How to Write a Great Property Description: Guidelines
Your property description is your chance to show travelers what makes your place special. You’ve worked hard to create a great property — let’s make sure that hard work stands out when guests are researching places to stay online.
In this article, you’ll find practical steps and tips to help you write a clear, engaging, and authentic description that boosts your bookings.
🌟 Why your description matters
First impressions count.
A short or dull description can let your property down, while a well-written one gives travelers a real feel for your space — and why they should book it.
Your Hostelworld listing is your digital welcome — and we’re here to help you make it shine.
🧠 Getting started
Before writing, grab a pen and jot down:
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What makes your property unique?
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Which features guests love the most?
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What do reviews highlight about your property?
Use this list as inspiration — and remember to include your property name a few times in the text.
This not only adds a personal touch but also helps your listing appear in search results.
📝 Example:
“Jolly Swagman Backpackers is a fun, clean, and spacious hostel overlooking a plaza on a quiet street — just five minutes from the nightlife of King’s Cross. It has everything a backpacker could want, from friendly staff to great party offers with free drinks and good vibes.”
🪜 Step-by-step: How to write a captivating description
1. 🎣 Find your hook
Start strong! Choose two or three of your best features and craft a first sentence that grabs attention.
If you have an incredible location (right on the beach or in a lively cultural neighbourhood), mention it right away.
2. 🎨 Paint a picture
Let guests see your property through words.
Imagine giving them a short tour — describe the vibe, the atmosphere, and what staying there feels like.
3. 🛏️ Describe your rooms and facilities
If your rooms have different styles or themes, highlight them.
Be specific — mention what makes them comfortable or unique.
Words like cozy, social, quirky, bustling, or energetic can help convey your hostel’s personality.
4. 📍 Talk about your location
End your description by highlighting your location within the city — not just the city itself.
Mention nearby landmarks, transport links, or local attractions.
Example:
“We’re a 10-minute walk from Central Station and just around the corner from the city’s best street food market.”
5. 🧭 Know your audience
Think about who you want to attract.
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Backpackers? Mention social spaces and events.
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Families? Highlight private rooms or family-friendly facilities.
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Digital nomads? Point out free Wi-Fi and work-friendly areas.
Also, state if your property has disabled access.
6. 📝 Add key policies (Things to Note)
Guests appreciate clear expectations. Include essential info such as:
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Cancellation policy
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Check-in / check-out hours
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Age restrictions
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Pets, smoking, curfew, group rules
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Any extra charges
Keep it short and friendly — no need for a long list of rules.
💡 General tips
✔️ Use numbers: Write “3 km from the beach” instead of “three kilometres.”
✔️ Be honest: Highlight your strengths but don’t overpromise.
✔️ Keep it concise: A focused description reads better than a long one.
✔️ Avoid clichés: Skip words like amazing or best ever — let real details speak for themselves.
✔️ Proofread: Typos or grammar mistakes make a bad impression — double-check your text before saving.
💬 Need help?
If you’d like guidance on writing or updating your description, your Hostelworld representative or the Support Team will be happy to help you polish it.