
Can You List a New Construction Airbnb with Renderings? Here’s What Hosts Need to Know
Launching a new construction Airbnb can be exciting—and nerve-wracking. If you’re still months away from completion but want to start securing bookings, you might wonder: can you list a property using renderings? The short answer is yes, but with some important considerations. In this post, we’ll explore how to list a property under construction, set guest expectations, and even attract month-long bookings to maximize your revenue potential.
1. Listing with Renderings: The Do’s and Don’ts
Using renderings is a great way to showcase your property while construction is still underway. However, transparency is key. Here are some do’s and don’ts to ensure a successful pre-launch:
- DO:
- Clearly label all photos as renderings in your listing description.
- Include an estimated completion date and opening timeline in your listing details.
- Provide updates to confirmed guests as construction progresses.
- DON’T:
- Oversell your property by using renderings that don’t accurately represent the final product.
- Open your calendar too early or for unrealistic completion dates.
- Forget to account for potential delays in your timeline.
2. Setting Guest Expectations
Communication is everything when it comes to using renderings in your Airbnb listing. Guests need to feel confident about what they’re booking. Here’s how to set clear expectations:
- Be upfront about the fact that the property is still under construction.
- Highlight any unique features or amenities that will be available when complete.
- Use your messaging to build excitement: “Be among the first to stay in our brand-new mountain retreat!”
Pro Tip: Create an automated message to send after bookings, reminding guests about the construction timeline and offering updates.
3. How to Prepare for Month-Long Bookings
If your property is located in a market where extended stays are in demand, month-long bookings can be a game changer. To optimize for midterm stays:
- Create a Separate Listing: Consider setting up a separate Airbnb listing with a minimum stay requirement of 28–30 days. This will make it easier for potential guests to find your property for longer-term stays.
- Know Your Market: Research pricing for midterm rentals in your area to ensure your rate is competitive.
- Target the Right Audience: Advertise your property to digital nomads, snowbirds, and others seeking extended stays. Joining online communities or Facebook groups can help you connect directly with these travelers.
4. The Financials: Pricing and Expenses
Before committing to month-long bookings, it’s important to calculate potential costs. Extended stays can lead to increased utility usage and wear and tear. Consider these factors:
- Will your pricing cover the additional costs of utilities, like heating or air conditioning?
- Are you charging enough to make the stay worth your time, even during slower seasons?
- Could shorter stays during the same period generate more revenue?
Use your local market data to decide whether month-long stays are the best fit for your business strategy.
5. Start Building Buzz Early
It’s never too early to start promoting your property! Even before construction is complete, you can:
- Build an Email List: Collect emails from interested travelers to notify them when bookings open.
- Leverage Social Media: Share progress updates, behind-the-scenes photos, and sneak peeks of your property to create excitement.
- Collaborate Locally: Partner with local businesses or tourism boards to spread the word.
Conclusion:
Listing a new construction Airbnb with renderings can be a powerful way to kickstart your bookings and generate interest in your property. By setting clear expectations, targeting the right audience, and starting your marketing efforts early, you can set yourself up for a successful launch.
Whether you’re aiming for midterm stays or short-term bookings, careful planning and communication are key. Remember: the more you invest in creating a transparent and exciting experience for guests, the more your efforts will pay off.
Have More Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your hosting questions to the Hosting Hotline and tune in to the podcast for answers. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more tips: @thanksforvisiting_.
Thanks to everyone who submitted questions. To hear your voice on the show and send a question to Sarah and Annette, submit your burning hosting questions at: hostinghotline.com.
Download a transcript of this episode.
Resources:
- Stayfi: Use code THANKS for 50% your first 3 months of service
- How to Get Your Airbnb Listing Seen by More Guests (And Earn More!) | Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
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