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 think

This 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:

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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.

• 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

• 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.”

• South Yarra Property
• Silvia’s Shared Home
• North Melbourne Property

Instagram – @superhostsdownunder

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

• 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.

• 🏡 Merrydith’s City Retreat (Hobart)
• 🏙️ South Yarra Property
• 🌿 Silvia’s Property
• 🧭 North Melbourne Property

📸 Instagram – Superhosts Down Under

KeyNest – Get 50% off your first month with code: superhostpodcast50
🔗 Visit KeyNest