How to reply to review a good review, but!

[Alison1039]

I just received a great 5 start review that the guest personally told me what a wonderful space.

The review says small than in photo's but good use of space??

My cover photo says this;

This studio guest suite, though compact, excels in space efficiency. High cathedral ceilings create an airy atmosphere, The layout maximizes functionality without sacrificing style or comfort; Keeping the suite uncluttered and inviting

What more can I do? Do I just skip the bit about her prospective and thank her kindly for the review? 

Thanks! Ali

[Alison1039]

The Airbnb rating system presents several challenges for hosts, particularly regarding the honesty of guest reviews. Many hosts, despite their commitment to hospitality, often feel compelled to withhold negative feedback out of fear of retaliation. 

This inequality in the rating system underscores the need for a more equitable approach. Both hosts and guests should be assessed fairly, promoting a transparent and honest environment that encourages constructive feedback. A more balanced system would empower hosts to share their experiences without fear, fostering a healthier Airbnb community for all involved.

I checked out your listing! We're in the same region, so it's nice to be able to chat with someone with similar guest base.

Looks like you've been hosting a while so always good to be able to bounce things of another local host 😁

[Saba208]

Hi Alison!

As some of the hosts already mentioned, just take the high road and thank her for taking the time to review your listing.  No matter what we do, there will always be a review that is either unrealistic or unkind or both.  Best wishes!

[Nancy2092]

Yes! Don’t worry about a review with 5 stars

[Alison1039]

Nancy! Yes, I did remind myself of that. I appreciate your validation ☺️

[Robert8177]

It sounds like your guest had a great experience overall, which is fantastic! Since they mentioned that the space felt smaller than in photos but was well-utilized, you have a couple of options:

1. Graciously Acknowledge & Thank Them – You don’t need to dwell on the size comment. A simple, warm response highlighting their positive experience is enough. Example:
   "Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the space and found it functional and inviting. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to host you again!"

2. Subtly Address Perception – If you want to acknowledge their perspective while reinforcing the efficiency of the space, you could say:
   "We appreciate your thoughtful feedback! While the studio is compact, we designed it to be both stylish and functional. So glad you found it comfortable, and we’d love to host you again!"

You don’t need to change your listing description unless you receive similar comments frequently. If that happens, you might consider tweaking it slightly to better manage expectations, but otherwise, I’d just focus on the positives in your response.

[Alison1039]

I liked your first response...I kept my response brief, but will save it for future reference. Thank you!!! I added the word "bijou" to my listing, thinking that if future guests don't know what it means, they'll look it up and discover it means small, my space is small 😁.

[Mj126]

Bonjour;

Si je me place en tant que voyageur suite sous entend espace chambre fermée et vous dites studio ce qui correspond à une seule pièce.

Je me contenterai d'un remerciement

Pouvez vous préciser sur l'annonce la surface du studio ou de la suite et dire si le couchage est séparé?

Bien cordialement

Hello;

If I position myself as a traveler, the term "room" implies a closed space, while you mention "studio," which corresponds to a single room.

I would appreciate a simple thank you.

Could you please specify in the listing the size of the studio or suite and indicate if the sleeping area is separate?

Best regards.

[Pam2024]

If the overall rating is 5 stars, I’d skip the rebuttal and simply thank her for the great review. The more 5-star ratings, the better!

[Marcin65]

@Alison1039  . Your place is beautiful. From the photos it is easy to see what kind of space you are renting. I have one tiny listing in the city center, only in one review out of over 120 my guest wrote that it is a small space, although I gave the square meters of this tiny apartment and posted photos showing its size. I think it is not worth hiding it. Congratulations on the good work and keep it up. 

You got my heart 🧡 (I added to favorites)

[Alison1039]

@Marcin65 Thank you for such lovely informative feedback and advice. I try really hard to make sure guests know exactly what their expecting in my space. 

I looked over your listing quickly, once I get a chance I'll do more of a thorough look... it's always so nice to chat to other hosts and bounce ideas and solutions, so thank you!!!

I love that Airbnb gave you renewed love of your city 🥰

Thank you again!! 

[David13161]

When replying to a good review, start by expressing genuine gratitude for their feedback. Acknowledge any specific praise they mentioned to show you value their experience. If relevant, invite them to return or try something new in the future. Keep your response warm and professional, maintaining a friendly tone. Lastly, end positively, reinforcing your commitment to great service.

[Sigma4]

Just do what you wish all it matters is that you are being polite

[Hichem29]

very happy to know you solved the issue

[Azhar50]

I published an article on how to respond to guest revies. Maybe this is of use - https://blog.zarnik.com/guest-experience/how-to-respond-to-guest-reviews-with-10-samples

[Miriam1049]

I 100% agree with everyone else, just thank her for the great 5 star review & you hope to host her again, it's just not worth the back & forth , it can go wrong. Anyway ha 5 star review is perfect.