Top 10 Tips to Improve Your Airbnb Bookings

1. Perfect Your Listing Photos

Photos are the first thing potential guests see, so they need to be top-notch. High-quality images can be the deciding factor between a booking and a pass. Here’s how to make sure your photos shine:

• Lighting: Take photos during the day to maximise natural light, giving rooms a bright and welcoming look.

• Angles: Show different angles to give guests a real feel of the space. Capture the entire room, focusing on its best features.

• Highlight Key Features: Whether it’s a cosy reading nook, a spacious kitchen, or a scenic balcony, make sure these are well-represented.

• Staging: Small touches like fresh flowers, clean towels, or neatly arranged pillows can make a room feel homely and appealing.

• Consider a Professional: If you’re unsure about photography, a professional photographer can capture your property beautifully, helping it stand out from the competition.

With the right photos, your property becomes instantly more attractive, and guests will be more likely to imagine themselves enjoying the space.

2. Write a Captivating and Honest Description

Your description isn’t just about filling in details; it’s your chance to tell a story and help guests picture their stay. Here’s how to write one that attracts and engages:

• Highlight What Makes You Unique: Emphasise special amenities, a prime location, or unique décor that sets your property apart.

• Be Honest and Accurate: Describe your property truthfully to manage expectations and avoid disappointment or negative reviews. Honesty builds trust with potential guests.

• Include Nearby Attractions: Mention popular attractions, restaurants, or transport links to give guests a sense of what they can explore nearby.

• Use Inviting Language: Describe how the space can be used, like "Enjoy a cup of coffee on the balcony with a view" or "Relax in the cosy living room after a day of sightseeing."

A well-written, honest description builds trust with guests, helping them feel confident in choosing your property.

3. Offer Competitive Pricing

Price is a key factor for guests, and competitive pricing helps your property stay attractive. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

• Research Similar Listings: Check the prices of properties nearby with similar features and adjust your rates accordingly.

• Consider Seasonality: Adjust prices based on local events, peak tourist seasons, and weekends to maximise your earnings.

• Use Airbnb’s Smart Pricing Tool: This tool adjusts your rates automatically based on market demand and competition, saving you time while keeping your prices competitive.

• Set Weekly or Monthly Discounts: Longer stays are often preferred by both hosts and guests, as they reduce turnover. Offering a discount can attract those who prefer extended stays.

By offering fair, flexible pricing, you attract more guests while staying competitive in your area.

4. Implement Instant Book

Instant Book simplifies the booking process and appeals to guests looking for fast, hassle-free reservations. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

• Appeals to Last-Minute Bookers: Travellers often book accommodations last-minute, so Instant Book can capture these guests.

• Improves Search Ranking: Airbnb prioritises Instant Book listings, making your property more visible in search results.

• Reduces Booking Delays: With Instant Book, there’s no need to approve each booking, which streamlines the process and appeals to guests seeking convenience.

• Easier for Returning Guests: Returning guests who enjoyed their stay previously may be more likely to book instantly if they don’t need additional approval.

Enabling Instant Book can make your listing more attractive and accessible, increasing your chances of securing reservations.

5. Optimise Your Calendar

An up-to-date calendar helps guests plan confidently and can improve your visibility. To manage it effectively:

• Block Unavailable Dates: Remove any dates you can’t host as soon as possible to avoid double-bookings.

• Set Minimum and Maximum Stay Limits: Adjust your requirements based on your ideal guests, whether short-term travellers or long-term tenants.

• Offer Last-Minute Availability: Consider offering discounts for unfilled dates coming up soon to attract spontaneous travellers.

• Synchronise Across Platforms: If you list on multiple platforms, keep calendars in sync to avoid double-booking issues.

A well-maintained calendar shows guests you’re organised and ready to welcome them, building confidence in your listing.

6. Provide Thoughtful Amenities

Going the extra mile with amenities can make your property stand out. Consider offering:

• Essentials and More: Beyond the basics (toiletries, fresh linens), consider items like coffee, snacks, or a few local treats.

• Entertainment Options: Offer Wi-Fi, streaming services, and perhaps board games or books to keep guests entertained.

• Practical Items: Guests appreciate practical touches like phone chargers, extra blankets, or an umbrella, especially if they’re travelling.

• Personal Touches: Small gestures like a welcome note or guide to local restaurants and activities add a personal touch.

Thoughtful amenities can enhance a guest’s experience, leading to positive reviews and repeat bookings.

7. Respond Quickly to Inquiries

Guests value fast responses, and Airbnb rewards hosts with better rankings for quick replies. Here’s how to stay responsive:

• Set Up Alerts: Enable app notifications to respond promptly to inquiries, even on the go.

• Have Message Templates Ready: Pre-draft responses for common questions to save time and ensure consistent replies.

• Be Friendly and Professional: A warm, professional tone in replies reassures guests and reflects positively on your hosting style.

• Follow Up After Their Stay: Send a quick message post-stay to thank them and encourage feedback, which shows you value their experience.

Fast responses can turn a casual inquiry into a confirmed booking and build a positive reputation for your listing.

8. Keep Your Reviews Positive

Positive reviews significantly impact your success. Encourage good reviews by:

• Delivering What You Promise: Meet or exceed expectations by providing a clean, well-prepared space.

• Requesting Feedback Gently: At the end of their stay, kindly ask guests to leave a review if they enjoyed their experience.

• Addressing Issues Quickly: If problems arise, handle them promptly to avoid negative feedback and improve the guest experience.

• Thanking Guests for Their Feedback: Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, to show future guests you’re attentive and proactive.

Good reviews increase trust, attract more guests, and improve your ranking on Airbnb.

9. Highlight Your Unique Selling Points

Your unique features can make your property memorable and attract guests looking for something special. Focus on:

• Special Amenities: Features like a hot tub, fireplace, or pet-friendly policy can be big draws.

• Location Benefits: If you’re near a beach, city centre, or scenic area, mention it prominently in your listing.

• Environmental Impact: Eco-conscious guests appreciate properties with sustainable practices, so highlight energy-saving features, recycling, or green amenities.

• Themed Stays: If your property has a unique style or décor theme (like a rustic cabin or a modern city flat), showcase it.

These unique elements set your listing apart, drawing guests who value those features.

10. Promote Your Listing on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool to reach potential guests beyond Airbnb. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Use High-Quality Photos: Share beautiful photos of your property and surrounding area to attract viewers.

• Engage with Followers: Respond to comments and messages to build relationships with potential guests.

• Run Promotions or Giveaways: Incentivise bookings by offering a small discount or contest for followers.

• Collaborate with Influencers: Consider partnering with travel or lifestyle influencers to increase exposure.

Social media marketing can draw attention to your listing and attract guests interested in the area or property type you offer.

Conclusion

Improving your Airbnb bookings takes strategic planning and attention to detail. From professional photos and compelling descriptions to responsive hosting and unique amenities, these tips can make your property stand out. With a focus on quality and guest satisfaction, you’ll be on track to increase bookings, build trust, and boost your Airbnb success.

Need help optimising your listing? At Lets Boost Bookings, we specialise in Airbnb optimisation services to maximise your booking potential. Get in touch today!