Starting an Airbnb doesn’t mean you need to splurge. Smart, affordable choices can make your place look like a million bucks. Think about renting a studio apartment instead of a one-bedroom.
Why?
Studios are easier to furnish—think $4,000 versus $6,000 for a one-bedroom. Fewer walls mean less stuff to buy, and they photograph like a dream for those listing pics. Have you considered a studio for your next rental?
Pick Timeless Over Trendy
When decorating, go for timeless vibes. Trends fade, and you don’t want your place looking like a 2010 Pinterest board in a couple of years. Stick to neutral colors, classic furniture shapes, and decor that feels cozy but not dated.
A simple beige couch or wooden coffee table never goes out of style. What’s a piece in your space that could use a timeless upgrade?
Creative Decor Hacks
Ceiling Paint for Wow Factor
Want to add some pizzazz without a pricey chandelier? Paint the ceiling! A soft grey or bold navy can make a room feel taller and more inviting. It’s way cheaper than fancy lighting—think $50 for a can of paint versus $500 for a light fixture. Plus, it’s a fun weekend project. Ever tried painting a ceiling before?
Plants and Mirrors for Style
Skip bulky dressers, especially for short-term guests who don’t need tons of storage. Instead, grab a big fake plant and a tall mirror. Fake plants save you from watering woes and last forever, while a mirror makes the space feel bigger and brighter. You can snag both for under $100 at thrift stores or online marketplaces. Got a favorite plant or mirror combo in mind?
Vintage Finds for Character
Forget pricey art or sculptures. Vintage books or quirky thrift store finds can add colour and personality to shelves or coffee tables. Stack a few colourful paperbacks or old hardcovers for under $10, and you’ve got instant charm. Check local flea markets or secondhand shops for deals. What’s the coolest thrift find you’ve ever scored?
Saving on Essentials
DIY Over Contractors
Why pay a contractor $3,000 to paint when you can do it for $600? DIY projects like painting walls, assembling furniture, or hanging wall art can slash costs. Watch a few YouTube tutorials, grab some tools, and get to work. It’s satisfying, and the savings let you trick out more properties. Feeling handy enough to tackle a DIY project?
Bulk Toiletries for Savings
Guests love little touches, but don’t blow your budget on tiny shampoo bottles. Buy bulk shampoo (think 15 cents an ounce) and pour it into reusable pump bottles. It’s cheaper, looks classy, and cuts down on mess or theft. You can even slap on a custom label for that boutique vibe. How do you make your guest toiletries feel special?
Streamlining Operations
Hourly Housekeeping
Hiring cleaners per job can add up fast. Instead, bring on hourly housekeeping staff. They’ll keep your place spotless without the hefty per-visit fees. A reliable cleaner can hit multiple properties in a day, saving you cash while ensuring top-notch cleanliness. Know any great local cleaners you’d trust with your Airbnb?
Shared Streaming and Wi-Fi
Why pay for Netflix on every TV? Share streaming subscriptions across multiple units—one account for every 8-10 TVs works since not everyone’s binge-watching at once. Same goes for Wi-Fi: split a strong connection between two nearby units to cut costs. You could save up to 80% on streaming and the internet. Got a streaming service you could share across properties?
Furniture That Works Hard
Rollaway Beds for Flexibility
Sleeper sofas are pricey and heavy. Rollaway beds are your new best friend—they’re affordable, easy to move, and perfect for extra guests. Store them in a closet when not in use, and you’ve got a flexible sleeping solution for under $200. Ever used a rollaway bed in a pinch?
Final Thoughts
Turning your Airbnb into a guest magnet doesn’t mean emptying your wallet. With clever decor hacks, cost-saving strategies, and a bit of elbow grease, you can create a space that’s inviting, functional, and profitable.
Start small, experiment with these ideas, and watch your bookings soar. What’s the first tip you’re excited to try?
