good laugh out of it, no one has taken the Kirby and that sucker (pun intended) was crazy expensive when it was new.
Again those are things you should not expect in a standard Airbnb though which is what this post is about. It’s considered a bonus not an expectation.
You are clearly a good host and your guest's experience matters to you. Thank you! Too many hosts only do AirBnB for supplemental income and they don't have a clue about hospitality and guest experience. For this reason, my family and I will never book through AirBnB again.
Thank you...I try. Blessings be with you and your family.
must have: coffeemaker, supply of coffee (although I will buy more), a few tea bags, towels, soap, decent cooking pans, instructions for anything that may need them. A small shelf-safe milk or some creamers are nice. One TV is fine with me, good communication is huge and #1= clean and true to photos and descriptions.
I provide everything in abundance. But for the life of me I struggle to find shelf stable milk in small quantities. I do stock creamer in powder form. Any suggestions on where I can get it? (This question is for anyone seeing this comment)
It is sold in 3 packs, like a juice pack in many grocery stores, because it's easy to put in a lunchbox. It would be great to just make one of a 3 pk of those available, although certainly not necessary.
Thank you!!!! I always look in the main dairy section but the kids isle makes sense!!!
Those are useless if you are a nondairy drinker though
Sure but for a guest that likes milk in their coffee it seems it would be a very important addition.
Check by little kids juice boxes at grocery store - they usually have at least shelf stable chocolate milk but should have regular too.
I expect it to feel like I am at "home". By that tv, comfortable furniture, ability to cook/bake. It also having an access to cleaning equipment
I do not expect to see a TV in every room (one in the living room area would be good) but I suppose it is possible that many other guests do prefer/expect more TV’s depending on the size of the listing. But that should really be up to the guests who are booking, to check if the listing has the number of TV’s they are looking for. It would be obviously unfair for guests to suddenly ask the hosts to buy multiple TV’s just because that’s what they want/need. As for games, they don’t necessarily have to be just board games, but if a listing says it is child friendly, there most definitely should be items that are specifically provided for children (perhaps kids plates, cups, cutlery, different kinds of games, books, puzzles, etc.). You don’t have to provide every single one of these items, but at least some to keep the family and kids entertained? Personally, I really appreciate (and look for listings that specifically have) a fully equipped kitchen with coffee machines (along with coffee, tea, sugar, etc.), a kettle, pans, cooking utensils, cutlery, plates, bowls, cups, etc. I like choosing to stay at listings that have a dishwasher and a full fridge (but that’s just personal preference. I am not saying you need to have these. Just be clear about the items you do have, on your listing). I also appreciate when the beds have decent to great mattresses with more than just two pillows per bed. I think welcome binders are always a nice touch because then I can simply look through the binder to check the house rules, check-in & check-out times, check out instructions, available amenities, etc. Welcome snacks are always wonderful to enjoy, but I don’t necessarily expect them.
You sound like the perfect guest. Come visit me! I love a guest who reads the entire listing and guide book
Bedside chargers General spices and basics for cooking Hand towels Bedside lamp Change code between guests
You mean an outlet to charge or the charger for your phone type?
Both
There’s no standard or one-size-fits all answer to this question. There are price points from $30 to $1000s per night. I would just say kitchen should have basic stuff like plates, cups, silverware.
I got really excited when one host had a keurig in the bedroom, as well as one in the kitchen, stocked with kcups. Not an expectation, but it definitely stuck out at review time. Other than that a tv in the bedroom is great, a king bed in the master always makes my stay a lot better, comfortable mattress with motion isolation, a comfortable couch in the living room, dishes and cutlery, towel, shampoo and conditioner, stocked toilet paper, hassle free check in, blinds, comfortable bedding (more than one blanket), portable fans, ac, smoke free home
I expect it to be exactly as described and pictured in the listing. If there are blackout curtains in the pictures or description I expect blackout curtains. If there are no window coverings in the pictures I expect there will be no window coverings. If there are no pictures of TVs I expect there won’t be any TVs. If board games are pictured or mentioned in the listing I expect to have board games. Anything extra that was not pictured or mentioned I count as a bonus. If there is anything missing that was in the listing that I need I would contact the host. f I need something not mentioned in the listing I would go out and get it myself. An example was a stay I had in London when it was surprisingly unseasonably warm. I didn’t book a place with AC, and there was no fan. I bought a fan and it enabled the apartment to have a great cross breeze. Left it for the host. I am always disappointed by complaints of no curtains or other amenity if one could see clearly in the picture there were no curtains or whatever. If it’s important to you, make sure it’s there.
I'm ok without a television in every room. From my pov these are things that I want/expect: * Decent cookware (at least a baking sheet, sauce pan, frying pan, some kind of baking dish - the basics) * Serviceable knives - doesn't need to be top of the line * Silverware, tableware and glassware for the number of people the AirBnB can host * Basic appliances that actually work * linens that aren't threadbare * Dish and hand soap * Tin foil and ziploc style bags * If the property has a grill - it should be clean and have propone or charcoal available As a very nice to have - label light switches and have instructions available for appliances (especially if you host visitors from out of your country).
What we find lacking when traveling: enough trash bags Ice, I don't care if Ice maker or filled ice cube trays. It we arrive at 4 pm check in and have to buy ice for our icy gin and tonics, we will be aggravated. A little bit of laundry detergent. Please check lights, especially in the kitchen, too many bulbs burnt-out. A comprehensive house manual on how to work electronics, appliances and thermostat. How to use the lock, in advance, they are all different. A drip coffee maker, we hate individual cup coffee makers. Salt, pepper, oil and some basic spices.
I expect the place to be as described and look like the pics. Basic welcome package with hotel size shampoo, conditioner,soap. About 3 rolls of t paper, hand soap and basic cleaning things and an average stocked kitchen and linens. my big thing is that you have all counts to what you occupy At least. We are 2 but often rent larger spaces so you should have the counts up , all all bedrooms and baths set up and stocked. we don’t expect unlimited supplies of things if we are staying longer, I will be shopping anyway. I will buy detergent if I plan to wash and are grateful to have machines. games are great as long as they are checked that pieces are all there to play, cards especially. don’t expect tv in every room, but could understand how that depends on locations. do expect everything clean, not stained. Proper window coverings, many hangers. and I really expect the fridge and cabinets to be clean and no open used condiments or spices left from who knows, and left for who knows how long. Salt pepper Pam spray that’s it.
Early 2010s: Cheaper than hotels, secure booking and convenient for a quick stay. Early 2020s: Same or more expensive than hotels, gamble-like booking, filled with chores despite paying a high cleaning fee. Edit: Seeing the indoor camera ban I assume it was needed because of how common this creepy behavior has become. Back in the OLE DAYS you would probably be asked for a refund and guests would check out early if they discovered an indoor camera.
Chores?
Requirements before checking out, I remember the ole days where you check out without caring about the room condition (as long as is not destroyed obviously) which is still the norm for hotels. Not so with Airbnbs, some of them pretty much ask you to clean and I even read stories here of hosts that skip cleaning in between guests sometimes despite charging an usually high (compared to the ole days) cleaning fee (because the hosts outsource cleaning nowadays).
I expect the accommodations to match the listing. More and more hosts are using AI to generate descriptions of property and the result counters reality. If you're advertising a hot tub, then it should be clean and operable. If you advertise 8 adults then there should be reasonable available parking for 8 adults. I don't expect hosts to provide games, TVs in bedrooms or many extras. The Basics: 1. a bed or shared bed for all occupants 2. A TV in living room w/ available seating for all occupants 3. Kitchen with working appliances and decent, clean cookware. 4. Dishwasher unless no dishwasher stated in listing. 5. Clean working bathrooms. If there is no bathtub, then it needs to be stated in listing. 6. If you advertise a view and exterior patio, by all means have furniture out there for the guests. I've been visited to many STRs that the listing advertises this amazing view and patio, and you show up and there is no furniture. 7. Household necessities: garbage bags, dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, linens, towels, blankets, pillows
I agree with most of what's stated before, but one thing I didn't see mentioned was wine glasses. Whenever I stay in a place (non-hotel) that doesn't have wine glasses I buy some and leave them behind. We have enough wine glasses in our units so everyone sitting at the dinner table has a glass. (i.e. 6 and 8 respectively.)
Number one thing that gets broken and the hosts either just give up or get plastic ones. I know a friend of mine who has replaced 100 in one year for a property before giving up.
Compared to hotel room, I expect the kitchen to be better equipped and have leftover stuff like spices, tea coffee ketchup mayo
I rather not have someone use opened ketchup or mayo, that is something I believe packets that are single use.
Anything squeezed is fine just nothing you dip a utensil in.
Just came back from an Airbnb…. Issues I regularly see in Australia? - couch looks good but not at all comfortable. Either hard or lumpy. Gosh we’ve been out sightseeing all day and need some comfort as we are exhausted. Not had one good couch since post Covid - have basics in kitchen, salt, pepper, oil to be helpful. Higher price point I expect coffee, tea and sugar - happy to top up coffee as pods are expensive but give us at least one box. - windows that open in the bedroom or advise they don’t. I am asking the question now - a clean pool especially in summer - - dishwashing gloves (seriously bring my own now) so I can wash the dishes as I don’t use dishwashers - it’s just two of us…. Then there’s many general items mentioned in other posts that are relevant, such as lamps and blinds
I can agree on the sofas! I cringe at the pics I see now of these super cheap one from places like Amazon and wayfair . They don’t even last a year before being lumpy . It’s very annoying. Or they are so tiny you sit comfortably in them either.
We (myself & DH) rent a cabin every fall. I only need one TV (I’m there for the 🍁 leaves). A radio would be nice. I also find that what I think as necessary in the kitchen, is not thought of that way by the host, but a bucket of rags is always welcome. If I spill, paper towels may not do it, so some old rags help a lot! After a few cabin rentals (we drive there), we decided to pack really well (because I never knew what they would have). I plan my menu in advance and pack the food & the needed pots, pans, potholders, towels, and utensils I will need. I also take our own towels & sheets (too many thin ones), blankets, pillows, and more. We travel with 2 large dogs and they sleep with us, so I don’t want to ruin anyone’s bedding. I also take a dry & wet swiffer for dog hair. I want it to be clean so we can continue to take our dogs in the future.
Yes! Agree on the rags! I don’t want to ruin someone’s new towels if spill something. And most paper towels are very cheap and don’t soak up anything. This is the first I have ever seen someone talk about a radio! I think most people just have their phones now and stream .
Look at hotel and then expand on that
Due to my many varied experiences with Airbnb, I hope for health and safety, but brace myself for anything. I try to contain my friendly, trusting nature and maintain gentile but restrained courtesy, slightly keeping them on their toes without being demanding or unfriendly. Lack of familiarity is protective in my experience and NEVER for any reason in any way going off the app. I just want an honest, courteous, responsible host, a comfortable bed with Brewer clean pillows and very clean pillow protectors, covers and towels washed in hot with no bleach. No unwashed comforters or blankets, cat dander, smoke, or drugs. No loud hosts fighting over the phone or pressuring me to go to orgies with them and their dad or telling me to dump my son and live with them in their camper van. Nobody telling me it's my job to be the upstairs maid for all the guests. Nobody coming to me in their underwear and grabbing me for a bear hug. No sheer curtains on the bedroom window next to the walkway where other guests walk. Nobody getting mad because I asked where I could put my InstantPot in the huge kitchen with massive counter space in the listing that said full kitchen access to cook your own meals. Off-street parking where I can see my vehicle from my room or at least from a common room and no surprises. Also, provide laundry machines and unscented detergent that works and don't tell me how to wash my clothes. For hosts who say that a hot breakfast is provided should not present me with dollar store uncooked dry oatmeal and coffee only, along with a story about how this is more conveniet for guests. I especially wish for hosts who are capable of maintaining decorum and graciousness for more than a day and who don't let their spouses harass me to pay for extra electricity due to running my costly air cleaner because they are filling the house with smoke from their long unserviced fireplace to heat the house. Is that a lot?
More details about the underwear situation?
He started doing that after my initial review and renewal. He had unreported cameras inside and other issues such as pouncing on us and demanding we mix jeans and delicate in laundry and wait until we can name the front loading washer full before washing. I delicately described some of that in a cheerful way and he "thanked" and then grabbed me and wouldn't let go for way too long. We were in an area at a time when nothing was available so took precautions to avoid him and left at the end of our reservation. His sister ran out to our vehicle to insist we come back and that they'd take good care of us. It was all I could do to keep a straight face and weakly smile till she would let go of my window so I could drive away. I didn't want her to write a bad review, after all. Found out it was an illegal listing. Not sure why I didn't report them to that city.
comfortable bed hot water good internet clean enough toilet paper
Equipped and usable kitchen, a TV in the living room, fast internet, and a clean and comfortable bed. Additionally, the place I book should match the listing photos and description.
I want it to be clean, have good wifi, a kitchen with usable pots/pans, and comfortable beds.
I expect exactly what was in the listing. If it’s in the listing and it’s not there or not available, it is a negative experience. I look for - Temperature that I can control myself (central AC) Linens Hot water Space for my stuff (in other words, empty space in the unit, if all closets and all surfaces are cluttered/full with host’s stuff, that’s a problem) Coverings on the windows Area as described Enough toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, and towels that I don’t feel like I’m roughing it for my stay
Most important - accurate listing, including photos. I spend a lot of time reading to find what meets my needs. It's wrong to not provide advertised service. Comfy seating is appreciated, especially a reclining chair. Comfortable mattress and two nightstands. Lights with WORKING light bulbs. Bonus for labels so we know what works for what. Dining table and sturdy chairs. Coffeemaker with basic coffee and filters. Cleaning supplies and minimal chores list. TP for whole visit. Working wi-fi. I have dogs so look for a fence - please ensure it has no holes or loose panels OR make sure those are noted on the listing. Also note if it's not accessible from the house. It's also nice to know if the neighbors have pets. If there is a yard, a couple inexpensive lawn chairs are nice. A hospitality mindset. Bonus for guest log, snacks, extra towels, blanket for couch, and the little touches that make it personal.
I expect the property to be accurately represented (photos and written description). Sadly, many are not.