Alex and Pooh give their advice and tips on how to improve your serviced accommodation listings to generate bookings. They talk about the importance of your images, how to recognise competition and also share their experience on what works for them on their listings.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Photos are what your customer sees first, they need to be of high quality and reflect your accommodation well.
• There are two main things that will get someone to stop scrolling and click on your listing, your title and the hero image. These need to be aimed at your ideal customer/market.
• The first five pictures/images you use are essential, they should be something that has a contrast in colour to grab attention, they need to be wide angle and attractive.
• Professional photos make all the difference, it isn’t about the camera used to take the photos but the composition and the knowledge of the photographer.
• Think about how you can use AI to leverage your listing, for example keyword research and better copy.

BEST MOMENTS

"Competition is fierce in the serviced accommodation market we need to make sure our listings are optimised”

“High quality photos would be paramount in optimising your listing”

“Who is your target market?”

“Pictures need to be professionally done”

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbnomadspodcast

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

Alex is joined by Ed James, a young entrepreneur who built a thriving service accommodation empire whilst juggling a full-time job. Ed talks about why determination, risk-taking, and invaluable lessons were all part of his business growth. From scams to property fires, Ed shares the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path, offering inspiration and practical insights for aspiring property investors.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Ed built a 30-unit service accommodation portfolio while working full-time, he had to have exceptional time management and a dedication to his entrepreneurial goals.
• Starting with YouTube tutorials and Facebook groups, Ed learned all about serviced accommodation.
• Ed's strategy of reinvesting profits and living on minimal personal income accelerated his business growth, highlighting the importance of delayed gratification in entrepreneurship!
• Transitioning from service accommodation to HMO developments, Ed believes in the value of building long-term wealth through property ownership.
• Ed stresses the importance of thorough due diligence when working with others in property, sharing his own experience with scams in the industry.
• Mental health and work-life balance are crucial aspects of entrepreneurship, the value of building a support network and delegating tasks shouldn’t be underestimated.
• Ed highlights the importance of adapting to challenges through his own experiences with unexpected events like property fires and changing market conditions.

BEST MOMENTS

"I detached myself from what then was my life as well. I was in a home with some great people, and I chose to remove myself... and actually stayed in one of my early rent to rent serviced accommodation, one bed apartments just to solely focus on scaling and growing the business."

"I can't escape this responsibility that I've got now. Certain things, times, events that if they are triggered, I need to be there. I need to respond. I need to react. And in serviced accommodation industry, it's a very active business."

"Ultimately, the amount of time that I've spent on it is not something that I want to be doing in the future, to be honest. So with one also acknowledging the fact that I'm making money off managing other people's assets... the worst thing I can do is utilize that cash flow and not put it to good use."

"I'd be lying if I didn't say just sometimes very rarely, it's been a couple of times where just so emotionally overwhelmed, you start crying. You don't know why."

"You've got to be so careful, don't you? Because maybe not so much you, because you're obviously a very confident guy, you know, very get up and go, you know, that you're going to build this business, but there's a hell of a lot of people who want to do this, but they don't have the confidence to go out and find the deals."

ABOUT THE GUEST

@edjproperty

Info@hinkleyhomes.co.uk

www.Hinkleyhomes.co.uk

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbnomadspodcast

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

Alex and Pooh tackle a common yet crucial problem from Paul in Solihull about managing linen services for Airbnb properties. They talk about practical solutions for both houses and apartments, offering insider tips on streamlining operations and ensuring guest satisfaction!

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• You can use outdoor storage lockers with combination locks for linen exchange in houses with gardens, simplifying access for commercial linen companies.
• Consider hiring cleaning companies that also manage linen logistics, potentially simplifying operations despite higher costs.
• Be aware of fire safety risks associated with storing freshly laundered linens due to static electricity buildup.
• For apartment rentals, working with cleaning companies that handle both cleaning and linen services can streamline operations.
• Individually wrapped linen packs for each bed type can improve inventory tracking and cost management.
• Regular fire risk assessments by competent professionals are crucial for property safety.
• Building good relationships with reliable cleaning services is essential for successful for your business to run smoothly and efficiently.

BEST MOMENTS

"The amount of fires that are actually caused across the UK by static electricity that's created by these towels and sheets and pillowcases turning around in these massive commercial grade tumble dryers... the statistics actually are off the charts."

"If you have a company that are willing to bring the linens with them... I think that would solve the majority of the problems."

"Finding good cleaners is a painful part of this business, finding good cleaners, cleaners that do the job well and cleaners that you can also trust."

"We approach a company that does everything. You know, pretty much like you have a cleaners and bring all the linens in."

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/airbnbconsultant_?igsh=cmwxMGx4Nmt4d2oy&utm_source=qr

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

Alex interviews SA expert Tommy Gan, who shares his journey from pharmacist to running a successful service accommodation business. Tommy shares insider knowledge on business rates, marketing strategies, and the future of SA.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Transitioning from a stable career to SA can be challenging but frequently offers greater financial potential and flexibility.
• Understanding business rates and tax efficiencies is crucial for maximising profits in the SA industry.
• Diversifying booking sources beyond OTAs is essential for long-term success and stability in the SA business.
• Focusing on a specific target market and building direct booking channels can significantly improve profitability.
• Proper systems, processes, and local market knowledge are vital for managing a successful SA portfolio.
• The future of SA likely involves more purpose-built properties and increased regulation, benefiting those who adapt early.
• Collaboration with other operators and continuous education is key to staying competitive in the evolving SA landscape.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think there's a very bright future for service accommodation for the people that know how to do it. If you understand where the ball's going”.

"Life always throws things at you, you know, and it depends on what you want to do with it. You know, life can throw you lemons and you can be sour about it, or you can make lemonade."

"It's good to work with someone that brings to the table what you don't have”.

ABOUT THE GUEST

tommy@sleepezee.co.uk

https://www.instagram.com/sleepezee_shortstays

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbnomadspodcast

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

Alex and Pooh respond to a question about a drop in bookings for their serviced accommodation, caused by increased competition and decreased demand. They give advice and actionable tips on what to do if you find yourself in this situation including why being consistently proactive is essential.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• To be competitive in the Airbnb space you have to be proactive, you can’t just expect bookings to come in.
• Too many serviced accommodation courses aren’t giving hosts the tools and education they need to market effectively.
• Make sure you are listed on OTAs but also look at other ways to be listed too, such as being listed with relocation companies.
• Go through your existing client list and simply call them.
• Do your research to learn more about your existing client base, this can be in the form of simply asking those who stay with you why they are travelling/staying in your accommodation.

BEST MOMENTS

"No longer can you just take on a unit, put it on Airbnb sit back and wait for the bookings to roll in”

“Any kind of portal that can get your visibility up to the market”

“It’s quite sad how much basic stuff isn’t getting done when people are in the serviced accommodation space”

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/airbnbconsultant_?igsh=cmwxMGx4Nmt4d2oy&utm_source=qr

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

Alex interviews Wendy Brumwell, a former professional figure skater turned commercial property developer. Wendy shares her incredible journey from the ice rink to the boardroom, offering invaluable insights into the world of commercial property development. Wendy's story of resilience, adaptability, and success will inspire you to chase your dreams and think big in the world of real estate.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Commercial property development can be a game-changer for financial freedom, but it requires education, confidence, and relationship-building with agents to source the best deals.
• Starting with smaller commercial projects, like shop conversions or barn developments, can be a great way to gain experience and build credibility before tackling larger developments.
• Diversifying your property portfolio with a mix of cash-flowing strategies (like serviced accommodation) and long-term commercial projects can provide a balanced approach to property investing.
• Building relationships with agents is crucial in commercial property development, as many lucrative deals never make it to the open market.
• The mindset and discipline learned from professional sports can be successfully applied to business and property development, as explored in Wendy's book "A Successful State of Mind."
• Women in business can benefit greatly from networking and support groups, like Wendy's "Ladies Latte" meetups, which provide encouragement, accountability, and valuable connections.
• Commercial property development projects typically take longer to complete (12-18 months), so it's important to have strategies in place for cash flow during the development process.
• Mental health and personal challenges are a normal part of the entrepreneurial journey, even for successful individuals, and it's important to acknowledge and work through these issues.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think for me, when I was at school, I was kind of like doing my school work and I was at school during the day, but then I had no time really to do anything else apart from go to the rink outside of school."

"I think you almost want a cash flowing strategy and also your commercial running alongside it. And I think that's where there's probably a nice opportunity in like service accommodation combined with commercial."

"I think we're often kind of limited, aren't we? By our own financial thermostat. But sometimes when we see it from the other side, actually, it's going to be worth it for an investor, for them to invest."

"I honestly believe that to me, there is absolutely no logical explanation as to why kids right up to leaving high school, don't know what a credit card is, don't know what mortgages are, don't know what cash flow is."

"I have up and ups and downs in my journey. Like most of us, because, you know, sometimes things go really well. Sometimes they don't, and you know there's kind of things that not just go on in your property and your business world, but also like your, your, your private, your personal and your private life as well."

ABOUT THE GUEST

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbnomadspodcast

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/

In this episode of the Airbnb Nomads Toolbox, hosts Alex and Pooh tackle the pressing issue of preventing parties in short-term rentals. Responding to Ivy from Woken's question, they offer practical advice on maintaining order in Airbnb properties. From leveraging technology to setting smart pricing strategies, they talk about the proven methods to avoid troublesome guests and maintain positive relationships with neighbours.

https://airbnbconsultant.co/

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Implement staggered minimum night stays, increasing the required length for bookings further in the future to discourage party-seekers and attract more responsible guests.
• Utilise technology like noise sensors (e.g. Minut) and Ring doorbells to monitor activity and detect potential rule-breaking behaviour in your rental properties.
• Set appropriate pricing to attract your target market and avoid undercutting yourself, as extremely low rates can attract problematic guests and reduce overall profitability.
• Cultivate positive relationships with neighbours by introducing yourself, explaining your business, and providing contact information to address any concerns quickly.
• Thoroughly vet potential guests by reviewing their information, speaking with them directly, and trusting your instincts about potential red flags.
• Install exterior cameras and lighting to monitor the property's surroundings without infringing on guest privacy inside the rental.
• Be cautious during slow seasons and resist the temptation to accept questionable bookings that could lead to problems and damage your reputation.
• Understand your specific market and adjust your strategies accordingly, as what works in one location may not be suitable for another.

BEST MOMENTS

"A lot of people do it and they do it successfully, but there is no way that you can possibly argue the point that you are not more at risk of having parties by offering one night stays.”

"Go over to your neighbours and really like put in the effort to get to make friends with those guys. When you take the property over or when you take on a rent on a rent to rent or whether you're managing it or buying it, whatever it is, the first thing you should do is go over to your neighbour’s house."

"Your gut feeling is always right. So if the gut feeling says, you know, I'm not sure about this booking, that's probably right."

"Once you build that relationship over the phone, there's less chance that, you know, I would say it's not guaranteed, but there's less chance that they're going to mess around in the property."

HOST BIO

Alex & Pooh have built a portfolio of over 16 Serviced Accommodation Units and 10 Buy-To-Lets collectively over the last 5 years.

This AirBnB Business has allowed each of them to create their own tailor made ‘lifestyle by design’.

Pooh chose to escape the corporate life as an electrical engineer instead to spend his time at home with his young and growing family, and Alex likes to spend most of his time in sunny Spain enjoying his love for road cycling or even hiking in the Tramuntana mountain ranges.

CONTACT US

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/alex.mannock/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theairbnbnomadspodcast

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theairbnbnomadspodcast

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Lifebeyondbroke/