The Airbnb Superhost

In this episode, Neil Harvey focuses on the topic of managing the various challenges that arise in the bathroom, such as bathroom hoggers, messy guests, and limited hot water. Neil discusses practical solutions he has implemented, like adding sinks to rooms and setting time limits for showers. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and addressing issues calmly to ensure harmony among guests. KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on providing individual sinks in rooms to avoid bathroom congestion. Increase the number of toilets in the property to accommodate guests. Set clear expectations about hot water usage to prevent running out. Use subtle methods like a sand timer to encourage shorter showers. Approach issues with guests calmly and offer alternative solutions rather than confrontation. BEST MOMENTS "I rent out up to seven rooms, which includes the fancy glass dome at the bottom of the garden. I accept that this number of rooms is perhaps uncommon, but what the experience has done is thrown up issues that are not necessarily obvious." "I have never had any complaint about this over eight years of hosting. I think culturally, people taking a bath these days is very rare." "I try very hard to ensure that I never confront a guest about an issue in the heat of the moment. I have done it a couple of times and have regretted it." "Getting uptight about the continual battle to keep the bathroom clean is not going to change anything." "At the end of the day, as I often remind myself, does whatever it is really matter?" CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

Discover essential tips for crafting a guest-friendly bathroom that impresses and functions seamlessly. Learn the importance of fixtures like a reliable shower and sink, plus the necessity of proper ventilation to prevent mold. Explore effective lighting solutions for practical tasks, ensuring a well-lit environment. Organization is key, so find smart storage options to keep clutter at bay. Prioritize simplicity and ease of maintenance to enhance guest satisfaction and encourage rave reviews!

Neil shares his wisdom on crafting a welcoming atmosphere for guests, focusing on the pivotal role of the kitchen table. He reveals the 'tea trap' technique to spark conversations and deepen connections. Hosting simple events, like barbecues, not only fosters community but creates lasting memories. By encouraging guests to share dishes, he enriches the dining experience. Neil emphasizes that an engaging and warm environment can significantly enhance guest satisfaction and lead to glowing reviews.

In this episode, Neil shares his insights and experiences on guests using the kitchen in Airbnb accommodations. With over 1,200 guests from 40 countries, Neil discusses the importance of providing clear instructions for guests on using kitchen appliances, sharing cooking spaces, and maintaining cleanliness. He highlights the benefits of using QR codes for instructional videos and implementing a simple rule of "Leave no evidence" to encourage guests to clean up after themselves.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Providing clear instructions, such as using QR codes for appliances, can enhance the guest experience and prevent confusion. Recognizing and accommodating guests from diverse backgrounds can lead to smoother interactions in shared spaces like the kitchen. Setting clear rules, like the "Leave no evidence" policy, can help maintain cleanliness and mutual respect in shared kitchen spaces. Encouraging guests to clean up after themselves by creating a cleaning mentality can lead to a more harmonious hosting experience. Leveraging tools like QR codes and online resources can simplify guest interactions and enhance their overall stay. BEST MOMENTS "One of the basic activities that your guests will need to do, apart from sleep when they book with you, is to eat." "I remember the frustration I had when visiting an Airbnb in Brighton and a very nice espresso coffee machine was provided." "I don't want people filling my house with cooking smells." "If there's something in your kitchen that you'd be gutted if it was lost or broken, it's probably best to keep it out of the way." "The notice reads, there is just one rule in the kitchen. Leave no evidence." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

In today's episode, Neil delves into the essential aspects of setting up a guest kitchen to enhance the overall guest experience. Drawing from his extensive experience as a superhost, Neil shares valuable insights on catering to guests with diverse eating habits, from cooking enthusiasts to those who prefer dining out. He emphasizes the importance of providing a well-equipped kitchen, including cutlery, crockery, fridge space, utensils, and clear instructions for guests. Neil's practical tips, such as labeling kitchen items and storage boxes, ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay for guests. KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on providing a comprehensive set of kitchen equipment for guests to prepare meals easily. Labeling kitchen items and storage spaces can help guests navigate and use the space effectively. Consider the common eating habits of guests, such as cooking meals, eating out, bringing their own food, ordering takeout, or cooking on-site. Ensure clear instructions for using appliances like microwaves and disposing of rubbish to enhance the guest experience. When stocking the kitchen, imagine what is needed to cook an egg in various ways to ensure all necessary tools are available. BEST MOMENTS "I've been a superhost for over eight years and having welcomed over 1,200 guests from over 40 countries with all manner of cultural and culinary differences." "If your guest eats out for every meal, then that's easy. Maybe recommend some restaurants or set up a special guest recommendations book where your guests can share their finds and recommend places between each other." "Personally, B&B stands for bed, no breakfast. There are very few occasions when I cook for my guests." "I went through all the drawers and I could find a vegetable spiralizer, a steak mallet, a salad whirler, a rolling pin, you name it, for its irrelevance for cooking scrambled egg, it was there." "When cooking, you may feel a fool if you cannot find the right tool. If you omelette an egg, but it's scrambled instead, quite frankly, that's not very cool." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

In this episode, Neil discusses the crucial importance of providing guests with a good night's sleep. Drawing from his extensive experience as a Superhost, Neil emphasizes the impact a comfortable bed can have on guest satisfaction and repeat bookings. He emphasizes the significance of paying attention to details such as mattress firmness, bedding quality, and room ambiance to ensure guests have a restful stay. Neil shares valuable insights on creating a welcoming environment that fosters trust and happiness, ultimately leading to financial success and Superhost status. KEY TAKEAWAYS Prioritize physical and emotional comfort for guests to ensure a good night's sleep. Pay attention to the five senses in the accommodation, including noise levels, room temperature, cleanliness, and lighting. Invest in a comfortable mattress as it is a crucial factor in guest satisfaction and can lead to repeat bookings. Conduct a "10-second rule" test to assess the initial impression of the room, with the bed being a focal point. Implement the "Superhost Secret" by sleeping in your own beds as if you were a guest to identify areas for improvement and enhance the guest experience. BEST MOMENTS "Loads of guests have said they had a great night's sleep because the bed was so comfortable." "The best thing you want is for them to rebook with you every time they're in the area and recommend you to all their friends, family and colleagues." "A happy guest leaves a good review score. Having had a great night's sleep may be the difference between receiving a 5 instead of a 4." "I often say, when talking about what I'm doing, that no guest has left here saying, I slept really well because the wallpaper was magnificent." "In your aim to be best, put your words to the test. Spend the night as your guest in that bed." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

Today, Neil dives into the wonderful world of beds, and explores their impact on hosting success. Drawing from his experience as a Superhost for over eight years, Neil shares insights on choosing the right bed size, considering storage options, and selecting the ideal mattress. He shares fun stories of transforming rooms with different bed types, from trundle beds to ottomans, and emphasizes the importance of uniform bed dimensions for efficient bedding management. KEY TAKEAWAYS Consider the size of the bed that is most suited to the space available, as one size does not fit all. Think about storage space beneath the bed, such as built-in drawers or ottoman beds, to maximize the use of the room. If you have multiple beds in your accommodation, having them all identical in size can make managing bedding easier. Invest in good quality beds and mattresses to ensure guest comfort and longevity of use. Think about the functionality of the bed, such as whether guests may need to sit on it, and choose features accordingly. BEST MOMENTS "One size of bed does not fit all. I've bought over 12 different beds in my hosting journey." "I realised that the room was actually big enough to be a twin room, rather than just my original thought of it being a single room." "Airbeds. Yes, they're an option. I've yet to find one that can last a thousand guests." "I always buy from a shop. I have total confidence in what I'm buying when I can see and feel the bed in person." "Whatever size of bed you choose, have them all identical dimensions. It may seem a small detail, but it can save you from a bed-making crisis." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

Neil, a seasoned host with over eight years of experience and 1,200 guests under his belt, shares invaluable insights on making smart purchases for hosting properties. He argues that investing in quality items saves money over time despite the initial cost. Neil stresses the importance of durability and functionality, rather than just aesthetics. He advises against the allure of cheap options that lead to frequent repairs. Ultimately, he encourages thoughtful upgrades that enhance guest experience and long-term satisfaction.

In this episode, Neil shares his expertise on enhancing the guest experience by focusing on the physical aspects of the bedroom. He emphasizes the importance of meeting guests' personal needs, such as providing a comfortable bed, mirrors, allergy-friendly bedding, and ample storage space. Neil also delves into the significance of small details like quality hangers, towels, toiletries, and lighting. He introduces the concept of the "slight edge," advocating for consistent small improvements to achieve long-term success. Through anecdotes and practical tips, Neil guides listeners on how to create a welcoming and memorable stay for guests, ultimately aiming for rave reviews and repeat bookings.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on making your guests' experience top-notch by paying attention to their personal needs and essentials in the bedroom. Ensure the bed is comfortable as it is a non-negotiable aspect of the guest experience. Provide mirrors of decent size in the bedroom for guests' convenience. Consider guests' allergies when choosing bedding and laundry detergents. Implement the concept of the slight edge by making consistent small improvements over time to enhance the guest experience and achieve success. BEST MOMENTS "Their bed, it's got to be comfortable. I mean, come on, there's a clue in the name, Airbnb. The first B stands for bed."  "Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's going to be the ultimate super host of them all? Spoiler alert, it will be you, my friend, if you stick around with me." "Non-bio liquid laundry detergent is my default. Why? Well with powder detergent they bulk it out with sneaky little fillers that don't dissolve and they get caught between the fibers of your clothes and bedding." "There's nothing more frustrating than trying to dry your wet body with a tea towel. If you can, provide two towels per guest. One for the face and one for the body." "For the Superhost status award, improve the things you can afford. Though your actions seem small, doesn't matter at all, as the slight edge should not be ignored." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.

Today, Neil delves into the importance of utilizing the five senses to create the ultimate guest experience in your accommodation room. He shares valuable insights and tips on how to optimize the visual appeal, cleanliness, comfort, ambiance, and overall satisfaction of a room for guests. By focusing on sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste, Neil emphasizes the significance of making a positive first impression within the first 10 seconds of a guest entering the room.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Guests make a judgment within the first 10 seconds based on their five senses. Paying attention to sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste can lead to repeat bookings and great reviews. Ensuring the room is comfortable in terms of temperature, bedding, and furniture placement is crucial for guest satisfaction. Simple patterns with muted natural colors and tones, with a pop of color as a centerpiece, create a relaxed atmosphere. Guests decide if they like a place within 10 seconds based on their sensory experience, emphasizing the importance of creating a positive first impression. BEST MOMENTS "All rooms are equal, but some rooms are more equal than others." "I've discovered a system that can be applied to any room to make sure that they are as close as possible to being perfect." "I've earned over £50,000 from that one room alone." "You have 10 seconds before your guest decides if they like your place or not." "From the moment your guests through the door, they'll judge the room ceiling to floor." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: SuperhostNeil@gmail.com  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 8 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambiance creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Neil’s actionable tips and tricks will help you become a hospitality superstar. Disclaimer: The Airbnb Superhost is in no way affiliated with Airbnb. All ideas, thoughts, concepts and data presented in this podcast are entirely Neil’s own and do not represent the views of Airbnb.