Superhosts Down Under with Silvia and Ray

Ray and Silvia are joined by Carmel O’Beirne, a lifestyle host from Clifton Hill, Melbourne, who uses her one-bedroom apartment to fund travel and supplement her income as she transitions toward retirement. The episode opens with Ray sharing a challenging guest situation involving a dropped wallet, refusal to check out, and police intervention — a reminder that hosting can sometimes take unexpected turns. Inspired by her daughter’s success paying off a mortgage through Airbnb, Carmel began hosting her “cosy nest” — an earthy, plant-filled apartment with a green urban jungle balcony in a vibrant Melbourne neighbourhood. Her approach is what she calls “lifestyle hosting”: using Airbnb income to support extended travel, including a month in India, while keeping her home active and secure. Carmel relies on trusted neighbour friends when she travels, meeting guests in person for key handover to reinforce respect and care for her home. She is selective with bookings to maintain strong relationships in her owner-occupied building. Rather than scaling, she plans to continue hosting sustainably, avoiding “empty house syndrome” while balancing income, community harmony, and flexibility. What you’ll learn in this episode How to handle difficult guest situations, including when police become involved. Why guest preparedness and clear house rules are essential. Pricing strategies: Smart Pricing vs manual or third-party tools. The power of clear instructions to prevent misunderstandings and bad reviews. Preparing a personal home for guests while protecting privacy. Building a reliable local support network for remote management. Managing neighbour relationships in owner-occupied buildings. How lifestyle hosting can fund travel and supplement retirement income. Guest Name: Carmel O’Beirne Airbnb: View Carmel’s Listing Where to stay — hosted by the Superhosts Down Under team Ray’s South Yarra Airbnb: View Listing Ray’s North Melbourne Airbnb: View Listing Silvia’s Airbnb: View Listing Sponsorship This episode is brought to you by Riverside. Use code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription. Learn more

Ray and Silvia are joined by Emma Bartlett, a new Airbnb host in Trinity Beach, North Queensland, juggling a full-time job and two young children. They kick off with a discussion about the hosts' shared pet peeve: guests who don't provide feedback during their stay, only in post-checkout reviews. Ray shares his frustration with missed opportunities to improve guest experiences, while Emma, a new host with a five-star rating, reflects on initial guest support, and Silvia highlights the benefits of direct feedback in a shared home.Emma shares her journey into Airbnb, driven by a desire to maintain a family base in Trinity Beach, North Queensland, while residing in Melbourne. Her two-bedroom townhouse stands out with its Daintree rainforest-inspired styling, offering warm colours and greens distinct from typical coastal decor. A key focus is making the property family-friendly, providing extensive amenities like a cot, booster chair, and toys to ease travel for families. Despite a highly competitive market and initial hesitation from management companies due to seasonal bookings, Emma has achieved unexpected booking success. She efficiently manages the property remotely through a trusted local cleaner, podcast-inspired smart lock systems (using guest mobile numbers for codes), automated messaging, and dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs. Hosting in a tropical climate brought unique challenges, including managing various insects (ants, wasps) and mold, necessitating regular pest control and AC maintenance, with Ray suggesting Sensibo for humidity control. Emma attributes her high guest satisfaction to accurate property representation, unique styling, abundant supplies, durable selections, and a personal touch as a new family host, which she believes fosters guest understanding and open communication.The episode wraps with Emma expressing her pleasant surprise at the Airbnb's success, which has exceeded initial expectations. She emphasizes that her meticulous setup, durable design choices, and personal approach have ensured smooth remote management and fostered positive guest interactions, allowing her family to enjoy the property for their own holidays once or twice a year.What you’ll learn in this episodeStrategies for encouraging guest feedback during their stay versus post-stay reviews.How to successfully set up and manage an Airbnb property remotely, even with family commitments.The importance of thoughtful styling and equipping a property to stand out in a competitive market.Practical considerations for making an Airbnb family-friendly and reducing guest packing burdens.Addressing unique environmental challenges in tropical climates, such as pest control and humidity/mold management.Leveraging technology like smart locks, automated messaging, and dynamic pricing tools for efficient remote operations.The value of durable materials and a systematic cleaning process for long-term property maintenance and guest satisfaction.The benefit of transparent communication and personal touches in fostering guest empathy and improving overall experience.GuestName: Emma Bartlett Instagram: @trinitybeach_townhouse Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1086727624986172101Where to stay — hosted by the Superhosts Down Under teamRay’s South Yarra Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5 Ray’s North Melbourne Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3 Silvia’s Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4XSponsorshipThis episode is brought to you by Riverside. Use code Ray15 for 15% off your first subscription. https://riverside.sjv.io/xLR1Wx

Ray and Silvia are joined by Stefan Jordana, a Brisbane-based host (and emerging interior designer) behind a colourful, tropical one-bedroom Airbnb nicknamed “The Fishbowl.” They kick off with a practical host topic: communal facilities in strata buildings—what guests should be allowed to use (pool, gym, rooftop BBQ), what’s often too hard to manage (bookable cinema/dining rooms), and why some residents and building managers default to blaming Airbnb guests when issues arise. Stefan then shares how he transformed his ground-floor, south-facing unit into an experience-led stay—using statement pieces, lighting, and multi-purpose furniture to solve space and brightness challenges, and to stand out in a market full of “white-on-white” listings. He also breaks down what surprised him most once hosting began, why he chose a co-host/property manager, and what he’s learned about launching confidently while maintaining five-star standards. The episode wraps with Stefan’s next chapter: documenting his interior design studies and building his brand, with plans to expand his Airbnb portfolio—while keeping an eye on evolving Brisbane short-stay regulation. What you’ll learn in this episode Communal facilities in strata buildings: what to allow vs what to avoid (especially bookable amenities) Why issues in buildings are often blamed on Airbnb guests first How “The Fishbowl” aesthetic came to life and why bold design stands out in search results Brightening darker apartments with reflective finishes, white balance, dimmable and mood lighting Space-maximising design: storage walls, hidden study, Murphy bed, pull-out sofa and multi-purpose furniture What guests actually comment on versus what hosts tend to worry about Co-hosting best practices, transparency and communication expectations The fine line between helpful guest messaging and over-communication Choosing a property manager when quality and detail matter Guest Stefan Jordana Instagram: @stevielarkin_design Where to stay — hosted by the Superhosts Down Under team Ray’s South Yarra Property https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5 Ray’s North Melbourne Property https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3 Silvia’s Property https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X

This week on Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia are joined by returning guest Tanya, plus Superhost couple Jay and Rod. Tanya shares a recent, highly stressful stay that escalated fast — including late-night Airbnb support contact, refund pressure, a privacy breach, cancellation outcomes, and a retaliatory one-star review. Jay and Rod then share how they built three strong-performing Airbnb listings and a complementary paddleboarding business, plus the systems they use to host reliably even while travelling.In this episodeTanya’s complex guest stay and what hosts can learnHow amenity expectations (like air conditioning) can create disputesPractical ways to approach Airbnb review disputes (including using policy-based language)Why one bad review shouldn’t define a good hostJay and Rod’s journey from early hosting challenges to three cash-flow-positive listingsHow they manage operations, cleaning, maintenance, and contingenciesHosting while travelling internationally: communication, backups, and checklistsUsing a local experience business to differentiate the guest experienceKey takeawaysBe extremely clear in your listing description about amenities and where they apply (for example, air conditioning location)If a stay becomes a dispute, document everything and reference Airbnb policy when escalatingDon’t over-optimise for star ratings — focus on consistent service and clear expectationsIf you can, self-manage at the start so you understand what “good” looks like before delegatingReliable cleaners, trades, and simple operating systems make remote hosting realisticGuest linksJay & Rod’s Airbnb listingshttps://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/835771603387295054?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/40829555?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/40413091?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76Shoal Bay SUPwww.shoalbaysup.com.auInstagram: @shoalbaysupConnect with the podcastSouth Yarra Propertyhttps://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5North Melbourne Propertyhttps://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3Silvia’s Propertyhttps://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4XInstagram@superhosts_down_under

This week on Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with Will from Mel Boutique Property, the operator behind Degraves Street Apartment — a design-led short-term rental tucked into one of Melbourne’s most iconic laneways.Located just moments from cafés, galleries, and the city’s creative pulse, Degraves Street Apartment is a thoughtful example of how boutique hospitality can exist within a dense urban environment without losing warmth, comfort, or personality. Will shares how Mel Boutique Property approaches hosting differently, focusing on guest experience, consistency, and the details that turn a central-city stay into something memorable.Ray, Silvia, and Will explore what it takes to run a high-performing inner-city apartment — from managing noise expectations and body corporate realities to designing spaces that photograph beautifully but still function for real guests. They discuss the balance between style and durability, why clear communication matters even more in CBD listings, and how Melbourne’s short-stay market has evolved post-pandemic.The conversation also touches on distribution strategy, guest screening, and why boutique operators often outperform larger portfolios by staying close to the guest journey. If you’re hosting (or considering hosting) an apartment in a busy urban area, this episode offers practical insights and grounded lessons from someone doing it day in, day out.In this episode, Will shares:What makes Degraves Street a unique (and challenging) location to hostDesigning city apartments that balance aesthetics with durabilitySetting expectations around noise, access, and urban livingWhy professional photography needs to reflect reality, not fantasyManaging guest experience in high-density buildingsHow Melbourne’s short-stay demand has shifted over the past few yearsThe importance of systems, consistency, and clear communicationWhen self-managing makes sense — and when it doesn’tWhy smaller, well-run portfolios can outperform scaleWhere to stay:Degraves Street Apartment — Melbourne CBD ⁠https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1425769022784223775⁠South Yarra Property ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠North Melbourne Property ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3⁠Silvia’s Property ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠Connect: Instagram: ⁠@degravesstreetapartment⁠ Email: ⁠will@melboutiqueproperty.com

This week on Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with filmmaker and disability advocate Sarah Barton, the host behind two thoughtful and beautifully considered short-term rentals in Melbourne and Wye River. Sarah has worked for decades at the intersection of film and disability rights. Long before becoming a parent to a daughter with a disability, she was already creating documentaries about access, inclusion, and the lived experiences of disabled Australians. That commitment to representation now extends into the way she designs her guest spaces — from step-free entryways to subtle accessibility features that look and feel like part of the architecture, not clinical add-ons. Ray, Silvia, and Sarah explore the realities of hosting two very different homes: an inner-city garden flat just steps from Chapel Street, and a peaceful coastal retreat surrounded by forest along the Great Ocean Road. Their conversation covers everything from linen management systems to the mental load of running multiple bed configurations, from dealing with tank water and septic systems to ensuring guests understand safety risks like bushfire season. They also unpack the nuance of accessibility, why “wheelchair friendly” cannot mean the same thing for every guest, and how honest communication helps set expectations long before check-in. If you’re a host, a creative, or someone balancing meaningful personal work with the practical challenges of property management, this episode offers grounded insights, real stories, and plenty of relatable moments. In this episode, Sarah shares: Combining filmmaking with disability advocacy How her daughter’s disability deepened her understanding of inclusive design Creating a step-free, wheelchair-friendly coastal home without compromising aesthetics Why accessibility is not universal — different guests need different things Managing multiple linen sets, bed sizes, stains, storage, and timing Why she no longer accepts single-night Saturday bookings off Chapel Street How pricing has softened and shifted as local travel patterns change What hosting on tank water and septic systems requires from guests The importance of a reliable regional support team Why honest photos set better expectations than over-styled listings How she learned not to take mess or minor damage personally Moving off booking.com after a difficult experience Why responsiveness and clarity build trust with guests Where to stay at Sarah’s properties OffChapel Retreat — Melbourne (Windsor) https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/52710362?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76 Wye Beach Retreat / Wye Forest Retreat — Wye River https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/961291955783555513?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

Website: https://custombnb.com.au/Instagram: @custombnbSuperhosts Down Under – Episode with Meredith Cowley (Custom BNB Hosting)In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with Meredith Cowley, founder of Custom BNB Hosting, to explore what it really takes to build and run a short-term rental management business across Australia’s east coast.Meredith shares her journey from frontline child protection social work to becoming a property investor and host. A stage-four breast cancer diagnosis pushed her to re-evaluate what she wanted from life, ultimately creating the space to build a business aligned with her values and lifestyle. Today, she manages a portfolio of around 35 properties across Melbourne, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and Hervey Bay.The conversation dives deep into co-hosting, leasing (arbitrage), guest expectations, owner psychology, and the reality of operating a 24/7 hospitality business. Meredith also explains how Custom BNB Hosting uses multiple platforms and local hosting professionals to deliver a consistent guest experience and strong returns for owners.

In this episode, we speak with Lorna Hay, a Western Australia–based superhost, business owner, and operator of multiple successful Airbnb properties across Perth, Darwin, and the Kimberley. Lorna shares how her hosting journey began when her son moved to boarding school and how it grew into a thriving, lifestyle-driven business supported by her trade services company.Alongside Ray and Silvia, Lorna discusses remote hosting, managing cleaners, family-friendly stays, preparing homes for extreme climates, and how her background in plumbing and trades gives her a unique advantage in short-term rental management.In This Episode Silvia’s experience with poor hosting practices in Italy and why first impressions matter Lorna’s transition from family needs to building a short-term rental portfolio How she manages Airbnb properties remotely from a remote region of Australia The importance of strong cleaner and co-host relationships Managing humidity, mold, and tropical climate challenges in Darwin How Airbnb provides creative fulfillment beyond traditional business How her plumbing business, IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services, supports her hosting Advice for hosts wanting to operate in the Northern TerritoryWhere to Find Lorna’s Properties Darwin Property: airbnb.com.au/h/careycove IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services: www.ibacplumbingandtradeservices.com.au Travel Blog & Booking Info: www.deadsettravel.com.au Instagram: @deadsettravelStandard Links Follow us: @superhosts_down_under Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link About Superhosts Down UnderHosted by Ray Yee and Silvia, Superhosts Down Under features real stories and practical insights from Australia’s top short-term rental operators. Each episode shares lessons, experiences, and strategies to help hosts deliver exceptional stays and build successful hosting businesses.

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia chat with Esther, founder of Nelly Woods Collective Stays, about her journey from corporate tech to hosting three design-led “slow stays” across Australia — including Into the Woods and Nelly in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, and her newest retreat Tiers Rest in Tasmania.The conversation opens with a lively discussion on the dangers of leaving keys in letterboxes, after Silvia shares a costly cautionary tale that every host should hear. From there, Esther walks through how she built a thriving boutique brand grounded in sustainability, calm design, and genuine connection — all while scaling interstate.Key Takeaways Why security and convenience can co-exist when done right The pros and cons of lockboxes, smart locks, and in-person check-ins How to build a brand that feels human and intentional The role of design storytelling and photography in earning press coverage How Esther moved from Airbnb to direct bookings and now gets 40%+ of stays through her website The “slow stay” philosophy and how authenticity shapes every detail — from scent and sound to handwritten notes Tips for hosts who want to get featured in magazines and build trust off-platformWhether you’re managing your first property or growing a boutique collection, this episode is packed with insight on creating beautiful, intentional spaces that guests remember.Links Nelly Woods Collective Stays: https://www.nellywoodscollectivestays.com Instagram: @nelly_woods_collective_stays Follow us: @superhosts_down_under Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

DescriptionIn this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia chat with Karen, host of Rosehaven on Rosebud—a charming 1950s European-style cottage on the Mornington Peninsula. Karen shares how a first-guest backyard party taught her to vet bookings and set clear rules; why final walk-throughs, sustainable cleaning hacks (bicarb, lemon, ultra-fine steel wool), and thoughtful touches help maintain a perfect 5-star record across 24 reviews; and her plans to add Pilates, personal training, and candle-making as experiences for guests. Whether you manage one cottage or multiple listings, you’ll pick up practical systems for fast turnovers, smart supply management, and exceeding guest expectations. [oai_citation:0‡raymond-yees-studio_silvia-karen-ray-oct-15-2025-001.txt](file-service://file-JaBcJKYfMqFBZPEALjvM9G)Links Rosehaven on Rosebud: https://rosehavenonrosebud.godaddysites.com/ Airbnb Listing: Rosehaven on Rosebud Instagram: @rosehaven_on_rosebud Follow us: @superhosts_down_under Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with Kim Steele, founder of Seabrook Stays, to explore her 16-year journey in short-term rentals—from one coastal cottage to managing 60+ properties across Australia and the United States, all while keeping a hands-on, family-run approach. The conversation opens with a jaw-dropping guest story involving a homeless intruder, a loft bedroom, and an unlocked door—a cautionary tale about smart locks, clear house rules, and proactive safety. Kim then shares how she transformed underperforming listings with better photography, marketing, and dynamic pricing; scaled operations with systems and a reliable team; expanded to the U.S. during COVID; and later refocused on a curated mix of owned and rental-arbitrage properties. Pre-Airbnb origins: agents, Stays.com.au, and DIY hospitality What actually moves the needle: photos, pricing, and messaging Scaling without losing quality: team, tech, and playbooks Risk and prevention: ID verification, access control, and guest screening Actionable advice for new and growing hosts Whether you’re managing one home or many, you’ll find practical insights, cautionary tales, and inspiration to build a sustainable hosting business. Links Seabrook Stays: seabrookstays.com.au Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this special episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, hosts Ray Yee and Silvia turn the spotlight on Ray’s own South Yarra property. For the first time, listeners get a deep dive into the design philosophy, guest experience, and lessons learned from running one of Melbourne’s most thoughtfully curated Airbnb studios. What You’ll Learn in This Episode​Behind the design: How Scandinavian minimalism and cozy textures inspired “Sweet Scandinavia,” Ray’s Airbnb apartment in South Yarra.​Guest stories & challenges: Handling demanding guests during Melbourne’s F1, the importance of towel delivery photos, and lessons from guest communication.​Studio vs. one-bedroom: Why Melbourne building regulations and “borrowed light” mean some apartments blur the line.​The extras that matter: Lap pool, sauna, gym, rooftop terrace, custom workspace, and lighting design that shapes guest mood.​Airbnb vs. hotels: Why guests increasingly choose well-designed Airbnbs over hotels for longer stays.​Superhost advice: Ray’s hard-earned tips—keep it simple, focus on comfort, consider linen services, and use reliable key exchange systems.Why It MattersWhether you’re a new host, an experienced Superhost, or an investor curious about short-term rentals, this episode gives you actionable insights into: ​Maximizing small spaces through design and storage.​Balancing lifestyle with hosting by using co-hosts and services.​Building repeat bookings through thoughtful guest experiences.Links & Resources​Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under​Ray’s South Yarra Property – View on Airbnb​Silvia’s Property – View on Airbnb​North Melbourne Property – View on AirbnbKeywords for DiscoverabilityAirbnb hosting tips, Melbourne Superhosts, Scandinavian design Airbnb, South Yarra Airbnb, Airbnb vs hotels Melbourne, Airbnb host challenges, short-term rental tips Australia, cozy Airbnb design, Airbnb guest communication, Airbnb studio apartment Melbourne.

In this episode of "Superhost Down Under," we welcome Fei, the owner of Hazel Beach House, to share her journey from being an avid Airbnb guest to a successful host. Join us as we delve into the challenges and joys of managing a coastal property, the importance of community connections, and the art of creating a memorable guest experience. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Fei insights and stories offer valuable lessons on navigating the world of Airbnb. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips and heartfelt moments.Fei’s Propertyhttps://www.airbnb.com/l/B77AJ7aE@hazelbytheseaConnect with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @superhostdownunderLinks to Ray and Silvia’s Properties: Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

In this episode of Superhost Down Under, we welcome Kim, a seasoned property management expert, to share her insights on managing Airbnb properties. From setting clear boundaries with guests to styling holiday homes, Kim offers invaluable advice for both new and experienced hosts. Tune in to learn how to navigate the challenges of property management and enhance your hosting experience.Key Topics:The importance of setting boundaries with guests Tips for styling and managing holiday homes Challenges in property management and how to overcome them The role of communication in successful hostingGuest Information: Kim is a property management expert with over a decade of experience. She runs Central Coast Beach Breaks, a boutique property management company. Learn more about her services at Central Coast Beach Breaks and follow her on Instagram @central_coast_beach_breakshttps://centralcoastbeachbreaks.com.auConnect with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/superhosts_down_under/Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠ Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3Hashtags: #Airbnb #PropertyManagement #Superhost #CentralCoastBeachBreaks

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we sit down with Kath and Philippe, hosts of a peaceful, art-filled retreat nestled in the foothills of Queensland’s picturesque Granite Belt. Originally from France, Philippe brings his passion for art and antique restoration, while Kath shares her love of gardening, sustainability, and thoughtful hosting. Together, they’ve created a welcoming space that blends nature, culture, and comfort—offering guests a restorative escape from the city.They share their journey of moving from the city to the countryside, their approach to hosting longer stays, and how they navigate everything from shared spaces to choosing the right guests. This episode is rich with heart, humour, and practical insights into what it means to host with intention.Kath & Philippe's Property: https://www.airbnb.com/l/8hdqCy8lLinks to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we speak with Marg, a superhost based in Mount Barker, South Australia. Marg is a vibrant artist, retired mediator, and theatre performer who welcomes guests into her quirky, history-filled home—Fettlers Cottage.Marg shares her unique approach to live-in hosting, how she manages two Airbnb rooms with one shared bathroom, and why transparency, empathy, and human connection are key to her hosting style. We also hear stories of traveling guests, sharing spaces, and how Airbnb has brought friendship and creative energy into her life.Whether you’re a live-in host or thinking of listing your cottage-style home, this episode is packed with reflections, practical tips, and heartwarming stories that will inspire you to open your doors with confidence and creativity.Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

In this episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, Jenny Gill joins Ray and Silvia to share her journey of growing from a side hustle into a full-time short-term rental business. With nine years of hosting experience, Jenny now manages four Sydney-based properties, each attracting different types of guests—ranging from solo travellers to families.Jenny discusses the challenges of guest behavior, from unexpected messes to party situations, and how she uses Airbnb’s AirCover to protect her property and time. She also shares heartwarming stories, like helping a couple from Canada coordinate a gender reveal at the Sydney Opera House. Jenny emphasizes the value of communication, personalization, and responsiveness in providing 5-star guest experiences.We talk about: Guests leaving properties in poor condition—and how to handle it Using AirCover for extra cleaning and damage compensation How Jenny transitioned from hosting her own properties to co-hosting others Managing four different properties in the Sydney area Guest screening, check-in logistics, and responding quickly to complaints Heartwarming moments like helping guests with special celebrations The value of personalized service and co-hosting partnershipsFeatured Guest:Jenny Gill — Superhost and Co-host based in Sydney, managing properties in Rushcutters Bay, Potts Point, and Surry Hills.Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5Silvia’s Property – https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4XNorth Melbourne Property – https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3Support the Podcast:Thanks to our ongoing supporters for making this show possible. If you're enjoying the content, don’t forget to rate, review, and share the podcast with your hosting community.

This week on Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, we welcome Catharine, a seasoned Airbnb guest, devoted mum of two, and a voice every host should hear. With more than a decade of travel experience using Airbnb, Catharine shares what truly matters for families when booking a stay—from the small comforts that make a space feel like home, to the subtle touches that turn first-timers into repeat guests.🎙️ In this episode:​What families prioritize when choosing Airbnbs over hotels​The emotional impact of thoughtful amenities like toys, kids’ cutlery, and practical layouts​How Catharine’s daughter chose a familiar Airbnb over a birthday party​Why smart locks and check-in simplicity can shape a guest’s first impression​Dealing with “too much charm” — when quirkiness affects function​Balancing honest reviews with empathy: how guests really thinkThis episode offers a refreshing flip of the mic—putting the guest’s voice front and center to inspire better hosting.🏡 Featured Properties:​South Yarra Property​Silvia’s Shared Home​North Melbourne Property📲 Connect with Us:Instagram – @superhostsdownunder🎁 Sponsor:KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with coupon code: superhostpodcast50Visit KeyNest

Publish Date: June 16 Podcast: Airbnb Superhosts Down Under with Ray & Silvia This week, we sit down with Kelly Maree, a powerhouse Superhost from North Brisbane managing five thriving Airbnb listings with a sixth on the way. With over six years of experience and a transport business funding her portfolio, Kelly shares her hands-on strategies, personal lessons, and the grit it takes to build a hosting business that’s both personal and scalable. 🔗 Kelly’s Properties The Sanctuary – Acreage Retreat with Pool Bushland Family Home – Pet Friendly Suburban Comfort with Great Access Cozy & Convenient Family Stay Bright 3-Bedroom with a View 🎧 Highlights from the Episode Getting Started: How Kelly turned her former home into a booking magnet—within 24 hours. Growing the Portfolio: Learn how she selects and styles her listings for consistent success. Running Like a Pro: Systems, screening, tradies, and her powerful welcome/check-out routine. Business Insight: Financing through trusts, business income, and working with advisors. Guest & House Rules: Why she never auto-accepts, always screens, and emphasizes clarity. North Brisbane Tips: What makes her area ideal for guests—and why dogs are a huge market. Lessons Learned: “Screen everyone,” “Diversify,” “Stay sharp,” and “Don’t be afraid to scale.” 🌟 Featured Properties South Yarra Property Silvia’s Shared Home North Melbourne Property 📲 Connect with Us Instagram – @superhostsdownunder 🎁 Sponsor KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with coupon code: superhostpodcast50 Visit KeyNest

In this episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, hosts Ray and Silvia chat with Merrydith Callegari, a passionate host from Hobart, Tasmania. What started as a post-retirement hobby turned into a 9+ year hosting journey, full of color, connection, and community leadership. 🔗 Stay at Merrydith’s City Retreat 📸 Instagram: @city_retreat_airbnb Highlights: Photo Reviews Surprise: Silvia shares a guest story that reveals how some Airbnb users from mainland China can include photos in reviews. Merrydith adds insight from her experience with Chinese guests and their travel habits. Transforming Her Home: Learn how Merrydith gradually renovated a teen retreat into a cozy, colorful Airbnb, complete with thoughtful amenities and an upgraded pool deck now featured in Airbnb’s “Amazing Pools” category. Inclusive Hosting: As a former Host Advisory Board member, Merrydith emphasizes the power of listing inclusivity—welcoming all guests regardless of background, and making that clear in her listing and photos. Local Tips & Warm Welcomes: From spontaneous dinners to driving guests to MONA, Merrydith goes beyond typical hosting, building deep connections and memorable stays. Advice for New Hosts: Be guest-focused, communicate well, prepare for issues, keep things personal—not perfect—and keep improving based on feedback. Featured Properties: 🏡 Merrydith’s City Retreat (Hobart) 🏙️ South Yarra Property 🌿 Silvia’s Property 🧭 North Melbourne Property Connect with Us: 📸 Instagram – Superhosts Down Under Sponsor: KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with code: superhostpodcast50 🔗 Visit KeyNest