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10 Proven Strategies to Make Your Airbnb More Profitable
Let’s be real—who doesn’t want their Airbnb to be a money-making machine? Whether you’ve got a cozy cottage in the woods or a swanky downtown apartment, there are always ways to rake in more cash. If you feel like your Airbnb is leaving some money on the table, don’t worry—we’ve got 10 dynamite tips that will have you rolling in those bookings and five-star reviews in no time. So let’s dive into how you can make your Airbnb seriously profitable.
REVY + Airbnb
Strategic planning and efficient off-season strategies can assist Airbnb hosts in keeping high occupancy rates and maximizing revenue throughout the year.
Key Findings:
- Personal Touches: Thoughtful gestures like personalized notes and welcome baskets make guests feel valued, leading to great reviews and repeat bookings.
- Split Test Headlines: Experiment with different listing headlines to see which grabs more attention and improves bookings.
- Professional Photography: Listings with high-quality photos can see up to 40% more bookings and allow for higher rates.
- Email Marketing: Build a guest email list to offer exclusive deals and stay top-of-mind for repeat bookings.
- Direct Booking Website: Avoid OTA fees and increase profits by offering special perks like flexible cancellations or discounts through your own booking site.
- Upselling Services: Offer extras like early check-in or special packages to boost revenue.
- Diversify Platforms: List your property on multiple sites (VRBO, Booking.com, etc.) to attract different types of guests.
- Channel Management: Use tools to sync calendars and avoid double bookings when listing on multiple platforms.
- Revenue Management: Hire a company to optimize your pricing based on local demand, ensuring competitive rates year-round.
- Stay Competitive: Monitor your competition and adjust your pricing and amenities to stay ahead
1. Add That Personal Touch
We’ve all been there—after a long day of travel, there’s nothing better than walking into your Airbnb and feeling instantly at home. Now imagine your guest’s face lighting up when they receive a handwritten note telling them to enjoy their stay. Try to use the guest’s names- everyone loves hearing them. You get bonus points for using kid’s and pets names as well! A simple example of what to write could be as follows:
Dear Ron and Sally,
We are so excited that you have chosen to stay with us. We want you to have a 5 star experience while you stay with us. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do for you to make your stay more comfortable. Our number is 265-685-3452.
We highly recommend “Rickies” down the road for some really great food! If you love Italian, you will love this place!
Enjoy your stay!
Barbera
Try adding a simple welcome basket that is made to fit the guest. For example, some guests are coming to stay with you because they have a sick relative in the hospital and they were asking how far away the hospital is. Leave a $10 Uber gift card for them upon arrival to show that you heard and care. Little gestures like these go a long way! Try sending a morning-after text to your guests. Wait until a reasonable time to send it the next morning and simply ask how their first night was and if there is anything you can do to make it better. Some guests may reply, some may not, but they see that you have thought about them. If you really want to dial up the guest experience, think about offering bonus services like airport pickups, personalized local recommendations, or even setting up a killer Netflix-and-wine night package.
The goal? Make ‘em feel like VIPs, and they’ll reward you with glowing reviews and future bookings.
Revy Pricing Info
Shared Success Model: 5% commission on total gross revenue.
Average Increase: 18% improvement in gross booking revenue.
Plans: Revy Pro (5%): Ideal for Airbnb hosts. Includes listing audit, dynamic pricing, manual adjustments, and expert advisor.
Revy Enterprise (Custom): Best for hotels and large operators. Includes same features as Revy Pro.
Dynamic Pricing Software: Managed by Revy, includes market data analysis and manual adjustments.
Onboarding Time: Typically 5-10 business days.
2. Optimize Your Listing by Split Testing Your Headline
Want to boost bookings and stand out from the competition? Split testing your Airbnb listing headline is a game-changer. The headline is one of the first things potential guests see, and it plays a big role in whether they click on your listing. By testing different headlines, you can see which ones attract more views and bookings. Check out an example of a poor headline.
For example, you can experiment with:
- Highlighting Key Amenities: Include features that stand out like “Pet-Friendly with Hot Tub” or “Private Pool & Close to Downtown.” Guests are often searching for specific perks, so make sure they know right away if your property has them.
- Promoting Unique Selling Points: Emphasize what makes your listing special. If you’re near a famous attraction or offer stunning views, say it upfront: “Steps from Central Park”, or “Breathtaking Ocean Views!”
- Targeting Different Audiences: Tailor your headline to different types of travelers. For instance, “Perfect for Families – Backyard & Playground” vs. “Ideal for Business Travelers – Fast Wi-Fi & Workspace” can help you reach specific audiences.
Check out an example of a great and catchy headline.
Remember, your headline is the first impression, so make it count! By testing different versions, you’ll find the formula that consistently drives more traffic and bookings to your listing.
3. Invest in Photos That Pop—Because First Impressions Matter!
If your Airbnb photos look like they were taken on an early 2000s flip phone, it’s time for an upgrade. Hiring a professional photographer is one of the BEST investments you can make in your listing. They’ll know how to capture your space in all its Insta-worthy glory. Based on a recent study, done by Airbnb, of more than 100,000 listings, those with professional photography earned 28% more bookings, could charge a 26% higher nightly rate, and increased overall earnings by 40%.
Make sure to give your photographer a detailed list of every photo you want. Take pictures of your amenities and even stage the Airbnb with props and actors for some realistic shots that start getting potential guests thinking about the experiences that they could have.
Consider also hiring a professional photo editor to add in the extra details, such as “Netflix” logo on the TV or floaties in the pool. Editors can be found for a very reasonable price on Fiver or Upwork.
When guests are scrolling through listings, amazing photos are the difference between a quick “nah” and an enthusiastic “BOOK IT NOW!” Plus, with amazing pics, you can justify charging a little more—because you’re offering more oomph than the competition.
4. Picture Perfect—But in the Right Order
It’s not just about having jaw-dropping photos; it’s about knowing how to showcase them. Your first image? It needs to be a showstopper. Something that screams, “You NEED to stay here.”
Because hosts with high-quality photos tend to earn 40% more than those with lower-quality images, the first cover photo is especially crucial because it serves as the guest’s introduction to your space. Airbnb listings with visually appealing cover photos are more likely to get clicked.
Once you’ve hooked them with the first pic, guide potential guests through your space like you’re giving them a personal tour. Lead your potential guests first through your outdoor space, then living room, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms and back outside. Keep photos to a maximum of about 20-25. You want people to feel like you toured them through your entire rental. Also include pictures of the town, surroundings and any special amenities that would make them want to stay.
5. Keep It Simple—Your Listing Description
When guests are deciding where to stay, they don’t want to wade through a long-winded essay. Keep your listing description short, snappy, and packed with essential details. Here’s how to do it right:
- Location: Highlight what makes your place ideal—whether it’s close to popular attractions, in a quiet neighborhood, or surrounded by stunning views.
- Amenities: Let them know about your best perks! Free coffee, a Netflix-ready TV, a hot tub—these extras can seal the deal.
- Why You’re Special: If your Airbnb has character or a unique vibe, brag about it! This is your chance to stand out.
Encourage guests to start picturing themselves at your property by writing a short, inviting paragraph. Use bold, eye-catching headings for each room and keep it simple:
- Cozy Living Room
- Smart TV with Netflix
- Comfy sofa and reading nook
- Fast Wi-Fi for remote work
- Modern Kitchen
- Fully stocked with cooking essentials
- Coffee maker with complimentary coffee
- Dining table for four
This way, guests can quickly find what they’re looking for without scrolling through a massive block of text.
Need inspiration? Check out Pricelab’s free title description generator for fresh ideas. Remember, keep it simple, but don’t be afraid to add a touch of your personality. You want guests to feel like your place is the spot for their trip!
6. More Platforms, More Guests—Go Beyond Airbnb
Why limit yourself to one platform when you can spread the love? While Airbnb might be the leading platform for short-term rentals, diversifying your listings across other platforms like VRBO, Booking.com, and Expedia can significantly boost your visibility and increase bookings. Think of it like casting multiple fishing lines in different waters—you increase your chances of reeling in more guests.
By listing on multiple platforms, you can tap into different markets. For example, VRBO is popular with families and large groups, Booking.com caters to global travelers who prefer hotels and apartments, and Expedia offers comprehensive travel packages, which might attract a different type of guest.
Avoid Double-Booking with Calendar Syncing
The key challenge with being on multiple platforms is ensuring your calendars stay in sync to avoid double bookings. Having two guests book the same dates through different sites is a logistical nightmare no one needs. To prevent this, make sure you integrate a channel manager like Guesty, Your Porter, or Lodgify. These tools automatically update your availability across all platforms, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
7. Email Marketing—Your Secret Weapon
Imagine this: a guest stays at your Airbnb, has a fantastic experience, and leaves you a glowing review. Now, what if you could make sure they come back again and again? That’s where email marketing comes in. Building an email list of past guests gives you a direct channel to keep them engaged, remind them about your property, and offer special deals they won’t find elsewhere.
How to Get Started with Email Marketing
Collect Guest Emails (With Permission!)
First things first, you need a list of guests. During the booking process or check-in, ask guests if they’d like to subscribe to your newsletter or receive special offers in the future. Always ensure you have their permission, as it’s essential to comply with privacy laws.
Another idea is to gather emails through your wifi network. A great free platform that you can use is Tanaza. Tanaza allows you to create a customizable Wi-Fi login page where users must provide their email addresses or social media information to gain access. This system helps you build an email list seamlessly while guests connect to the internet.
Create a Compelling Newsletter
Once you’ve collected a list of emails, it’s time to keep your audience engaged. Your emails should include:
- Exclusive Discounts: Offer deals like 10% off their next stay.
- Local Event Highlights: Share exciting upcoming events or seasonal attractions near your property to entice guests to book again.
- Property Updates: Did you upgrade the space? Add new amenities? Let them know!
Consider using email marketing tools like Mailchimp, Sendinblue, or Constant Contact to manage your campaigns easily. Don’t overdo sending out your emails, but keep them consistent enough that your guests still remember who you are. Once every 6-8 weeks is a safe time strategy to use.
Segment Your List
Tailor your emails based on guest preferences. For example, offer families deals during school holidays or create specific content for business travelers. Tools like ActiveCampaign allow you to segment your email list for more personalized communication, which can significantly increase engagement and repeat bookings.
Why Repeat Guests Are Your Secret Weapon
Repeat guests are gold because they already trust you. According to the Harvard Business Review, acquiring a new customer can be 5 to 25 times more expensive than retaining an existing one. By focusing on repeat guests, you lower your marketing costs and increase the likelihood of consistent bookings. Plus, repeat guests are more likely to leave great reviews, boosting your overall ranking.
8. Cut Out the Middleman—Build Your Own Direct Booking Website
Do you want to make more money while still helping your guests save money? Why not create your own direct booking website! Why would you want to give a chunk of your profits away to online travel agencies (OTA) when you can rake it all in yourself? By setting up your own direct booking website, you not only avoid those annoying fees but also control the entire guest experience from start to finish.
To start with, only offer direct bookings to your previous guests. This way, you don’t have to worry about getting someone trashing your place and you can rest with peace of mind knowing that you have responsible guests. If you are still worried about direct booking, you can use a tool like SuperHog (https://superhog.com/) to provide insurance for direct booking that is very similar to the coverage that Airbnb gives you.
Plus, you can offer special perks that OTAs don’t—like flexible cancellations, last-minute deals, or even a free bottle of wine for direct bookings. With a slick website, you’re not just a host; you’re a brand.
If you need any help or advice building a website, check out 1st on the List for professional advice and website building skills.
9. Upsell Like a Pro—Who Doesn’t Love an Upgrade?
Ready to boost that income with minimal effort? Start upselling! Offer premium add-ons like early check-ins, late check-outs, or luxury touches like champagne on arrival. Or tempt guests to stay an extra night at a discounted rate—because let’s be honest, no one wants to leave vacation early.
The best part? It’s easy money. A little upsell here, a cheeky offer there, and suddenly, your profits are getting a sweet little boost. Maybe you are thinking that you do not have time to individually message every guest that comes with specialized offers. No worries, we have you covered! Check out Bestie AI, an amazing instant messaging tool that takes about 15 minutes to set. And that is not 15 minutes per guest, that is 15 minutes total! Amazing huh?!?
10. Stalk the Competition (In a Totally Legal Way)
Want to stay ahead of your competition and maximize your Airbnb profits? Why don’t you simplify the process of constantly stalking what your competitors are doing and consider hiring a revenue management company. These companies specialize in optimizing your pricing strategies based on local demand, seasonality, and competitor data, ensuring you always have the perfect price point.
While it’s still useful to keep an eye on the competition—checking their prices, unique amenities, and guest reviews—a revenue management company can handle the heavy lifting. They use advanced analytics to adjust your rates in real-time, helping you stay competitive without spending your time obsessing over every competitor’s move.
Services like RevyPro and Wheelhouse track market trends and automatically update your rates to match demand. Whether it’s adjusting for local events, holidays, or off-season lulls, they ensure you’re maximizing your income year-round.
In addition to pricing, these companies can also help you:
- Increase Occupancy Rates: By optimizing pricing during both high- and low-demand periods, you can fill more nights.
- Stay Competitive: Get real-time insights on how your competitors are performing and ensure your property stands out.
- Simplify Management: With pricing handled automatically, you can focus on delivering an excellent guest experience.
So, while keeping an eye on your competition is still a smart move, partnering with a revenue management company takes your strategy to the next level, allowing you to remain competitive while boosting your bottom line.
Conclusion
And there you have it—10 ways to turn your Airbnb into a cash machine! Whether it’s giving guests that personal touch or mastering the art of the upsell, these strategies are guaranteed to boost your bottom line.
Remember, the magic happens when you combine thoughtful touches, smart marketing, and a little hustle. So go ahead, give these tips a try, and watch the bookings (and profits) roll in. Your Airbnb’s bank account will thank you!
Whether it’s as simple as rearranging your photos or as comprehensive as setting up a direct booking website, every improvement helps maximize your Airbnb’s earning potential. Apply these tips today and watch your profits grow!
FAQ: Maximizing Your Airbnb Profits
Keiran Griffiths
Author Biography
Keiran Griffiths is the co-founder, Chief Marketing Officer, and Senior Revenue Manager at Revy. He wears many hats, but his primary goal is to grow Revy by increasing the revenues of its clients. With extensive experience in marketing and consulting within the hospitality industry, Keiran understands the key strategies to drive new revenue. He is passionate about sharing his insights and tips to help clients achieve their financial goals and optimize their business performance.
