The Secret Sauce for Remote Airbnb Hosting

Good morning!

Starting a remote rental is like assembling IKEA furniture without the manual - confusing, frustrating, but totally doable with the right tools.

Here’s a classic dilemma for most Airbnb hosts:

This host asked:

1. How do I find reliable locals to keep my rental running smoothly?

2. What’s the secret sauce for managing an out-of-state (or international) rental?

In Part 1, we talked about assembling your Airbnb Dream Team - so you can run your property like a pro, even if you’re miles (or continents) away. Read it here:

Today, we’re diving into Part 2: The Secret Sauce to Remote Hosting Without Losing Your Mind.

Build Around Your Cleaning Team

Your cleaners? They’re the heart and soul of your operation.
Messy property = bad reviews = fewer bookings.

Here’s how to make sure your cleaning team crushes it:

• Direct Communication: Cut out the middleman. You need a direct line to your cleaners to handle curve balls quickly and efficiently.

• Tech-Savvy Hires: Make sure they have a smartphone and are comfortable using your apps. Scheduling, tracking inventory, and automating communication are a breeze when tech’s on your side. Show them what the process looks like and make sure they are comfortable upfront.

• Crystal Clear Expectations: Define what “guest-ready” means.

Stay Ahead with Proactive Maintenance

Nothing kills a 5-star review faster than a broken light or a beeping smoke detector. If you are managing remotely, you need to stay ahead of it with a maintenance game plan:

Sample Quarterly Maintenance Checklist:

• Replace filters (HVAC, fridge, water systems).

• Change batteries in smoke detectors, smart locks, and remotes.

• Check all lightbulbs.

• Tighten loose furniture to prevent accidents.

• Schedule pest control.

Sample Annual Maintenance Checklist:

• Inspect plumbing, water heaters, and sprinklers.

• Pressure wash exterior walls and windows.

• Adjust maintenance to fit your property type and local climate.

Runner: Your Go-To-Guy (or Gal)

A Runner is someone local who can “run” to the property to fix a quick issue (battery replacements, Wi-Fi resets, handling trash, grabbing mail, etc) for a small additional fee. 

This can be done by your cleaner or handyman, but discuss it and agree on the fee in advance. 

Landscaping and Curb Appeal

First impressions? They matter.

If your property’s in a leafy area, keep it neat. Overgrown lawns or messy exteriors can scare off bookings faster than a one-star review.

Leverage Smart Technology

If remote hosting is a game of chess, then smart home tech is your queen.

Here’s what you need:

• Smart locks with unique codes for each guest, synced to your booking platform.

• Security cameras to monitor entrances and verify services.

• Noise monitoring tools like NoiseAware to stop unauthorized parties before they start.

• Delivery services like Instacart simplify supply deliveries.

Master Property Management Software

Good property management software can take your operation to the next level. These platforms can handle:

• Calendar syncing across booking platforms.

• Automated guest messaging (like check-in instructions and thank-you notes).

• Cleaning coordination with your team.

• Dynamic pricing using tools like PriceLabs to adjust rates based on demand and competitors.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Remote hosting means being ready for anything. Backup systems are your safety net:

• Train multiple cleaners and have an on-call backup for emergencies.

• Keep spare key boxes near the property for when smart locks fail.

Embrace the Process

Mistakes will happen. The first guest might leave a mess. You might forget extra towels. It’s all part of the game.

Here’s the secret: The best hosts aren’t perfect—they’re resilient. They adapt, learn, and improve.

Remote hosting isn’t just doable—it’s a chance to prove to yourself (and your guests) that you’ve got this.

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