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Category: Getting Started
By: Kevin O'Brien
Reply by Lauren Fischer:
This is one of the most common hosting challenges. Here's my framework: 1. **Show, don't tell.** Instead of writing "cozy studio," show the square footage in your photos with wide-angle shots that give accurate scale. Include a photo of the floor plan if possible. 2. **Disclose potential negatives proactively.** "This is a genuine rustic mountain cabin — no AC, but we provide fans and the mountain air keeps things cool." When you disclose it yourself, it's a "charming feature." When they discover it on arrival, it's a "deficiency." 3. **Set expectations in the confirmation message.** After booking, Hospitable (https://hospitable.com) sends an auto-message: "Excited to host you! Just a quick reminder that [property] is a [size] located [description]. Street parking is available but [detail]. Let me know if you have any questions!" 4. **Use your listing title wisely.** "Cozy 300sqft Studio" is better than "Cozy Studio" because it pre-qualifies guests who are OK with the size. The goal isn't to make your listing sound perfect — it's to make reality match (or exceed) expectations. Under-promise, over-deliver.
Reply by David Okafor:
I added a "What to Expect" section to my listing description and complaints dropped dramatically. It literally says: "✓ What to expect: A charming 1920s apartment with original hardwood floors, updated kitchen, and a walk-up entry (3rd floor, no elevator). Street parking is plentiful. The neighborhood is lively — you may hear some street sounds on weekend evenings." Guests who book after reading that can't reasonably complain about stairs or noise. And the guests who would hate those things self-select out, which is exactly what you want.