Top Airbnb Strategies for New Hosts: 7 Secrets to Get More Bookings

Crush Your First Airbnb With These 7 Hosting Hacks

Let’s be real! Launching a short-term rental can feel exciting and overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been scrolling through YouTube videos, listening to Airbnb podcasts, and wondering how all these hosts seem to be crushing it while you're still figuring out how to get started.

Here’s the truth: most successful Airbnb hosts aren’t just lucky. They’re following Airbnb strategies for new hosts that actually work—proven systems, smart tools, and the right guidance from people who’ve done it before.

At BNB Guardians, we’ve helped busy professionals many with zero Airbnb experience, launch and grow profitable short-term rental businesses using Airbnb arbitrage, cohosting, or ownership. And today, we’re pulling back the curtain to share the 7 hosting secrets we teach inside our Airbnb coaching program and Skool community.

Let’s dive in.

1. Create a Listing That Sells Itself

This isn’t just about uploading photos, it’s about building trust and selling the experience. Your Airbnb listing creation needs:

• Professional, well-lit photos (hire someone if needed!)

• A headline that makes people stop scrolling

• A description that highlights unique features and who your space is perfect for
  

We teach Airbnb SEO strategies that help your listing rank higher in search—because if no one sees your space, it won’t get booked.

2. Master Airbnb Guest Communication

Responding quickly and clearly is one of the fastest ways to earn 5-star reviews, and it’s something most new hosts underestimate. Set up:

• Automated message templates for check-in/check-out

• A mobile app like Guesty to manage responses on the go

• Fast response habits (aim for under 1 hour)
  

Great communication = less guest anxiety + fewer issues.

3. Add a Personal Touch That Stands Out

What makes a guest leave a glowing review? It’s usually not the thread count of your sheets—it’s how seen and taken care of they feel.

Try adding:

• A handwritten welcome note

• Local snacks or coffee

• A short guide to your favorite nearby spots
  

At BNB Guardians, we call this “hospitality stacking”—layering small surprises that lead to big emotional impact.

4. Cleanliness Is Non-Negotiable

No matter how cool your property is, if it’s dirty, you’ll get slammed in the reviews.

Invest in a reliable cleaning team, and create a checklist that includes:

• Deep cleaning between each stay

• Restocking essentials (toilet paper, soap, coffee, etc.)

• Routine maintenance (lightbulbs, air filters, touch-up paint)
  

Good Airbnb management starts with good systems, and we help our clients build these from day one.

5. Set Clear Expectations Upfront

You’d be shocked how many headaches are caused by poor communication around rules. Want to avoid party guests, unauthorized pets, or late-night noise complaints?

Then your Airbnb strategy should include:

• Clear house rules in the listing

• Repeating them in the welcome message

• A printed copy in the home (visible and friendly)
  

Clarity = peace of mind for both you and your guests.

6. Overdeliver on Amenities

Most guests are expecting the basics. But when you go above and beyond, that’s when the magic happens.

Here are a few things we recommend:

• Netflix, board games, or books

• Cooking basics (oil, salt, coffee, utensils)

• A cozy work-from-home setup if you attract remote workers
  

These details create a premium experience, and help justify higher Airbnb pricing.

7. Have a Backup Plan for Everything: Airbnb Strategies for New Hosts

Stuff happens. A pipe bursts. A guest cancels last minute. Your cleaner flakes.

That’s why we help our clients build “what-if” systems for:

• Emergency maintenance contacts

• Backup cleaners and cohosts

• Alternative accommodation options (in case of emergencies)
  

This kind of Airbnb optimization protects your reviews, income, and sanity.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Successful Airbnb hosting isn’t about working 24/7 or figuring it all out the hard way. It’s about using the right playbook, building a support team, and following a step-by-step process.

That’s what we offer inside BNB Guardians—real help with Airbnb, from people who’ve done it.

✅ Want to launch your first Airbnb the smart way? ✅ Already hosting but feel stuck with guests, pricing, or operations? ✅ Craving community and real answers—not fluff?

Join our Skool community or book a call with our team today. We’ll help you turn your short-term rental into a long-term income stream—without burning out.

👉 Join Airbnb Super Host Academy 👉 Book a free strategy call