@Peggy68
Here is some general information about Co Hosts. One thing to be sure of, NEVER allow a Co Host to create the listing under their name as owner. You create the listing and invite a Co Host to it. Otherwise, an unscrupulous Co Host can take over the listing and lock you out of it. Airbnb will not intervene in these matters and all kinds of havoc is created as a result. Be sure whomever you are considering is either already a Host (Superhost/Guest Favorite) or a Co Host with a lot of experience. Otherwise, it will be the "blind leading the blind" as it were. Interview candidates like you would for any job position. Good Co Hosts are more than willing to share their experience and Listing URLs so you can take a look.
Co-Host Compensation
Compensation varies widely and depends on the tasks a Co Host is assigned to do. If not handling cleaning and in person responsibilities at the property, it is generally 15-20% of booking revenue. If performing cleaning, maintenance and other in person responsibilities, it is generally more in the 35-45% range.
Have a Written Contract
Be sure you have a written contract that clearly spells out who is responsible for what tasks and clearly outline who is the property owner. It should state what the compensation amount is, how it will be paid and whether it includes the entire cleaning fee, part of the cleaning fee, or none of the cleaning fee on each booking. Spell out such things as:
Who will handle the calendar, accepting trip requests, updating and editing the listing regularly, handle communication with guests and Airbnb, reviews, greeting of guests, cleaning, laundry, preparation and inspection of Airbnb before guests’ arrival, inventory, buying supplies, handle maintenance/repair issues, landscaping, snow removal, etc. You should also include what days of the week and times the Co-Host is “on duty.” Is it 24/7? Do they have days off during the week? What about vacation or sick time? What happens if the Co-Host is injured, or has an extended illness? Who will cover responsibilities for the listing and for how long?
I would set a short term initial contract of 3-4 months, so that either party may terminate the agreement without penalty if things don’t work out. Each party to the contract has to be on the “same page” as to standards expected. If the owner doesn’t take care of expenses and maintenance requirements, the listing and reviews will suffer. If the Co-Host is not responsible and reliable, the arrangement will not work either. It is a team effort.
Co Host Access
Even if you give a Co Host Full Access permissions, there are some things they will not have access to on the listing. They will not be able to access your Scheduled Messages and Quick Replies (they’ll have to set up their own) and they won’t have access to create and edit your Guidebooks, or access your earnings information.
Provide Your Co Host With The Tools Needed
Experienced, knowledgeable, reliable and trust-worthy Co Hosts are hard to find. Finding a good one (just like finding a good cleaner), is a challenge! Having a reliable Co Host and cleaner is key to a successful Listing. Take care of them and provide them with the tools they need to make your listing/business successful.
There are lots of Airbnb Help Articles on Co Hosting. Below are a few:
What Co Hosts Can Do
https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/1534
How Co-Hosts Payouts Work
https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/3389
Adding Co-Hosts to Your Listing
https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/1244
Hi @Paula !
