Many new hosts imagine listing their homestay online is as simple as uploading a few photos and waiting for bookings to start flowing in. And in some ways, that was true a few years ago when the market was less crowded and guests were less particular. But in 2025, things have changed. The competition is fierce, traveler expectations are higher, and the platforms you list on each have their own pros and cons.
If you’re about to put your property out there—whether it’s a cozy flat in Bangalore or a hillside cottage in Manali—there are a few things you need to know first. A clear strategy, the right online travel agent (OTA), and proper legal preparation can save you months of frustration and lost income. Before you hit the “publish” button, here’s what you need to consider.
One of the biggest mistakes I see hosts make is thinking that listing a homestay is all about having a nice space. Of course, the property itself matters, but how you present it online is just as important.
Most travelers never see your place in person before booking. They rely on photos, descriptions, and reviews to decide if your homestay feels right for them. If your listing looks rushed or incomplete, you’ll lose out to hosts who took the time to get every detail right.
Start by thinking through who your ideal guests are. Are you targeting families? Solo travelers? Digital nomads? This makes a difference in how you describe the space. For example, if you want to attract longer stays, highlight a work-friendly area and reliable Wi-Fi. If you cater to holidaymakers, showcase views, outdoor seating, or proximity to attractions.
Next, invest time in your photos. This doesn’t mean you need to hire a professional, but it does mean your pictures must be bright, tidy, and clear. Shoot in natural light, remove clutter, and show every area guests will use. Listings with good photos almost always get more clicks and higher booking rates.
Finally, think carefully about pricing. It’s tempting to set your rates low to attract bookings, but travelers often associate very cheap prices with lower quality. Research similar properties in your area, note their average rates, and position yourself competitively without undervaluing your offering. Remember, you can always adjust prices as you learn what works.
In India today, you have more choices than ever when it comes to where you list your homestay. But not all OTAs are the same, and picking the right one can have a huge impact on your results.
Airbnb remains popular, especially with international travelers and younger guests looking for unique stays. Its interface is easy to use, and the brand is well-trusted. But Airbnb charges service fees to both guests and hosts and can be stricter with refund policies. If you’re listing on Airbnb, make sure you understand how cancellations work and how disputes are handled.
Booking.com has a massive reach and can fill your calendar faster, particularly in cities. However, it often attracts more price-sensitive guests who expect hotel-like standards. Unlike Airbnb, Booking.com usually doesn’t collect security deposits by default, so you need clear house rules and possibly an external damage deposit process.
Vrbo is another option, with a strong focus on family travel and longer stays. It’s especially good for bigger properties and vacation homes but less effective for single-room rentals or shared spaces.
A newer platform that many Indian hosts are exploring is Homeyhuts. It focuses specifically on homestays and more personal hosting experiences, catering to travelers who prefer authentic, local accommodation rather than corporate rentals. Because Homeyhuts is growing, there’s often less competition, which can make it easier for new hosts to stand out and build a reputation.
Some hosts choose to list on two or three platforms to diversify their bookings. This strategy can work well but requires extra care to keep calendars synchronized and avoid double bookings. If you go this route, use a channel manager—a tool that automatically updates your availability across all platforms when you get a booking. Otherwise, you’ll spend too much time manually blocking dates and confirming reservations.
A lot of first-time hosts skip the legal side of things, either because it feels overwhelming or because they assume they won’t get caught. But the reality is, most states in India now expect homestay owners to register and comply with local regulations.
If you don’t, you risk fines, penalties, or even being delisted from platforms if a guest complains. Here are the essentials you need to check before you go live:
First, find out if your state or city requires a homestay registration certificate. Many regions, like Himachal Pradesh and Kerala, have clear guidelines. You may need to show proof of ownership, an identity document, and sometimes an inspection report confirming safety standards.
Second, check whether you need a trade license or tourism registration. Even if your property is residential, renting it short-term can legally count as a commercial activity.
Third, look into tax implications. Income from homestays is taxable, and if your turnover crosses ₹20 lakh in a financial year, you may have to register for GST. Some platforms collect and pay GST on your behalf, but you’re still responsible for declaring the income correctly.
Lastly, understand local zoning laws and society rules. If your apartment complex doesn’t allow short-term rentals, you could face complaints from neighbors or management. Make sure you have permission if needed.
While this paperwork can feel like a hassle, it’s worth getting everything in order upfront. Once you’re registered, you can promote your homestay confidently and avoid unpleasant surprises later.
After years of hosting and talking to dozens of other property owners, I can tell you that most problems come down to the same avoidable mistakes. The first is treating hosting like a hobby instead of a business. Even if you’re only renting out part of your home, you’re responsible for guest satisfaction, maintenance, and compliance. Ignoring these things leads to negative reviews and headaches.
Another common pitfall is underestimating expenses. Beyond cleaning and repairs, you’ll have recurring costs like utilities, platform commissions, and supplies. Some hosts set low prices thinking they’ll make up for it in volume, but end up earning less than they would with higher rates and fewer guests.
One more mistake is being slow to respond. In 2025, travelers expect fast replies. If you don’t answer inquiries within a couple of hours, many will move on to another listing. Use app notifications and consider enabling instant booking once you’re confident in your screening process.
Finally, don’t forget that guests remember how you made them feel. A warm welcome, small thoughtful touches, and clear communication matter more than any fancy amenity. Hosts who consistently deliver this are the ones who succeed long-term.
Listing your homestay can be a fantastic way to earn income and share your space with people from around the world. But the hosts who do well are the ones who approach it with intention, preparation, and a willingness to adapt.
Take time to pick the right platform—or combination of platforms—for your goals. Invest in good photos and a clear description. Make sure you understand the legal and tax requirements in your area. And remember that hosting is about more than renting a room—it’s about creating an experience guests will remember.
If you put in the effort upfront, you’ll save yourself months of stress and build a business you can be proud of. And if you ever feel stuck, there’s a growing community of hosts ready to share their lessons so you don’t have to learn them all the hard way.
Ready to make the most of your hosting journey? Partner with Homeyhuts to simplify property management and maximize your rental potential. Our platform offers cutting-edge solutions to help you attract more guests and achieve greater success.
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