Your advice is needed - Listings not being viewed

[Nyarai1]

 

Listing link: Guesthouse in Bulawayo · 4 bedrooms · 4 baths

My listings are not getting any attention. What am I doing wrong?

[Content modified by OCM]

[Michelle3221]

I think you could benefit from better photos! Also, the main photo should be of the inside and the best part of the house to get attention 

[Marc10625]

A couple of the pictures shows the bathtub, sink and toilet with paint all over it. Doesn't look inviting to me. Some nice colorful decor would help as well. It looks pretty empty besides the very basic necessities.

[Marvin183]

Hello Nyarai1,

You have  a beautiful calm and cowsy getaway just from what I've seen . Looks Peace ful 

You asked for some support to find out why ?

I would answer it by saying:

Is the area you live in  attracting your kind of intended guests?

Are there other hosts in the area getting more business?

Otherwise if all factors tick then it can only be the bathroom that has some kind of art that looks ashy just try making the entire bathroom super white like the others .

I personally think that there chances such a tiny thing  could be a factor from what I've seen in the pictures . 

Hope this helped but I would love to be lucky enough to visit this gem.

All the best .

Marvin .

[Mari-Carmen27]

Yo cambiaría la foto principal por la 9 la de la cocina. La foto principal parece un caseta de jardín 

[Olivier1414]

Please check the Airbnb in the area see what price they have, your price might be high and they choose to reserve the cheapest. Also, I don’t know more about Zimbabwe but it’s hard to travel with 8 people, some are couples when need one room to stay; but during weekends you should have people who attend weddings in your area. 

[Yaseen13]

If your Airbnb listings are not being viewed as much as you'd like, there are several best practices you can follow to boost visibility and attract more potential guests:

1. Optimize Your Listing Title and Description

• Title: Make sure your title is catchy and highlights the best features of your property. Use keywords that travelers might search for, like "Cozy Downtown Apartment with Balcony" or "Family-Friendly Home Near Beach."
• Description: Provide a detailed, well-structured description. Highlight unique features, nearby attractions, amenities, and anything that makes your property stand out.

2. Use High-Quality Photos

• Invest in professional photography or ensure that your photos are well-lit, high-resolution, and showcase the best aspects of your property. A picture is worth a thousand words—great photos will grab attention and make a strong first impression.
• Include a variety of images: exterior shots, all rooms, special amenities, and any unique features.

3. Set Competitive Pricing

• Research similar listings in your area to understand the average pricing. Consider starting with slightly lower rates to attract initial bookings and build up your reviews.
• Use Airbnb’s dynamic pricing tool to adjust your prices based on demand, seasons, and events.

4. Utilize Keywords in Your Listing

• Identify keywords that potential guests may search for and naturally incorporate them into your listing title, description, and amenities section. Keywords could be related to the location, type of stay, or special features (e.g., "pet-friendly," "near public transport," "free parking").

5. Offer Competitive Amenities and Extras

• Make sure your property offers the essentials that guests look for: high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable bedding, a fully-equipped kitchen, and cleanliness.
• Additional amenities like complimentary coffee, toiletries, local guides, or even a welcome basket can make a difference.

6. Encourage Positive Reviews

• Guests are more likely to book a listing with positive reviews. Provide an excellent experience to encourage guests to leave 5-star reviews.
• Communicate clearly, respond promptly, and go the extra mile to ensure guest satisfaction.

7. Promote Your Listing on Social Media

• Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest to showcase your space and attract more viewers. Create engaging content about your listing, local attractions, and guest experiences.

8. Update Your Calendar Regularly

• Keep your calendar up to date, and make sure it accurately reflects your availability. Airbnb tends to favor listings with regularly updated calendars in search results.

9. Optimize Your Profile and Improve Response Rate

• Make sure your host profile is complete, with a clear photo and a welcoming bio. A responsive host is more attractive to potential guests, so make sure to reply quickly to inquiries and messages.

10. Use Airbnb’s Tools and Promotions

• Consider using Airbnb’s promotional tools like the "Early Bird Discount" or "Last-Minute Deal" to attract more bookings. Offering a special rate for your first three guests can help you gain traction and initial reviews.

[Pam2263]

Hi Nyarai,

I agree with the other hosts—the pictures tell the story. Some of your photos appear dark; lightening them up will improve the overall aesthetics. Also, I noticed that some bedrooms are more visually appealing than others. Consider placing the best ones at the beginning. The first photo should be your strongest, showing the beauty of your Airbnb.A couple of the bedroom photos look plain. With the pretty greenery outside, you might want to incorporate some of that indoors—perhaps adding a few plants or even a decorative throw across the bed. What makes your listing perfect for families? Post pics highlighting such--a nearby trail, games, or a nice family dining area. I think these details will make your place stand out. 

🙂PE

[Marilyn490]

Yaseen13 has it covered.   The title reads: "Bring the whole family to this great place with lots of room for fun." is way too short.  It doesn't give colorful description of your place.  Go back and read his advise and follow his lead, if you do that I'm sure you'll start getting requests to book.

[Paula]

Hello @Nyarai1

There are some fantastic suggestions from our wonderful hosts in this thread.

When you get a chance to review them, please let us know and keep us updated on any changes you're planning to implement.

Regards,

[Oleksii28]

Hello, Nyarai
What is your target group of visitors? 4 bedrooms · 4 baths...
Where that groups find information about housing?
Try to add another platforms like Booking, LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.

[May-Kristin0]

If they invite to stay for the 50. % of the charge to a gest,But they must give a Feedback about the stay. What is good and what is not that good. 
i hope it will turn out good,because i think the place look very Nice ! Best wishes from Norway 🙋‍♀️

[Patti120]

Hello @Nyarai1 ,  I was asked to review your Airbnb listing and also did some research on the Afrilodge website (also your listing) and your Facebook Page ( not recently updated and also your listings). The Afrilodge website has much more information that I would incorporate into your Airbnb listing. The photos on Airbnb are incomplete when compared to the Afrilodge website. The grounds are beautiful and your property is located in a good area with lots to see and do. I would add details to your description on Airbnb and include information about Bulawayo being the second larges City in Zimbabwe, transportation from the Airport and how to get around, rental cars and/or driver availability. Information about the  Safari's to Matapos Park, the Tshabala Game Reserve, Archaelogical Explorations, Khami Ruins, etc. Any help you can provide the future guests that do not know about your location  would be welcomed. Africa can be quite warm, but the construction of your buildings keep the lodgings at a comfortable temperature. Information about meals, where to eat, what to wear (safari clothing knowledge is important). If you can assist with trip planning for your guests it would go a long way toward bookings for your Zimbabwe, African adventure. I would change your Guest House title to something more reflective of your property and what it has to offer. Maybe Africa, Zimbabwe Afrilodge Beauty. I would update your FaceBook page and your Airbnb listing so the pricing is the same with the Afrilodge website. Photos need more local color. The bedrunners are lovely, I would add a few more and some pillows made with local textiles, add more towels and some color to the bathrooms. Black and white is a popular theme, but you need more local beauty added to your home to add warmth. Please include information about the time zone differences or the timing when you can get back to people making inquiries so they can be prepared for the delay in your response time. Zimbabwe is a fabulous country with lots to see and do.  Good luck to you!

[Nyarai1]

Thank you so so much. I will take time this week to update everything. I am grateful for the constructive tips.

[Ben6614]

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@Nyarai1 You might be missing out on attention due to poor visibility, unappealing presentation, or incorrect targeting. Review your listings for clear, engaging descriptions, high-quality images, and ensure they’re reaching the right audience.