5. neighbors
Many neighbors are not thrilled to be living next to a short-term rental, and it is your job as a host to sell them on the idea. First, check to see how many rentals are already in your neighborhood. Reach out to hosts, introduce yourself and arrange to refer guests when you are overbooked.
Talk to your neighbors, educate them on how tourism in your neighborhood reduces parking pressure and brings dollars to your local businesses. Also, assure them that you have a no-party policy (every host should have a no-party policy), which is something you could never guarantee with a long-term tenant. Make sure neighbors are aware that you plan to be a hands-on host and that they can always come to you with any questions or concerns regarding your guests.
When we started out, we gave our neighbors our contact information, as well as Airbnb’s neighbor portal, in case they have any questions or complaints.
NEIGHBOR STORIES
What to do and not to do when encountering a "difficult" neighbor
We offer our neighbors and their friends and family a 10% discount on our nightly rate. Our units have become their default guest rooms. Instead of complaining about living next to a “hotel,” our neighbors see our units as a benefit to them and to our entire neighborhood.
It is really up to you how your neighborhood sees your business. You can try to fly under the radar, but if your business is successful, that is not going to work. Put some time and effort into neighborhood relations in the beginning; it will pay off in the future.