A former garage has been turned into Delaware's No. 1 Airbnb rental
Delaware’s top new Airbnb is a little hideaway right in Wilmington.
The tiny home in Trolley Square rose to the top with almost 60 reviews, over 100 check-ins and a 4.93 rating per guest feedback after opening its doors just six months ago.
“It’s essentially an old garage that got converted into a studio apartment,” said Eric Hoover, 35, host of the Airbnb. ”We really gutted everything. We had a vision. We put together a mood board and made everything come to life.”
The rental, which took four months for Hoover and his girlfriend to remodel, sits at the end of his driveway and includes a main room, a kitchenette and a bathroom.
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The main room was renovated to include a lofted bed, allowing the lower portion to be used as a living and dining room.
Double high ceilings, a farmhouse sink and butcher block countertops add a spacious yet cozy feel to the quaint space.
Criteria for being named a top new Airbnb host for each state included becoming a host in 2021, already achieving Superhost status and having the most guest check-ins.
Superhosts are required to maintain a high response rate, a high guest rating, a 1% cancellation rate and have at least 10 trips or three reservations that totaled at least 100 nights.
“Sometimes where you stay is one of the most memorable parts of your trip. A lot of people are willing to spend more for a fun experience that isn’t just a sterile, normal home,” Hoover said. “The more you give, the more you get.”
Hosting an Airbnb with the bare minimum takes away convenience and makes guests focus more on surviving with the little selection supplied by their rental instead of enjoying the experience, he said.
For this quaint home, Hoover goes above and beyond to provide anything guests will need and more.
The pantry and fridge are fully stocked for everyone to cook meals, and extra toiletries and fresh-cut flowers are provided. Games, yoga mats and a yoga application subscription are also available for guest use.
That’s not all.
Located in the walkable area of Trolley Square, guests are exposed to a buzzing food scene, nightlife and several outdoor attractions including nature trails and rivers. Brandywine Zoo, Brandywine Park and Rockford Tower are nearby.
Hoover plans to display a map with a guide of the area featuring various points of attraction and suggested routes and bike trails. Bikes will be available to borrow, too.
For guest check-ins in the colder months, he plans to provide a loaf of fresh-baked bread. For the summer, homemade ice cream.
“I’m the opposite of someone who nickels and dimes someone,” Hoover said. “I want to continue to enhance the experience.”
Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: A tiny home in Wilmington is Delaware's top new Airbnb for 2021
