As an Airbnb host, I’ve been puzzled by the lack of bookings for my listing since its creation in early 2023. Despite my efforts, it remains unoccupied. Here’s my question:

[Shingai-Thad0]

Why has my Airbnb listing received no bookings since its inception in early 2023?

here's link to my listing:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/904212154509594862?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5a8d48e5-29ba...

I've tried everything possible, but I can't get bookings. 

Any advice is appreciated!

Thanks

[Guy991]

Hello @Shingai-Thad0 ,

This is such a beautiful apartment; it should always have tenants.

Something is unclear in your description. It is indicated that the property can accommodate 4 guests. However, the images portray differently: one bedroom, a couch for 2, a dining table for 2, a chair on the terrace for 2. It appears to be designed for one couple. 

Therefore, the pricing should be for 2 people and not 4. Consider lowering the price to fit a couple. Check similar properties around you with one bedroom and adjust your pricing accordingly.

Many people like to log into their video streaming providers like Netflix and Amazon Prime TV during their stay. Although it is mentioned that there is a TV, I didn't see it in the photos. I think you should consider it, as it will also help you set up the living room differently.

Another option is to also look for long-term tenants. It can be a nice home for a couple.

[Shingai-Thad0]

Thanks a lot for the response @Guy991 . We'll our best to implement your tips and advice. 

So what you're saying is that we should check what our competitors are doing and make decisions based on it? For example, if a competitor similar to me is pricing their place at $50 per night I should also price mine in that range?

[Debra300 · Accepted solution]

@Shingai-Thad0,

You should do a comparative analysis of similar type listings in you the same general area.  If your nightly rate is comparable to most others, then you should look at the description, particularly the amenities section and house rules, and see if there are differences than what your place offers.  Another important area to thoroughly read are the reviews.  This will give you a pretty good insight about why guests really like a place.

[Shingai-Thad0]

Thank you @Debra300 I really appreciate your answer!

[Karen4131]

Hello @Shingai-Thad0  🙂

Now I'll just give you the hard facts 🙂

It's because of the tough competition in Athens. It's a big challenge to be included in the 15 pages/300 listings that Airbnb chooses to display in any given search.

When I search for Omnia Square with a maximum price slightly higher than yours + entire place + air conditioning, there are over 1000 listings. Yours doesn't appear among the 300 that Airbnb shows and deems easiest to rent out (That's how the search robot "thinks").

You have a nice place, but you have "nothing" to compete with that could get Airbnb to push you up among the top 300 shown. You don't have reviews/stars/super host/guest favorite status. Your price isn't actually competitive either.

When you enter the market, you'll need to lower your price for a period (so Airbnb highlights you) and you need to get good reviews. Once the reviews are in place, you can start raising the price.

Airbnb also looks at picture quality. Make sure they are bright and high resolution.

Guests mainly choose based on pictures. The first 5 pictures should be the most beautiful. Those are the ones Airbnb shows on the PC screen.

Your pictures of the living room are quite dark and not very inviting. You should get those retaken. Maybe consider adding some coziness with flowers in the living room or something else that feels warm and inviting. Try comparing with other Athens apartments in your price range.

You actually have quite a few nice bright pictures and fine close-ups that you should showcase more.

I would use this photo as the cover photo. It stands out. Consider taking exactly the same photo with the same framing on a sunny day with a blue sky.

 
Many greetings from Karen and good luck with your post.  (I’m a dane from Sweden. I can see that you speak Swedish 🙂

[Karen4131]

I forgot a thing. Have you tried any of Airbnb,s campaigns? Lowering the price 20% for your 3 first guests fx? Look for the campaign under “Pricing”. It will make Airbnb lift you forward for a period.

[Shingai-Thad0]

Hello @Karen4131 Thanks a lot for taking your time to give a detailed answer. I really appreciate it. 

No, I never tried to create a campaign. I'll do that soon. Thanks  for the tips. 

[Karen4131]

Correction: I do search for “Omonia Square, Athina, Greece” and not “Omnia Square”, as written in my reply 🙂