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Listing feedback: Polly, Geelong, Garden Room

Answered!
‎23-09-2024 03:00 AM
Polly164
Level 7
Geelong, Australia
‎23-09-2024 03:00 AM

Listing feedback: Polly, Geelong, Garden Room

Hello!

 

I would love feedback on this listing: www.airbnb.com.au/h/gardenroomgeelong 

 

Screenshot 2024-09-26 at 10.41.37 AM.png

 

I set up this listing many months ago, and the bookings were coming in fast at first. Guests loved the room, especially as it is next to the bathroom, and they get almost complete use of this (except for my one shower a day). The bedroom is large, has lovely views, and the storage is excellent. Guests also get free use of the house, and their own mini fridge too. 

 

Since May this year, however, I have not received any booking requests, and promotions are not receiving any views either. My other listings at the very same property are getting bookings and views. I am a SuperHost too, so the lack of views for promotions is frustrating. 

 

Over Easter I had a hostile guest stay in the room, unfortunately. They made multiple complaints against me, including false reports about safety and cleanliness. I had to write multiple reports to counter this. AirBnb did refund me for the trouble (of getting professional assessments about the guest's claims) and said that all the complaints had been resolved. I have also contacted Air Support twice now, asking if there is anything else going on with the listing that I might be able to fix? They've said no. 

 

I am so confused as to why my listing is not receiving views still! I have continuing five star reviews (I often upgrade bookings for the smaller room to this larger listing). I followed all of the advice of Air (professional photos, reviewed descriptions etc), the only exception being it is request-only (as I am sharing, I want to filter guests), but I respond immediately. I just cannot seem to attract even views!

 

Any suggestions? Is it possible my listing has been "shadow banned" on Air? Is that a thing? Is there a way to fix this?

 

Much appreciate any help might you might be able to provide. 

 

(Content modified by OCM)

‎23-09-2024 03:00 AM
Top Answer
‎25-09-2024 05:52 PM
Oksana127
Level 10
Riga, Latvia
‎25-09-2024 05:52 PM

@Polly164 I can understand your frustration, especially given that your listing was performing well earlier and now isn’t getting views or bookings. Based on the details you’ve provided, here are a few things you could consider to potentially fix this issue:

  1. Shadowbanning on Airbnb: While Airbnb has never publicly confirmed a “shadowban,” it is possible that certain listings may be deprioritized in the algorithm due to issues like guest complaints. Although Airbnb has said your complaints have been resolved, the hostile guest incident may still have affected your listing's ranking.

    • Solution: One thing you could try is temporarily unlisting the room for a few weeks and then relisting it. This might give it a fresh start in the search algorithm.

  2. Adjusting Booking Settings: Since you’re using the request-only feature, this might be limiting your audience. Many users filter for instant-book options, as it reduces back-and-forth communication, especially for spontaneous bookings. Even though you respond immediately, the mere presence of request-only may be discouraging views.

    • Solution: If you’re set on keeping the request-only feature, consider experimenting with instant-book for a limited time to see if views and bookings increase. You could also set stricter guest requirements for instant-book to filter out guests who may not fit your preferences.

  3. Competitive Pricing: Check if there have been any changes in your local market. Prices can fluctuate due to seasonality, local events, or increased competition. If similar listings are priced lower, you might be unintentionally outpricing yourself.

    • Solution: Review your pricing compared to similar listings in your area. You could temporarily lower your rate or offer promotions to attract bookings and rebuild your listing’s activity.

  4. Listing Freshness: Even with great photos and descriptions, Airbnb listings that aren't regularly updated might lose traction in search results.

    • Solution: Regularly update your listing with new images, tweak your title, and adjust the description to include recent local events or improvements to the property. Airbnb’s algorithm may reward listings that show signs of being actively maintained.

  5. Guest Preferences: Some guests may be uncomfortable sharing a space with the host, especially when it's shared facilities like bathrooms. Even though you offer them nearly exclusive access to the bathroom, this may still be a factor.

    • Solution: Consider emphasizing the privacy aspect in your description. Make it clear how often you’ll be using the shared spaces and if there are ways to offer more privacy.

  6. Request Airbnb Review: You’ve already contacted Airbnb, but it might be worth asking for a deeper review of your listing’s performance and visibility. Politely request if they can investigate if there are algorithmic factors at play that may be affecting your listing.

  7. Diversify your marketing: Since Airbnb views are limited right now, you could try promoting your listing outside of Airbnb. Use social media, local tourism boards, or even Google My Business to direct traffic to your listing. Sometimes a little external push can bring in organic traffic.

I hope these suggestions help in getting your listing back on track! Good luck!

View Top Answer in original post

‎25-09-2024 05:52 PM
19 Replies 19
‎27-09-2024 03:55 AM
Polly164
Level 7
Geelong, Australia
In response to Oksana127
‎27-09-2024 03:55 AM

This is really helpful, thank you. 

‎27-09-2024 03:55 AM
0 Likes
‎29-09-2024 01:17 AM
Polly164
Level 7
Geelong, Australia
In response to Polly164
‎29-09-2024 01:17 AM

I tried switching Instant Book on, plus slightly rearranged the photos and tried yet another name change. This seems to have worked! I am now getting views again. 

‎29-09-2024 01:17 AM
0 Likes
‎29-09-2024 01:22 AM
Polly164
Level 7
Geelong, Australia
In response to Oksana127
‎29-09-2024 01:22 AM

This has really helped and I love how clearly you outlined your advice. Thank you so much @Oksana127 

‎29-09-2024 01:22 AM
‎26-09-2024 04:19 PM
Rosaline5
Level 2
‎26-09-2024 04:19 PM

@Polly164 Your listing looks beautiful. Only thing I’ll echo what someone said already. 
1. you can unlist the room for a few days or even a week and listing it again so it appears as a new listing. 
2. change the order of pictures or retake new pictures 

3. consider changing the booking request to making it instant booking to widen your crowd because some people might be using filters to eliminate homes that need a request. 

4. If possible, you can also add a travel guide to your listing highlighting what is special in your area for guests who visit. 

good luck and I hope it works out. 
Rosaline. 

‎26-09-2024 04:19 PM
‎27-09-2024 03:53 AM
Polly164
Level 7
Geelong, Australia
‎27-09-2024 03:53 AM

Just adjusted the link slightly: airbnb.com.au/h/geelonggardenroom 

 

Apologies but I do not seem to be able to edit the original post. 

‎27-09-2024 03:53 AM
0 Likes

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