According to AirDNA, Airbnb Superhosts earn 60% more revenue than the average rental operator on the platform. With numbers like that, it’s no surprise that many hosts are eager to achieve Superhost status, but where do you start and is it worth the effort? Here’s what you need to know about becoming an Airbnb Superhost
What is a Superhost on Airbnb?
Airbnb reserves the title of Superhost for the most outstanding rental operators on the platform. Hosts must go above and beyond to qualify for the prestigious title, and many enjoy improvements in cancellations and response rates as a reward for their efforts.
The Superhost status reassures users that their Host will provide a first-class service experience. It’s a coveted title in the hosting community, but achieving it takes work.
What are the Benefits of Being an Airbnb Superhost?
If you are an Airbnb host already, obtaining a super host status may be able to improve your business. There are many reasons why Airbnb Superhosts may have the potential to earn more revenue.
Some customers may be more likely to choose a booking if you are a Superhost. Customers can also filter their search options to focus on Superhosts.
Your elevated Superhost status may be a pretext to allow you to charge more than some of your competitors. In some cases, users would prefer to pay more for a higher chance of having a positive experience.
Airbnb also provides Superhosts with greater visibility, which may result in more bookings. Moreover, Airbnb may also feature your property or listing in promotional emails or other marketing efforts.
Additional Perks of Superhost Status
Airbnb also offers other special benefits and perks for Airbnb hosts. These perks may help you find more customers and to have a more positive experience on the platform. Some of these other benefits available for Airbnb Superhosts include the following:
- Extra referral bonus if you invite other users to the platform
- Featured listings in promotion emails
- $100 Airbnb coupon
- Guests can also filter and search for Superhosts
- Early access to new features
- Advanced customer support
How to Become a Superhost on Airbnb?
These requirements aren’t excessive, but they’re very specific. The toughest one for most hosts is the “stay of over 100 days” requirement, as many hosts only offer short-term rentals.
Luckily, you do not need to apply to become a Superhost. Airbnb automatically reviews profiles every three months and selects eligible hosts for Superhost status.
If you are account is selected for review, Airbnb will look at the past twelve months to determine if you qualify, based on the criteria shared above and other performance data.
Airbnb may consider other factors, such as extenuating circumstances, if you do not meet certain criteria due to an emergency.
If you can satisfy all the requirements, you can achieve Superhost status in as little as three months after your first booking.
However, approval isn’t a one-shot deal. You must maintain these standards to keep your Superhost title. If a subsequent review finds you lacking, you can lose your Superhost status.
Top Tips for Aspiring Superhosts
If you want to become a Superhost, it could be helpful to follow the following pieces of advice to be successful.
These tips primarily revolve around maintaining high-quality properties and diligent communication with potential guests.
Communicate with Guests:
It is crucial for you to reply to guest inquiries as soon as possible. Quick responses will not only boost your response rate, but may also increase the quality of your reviews.
Some guests may be less likely to leave a positive review if you do not respond quickly when they have issues, and failing to respond within 24 hours will negatively impact your account’s response rate score.
Post Accurate Listings:
One of the most important things to do is ensure you receive favorable reviews from your customers. It can be helpful to ensure all the amenities are as listed and that you clearly communicate all the details beforehand.
Customers who feel like the listing is not as advertised may be more likely to leave a lower review.
Minimize Cancellations:
You need to maintain a 1% or lower cancellation rate to keep your Superhost status. It is best to avoid cancellations altogether, unless you have an emergency that prevents you from being able to host.
Provide an Attractive Experience:
Other actions, such as giving tourist recommendations or helping with other issues, can go a long way and help you receive a higher review.
Moreover, it is also important to ensure all the amenities work and that your listing is clean and functional. It may be worthwhile to make some extra investments in your property to improve your customers’ experience.
Evaluating the Worth of Becoming a Super Host
Superhost status can help boost your Airbnb revenues, but whether it’s worth your time & effort will depend on your circumstances and goals.
Becoming an Airbnb Superhost may require a substantial investment of time, energy, and money. Some hosts may have to upgrade their rentals and provide more guest amenities to achieve the title, which could be costly.
Furthermore, the “stay of 100 days or more” requirement will make Superhost status a non-starter for many hosts. In some states, it’s very risky to rent for more than 30 days due to the extensive protections afforded to “long-term rental tenants.” Opening up your rentals to long-term tenants might be worth the risk for these hosts.
However, if it makes sense, you could see some notable benefits from achieving the Superhost title. A 60% sales boost could translate to tens of thousands of dollars in additional revenue for some hots, so it’s certainly worth the effort for many Airbnb rental operators.
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