Rick Ryan Photography

Staging Essentials: A Checklist for Airbnb Hosts

Provided by Rick Ryan | Professional Real Estate and Airbnb Photographer

Setting up your Airbnb for success is about creating a welcoming, memorable environment that encourages bookings and positive reviews. Here are actionable staging tips designed to help your space feel inviting, polished, and guest-ready.

1. Boost Curb Appeal for a Great First Impression

Exterior: A well-kept exterior tells guests that your space is thoughtfully maintained.

  • Tidy the Yard: Keep the lawn trimmed, sweep the walkway, and remove any debris.
  • Add Greenery: Place a few potted plants by the entrance for added warmth.
  • Outdoor Lighting: Warm lighting at the entrance can make arriving feel welcoming, especially for late check-ins.
  • Welcome Mat: A clean, simple welcome mat gives guests a great first impression.

 

Shop Recommendations:

  • Home Depot or Lowe’s for affordable outdoor lighting and planters.
  • Wayfair for stylish welcome mats and weather-resistant decor.
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2. Declutter, Clean, and Organize

Interior: A neat and organized space helps guests relax and settle in quickly.

  • Clear Surfaces: Limit decor on surfaces like tables and counters; aim for a clean, uncluttered look.
  • Deep Clean: Pay attention to high-touch areas—door handles, remote controls, light switches—and make sure they’re spotless.
  • Organize Closets and Drawers: Guests may open storage spaces, so keep closets and drawers tidy and consider adding a few hangers and shelves.

 

Shop Recommendations:

  • Target for stylish, affordable storage baskets and organizers.
  • IKEA for drawer organizers, closet shelving, and small storage solutions.

3. Focus on Key Areas Guests Will Use

Create comfort zones in the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms where guests can easily relax and unwind.

  • Living Room: Arrange seating for comfort and conversation. Add a few throw pillows and a cozy blanket for a welcoming feel.
  • Kitchen Essentials: Ensure the kitchen is clean and accessible. Stock basic items like coffee, tea, sugar, and a few snacks if possible.
  • Bedroom Comfort: Provide high-quality, freshly laundered bedding, extra pillows, and blankets. Consider a bedside lamp, USB charger, and a few books or magazines.

 

Shop Recommendations:

  • H&M Home for affordable throw pillows, blankets, and cozy rugs.
  • Bed Bath & Beyond for kitchen essentials and small appliance deals.

4. Wall Art for a Local Touch

Thoughtfully selected wall art makes your Airbnb feel complete and connects guests with the area. Adding local prints can give guests a sense of place and enhance their experience.

  • Local Decor: Hang art that reflects your city or region to give your guests a connection to the area.
  • Shop for Local Art: Explore curated San Diego prints on my Etsy shop for a collection of high-quality, scenic prints to add character to your Airbnb.
San Diego Wall Art

5. Add Special Touches for a Memorable Stay

Personalized details make guests feel cared for and enhance their experience.

  • Welcome Basket: Include items like bottled water, local snacks, and a small guide to nearby attractions.
  • Basic Toiletries: Stock small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. A few extras, like a toothbrush and toothpaste, can also be appreciated.
  • Local Guide: Print a one-page guide listing favorite local spots, cafes, and unique attractions nearby. Guests will appreciate your local expertise!
  • Wine Glasses: Place a small wine setup with glasses and a bottle of local wine (or non-alcoholic sparkling cider) by the fire pit or outdoor seating area.
  • Cozy Corners: Create small “retreat” spaces like a reading nook with a comfortable chair, a blanket, and a lamp
  • Fire Pit Setup: Arrange comfortable seating around the fire pit. Add a s’mores kit, wine glasses, and a blanket for each chair.
  • Table Settings: Stage the dining table with simple, neutral placemats, elegant flatware, and a small centerpiece like a candle or seasonal flowers.
  • Bar Cart or Coffee Nook: If space allows, create a small station with coffee supplies or a bar cart with cocktail-making essentials.
  • Outdoor Games: For family-friendly properties, set out a few outdoor games like cornhole or giant Jenga.

 

Shop Recommendations:

  • Amazon for welcome basket supplies, small toiletries, and bulk amenity kits.
  • World Market for unique snacks and small items that make a guest’s stay special.
 
 
Portfolio Piece 11

6. Enhance with Good Lighting

Proper lighting can transform your space and improve guest satisfaction.

  • Living Areas: Use bright, natural lighting during the day. In the evening, warm lamps create a cozy atmosphere. Use dimmable lamps for mood lighting in bedrooms and living spaces.
  • Bedrooms: Opt for softer lighting to make winding down easy. Place bedside lamps on each side of the bed if possible.
  • Bathroom Lighting: Make sure bathrooms are bright and clean; consider adding a dimmable vanity light for flexibility.
  • Outdoor: Add solar-powered string lights, lanterns, or a portable LED light for patios.

Shop Recommendations:

  • Wayfair for a wide variety of lighting options, including budget-friendly and unique statement lamps.
  • Target for affordable bedside lamps and lighting fixtures that fit Airbnb budgets.

7. Invest in Quality Photos

Once your space is staged, professional photos will capture the inviting atmosphere you’ve created.

  • Highlight Key Areas: Showcase living spaces, bedrooms, and unique amenities like a cozy reading nook or a scenic balcony.
  • Use Angles and Lighting: Professional photographers know how to capture rooms to look bright, spacious, and inviting.

8. Stylish Accessories and Textiles

  • Area Rugs: Add warmth and define spaces, especially in living rooms and bedrooms.
  • Extra Linens: Provide fresh towels, extra blankets, and throw pillows for comfort.

 

Shop Recommendations:

  • Ruggable for machine-washable, durable area rugs—great for high-traffic spaces like Airbnbs.
  • West Elm for higher-quality linens and textiles that elevate your Airbnb’s style.

Find Inspiration on Pinterest

  • Looking for more ideas? Check out Pinterest for Airbnb home staging inspiration! I’ve curated a Pinterest board to showcase designs and ideas specifically for Airbnb staging that focus on neutral palettes, cozy decor, and practical layouts for every type of guest.
    👉 Airbnb Home Staging Inspiration on Pinterest

Find Inspiration on YouTube

Ready to Transform Your Airbnb? By following these staging tips, you’re on your way to creating an unforgettable experience for your guests. Great staging enhances the value of your listing photos and can lead to more bookings, higher rates, and better guest reviews. Interested in professional photography to showcase your Airbnb? Take a look at my Airbnb/STR specific photo packages.

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