This is a topic that other hosts and managers often speak to us about, that is how they can increase their ranking on Airbnb or other platforms.
With many platforms one part is simple – an increased ranking/ views lead to more clicks on your listing. Whether you have one or multiple listings it’s important to review stats regularly. Also don’t forget that more potential guests are filtering the options they want on the initial search.
Your Ranking and Views
Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, and other platforms aren’t set and forget. Firstly take the time to know how your property is ranked in a search for different guest numbers. Secondly, does it rank well for your target number of guests? Finally what guest level is best for your rental revenue?
Each platform provides data on views as well to assist you as you make changes
Pricing
Pricing in the current market is an important consideration. While this should be tailored to the property, it should also be compared regularly to other similar listings. Daily changes whether manual or through pricing software can help your listing rank. Unfortunately, too many defaults to using a low pricing strategy as a sole driver of occupancy which isn’t necessary, why run at a loss?
Listing Descriptions
Some hosts and managers change their listing title regularly and others make small changes to the wording within the listing, regular changes will make a difference on most platforms. Test different structures and wording to see what works. Don’t be fearful of asking your guests what their thoughts were.
Photos
Subtle changes to photo order can also make a difference in ranking. One of these ways is to ensure you understand how it displays on a mobile which many use for bookings now. Also, look at how it displays on a browser with often the first 4-5 photos showing. Lastly, another method some hosts use is to add some key benefits in their cover photo to make it stand out.
Every successful manager has certain aspects that they know work for their property. It takes time and effort to ensure your listing is ranked well. Having said that I am a big advocate of automating what you can so you can focus on what’s important to you and there are many tools that can plug in to assist with some of this. Despite what some may say, there isn’t one pricing methodology or listing format that works for all and it does take some testing.
I know what works for us, find out what works for your listing.
