I am now already in a +10 day discussion with Airbnb on an i...
Latest reply
I am now already in a +10 day discussion with Airbnb on an issue of blocked days that are being switched to 'active' in the c...
Latest reply
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I am new to airbnb with a fabulous new vacation rental property that no one can find in the listings. How does one get noticed if they are new and their listing is at the bottom?
@Alam-Bulan0 this is the dream of every host!
I must say you have a stunning property.
At the start it is always tough. I have found it takes around 6 months to start getting traction in Airbnb. Initially to move your property up the search ranks do the following, respond quickly to enquiries, turn on instant book (i dont like this but airbnb does) and make some special pricing (just to get some bookings in and good reviews). Aim to get Superhost status. While you are at it, research other properties in the area and see how their prices and reviews are going. Sometimes you can learn tricks of the trade by some of the reviews the guests leave on those properties...
But also, sometimes it is hard for hosts to find their own properties in search, read my article here for a beter understanding.
I think each host has a different experience
1. I got my first inquiry the same day that I set up as a host and had regular inquiries throughout the summer
2. I wouldn't recommend Instant Book for new hosts. In fact I have never used it as I like to vet who uses my properties.
3. I don't think the 'superhost' status is particularly relevant for customers (I work in marketing and PR and ask all my guests about what makes them choose my property. Superhost status is never mentioned (although it does push you up the rankings)
4. For the first couple of weeks BNB should be pushing you up the rankings to encourage bookings.
I would recommend
1. Review what other people are charging in your area and how they describe their properties. Make sure your pricing is competitive and you highlight what makes you different/special and issues such as local transport, amenities etc
2. Use your social media to promote your space
3. See if a BNB photographer is available and add lots of photos
4. See if there are any third party sites ie your local tourist office that you can list with
5. Perhaps have a special offer but not too low - people just looking for a bargain don't always make the best guests.
Best of luck
Helen
Thank you Helen for your reply and good advice.
1. I am hoping for responses
2. I do not use instant booking, Alam Bulan has a security guard on premises and when guests arrive their passport is registered with the village same as all hotels that accept international guests
3. Yes, I just would like my property to be seen, for me "superhost" is not important
4--1. My neighbor charges over $600/night over the holidays (sleeps 10) and another neighbor charges over $900/night with no breakfast over the holidays(sleeps 😎 My amenities and concierge services and local staffing are the same or better.
4--2.I am working at this time on adding more social media, but am not convinced that this draws the clientele that would stay in a high end villa
4--3. I have 41 mostly professionally done photos on my site and a video and slide show on you tube--
4--4. I checked with local third party sites to list with and they want to take over the villa with management and their own service people for a very large sum of money-
4--5.I have tried a special offer with a low price and paid for a banner to advertise a special and received no hits.
You are correct in saying that each host has a different experience--I know I am new to airbnb, but I am wondering if airbnb is an appropriate place for a high end property with full service.
Thank you, Kathleen
Make sure you pricing is a bit lower than similar properties in the area - you need a few reviews, etc to get moving up the listings. Then you can increase your prices.
I know someone else recommended instant booking - just be careful because you will have no opportunity to consider if the people booking are suitable for your property. As a new time host it's really not a good idea in my opinion.
I would avoid "instant booking" option... i dont think its safe.