Maximizing Profits with Your Parent Child Airbnb Listing
For years, I thought there was only one way to list a property on Airbnb. But then, I discovered this amazing strategy called a “parent child Airbnb listing.” This approach has completely changed how I optimize my properties for more bookings and income.
You’re probably thinking, “What in the world is a parent child Airbnb listing?” That was my first reaction too. Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for those who have larger properties and want to maximize their earning potential.
Table of Contents:
- What is a Parent Child Airbnb Listing?
- Benefits of a Parent Child Airbnb Listing
- Setting Up a Successful Parent Child Airbnb Listing
- Navigating Challenges of a Parent Child Airbnb Listing
- Is a Parent Child Listing Right for You?
- Conclusion
What is a Parent Child Airbnb Listing?
The “parent” is your entire property, like a four-bedroom house. The “children” are smaller, rentable units within that property – such as a locked-off two-bedroom space with its own entrance.
This approach lets you market two different Airbnb listings within a single property. This expands your reach to different travelers and maximizes bookings, especially during slower seasons. This strategy is completely ethical and can make a big difference in your earnings.
Benefits of a Parent Child Airbnb Listing
Diversifying your offerings.
A parent child Airbnb listing helps you attract more guests. Instead of just appealing to large groups seeking a four-bedroom property, you can also cater to smaller groups. Offering this flexibility attracts more bookings from business travelers or couples looking for a comfortable two-bedroom stay.
Maximizing occupancy and revenue.
This strategy helps fill those empty rooms during your off-season or weekdays when demand for the entire property might be low. By renting out a smaller portion of your space, you keep the income flowing even if the full house isn’t booked.
Think about how your average daily rate (ADR) for the “child” listing could add a nice bump to your overall earnings. Plus, you can adjust your pricing and minimum stay requirements based on which listing is booked. This level of flexibility is a huge win for maximizing profit.
Flexibility in pricing and minimum stays.
Parent child listings give you flexibility with pricing structures, minimum stay requirements, and even cleaning fees. Dynamic pricing tools can come in handy, adjusting rates based on demand, seasonality, and even upcoming events.
Think of it as having the best of both worlds – the potential for higher earnings during peak times with the entire property booked. During slower periods, you will still have a steady stream of income from the “child” listing.
Setting Up a Successful Parent Child Airbnb Listing
You need to pay attention to several key areas to successfully set up a parent child listing. You need to think through access to shared spaces, the setup in the house, and how to correctly list and market your property.
1. Defining Shared and Private Spaces
When setting up, it’s essential to establish clear boundaries between shared and private areas. Guests renting the “child” unit should have their own private bathroom and, ideally, a separate entrance.
For areas like backyards, patios, or parking spots, clarify whether those are shared amenities. Transparency and communication are key. Be upfront about the layout to prevent potential issues during their stay.
2. Choosing the Right Locks
This is an area where many people learn from experience. I manage several properties with parent child listings. Look into smart locks that allow you to easily change entry codes for each new set of guests.
Mechanical locks with backup keys can work too. Make sure your cleaner is aware of the setup and clearly explain the lock situation in your Airbnb listings.
Grab our recommended locks right here!
3. Creating Separate, Detailed Airbnb Listings
Remember, you’re essentially creating two separate listings: one for the “parent” property and one for the “child” unit. Airbnb allows you to duplicate existing listings, which I love to use to streamline the process.
However, each listing has to be different. Here’s a closer look at crafting each listing:
- The “Parent” Listing. Focus on showcasing the full house’s appeal – how many guests it can accommodate, highlighting the amenities, and using photos of the entire property.
- The “Child” Listing: Focus on showcasing the smaller unit’s unique features, like a private entrance or balcony. Make sure your pictures focus solely on the available space.
4. Marketing and Communication Tips
Promoting your parent child Airbnb listing correctly is super important for maximum visibility.
- Targeted Keywords: Use phrases that resonate with travelers looking for exactly what you offer, such as “[City] short-term rental.” This will help the right guests easily find your properties.
- Social Media Strategy: Leverage platforms like Instagram to showcase both listings. Use high-quality photos, video tours, and tailor your content to each platform.
- Local Partnerships: Connect with local businesses or event organizers to tap into their networks and attract more bookings.
Navigating Challenges of a Parent Child Airbnb Listing
A parent child Airbnb listing can be great, but be prepared for potential downsides. You might need to put in extra effort with communication or cleaning:
Increased Communication
With two sets of guests potentially checking in and out, communication is even more critical. Responding quickly to both listings will make guests feel heard and minimize misunderstandings or negative reviews.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Managing turnover for multiple listings is a lot of work. Missed cleanings between bookings can be a real problem. A solid system with checklists and reminders makes everything smoother.
Think about using apps to help organize your process, and factor potential extra costs into your rates. This ensures every guest experiences a spotless stay.
Is a Parent Child Listing Right for You?
A parent child Airbnb listing is an excellent way for hosts to make more money from their property. While it needs good organization, this setup could be very worthwhile.
Now that you’re informed on the parent child Airbnb listing strategy, check out more tips on running your business profitably in short-term rental pricing mistakes to avoid. Plus, we go even deeper into essential resources like how to manage parent child listings in our courses.
Parent Child Listing Strategy
We recommend using the parent child Airbnb listing model to scale your business. Done properly, it shouldn’t take up much more time and be worth the effort.
Check out all of our Parent Child Listing Strategies right here:
- Parent Child Listings for Airbnb Properties
- How Do I Transition from Short Term to Midterm Rentals During the Winter Season?
- Hosting Hotline: Beginner Steps to Host a Parent-Child STR Listing
Calling All Airbnb Hosts: The Hosting Handbook
If you loved this post we invite you to check out our one-stop-shop solution for hosts everywhere —the Hosting Handbook! While you can download all the easy to consume, step-by-step tips we use in our own hosting business and create the ultimate “book” the Hosting Handbook is so much more than that! If you’ve consumed or content for years (or just met us!) this is the reference guide for all the amazing and tactical tips we have for running a profitable and, more importantly hospitable, short-term rental. How do we price for pets? How do we fold our towels? What sheets do we buy? How do I purchase a short-term rental? All these questions (and more!) can be answered in the Hosting Handbook! Check it out now!
Check out our FREE Airbnb Essentials Checklist right here for all of our Airbnb must-haves!
show comments
HIDE comments