As competition in the Airbnb marketplace continues to grow, hosts are constantly looking for ways to stand out and attract high-quality guests. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by enrolling in the Airbnb Plus Program. Designed for exceptional homes that meet high standards for quality and style, Airbnb Plus helps hosts elevate their listings and offers potential guests an assurance of superior accommodations. Here’s how you can make the most of the Airbnb Plus Program and take your hosting experience to the next level.
1. What is Airbnb Plus?
Airbnb Plus is a program that recognizes homes with outstanding quality, design, and hospitality. Unlike regular Airbnb listings, Airbnb Plus homes are personally inspected and verified for cleanliness, comfort, and design. Listings under this program typically receive more visibility, and guests know they can expect higher standards.
2. Why Join Airbnb Plus?
Being part of Airbnb Plus offers several benefits that can significantly impact your booking rates and revenue:
- Increased Visibility: Airbnb Plus properties are showcased in a dedicated section of the platform, making them easier to find for guests looking for high-quality accommodations.
- Better Search Ranking: Airbnb Plus listings often appear higher in search results, especially for guests who filter searches by quality.
- Professional Photography: Airbnb Plus includes a professional photo shoot, which can help your listing stand out with high-quality images.
- Enhanced Guest Trust: With the Plus badge, guests are reassured that your home has been vetted for comfort, style, and cleanliness. This trust can lead to more bookings and higher guest satisfaction.
- Higher Earning Potential: Because Airbnb Plus homes cater to discerning travelers looking for elevated experiences, hosts can often charge premium rates and attract guests willing to pay more for quality.
3. Airbnb Plus Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for Airbnb Plus, your listing must meet specific criteria. These include:
- High Host Ratings: You must have a consistent rating of at least 4.8 stars over several bookings, showing that you provide an excellent guest experience.
- Design Standards: Your home should have a well-thought-out, cohesive design that aligns with Airbnb Plus’s focus on style and comfort. Attention to detail in decor and furnishings is critical.
- Functional Spaces: Each space in your listing must serve a clear purpose and be free of clutter or personal items. Guests should feel like they are staying in a thoughtfully curated environment.
- Amenities: Airbnb Plus homes must offer essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, cooking supplies, fresh linens, towels, and toiletries. These amenities should meet a higher standard of quality than typical listings.
- Cleanliness and Maintenance: Homes must be spotless and well-maintained. Guests should never encounter broken appliances, dirty linens, or poorly functioning utilities.
- Verified in-person Inspection: Your property will be personally inspected by an Airbnb representative to ensure it meets the program’s quality standards.
4. Steps to Apply for Airbnb Plus
To apply for Airbnb Plus, you must follow these steps:
- Maintain a High Host Rating: Ensure you have at least a 4.8-star average rating across all your reviews.
- Meet the Requirements: Before applying, assess your property to ensure it meets the design, functionality, and amenity standards required for Airbnb Plus.
- Apply Through Airbnb: Once you’re eligible, Airbnb will invite you to join the program. Alternatively, you can apply directly through your host dashboard.
- In-person Inspection: After applying, Airbnb will schedule a visit to inspect your property. During this inspection, they will assess everything from the decor to the quality of your amenities and cleanliness.
5. Preparing for the Airbnb Plus Inspection
Passing the Airbnb Plus inspection can be the most daunting part of the process, but proper preparation will make it much smoother. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Attention to Detail: Go over every room in your home, ensuring each is spotless and fully functional. Test appliances, faucets, and lights to ensure everything works perfectly.
- Interior Design: Airbnb Plus places heavy emphasis on aesthetic appeal. Make sure your home is beautifully decorated with cohesive and attractive design elements. Consider hiring an interior designer if you’re unsure about your style.
- Declutter: Remove unnecessary items from surfaces and corners. Minimalistic, clean spaces tend to make a better impression.
- Upgrade Amenities: Small touches like high-quality linens, plush towels, and premium toiletries can enhance the guest experience. Think of what you would appreciate in a luxury hotel and incorporate those elements.
6. Maximizing the Benefits of Airbnb Plus
Once your home is accepted into Airbnb Plus, there are several ways to maximize its potential:
- Optimize Your Pricing: As an Airbnb Plus host, you can often charge higher rates, given the program's premium status. However, it’s essential to monitor market trends and adjust your prices accordingly to stay competitive.
- Leverage Professional Photos: Use the high-quality images provided by Airbnb to showcase the best features of your home. Consider changing your listing’s cover photo periodically to keep it fresh.
- Highlight Your Airbnb Plus Status: When communicating with potential guests or updating your listing description, emphasize that your home is part of Airbnb Plus. This status can attract guests looking for a reliable and premium experience.
- Continue Providing Exceptional Service: Don’t become complacent after being accepted into Airbnb Plus. Maintain high standards for cleanliness, responsiveness, and hospitality to ensure your reviews stay excellent.
7. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While the benefits of Airbnb Plus are significant, some challenges may arise during the application process or after acceptance into the program:
- Initial Costs: Making upgrades to your home to meet Airbnb Plus standards can be costly. Consider these costs an investment that will pay off through higher rates and occupancy.
- Time and Effort: Preparing your home for an inspection can take time, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term effort.
- Maintaining Standards: Once in the program, you must continue to meet Airbnb Plus standards, so regular maintenance and attention to guest feedback are crucial.
Conclusion
The Airbnb Plus Program is an excellent opportunity for hosts to showcase their property, attract high-quality guests, and increase their earnings. By focusing on quality, design, and hospitality, you can elevate your Airbnb experience, gaining a competitive edge in a crowded market. Preparing your home for Airbnb Plus may take time and investment, but the rewards, including increased visibility, higher guest trust, and enhanced earning potential, are well worth the effort.
