Hosting with Heart: How to Turn Your Spare Space into Steady Income on Airbnb

Kasia
Jun 18
3 min read

There’s something special about welcoming people into your home. Whether it’s an unused guest room, a garden flat, or your family’s old summer cottage, your space has the potential to do more than just sit empty. It can work for you.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get started with Airbnb, or how to do it the right way, this guide is for you. These are simple, down-to-earth tips to help you turn your space into a warm, inviting stay that guests will love and that brings in regular income for you.

Start with a Great First Impression

Think of your Airbnb listing like a window display. It’s the first thing guests see and it should catch their attention.

Take bright, tidy photos of each room.
Write a description that feels friendly and clear. Mention what makes your place cozy, peaceful, or special.
Share local gems maybe there’s a bakery down the road or a walking trail nearby. Help guests picture themselves enjoying the area.

Price Thoughtfully, Not Just for Profit

Pricing doesn’t have to be guesswork. A bit of research goes a long way.

Look at other listings in your area. What are they charging?
Make sure you’re covering your cleaning time, supplies, and bills.
Adjust your prices during holidays or big events. Don’t be afraid to lower them during quiet seasons to stay competitive.

This way, you earn what you’re worth while staying fair and welcoming.

Host Like You’re Welcoming Old Friends

The best hosts are the ones who treat every guest like a dear friend coming to stay.

Respond quickly to messages. Be polite, clear, and helpful.
Offer thoughtful touches like an extra blankets, a small welcome gift, or a handwritten note.
If something goes wrong (and sometimes it will), be calm and kind. Guests will remember how you made them feel more than anything else.

This kind of warmth builds trust—and great reviews.

Keep Check-In Simple and Smooth

A smooth arrival sets the tone for the whole stay. Confusion at the door isn’t the memory you want guests to take with them.

Send clear check-in instructions ahead of time, how to get in, where to park, how to find the Wi-Fi.
If you can greet them in person, even better. A quick hello and tour makes a big difference.
Have a backup plan in case technology fails. If you use a smart lock or keypad, test it regularly.

Only Open Your Calendar One Month at a Time

Here’s a hosting tip that gives you breathing room: don’t open your calendar too far ahead.

Keeping your calendar open just one month in advance helps you stay in control:

You can block off time if your schedule changes.
You won’t get overwhelmed with future bookings.
You have time to adjust your listing or process feedback before welcoming more guests.

Especially when you’re just starting out, this gives you space to grow at your own pace.

Build a Reputation That Brings Guests Back

Good hosting leads to glowing reviews and those reviews bring more bookings.

Be consistent. Make every stay feel reliable, clean, and welcoming.
After each visit, thank your guests and kindly ask for a review.
Use social media if you enjoy it. Sharing little moments from your space or neighborhood can build interest and attract guests who feel connected even before they arrive.

In Closing: A Kind Home is a Successful One

You don’t need to be fancy or high-tech to be a great host. What matters most is offering your guests a clean, comfortable space and treating them with kindness and care just like you would if they were close friends coming to stay.

With the right mindset, a little planning, and a big heart, you can turn your spare room into a trusted, loved part of someone’s journey and a steady source of income for yourself.

Have Questions About Hosting? Let’s Connect.

If you’d like any advice or have questions about running your Airbnb through PowerBNB, I’m more than happy to help. Feel free to reach out—I'd be glad to share anything I’ve learned, as much as I can. We're all in this together.

Contact me