Do You Ever Find Yourself Feeling Burnout as an Airbnb Host?

Being a successful short-term rental host can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges. Anyone who’s been in the industry a while will tell you – avoiding hosting burnout is crucial for long-term success in this business. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, from managing bookings and guest inquiries to coordinating cleaning and maintenance. This can be really demanding, and if you’re not careful, it can lead to exhaustion, stress, and ultimately, make you want to quit. But there are things you can do to prevent this and ensure you can keep doing what you love.

Table Of Contents:

• 5 Powerful Tips to Avoid Hosting Burnout
  • 1. Harness the Power of Automated Messaging to Avoid Hosting Burnout
  • 2. Know When to Expect Your Guests to Prevent Burnout
  • 3. Establish Boundaries to Combat Burnout
  • 4. Take Back Control of Your Calendar
  • 5. A Master Spreadsheet Will Change How You Host
• A Burnout Free Future Leads to a Thriving Airbnb Business

5 Powerful Tips to Avoid Hosting Burnout

Over the years, we’ve picked up on a few things that have made our Airbnb business run easier. These tips not only make the hosting experience smoother, but they’ve also made us a happier hosts. And when we’re happy, our guests are too.

1. Harness the Power of Automated Messaging to Avoid Hosting Burnout

I know what you’re thinking… as a host, connecting with your guests is super important. Building relationships is part of what makes this experience so special. But responding to common questions at all hours of the day can quickly zap your energy. That’s where automated messages are your new best friend.

Automated messages are pre-written responses that automatically go out to guests at certain points during their stay. They allow you to answer common questions, share vital information, and even set those all-important expectations upfront. This can free up your time so you can focus on other tasks, or even just take a break.

Here are some messages I automate right away to make things easier:

• Booking Confirmation Message: This goes out immediately after a guest confirms their booking, laying the groundwork for their stay, setting the tone and sharing helpful information.
• Pre-Arrival Message: This message includes vital check-in information, Wi-Fi passwords, directions to the property – things to streamline their arrival and provide a final touchpoint.
• House Manual Delivery: Consider automating the delivery of your house manual within your messaging platform. Doing this prevents guests from searching endlessly and potentially missing vital information. It saves you from repeated inquiries, like, “What’s the Wi-Fi password?” This is where one of our favorite tools is delivered: the digital guidebook. For more information about digital guidebooks we recommend check out our Trusted Tools.

2. Know When to Expect Your Guests to Prevent Burnout

You might think this sounds strange. Guests can arrive anytime within the check-in window, right? While that’s true, having an estimated arrival time just adds that extra layer of preparedness, reduces guest anxiety, and can help streamline your hosting flow.

Here’s how: when a guest shares their estimated time of arrival, add it to your calendar. It doesn’t have to be fancy, even a simple Google Calendar entry works wonders. When that notification pops up on your phone, you know it’s time to switch your host mindset on.

I’ve learned to anticipate those check-in questions and be extra attentive in case guests need help getting settled. Being prepared for check-ins makes me more available for those moments and really strengthens those host-guest relationships. Trust me, putting this into practice will definitely make a difference and prevent any feelings of overwhelm. It prevents you from playing catch-up, especially during those busy periods.

3. Establish Boundaries to Combat Burnout

I learned the hard way. Hosting, even when you’re passionate about it, requires establishing healthy boundaries – with yourself and any team members.

Let’s start with you. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being “always on.” Identify tasks you’re not fond of and those that disrupt your flow. Delegate these when you can. Remember that as your business flourishes, you can delegate certain tasks so you can pour more energy into those aspects you genuinely enjoy. For example, you could consider hiring a cleaning service or a property manager. This can free up your time so you can focus on other aspects of your business, or even just take some time for yourself. Check out our podcast episode covering the best cleaning products and techniques for your Airbnb property: Episode 206.

But boundary setting isn’t limited to ourselves. When bringing on help like cleaners and inspectors, it’s crucial to have boundaries there, too. Constant notifications from team members asking questions or relaying non-urgent updates during your personal time is draining. That’s why I always make sure to set communication guidelines. For instance, you might let your team know that you are not available after 8pm unless it’s an emergency.

4. Take Back Control of Your Calendar

This was a game changer for me. Think about recurring commitments you or your family have, vacations you have planned, holidays, and personal time – anything that’s non-negotiable, block it out on your calendar.

You are the boss, and your calendar is a powerful tool for success. Think about implementing things like:

• Minimum night stays (especially during peak seasons and weekends).
• Strategic pricing to manage demand. We use PriceLabs!
• Consider blocking out certain days for cleaning, maintenance, or simply taking a much-needed break.

These boundaries minimize back-to-back turnovers and let you prioritize self-care and personal commitments – essential aspects of preventing burnout. Trust me; controlling your calendar empowers you to enjoy hosting more.

5. A Master Spreadsheet Will Change How You Host

Imagine a centralized hub for everything related to your rental property. This document contains those seemingly insignificant details. Things like appliance model numbers, warranty information, supplier contacts, and consider creating how-to videos for various tasks.

Not only does our master spreadsheet serve as our hosting bible, but it’s been invaluable in training team members. By having everything in one spot, we save time and cut back on those unnecessary back-and-forth questions.

But here’s another great tip: consider creating a brag folder where you save those glowing guest reviews. Every time a guest writes a review that absolutely makes your day, screenshot it or print it and add it to your folder. On those inevitable days where you feel deflated, these reviews serve as great reminders for all those reasons why you started hosting in the first place. Reading through positive guest feedback can give you a much-needed boost of confidence and motivation.

One place to start with organizing your Airbnb business is with our Organizational Chart! Get your copy for free right here.

 A Burnout Free Future Leads to a Thriving Airbnb Business

Building a thriving short-term rental business is amazing, but it’s important to remember that avoiding hosting burnout is key to long-term success and enjoyment. Remember that building in these sustainable practices sets you up for a more enjoyable and, frankly, more profitable journey.

Ready To Start Your Airbnb Business? Let us help!

Our Hosting Handbook is our play by play guide for short term rental hosts. This course has everything you need to confidently and efficiently begin your Airbnb business. Check it out right here!

TFV Trusted Airbnb Tool: Breezeway

We absolutely love using Breezeway in our Airbnb business—it’s been a game-changer for keeping everything running smoothly. We’re excited to share this fantastic tool with our audience and hope it helps you as much as it’s helped us! Click here to learn more.