HOST  HACKS

How to recover from a DIY disaster! I've been on a mission to redecorate one of my Airbnb apartments this week in preparation for an inspection by the Select program photographer. I was tired of the mundane artwork on the walls that I had inherited from the previous owner, and wanted to inject a Melbourne vibe into the space. In my opinion, a property should always speak to its location and environment, so for instance if it's by the seaside, decorate it accordingly, with c

Wondering why your Airbnb property is languishing with minimal views and even fewer bookings? Could it be that your pics are boring and your space is nothing special in a sea of other listings? With the explosion of properties listing on Airbnb globally, your place is facing unprecedented competition. You can wring your hands, blame Airbnb, blame the universe and the economy, or you can take action. Check out these Before & After shots of rooms I have transformed. I often he

How I transformed my boring balcony into a lush and inviting outdoor living-room! Ok, I admit it... I was bored in those lazy days between Christmas and New Year. More than 2 days off, and I start to look around for things to renovate or spray-paint. This time the balcony was in my line of sight and I decided I was sick of it after 4 years, so a design make-over was called for. I invited my Airbnb hosting buddies to watch my progress on my FaceBook posts as I went on my journ

Fantastic news for Hosts who are sub-letting (renting an apartment and letting it out on the short stay holiday market. Perfect for Airbnb). Ceneta HostRite Short Stay Apartment Insurance is now approved for sub-letting! Underwritten by Lloyds of London, this is our most popular Apartment insurance - covers all the most critical Hosting risks in one well-priced annual policy. You can download the full product description with application form here, and the PDS here. Eligibi

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and I couldn't agree more! There is no shame in appropriating other peoples' good ideas and adding your own twist. In fact, history is full of examples of ideas being copied and improved upon. A truly original idea is a rare thing, and most inventions are more likely to be a refinement of an existing concept. The best thing about staying in other people's Airbnb properties when you travel, is being able to pick up c