Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ’s

What is Airbnb?
Airbnb is a worldwide short term letting site. Properties suitable for holiday or business letting are loaded onto their website, and people looking for accommodation search on the site. You choose which dates you’d like to let your property out, so it need not be full time. All guests are verified by Airbnb.

Can you trust Airbnb?
Yes, you can. Airbnb works on reviews from both the guest and the host – and both are strictly verified by Airbnb.
Guests pay Airbnb on making a reservation & Airbnb pays out once the guest has arrived.

What type of insurance is there? Do I need to get special insurance?
Airbnb has 3rd party insurance, so it is up to you if you would like extra South African household insurance.

What exactly do you offer?
I would load photos and info onto Airbnb, reply to prospective guests, stock the apartment with basics supplied by yourself & have the property cleaned plus linen laundered between guests. I would also greet the guests to hand over keys and give them info on the property and surrounding areas.

Which Areas do you currently operate in?
Cape Town Southern suburbs, Cape Town CBD and False Bay.

I am only going to be away for 3 months, would you consider shorter term rentals?
Yes, I would

Can I use you if I am already listed on Airbnb?
If you have already listed on Airbnb, I can add myself as a co-host, & take over from there.

Can I use you if I have never used Airbnb before?
Definitely, I have loads of experience on Airbnb.

What happens if guests damage my property?
Airbnb has insurance coverage.

How do I get started?
Fill in this form or contact me to make an appointment. I will then view your property & discuss everything.

Pricing & Costs

How much does it cost?
Airbnb charges 3%, and I charge 20%.

What is the policy for cancelled bookings?
Airbnb will pay out 50% of the booking.

How do the guests get charged and how do I get paid?
Guests pay immediately on booking. Airbnb then pays you 80% directly a few days after the guest arrives and Airbnb pays me 20% directly.

Listing, Communication & Bookings

How do you work out the pricing?
I go on the Airbnb site to check prices of comparable listings. I then discuss this with you to come to an agreement on the price. The prices fluctuate, depending on the season.

How does it work on Airbnb – are you a co-host or do you do the whole listing?
I would be the host & you would be the co-host. If you are already on Airbnb I’d become the co-host.

What about photos?
I take the photos, although sometimes clients supply these. Once the property is listed I request a photographer from Airbnb, but it’s not always guaranteed.
Who answers the guest inquiries, manages bookings and handles their issues?
I do everything.

Do you take care of reviews and feedback?
Yes I do.

Check-in

Do you meet guests in person and exchange keys?
Yes, guests are always met in person.

What if my guest is running late for check-in?
I handle that.

Cleaning

How does the cleaning work, who does that? What about the linen?
The guest pays a cleaning fee of R300. If you have your own housekeeper, this money gets paid to you. If the guests require cleaning after they have arrived, they pay extra.

Do you also do restocking and co-ordinate maintenance as well?
Yes, I do, but the cost of basics, flowers & maintenance is for your account.

Can I book cleaning on it’s own – but manage my own bookings?
Yes you can, but not a good idea as I build up a relationship with the guest.

What products/cleaning items do I need to provide?
Coffee, tea, one litre of milk, sugar, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, mustard, mayonnaise.
Dish washing liquid, Handy Andy, general cleaner for floors, window cleaner, washing up sponges, cleaning cloths, toilet cleaner.
Shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, body lotion.
A welcoming bottle of wine or some refreshment & flowers on arrival is a must.