As an Airbnb host, you’ve probably noticed that some hosts have a badge on their profile labeling them as an “Airbnb Superhost.” But what is an Airbnb Superhost, and how do you become one? What are the Airbnb Superhost requirements? And if I become one, are there any perks for these hosts?
This article will answer all of these questions and more! Read on to find out everything you’ve ever wanted to know about what an Airbnb Superhost actually is and how to become an Airbnb Superhost. You’ll also want to be sure to check out our tips on how to become an Airbnb Superhost while renting out your spare room rather than an entire property.
What is an Airbnb Superhost?
You’ve probably assumed that a Superhost is an Airbnb host with a great track record. But what is an Airbnb Superhost, exactly? Well, according to the Airbnb website, “Superhosts are experienced hosts who provide a shining example for other hosts, and extraordinary experiences for their guests.” If you’re interested in learning how to become an Airbnb Superhost, you must meet these Airbnb Superhost requirements:You must have an average rating of 4.8 or higher. This shows guests that you go above and beyond to be hospitable and provide a quality place to stay.
You need to have completed at least 10 reservations in the last year
The Airbnb platform wants to ensure that Superhosts are well versed with caring for all types of guests. This rule ensures that you have plenty of experience. It also prevents hosts from rigging the system. You may be able to coerce a friend or two into booking your listing and leaving awesome reviews, but 10 would be excessive. This helps to keep the platform honest.
Your cancellation rate must be less than 1%
It is very important that when you accept a reservation, you honor it. Hosts must carefully consider their future plans when opening up their calendars. Hosts have the ability to allow bookings up to a year in advance. If you are a planner, this is wonderful! However, for those of us who enjoy a little spontaneity in life, planning this far in advance can be a little overwhelming. You can read more about setting up your calendar in the article Airbnb Host – Step 3.
Your response rate needs to be 90% or higher
This score is a direct reflection of your communication. You will need to be on-call for questions that may come up. Don’t worry, you are not expected to answer messages 24 hours a day. However, you are expected to respond within the 24-hour time period. The communication rating includes everything from an initial inquiry to when you say good-bye. Some guests and potential guests will require a lot of back and forth. Others simply book without having any communication. Regardless, you will need to message your guests through the Airbnb platform to inform them about things such as parking and how to enter the property. As a host, you must stay up-to-date with all inquiries.
When can Hosts Qualify?
Airbnb checks over your profile to make sure you’re reaching these Airbnb Superhost requirements four times a year. Every three months the factors above are reviewed to see which hosts fit the requirements. Once a host meets all of the Airbnb Superhost requirements, a badge will be automatically added to their profile. This way, potential guests are able to easily identify them.
It is important to note that the Airbnb Superhost designation can also be taken away. Hosts must maintain the requirements above. Should you fall below in any category, you will have your badge removed. During the next quarter if your ratings improve, you can return to the Superhost status.
What are the perks of being an Airbnb Superhost?
First, one huge perk of becoming an Airbnb Superhost is that you’ll gain automatic trust from guests. The Superhost qualification requires good ratings and a high level of hospitality. Because of this, when guests browse through properties on Airbnb, they’re much more likely to choose a Superhost’s property. The positive connotation that comes with the Superhost badge guarantees to guests that they’ll have a good experience if they book your property.
Increased Income for Superhosts
Another perk is that you’ll earn extra money! According to Airbnb, income increases by an average of 22% for Superhosts! And according to AirDNA, Superhosts get booked almost twice as often as regular hosts. This means that Airbnb Superhosts around the world can earn 60% more revenue per available day.
Greater Visability for Superhosts
Along with the Superhost badge that’s displayed on your profile and property listings, Airbnb has other ways to recognize their Superhosts. Superhosts have more visibility on Airbnb. The website prioritizes them in search results and shares their profiles and properties in email newsletters. Additionally, Airbnb allows guests to limit their searches to Superhost listings. Since more guests will see your property, your occupancy rates are sure to increase!
Even more Perks!
Finally, Airbnb offers Superhosts exclusive rewards. These include a $100 travel coupon or a professional photo shoot of your property for each year that you’ve qualified as an Airbnb Superhost. In addition, you’ll receive a 20% higher bonus for referring new hosts to Airbnb. On top of all that, Airbnb Superhosts get invitations to exclusive events, priority support, and special partner discounts.
For example, Superhosts often have the opportunity to try out beta features of the Airbnb website before they’re released to the general public. They may be invited to complete surveys regarding their Airbnb Superhost experience, earning a cash gift for participation. Airbnb Superhosts even have their own support contact number. This way, they don’t have to wait on hold for hours on the general support line!
What are some tips and tricks to become an Airbnb Superhost?
Reading through the Airbnb Superhost requirements can seem a bit daunting! But don’t worry. It’s definitely not impossible to reach these high metrics. Here are a few suggestions to help you along the way to becoming an Airbnb Superhost.
Always take your guests’ feedback into consideration
Whenever you receive a review that mentions something that could’ve been better, take action to improve it! Making small adjustments and tweaks to your property can result in much happier guests.
You may also choose to publicly respond to all reviews, good or bad. This adds to your profile by showing potential guests that you are tentative. When you really enjoy a guest, say so! Your kind words will go a long way as people search through and compare properties.
Show your guests that you care
Guests can tell if you are there to help them, or if you’re just in the business for the money. Small touches like a welcome note, a toiletry basket, or even a convenient phone charging station show your guests that you want to make their stay as comfortable as possible. Imagine you are the person going on the trip and walk though all of the additional touches you may find handy as a guest.
Add a personal touch
Typically, guests choose to stay at an Airbnb property rather than a hotel because they enjoy the personal feel of an Airbnb. So don’t shy away from those fun decorations or quirky wall hangings! Your guests will love that your property comes with plenty of personality.
Take good photos
Since your potential guests are making their decision based on the photos and information you’ve provided, it’s essential to make sure you’re sharing high-quality photos. Remember, a picture’s worth a thousand words! You’ll want to ensure that your property is as clean as possible. Then, take photos during the day, when natural light brightens up the rooms. Try out different angles and make sure to capture any personalized touches–show guests that they’ll really be able to “live like a local” on your property. You may even want to do some light photo editing to adjust the brightness or crop out unnecessary parts of the picture. You can read more by clicking on this link to the article “What are the Best Photos for my Airbnb Listing?“.
Help guests get to know the area
Guests will often ask you about fun events and good places to eat in the area. By purchasing a guidebook to your city or putting together your own binder of favorites in the area, your guests will see that you care! They’ll love that you’ve provided them with a resource to make their trip even more fun. You could even add in some coupons to local businesses to really go the extra mile!
Can I be an Airbnb Superhost if I’m renting out a room?
If you host guests within your own home you absolutely can become an Airbnb Superhost. Do keep in mind that if guests are staying with you, they won’t just be evaluating your property. They’ll also take your personal communication style and hospitality into account when leaving a review. Keeping this in mind, it may take longer to obtain the Superhost status. The success to becoming a great host is learned over time and experience. Do not be too hard on yourself if you take a little longer to get this super cool title.
Should your goal be to become a Superhost, take extra care to provide a quality experience for your guests. Depending on each individual, some may want to sit and chat, while others may value their privacy. It’s up to you to make each guest’s experience in your home a great one.
What are some suggestions for success for in-home Airbnb Superhosts?
Here are some tips to provide top-notch hospitality to your in-home guests!
Explain any rules or expectations in your Airbnb listing
If you prefer for your guests to clean up after themselves, let them know that in your property’s description. If you’re planning on going through and dusting or vacuuming the guest room periodically during their stay, include that information in the listing. Basically, you want to paint a picture of what the experience will be like and what your guests should expect. You can even add a list of “do’s and don’ts” to your property description. This way, your guests know exactly what they’re getting into from the get-go.
Choose your words carefully
When writing up the description for your listing, choose words that will attract the type of guests you’d like to stay in your home. Let your lifestyle and personality shine through since your guests will be experiencing it firsthand when staying in your home.
Provide a separate bathroom if possible
Airbnb Superhosts who rent out their spare room report that this is a good way to ensure your guests get the privacy they need. Although they know they’ll be sharing space with you from the listing, a private bathroom goes a long way.
Socializing with Guests as an In-home Airbnb Superhost
Every guest is different, and it’s your job to interpret the cues they give you. When you’re showing them around, do they seem anxious to finish up the conversation? Are they particularly chatty when you introduce yourself? Do they want to talk about local events and restaurants?
Let your guests take the lead when it comes to socializing, and respond accordingly. Additionally, a text message asking them if they need anything or have any questions is non-intrusive and an easy way to communicate.
Be sure to check out our article that tells you all about 5 Things You Must Do When Hosting an Airbnb. For even more helpful advice, take a quick look at our guide to Get Ready For Guests!
Main Takeaways
- The Airbnb Superhost requirements are having an average rating of at least 4.8, completing at least 10 stays within the last year, having a cancellation rate of less than 1%, and having a response rate of at least 90%.
- Airbnb Superhosts enjoy perks such as increased bookings and profits, as well as more visibility on the Airbnb website. Superhosts are also invited to exclusive events and have priority support available to them.
- It’s important to take guests’ comments and suggestions into consideration in order to become a Superhost and provide a truly wonderful experience for your guests.
- If you’re a Superhost that chooses to rent out a spare room rather than a whole property, keep in mind that you’ll have to tailor each guest’s experience to their personal preferences.
We hope that we’ve answered all your questions about what is an Airbnb Superhost in this article! With all the knowledge you’ve attained from our guide to become an Airbnb Superhost, you’re sure to find success and increase your profits!
