I’m not getting bookings

[Jo883]

I just listed my place a month now and I’m getting people requesting for pre approval but doesn’t follow through or they changed their mind at a short amount of time. I took advice in living my place to understand what they would need and I’ve also been told by a professional photographer my photos are good. One guest brought up that I don’t have a review but of course because I just listed my place. How long should I give this a chance as I’ve already lost a month of rent and expense and going to go into the second month with no income yet which that’s over 3k I’m going to be losing. 

Airbnb is offing the first 3 guest to book 20 percent off their booking and I’m adding additional discounts. I can’t really discount it anymore or I might as well just not list it. 

Should I be listing my place elsewhere

[Helen744]

@Jo883 I suggest that you do NOT pre approve guests at all but simply send a message saying ' feel free to book ' . .. H

[Patricia2526 · Accepted solution]

Hello @Jo883 

Here are a few tips you can use to boost your bookings.

1.. Make sure your photos are updated the first 5 photos need to be your "Highlight Reel" that draw guests In. Create an inviting atmosphere that stands out from other listings.

2. Review the pricing of similar listings in your area and adjust yours accordingly based on demand, seasons and local events.

3. Get as many 5 star reviews as possible. Each one will boost you in the Algorithm

4. Use specific "Key Words" in your description and space. Hack: Use a top performing property In your market as a guide.

5. Highlight your unique selling points, it could be a beautiful view, proximity to popular attractions, unique amenities or local recommendation.

6. Ensure your profile is complete and includes information about yourself. A well crafted profile can help build trust with potential guests.

7. Take advantage of Airbnb’s promotional tools like discount pricing, early bird discounts, last minute deals. These can help attract more bookings and increase your visibility on the platform.

8. Promote your listing on social media platforms, local community groups, travel forums. Just copy your unique Airbnb link and share.

These tips will pretty much help boosting your listing performance. Remember it takes time and effort.

[Fred13]

@Gwen386's  observation is but a good start, but for one the viewer will have a tough time to determine where they really even are, the photographs are that confusing. Remember, people hate to read, why they love pictures, good ones and presented in an smooth sequence.

[Gwen386]

 Hi there. You did not ask for a critiquing of your listing, but I wanted to give you some suggestions to help get bookings. 

Your place looks very blasé. You need to make it more appealing. Some recommendations:

1. A couple of pillows on loveseat. 
2. Think about adding a chair in living room

3. Add some more art on walls

4. Put up a shower curtain and liner

5. Put in new roll of toilet paper and take picture with toilet lid down. 
6. Put a light on night stand

7. Put hangers in closet

8. Need end table(s) with lamps in living room

9. Put a candle or soap dish or something small in bath room to bring out some color

10. Bedroom doesn’t look comfy. Maybe add a chair there too. 

And sorry, but professional photographer either lied or is not a pro. Look at pictures of other listings. You see the rooms in their entirety—not partial or chopped off photos. If you have an iPhone, take photos in landscape. 

Good luck to you.