The Airbnb Superhost Neil Harvey

In today's episode, Neil shares his top five considerations for creating a welcoming and functional bathroom space. From fixtures and fittings to ventilation, lighting, storage solutions, and finishing touches, he provides valuable insights and tips based on his hosting experience. Emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and ease of cleaning, Neil highlights the importance of creating a guest-friendly environment that prioritizes practicality over extravagant features.

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Ensure the bathroom has a functional shower or bathtub, good water pressure, and a decent-sized sink.



Install an extractor fan to prevent mold and mildew growth due to excess moisture.



Use overhead lighting for general illumination and task lighting around the mirror for specific tasks like shaving or applying makeup.



Provide storage options for bathroom essentials to keep the space clutter-free and easy to clean.



Prioritize functionality over fancy features to make the bathroom easy to use and maintain.



BEST MOMENTS

"Your guests may never use your kitchen or even turn on the TV, but they will 100% use your bathroom facilities."

"One of the top complaints about bathrooms is inadequate or fluctuating water pressure."

"I've been in many bathrooms over the years where every surface seems to be covered with stuff from shells to souvenir windmills."

"How far you wanna go is up to you. There are many additional things that you can provide for your guests."

"Remember, we are not going for the razzle-dazzle in the bathroom. We're not trying to impress people with the arty features there."

 

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 is sharing his valuable insights on how to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for guests as a live-in host. He emphasizes the power of the kitchen table as a focal point for building rapport with guests and fostering a sense of community within the home. Neil introduces the concept of the "tea trap," a clever tactic to initiate conversations and learn more about guests while sharing a cup of tea. By organizing impromptu gatherings like barbecues for guests, Neil demonstrates how simple gestures can lead to lasting friendships, positive reviews, and a vibrant atmosphere in the hosting space. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Building rapport with guests can be achieved by using the "tea trap" technique, where guests are offered a cup of tea or coffee to initiate conversation and learn more about them.



Creating a welcoming and communal atmosphere at the kitchen table can lead to guests feeling comfortable, forming friendships, and leaving positive reviews.



Hosting events like a barbecue for guests can foster a sense of community, allowing guests to interact, share experiences, and feel valued during their stay.



The kitchen table serves as the heart of the home, where guests gather, stories are shared, and connections are made, enhancing the overall guest experience.



Engaging with guests on a personal level, showing genuine interest in their backgrounds, and facilitating introductions between guests can lead to a harmonious and enjoyable stay for everyone involved.



BEST MOMENTS

"A stranger is simply a friend you haven't made yet."

"The tea trap. The thing is, they don't realize what I'm doing."

"The power of doing this is phenomenal. They both know that I admire each of them, so they are immediately one step closer to trusting each other."

"The kitchen table is where people meet, stories are shared, jokes are cracked and friendships are formed."

"Your hosting will be with the greats when your guests become your best mates." 

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 insights and experiences on guests using the kitchen in Airbnb accommodations. With over 1,200 guests from 40 countries, Neil discusses the importance of providing clear instructions for guests on using kitchen appliances, sharing cooking spaces, and maintaining cleanliness. He highlights the benefits of using QR codes for instructional videos and implementing a simple rule of "Leave no evidence" to encourage guests to clean up after themselves. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Providing clear instructions, such as using QR codes for appliances, can enhance the guest experience and prevent confusion.



Recognizing and accommodating guests from diverse backgrounds can lead to smoother interactions in shared spaces like the kitchen.



Setting clear rules, like the "Leave no evidence" policy, can help maintain cleanliness and mutual respect in shared kitchen spaces.



Encouraging guests to clean up after themselves by creating a cleaning mentality can lead to a more harmonious hosting experience.



Leveraging tools like QR codes and online resources can simplify guest interactions and enhance their overall stay.



BEST MOMENTS

"One of the basic activities that your guests will need to do, apart from sleep when they book with you, is to eat."

"I remember the frustration I had when visiting an Airbnb in Brighton and a very nice espresso coffee machine was provided."

"I don't want people filling my house with cooking smells."

"If there's something in your kitchen that you'd be gutted if it was lost or broken, it's probably best to keep it out of the way."

"The notice reads, there is just one rule in the kitchen. Leave no evidence."

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 essential aspects of setting up a guest kitchen to enhance the overall guest experience. Drawing from his extensive experience as a superhost, Neil shares valuable insights on catering to guests with diverse eating habits, from cooking enthusiasts to those who prefer dining out. He emphasizes the importance of providing a well-equipped kitchen, including cutlery, crockery, fridge space, utensils, and clear instructions for guests. Neil's practical tips, such as labeling kitchen items and storage boxes, ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay for guests.

KEY TAKEAWAYS



Focus on providing a comprehensive set of kitchen equipment for guests to prepare meals easily.



Labeling kitchen items and storage spaces can help guests navigate and use the space effectively.



Consider the common eating habits of guests, such as cooking meals, eating out, bringing their own food, ordering takeout, or cooking on-site.



Ensure clear instructions for using appliances like microwaves and disposing of rubbish to enhance the guest experience.



When stocking the kitchen, imagine what is needed to cook an egg in various ways to ensure all necessary tools are available.



BEST MOMENTS

"I've been a superhost for over eight years and having welcomed over 1,200 guests from over 40 countries with all manner of cultural and culinary differences."

"If your guest eats out for every meal, then that's easy. Maybe recommend some restaurants or set up a special guest recommendations book where your guests can share their finds and recommend places between each other."

"Personally, B&B stands for bed, no breakfast. There are very few occasions when I cook for my guests."

"I went through all the drawers and I could find a vegetable spiralizer, a steak mallet, a salad whirler, a rolling pin, you name it, for its irrelevance for cooking scrambled egg, it was there."

"When cooking, you may feel a fool if you cannot find the right tool. If you omelette an egg, but it's scrambled instead, quite frankly, that's not very cool."

 

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 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.