@Nikky0 Unfortunately, it seems like you have made yourself a prisoner to how you think the AirBnB algorithm works. I'm not sure why you would be making changes to your listings 5 times a night! The thing about algorithms is that none of us- except the coders and "masterminds" behind the coding- know for sure how they work, or really- what their marketing goal is. I want to share my experience and then make a suggestion as to approaching all this.
First, just FYI, I decline booking requests as necessary, without regard to the suggestion that it will lower my listing in searches. i do it for legitimate reasons, like a request is asking to exceed guest capacity, or they don't respond to a message from me. I don't feel like it has affected my placement at all. Right now I'm at the top of the search in my area. I've been there for about 24 hours. That could change in a minute. i have no clue as to the algorithm or what it's trying to accomplish. There is a property in my area that frequently holds the top spot for days on end, and its rating and reviews don't warrant that. There are many in the area more highly rated. It's annoying for sure, but it simply establishes that the algorithm is based on mysterious factors about which we know nothing, and it's not likely to change, or be revealed to us.
And yes- searches in my area frequently highlight properties further away. That's annoying too, but again-mysterious factors that we don't really understand.
As to guests cancelling because they don't know where they've booked? That's on them. However AirBnB misleads them in the search results, it's still up to them (basic due diligence) to check the location and make their plans accordingly. AirBnB is doing everybody a disservice with this search algorithm, but it doesn't appear that that will change any time soon.
As to that algorithm..... staying at the top should not consume your evenings! I rarely make changes to my listing. I am giving people enough credit to know what they are looking for and to take advantage of search filters. They'll find my place if it meets their criteria. I may not be at the top of the page, but I'll be there somewhere. They're not just going to click on the first thing on the page. They are going to scroll, look at pics and headlines, and click through when they think something might suit their needs. I think reviews play a big part. If finding my place takes a bit of "advanced thought" on the part of my guests, I'll take it. Those are the people I want- not the ones that click on the listing at the top of the page.
I understand your frustration, but I think a different approach might benefit you.
I understand that we are all trying to make a living, but we can't change the behavior of AirBnB (apparently) or our potential guests, so why make ourselves crazy?
Good luck with all of this! Kia