With Airbnb reporting a staggering $4.7 billion in net income for 2023—its second consecutive year of profitability—it’s clear that more travelers are opting for home-style stays over traditional hotels. As demand grows, cities like Barcelona are even taking steps to ban tourist rentals to combat rising housing costs.
Despite ongoing debates around short-term rentals, the appeal of becoming an Airbnb host is only increasing. In the UK, searches for “how to start an Airbnb” have risen 19% year-over-year, showing growing interest in tapping into the platform’s lucrative potential.
For those considering converting their apartment into a successful Airbnb, the Alan Boswell Group, a specialist in unoccupied property insurance, offers these seven expert tips:
- Vertical Garden: Bring the outdoors in with a low-maintenance vertical garden. It enhances air quality and adds calming, natural charm—without taking up valuable floor space.
- Hidden Storage: Use furniture with built-in storage like beds with drawers or fold-out desks to maximize space and keep your Airbnb clutter-free.
- Wall or Sofa Beds: High-quality sofa or wall beds create versatile, multi-functional living areas perfect for compact city apartments.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Choose adaptable pieces—like dining tables that convert into workspaces—to meet diverse guest needs.
- Smart Zoning: Use curtains or folding screens to define sleeping and living areas. If your space allows, convert mezzanines or lofts into extra rooms.
- Layered Lighting: Combine overhead, table, and under-cabinet lighting to set the mood and enhance functionality.
- Personalized Touches: A mini-bar or coffee station with local goodies can leave a lasting impression.
With the right design and strategy, your apartment can become a standout Airbnb that guests love—and return to.