If you’re a short-term rental host or manager, you know that competition is fierce. A well-optimised Airbnb listing can make all the difference in attracting guests and securing bookings. However, many hosts unknowingly make mistakes that can hurt their visibility, ratings, and ultimately, their rental revenue. Here are five common Airbnb mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Quality Photos

The Mistake: Blurry, dark, or unprofessional photos can make even the most stunning property look uninviting. Guests rely heavily on visuals when choosing their stay, and bad images can lead to fewer bookings.

How to Avoid It: Invest in high-quality, well-lit photos. Use natural light, tidy up the space, and highlight key features like cosy corners, stylish decor, or unique parts of the property. A professional photographer will be able to capture your property at its best.

2. Inaccurate or Incomplete Listing Description

The Mistake: Omitting important details, failing to mention accessibility issues or providing a vague description can lead to guest dissatisfaction once they arrive.

How to Avoid It: Be clear and honest. Highlight unique selling points while also setting accurate expectations. Mention amenities, house rules, and any quirks (e.g., “please note note that the stairs are steep”). Transparency builds trust and avoids unpleasant surprises.

3. Ignoring Pricing Strategy

The Mistake: Overpricing can drive potential guests away, while underpricing can lead to missed revenue opportunities. Many hosts set a fixed price and forget to adjust it based on seasonality and demand.

How to Avoid It: Use dynamic pricing tools to optimise your rates. Regularly check competitor pricing and adjust based on local events, holidays, and market trends.

4. Slow or Poor Communication

The Mistake: Delayed responses or unhelpful replies can frustrate potential guests, leading them to book elsewhere. Airbnb prioritises responsive hosts in search rankings, so slow replies can hurt your visibility.

How to Avoid It: Set up automated replies to acknowledge inquiries quickly. Aim to respond within an hour and provide clear, friendly, and helpful communication. A fast, warm response can be the difference between securing a booking or losing a guest.

5. Neglecting Cleanliness & Maintenance

The Mistake: Even the most beautifully decorated space will get negative reviews if it’s not spotless. Guests expect a hotel-level standard of cleanliness, and any lapse can damage your ratings.

How to Avoid It: Use a professional cleaning service or create a thorough cleaning checklist. Pay special attention to bathrooms, kitchens, and high-touch surfaces. Regularly inspect your property for maintenance issues—fix leaks, repaint chipped or scratched walls, and ensure all appliances work perfectly.

Avoiding these five common mistakes will help you attract more bookings, earn better reviews, and ultimately increase your revenue. 

Need help managing your short-term rental? Roost Bath are the experts! From pricing strategy to guest communication – we will help to maximise your property’s potential. Contact us today!