How to get five-star Airbnb reviews
It’s no surprise that an Airbnb host on the receiving end of exceptional guest reviews and ratings is more likely to secure a higher number of bookings. And who doesn’t want that?
What you don’t want, and should be actively preventing as a host, are negative reviews.
These are often brought on by miscommunications or faults with the property itself, two things that can be incredibly damaging to the host’s rating and their portfolio’s performance. Luckily, they are also easily prevented.
When striving for five-star reviews, it’s important to keep your guest as the No 1 priority. Meaning it’s all about meeting and exceeding their service expectations.
So there are a few key areas you should focus on and invest in to successfully deliver a faultless Airbnb experience.
Communication is key
As your listing is your first point of contact to any potential guest, it’s crucial that you provide detailed and accurate information about your property – such as whether wi-fi is available or if there is any extra bedding.
This will not only give you some brownie points but save your guests from scouring old reviews to find answers.
You can be extra handy to guests on check-in day by including a simple street view photograph detailing where in the world your home actually is.
It’s also worth asking a guest whether they’re comfortable with self check-in or if they would prefer you to check them in. A nice touch is to tell your guests about local hotspots, transport or public services.
Keep it clean
Guests may be forgoing a hotel in favour of your humble abode, yet they will still expect hotel levels of cleanliness.
Making sure your property is spotless at all times can be a time-consuming job.
If cleaning your home yourself, channel your inner genie and make your guests’ wishes come true by providing freshly laundered towels and linen, and even throw in some fluffy bathrobes and slippers.
Be sure to water any plants, keep the windows clean and rugs dust-free.
Be extra thorough when cleaning the kitchen and bathroom as guests tend to pay the closest attention to these.
Don’t risk a poor rating by leaving used toiletries and dirty dishes around.
Give a little extra
Additional touches like Netflix, extra blankets and basic cooking essentials can strengthen your ratings. If you don’t already have these things, a little investment can go a long way once you see the five-star reviews rolling in.
Small extras will provide guests with further value and utility, which will make them feel well taken care of.
Be extra thorough when cleaning the kitchen and bathroom as guests tend to pay the closest attention to these.
Use a property management service
Engaging a property management service is the most sure-fire way to ensure guests leave promising reviews.
They truly are the experts and really understand what it takes to ensure your guests have the greatest stay, especially if you are time-poor, don’t live close to your property or have found yourself with a portfolio too large to manage yourself.
Services include communications and maintenance co-ordination, which will ensure your modcons, appliances, even plumbing