There’s no doubt that Airbnb has changed the way we travel. Not only has it made it easier to find affordable accommodation, but it has also given us a greater sense of connection to the places we visit.
For many of us, Airbnb has become our first choice when booking a trip. The Airbnb platform is the online marketplace where hosts and guests connect, offering a wide range of accommodations worldwide.
But what does it take to be a successful Airbnb host? Or, better yet, a Superhost?
An Airbnb Superhost is a top-rated host on the site, and they must meet certain criteria to attain and maintain that status. For example, they have to have a low cancellation rate and a high review rate. The Airbnb Superhost program is a recognition system for top-rated hosts on the Airbnb platform, rewarding those who consistently provide exceptional hospitality.
An Airbnb Superhost will also generally go above and beyond to make their guests feel welcome, whether providing a detailed guide to the neighbourhood or leaving a welcome basket in the room.
With a bit of hard work and dedication, you could soon be on your way to achieving a significant milestone-becoming an Airbnb Superhost! This is not just a title, but a recognition of your exceptional hosting skills and commitment to providing a top-notch guest experience.
How to Become an Airbnb Superhost
The Airbnb Superhost title is designed to recognise and reward the best hosts on the platform. To become one, you must meet the following criteria: cleanliness, communication, and guest experience.
Before being eligible to join the program, hosts must first pass a rigorous evaluation process as part of Airbnb Superhost requirements:
- having already completed at least ten trips or have had a minimum of three reservations that have totalled at least 100 nights occupied;
- maintaining at least a 90% response rate;
- not cancelling any reservations, or at least keeping a cancellation rate of less than 1%; and
- maintaining an overall rating of 4.8 stars or higher.
Airbnb sets an assessment date every three months. During this assessment, your performance over the past three months will be evaluated. If you still meet the standards at the end of each quarterly assessment period, you’ll remain a Superhost.
As a Superhost, you’ll not only earn the recognition and prestige of being among the best hosts on the platform, but you’ll also enjoy tangible benefits. These include improved visibility in search results, which can lead to increased bookings and a higher earning potential.
If you’re committed to providing an outstanding experience for your guests, aiming for an Airbnb Superhost badge is an excellent goal to strive for. Achieving and maintaining the Superhost status requires providing an exceptional guest experience, which is not just about surpassing guest expectations, but also about earning their loyalty and positive reviews.
5 Simple Tips to Earn Your Superhost Badge
Now that you know the Airbnb Superhost criteria, here are a few simple tips and tricks that can help you get one step closer to earning the coveted title and reaping the rewards. By implementing these strategies, you can achieve and maintain Superhost status, ensuring your listing stands out and attracts consistent bookings.
Following these tips can help attract more guests to your listing. You can leverage Airbnb’s promotional efforts and the benefits of the Superhost program to reach a wider audience.
Take OUTSTANDING photos of your listing
One of the most important things to consider when listing your space on Airbnb is your photos, especially since outstanding images are crucial for making your Airbnb listing stand out.
Although Airbnb doesn’t have any specific requirements for host photos, it’s well-known that having high-quality, attention-grabbing images will help you get more bookings. Potential guests are more likely to book a listing that looks inviting and attractive.
So, how can you ensure that your photos are up to par?
First, make sure they’re high-resolution and clear. Blurry or dark photos are a significant turn-off for guests. Second, focus on showcasing your space in the best possible light. Make sure to feature any unique selling points, which are the aspects of your listing that make it stand out from others, in your photos, and make sure the overall tone for your vacation rental is welcoming and warm.
With great photos in tow, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an Airbnb Superhost and well on track to double bookings across the board.
Communication with Your Airbnb Guests is Key
As any Superhost knows, guest communication is vital to maintaining a high rating. Guests expect you to respond quickly and answer all questions and concerns. Failure to do this can quickly lead to a lower score.
Superhosts must maintain a response rate of at least 90%, which means always responding to guests within 24 hours. This shows guests that you are actively working to resolve any issues or concerns. In addition, it is essential to keep the lines of communication open throughout the stay. If a problem arises, don’t hesitate to contact the guest immediately.
By proactively communicating with guests, you can help prevent a low review score and ensure a positive experience for all. This includes responding to messages promptly, being clear and concise in your communication, and addressing any concerns or issues raised by guests in a timely and professional manner.
Avoid Cancellations Where You Can
Airbnb considers a cancellation rate of 1% or less acceptable, and anything above that could result in a loss of Airbnb Superhost status. This can be challenging for hosts, especially if they experience a last-minute cancellation outside of Airbnb’s extenuating circumstances policy, including medical emergencies and natural disasters.
Obviously, cancellations can happen, and sometimes, they’re out of your control. However, if you consistently have to cancel reservations, it’ll be very difficult to meet the Superhost criteria. In addition, it can be detrimental to your business, as potential guests may not want to book with someone who has a high cancellation rate. High cancellation rates can also lead to a loss of Airbnb Superhost status, which can affect your visibility and bookings on the platform.
If you can’t accept reservations or need to cancel one, be sure to communicate with your guests and try to reschedule if possible. With some planning and effort, you can maintain a low cancellation rate and keep your Superhost status.
You can keep track of all your cancellations on the Airbnb dashboard (which can be easily accessed on the Airbnb app or website).
Get Your Guests to Leave a Review
As an Airbnb host, one of the most important things you can do is encourage your guests to leave positive reviews.
Airbnb’s minimum requirement for Superhost status is to reach 80% of your guest reviews of the overall total stays, and your host ratings need to be at 4.8 or higher.
Positive reviews not only contribute to your Superhost status but also serve as a testament to your exceptional hospitality, attracting more guests to your listing.
With that in mind, getting as many positive reviews as possible is always best. There are a few ways to do this, such as sending a follow-up message after their stay, politely asking for a review, or offering a small incentive like a discount on their next stay for leaving a review.
First, you can ensure you provide an exceptional experience for your guests. This means being attentive and accommodating and going above and beyond to ensure they have everything they need.
You can also contact guests after they check out and ask them if they had a good time and if there’s anything you could improve upon. Finally, make sure you follow up on any negative reviews left by Airbnb users and try to resolve any issues that may have arisen during the guest’s stay.
Your Property Should be in Tip-Top Shape
If you’re looking to take your Airbnb hosting to the next level, you’ll need to ensure your guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. That means aiming for outstanding hospitality at all times.
You’ll need to pay attention to the little details that can make all the difference, such as providing clean linen and plenty of towels, stocking the kitchen with basic supplies, and ensuring the space is well-appointed.
By caring for your guests’ needs, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the Superhost status.
How Can GrowHOST Help You Become a Superhost?
Airbnb hosts face numerous challenges in achieving Superhost status, distinguishing themselves from regular hosts through exceptional service and a commitment to providing memorable guest experiences.
The status on Airbnb is coveted by all other hosts, as it comes with several Superhost benefits, including increased visibility, higher search ranking, and more bookings.
But, achieving the Superhost title can be challenging, as it requires maintaining a high rating and receiving positive reviews from guests. GrowHOST can help you achieve these exclusive rewards, elevating your status to that of Airbnb Superhosts, who enjoy benefits like a $100 Airbnb coupon annually and additional bonuses for referring new hosts.
GrowHOST can help you achieve Superhost status by handling guest communications, housekeeping, and critical exchange tasks. This way, you can focus on providing a great experience for your guests, which will lead to positive reviews and a higher rating.
In addition, our team of experienced Airbnb property managers can provide helpful tips and advice on how to best welcome guests and make them feel at home. By working with GrowHOST, you can increase your chances of joining the elite group of Airbnb Superhosts on Airbnb.
If you would like to learn more about our services and how we can maximise the returns on your Airbnb investment, contact us today.
