The Airbnb Superhost Neil Harvey

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 "super host 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."

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."

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's episode of The Airbnb Superhost explores the crucial decision-making process of choosing between budget-friendly and high-quality purchases for your hosting property. Neil shares his personal insights gained from over eight years of hosting over 1,200 guests. When purchasing beds, furniture, and appliances, Neil emphasizes the importance of investing in quality items to avoid frequent replacements and costly repairs. He highlights the balance between beauty and functionality, stressing the significance of long-term durability and practicality in purchasing decisions. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Buying cheap may seem like a cost-saving measure, but in the long run, it often leads to more expenses and hassle with repairs and replacements.



While it's important to have aesthetically pleasing items, prioritize functionality and durability to avoid frequent replacements.



When making purchasing decisions for your accommodations, consider the longevity and practicality of the items to avoid frequent replacements.



Make strategic upgrades that enhance the guest experience without breaking the bank, focusing on longevity and practicality.



The adage "buy cheap, buy twice" holds true in many cases, emphasizing the importance of investing in quality items to save money in the long term.



BEST MOMENTS

"Focus on the rewards, not the price paid. I assure you, when you get it right, the rewards far outstretch the price."

"The cost of getting it right is far less than the cost of the regret that you got it wrong."

"Sometimes it's best to buy an item based on how simple it is to operate or fix. I mean, the more sophisticated it is, the more likely it is to break and the harder it is to fix."

"My goodness, that really looks nice. A bargain for sure at that price. If only you knew that sadly it's true: If you choose to buy cheap, you'll buy twice!"

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 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."

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."

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 common concerns that guests may have before booking an Airbnb. He highlights the top three worries shared by guests, including the accuracy of the listing description, cleanliness and hygiene standards, and personal safety. Neil shares personal anecdotes and insights on how hosts can address these concerns to make guests feel more confident when booking. He emphasizes the importance of accurately portraying the property, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring guest safety. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Guests worry if the listing will be as described on the website, emphasizing the importance of accurate representation.



Concerns about cleanliness arise due to the lack of standardized cleaning procedures in Airbnb compared to hotels.



Personal safety encompasses more than just locking doors, including well-lit paths, security measures, and accessibility features.



Inviting a friend to be a guest and provide feedback can help hosts see their property from a guest's perspective and address any concerns effectively.



BEST MOMENTS

"How has Airbnb become such a success when it is 100% about going to a stranger's home?"

"The review system is the best tool we have. In fact, there is so much more to what it does for us that I'll be talking about this topic in an episode all on its own."

"I remember going to a listing that offered a spacious living room only to find on arrival that the room was very much the private space of the owner and his partner. I was not welcome there."

"Get a good friend to come and pretend to wear the other man's shoes."

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.