Owning a short-term rental in Canmore is an exciting opportunity. With breathtaking views, endless outdoor adventures, and year-round tourism, it’s easy to see why so many local residents decide to become Airbnb hosts. However, like any business, success requires hard work and dedication, and it can be tough for new hosts to learn the ropes and stand out in this competitive market.
As experienced Airbnb managers here at Canmore Co-Host, we know what it takes to maximize occupancy rates and ensure your guests have the best experience possible. Over the years, we have seen it all and here are some of the most common mistakes we’ve seen Airbnb hosts make… and what you can do to avoid them.
Underestimating the time commitment
One of the most common mistakes new Airbnb hosts make in Canmore is underestimating just how much time it requires. Managing bookings, cleaning during turnover periods, responding to guests’ questions, restocking supplies, and coordinating maintenance – it can quickly become a full-time job.
We have seen many guests become overwhelmed by the amount of time required, leading to poor guest experiences, negative reviews, and difficulty in maintaining occupancy. Working with an experienced Airbnb manager will ensure they can handle the day-to-day tasks, allowing you to enjoy the income without any of the stress!
Inadequate cleaning
One of the fastest ways to earn a negative review is by falling short on cleanliness. Guests expect a hotel-quality experience, especially when paying premium rates in a popular destination like Canmore. New Airbnb hosts sometimes rely on inconsistent cleaners or attempt to manage turnovers themselves, which can result in missed details and unhappy guests.
That means professional and reliable cleaning isn’t just a nice touch, it’s essential. At Canmore Co-Host, we work with experienced local teams who ensure every stay starts with a sparkling-clean space.
Poor photography and listing descriptions
Think of your Airbnb listing as your storefront. Low-quality photos or vague descriptions are not going to attract guests, resulting in fewer bookings and low profit. However, despite its importance, many new Airbnb hosts rely on smartphone photos or poorly worded descriptions, failing to describe all of the wonderful features that make their property unique.
Investing in professional photography and a well-written, detailed description can significantly increase your booking rate – and with our team’s expertise in marketing and listing optimization, we can help your property shine!
Ignoring local regulations and bylaws
Canmore has specific rules around short-term rentals, including licensing, zoning, and occupancy limits. Inexperienced and new Airbnb hosts can sometimes skip this step, leading to fines and issues later down the line.
That is why it is essential you understand and comply with all local regulations to keep your business operating successfully.
Pricing incorrectly
Many new hosts make the mistake of setting a flat nightly rate year-round or basing prices solely on a few similar listings. This often leads to missed income during peak periods or low occupancy in slower months. Canmore’s tourism trends fluctuate with seasons, weather, and events, so your pricing should too.
Canmore Co-Host utilizes dynamic pricing tools and local insights to ensure your rates are competitive and profitable every single day of the year.
Missing that personal touch
While some new hosts focus only on providing a place to sleep, savvy travellers are looking for more. A well-stocked kitchen, detailed local guidebook, or curated suggestions for hiking and dining can elevate your space and lead to better reviews.
Ready to avoid the guesswork?
Becoming an Airbnb host in Canmore is an exciting time, but it can be overwhelming trying to go it alone. That is why our Canmore Co-Host team is here to help you every step of the way. We utilize our years of experience and local knowledge to ensure your listing is optimized, your pricing maximizes profits, and your property is clean and well-maintained.
Want to learn more? Get in touch today!
