Business & Operations Setup Check List

Build Your Airbnb Like a Business From Day One

Start Smart and Avoid the Guesswork

Launching your Airbnb is not just about décor and linens. It is about setting up a real business. The BNB Startup Business and Operations Setup Checklist gives you every foundational step you need before your first booking.

From local licenses and insurance to automation tools and guest communication systems, this checklist keeps you organized so you can avoid expensive oversights and get your property guest-ready faster.

Learn From Experience Instead of Mistakes

When we launched our first Airbnb, we learned quickly that small mistakes can snowball. Missing permits, unclear cleaning handoffs, and poorly documented processes create stress and slow your launch. This checklist is built from those lessons so you do not repeat them.

Each step is practical, actionable, and linked to trusted external resources that explain why the approach matters. You will know what to do and why it is important.

What This Checklist Covers

The BNB Startup Business and Operations Setup Checklist walks you through every major phase of creating a successful Airbnb or VRBO business.

🏠 Property Preparation

Ensure your home is safe, compliant, and ready for guests.

🎨 Design and Guest Experience

Create an inviting space that earns five-star reviews and repeat bookings.

⚙️ Operations Setup

Build cleaning routines, maintenance plans, and automation systems.

💻 Listing Setup

Optimize your listing details, photos, amenities, and pricing strategy.

💬 Guest Communication

Streamline check-in instructions, message templates, and review workflows.

💼 Financial and Legal

Set up licenses, insurance, accounting systems, and financial organization.

Each category includes recommended resources so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

Important Note

This checklist focuses on strategy, organization, and setup systems. Premade templates for messages, SOPs, and financial tools are not included here, but you can find all of them in the BNB Startup Complete Kit for an all-in-one solution.