Turn Your Spare Room Into Income: How to Start a Homestay Business From Home

Opening your doors to travelers is one of the simplest ways to earn extra income from the comfort of your own home. With more tourists seeking personal and authentic stays, homestays are becoming a popular alternative to hotels. If you already have a spare bedroom or unused space, you’re well on your way to starting a profitable hosting journey.

Preparing your space is the first and most important step. Guests look for comfort, cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere. Fresh linens, clean bathrooms, comfortable beds, and working Wi-Fi form the essentials. Adding small personal touches like a welcome basket, a guidebook of local recommendations, or a warm greeting can instantly set your homestay apart and encourage guests to leave glowing reviews.

Once your space is ready, it’s time to set up the business side. Decide how you want to price your rooms by checking similar listings in your area and adjusting based on amenities you provide. Register your homestay on trusted platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and local tourism listings. Creating a clear profile, posting real photos, and writing honest descriptions will help the right guests find you. Make sure your house rules are easy to understand so everyone enjoys a smooth stay.

What keeps a homestay thriving is hospitality. Simple acts like being easy to reach, responding quickly to booking queries, and sharing tips on what to see and eat locally create a memorable experience. Happy guests often return, spread the word to friends, and boost your online rating. Before long, your home becomes more than accommodation—it's a part of people’s travel stories